Pet and Wildlife Rescue (PAWR) has unveiled a commemorative display at its shelter featuring the original cornerstone from the former Chatham-Kent animal shelter, preserving a piece of the community’s animal welfare history for future generations.
The stone, which marked the construction of the original shelter in 1974, is the last remaining physical piece of the original building following its demolition. Now permanently displayed at PAWR’s shelter, it stands as a tribute to the people whose dedication laid the foundation for animal welfare in Chatham-Kent decades ago.
More than just a historic artifact, the display tells the story of the volunteers and community members who helped establish and sustain the local animal society during its earliest years. Their efforts, from organizing fundraising events such as bingos, food sales, and garage sales to dedicating countless volunteer hours, created a legacy that continues to benefit animals today.
The historical information featured on the plaque has been preserved through the dedication of longtime volunteer and local historian Dr. Bruce Warwick, who has carefully maintained records of the shelter’s history over many years. Thanks to his efforts, the names and contributions of the original founders and early volunteers have not been lost to time.
Warwick also painstakingly restored the original 1974 cornerstone, ensuring the significant piece of local history could once again be proudly displayed. Complementing the restored stone is a custom metal plaque detailing the history of the first shelter, mounted on a frame handcrafted by Barry Little, which shares the story of the original shelter and recognizes those who helped establish animal welfare services in Chatham-Kent.
“Every organization stands on the shoulders of those who came before it,” said Myriam Armstrong, Executive Director of Pet and Wildlife Rescue. “While PAWR represents a new chapter in animal welfare in Chatham-Kent, we recognize that our community’s commitment to animals did not begin with us. We are honoured to preserve this piece of history and acknowledge the volunteers and advocates whose dedication helped shape the future of animal welfare in our community.”
The commemorative display is more than a tribute to a building — it is a tribute to the people who believed that animals deserved compassion, care, and a voice. Many of the original board members, volunteers, and staff who helped build that legacy are no longer with us, making this permanent installation an important reminder of their lasting impact on the community.
Visitors to the shelter are invited to stop and view the display, located in the community room, to reflect on the history it represents and remember the individuals whose passion for animals helped build the foundation on which today’s animal welfare efforts continue to grow.
