By: Pam Wright, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Chatham Voice
For the second year in a row, lights will twinkle for charity at Dresden’s Glenlochie Lodge.
And for those who want to get into the holiday spirit, guided tours will be held at the stately Victorian home on Nov. 22 and 23.
The tour will showcase all things Christmas, including at least 25 decorated trees.
“We basically have one for every window,” said Christy Cummings, who owns the home with husband John.
The three-storey brick home was built in 1883 by Alexander “Sandy” McVean. The Cummings purchased the structure in 2019 and poured their energy into restoring the home.
John said they had to cut down 22 trees, as you could barely see the house through the brush; removed countless layers of wallpaper, went through 75 gallons of paint, restored the original pine floors and installed new plumbing and electrical throughout.
According to John, much of the house remains intact.
“This is all original,” he added, pointing to the intricately carved wood trim in the sitting room. “We painted, fixed and just about replaced everything.”
The pair are happy they chose to call Dresden home.
“When we moved to town, we had so many people help us,” Christy explained, adding they’ve made many friends along the way and wanted to give back.
“We got the volunteer bug all of a sudden,” she added, noting 50 per cent of the money raised will go towards the Dresden Shines Christmas Town fund to help buy lights and decorations. The Dresden Historical Society will benefit from the other half of funds raised.
Time slots for tours on Nov. 22 are 2 p.m.; 3:30 p.m.; 5:30 p.m.; 7 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. On Nov. 23, tours will be conducted at 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.
Tickets are $25 each and can be purchased online at glenlochielodge@gmail.com or by calling 519-384-0874.
The home is located at 384 St. George St. Dresden.
