A Message From the Owner - A conversation with Jan Chaplin

What if a feeling could decide the trajectory of your life? That's exactly how Jan Chaplin became the new groundskeeper of Cruickston Park.

When Jan first stumbled upon the Manor, she couldn't believe it. This stunning structure, which we now see as a symbol of the grounds’ history, appeared to have been completely forgotten. Windows were boarded up, overgrown grass and vines swallowed the entrances - it clearly had a story to tell. Its appearance didn't feel right. So Jan and her husband Mark set out to learn it.

They visited the city archives and delved into the property’s history to discover the original family’s intent for it. It had been gifted to the University of Guelph for the long term, however the property posed an ongoing cost. Once Jan and Mark realized the manor was slated to be torn down they opted to try to change the current course by proposing a solution that fit the problem.

All it took was a one page letter and a vision. Their passion for restoring the property shifted planned events. Now, 30 years later, Jan has fully realized their dream.

In our first series, you’ll hear the story directly herself. Give it a listen below.