Barber House….will be renewed!

by Christine Burrows

June 9, 2010

I think the image of a phoenix rising from the ashes may be a bit overdone (possibly a semi roasted phoenix?)

We in the Point, and particularly the local group SISTARS are not unused to setbacks.  The roof of Barber House is literally “toast” and the second floor has been destroyed. However we already knew we had to replace most of the roof and planned to remove the second floor.

The outside as a Heritage Building, must be maintained as it was in the past, but inside we can go to an open area with a cathedral type ceiling.

Work has already begun on building the Eagle Wing childcare; the fire will not set back this beautiful new exciting place for our children.

SISTARS is working with all levels of government, federal, provincial and city to try to find funding to save the oldest house in the province. Barber House has been damaged, but this is a very tough old lady, once renovated Barber House will become a historical star in Point Douglas along with her sister Ross House.

Our beautiful riverside neighbourhood is actually the historic birthplace of Manitoba and Winnipeg. Prior to colonial times it was also a very important place for our First Nations. Through combined community efforts we are making it one of the safest downtown neighbourhoods.  We are eager to see Point Douglas proclaimed as the Historic Centre on tourist’s maps with Barber House an important sightseeing destination.

The North Point Douglas Seniors Association is joining in support of Barber House as we hope to make it our seniors’ drop-in centre. NPDSA is also known as SWAT, (Seniors With Attitude) so you better know we are dedicated to this project; it’s funny but all of us seniors recognise that our dear old lady Barber house will be here in Point Douglas long after we are all dust!