Hespeler's Forgotten History: The Kinsmen Club's Concrete Barbecue Legacy

 

In the tapestry of Hespeler's community history, some stories fade with time while their physical remnants endure. One such tale involves a now-defunct Kinsmen Club and their lasting contribution to the town: three concrete barbecues designed for public use.

A Community Organization's Contribution

According to local resident Glen Einwechter, whose family had deep connections to the organization, Hespeler once had its own Kinsmen Club chapter. The club left a tangible mark on the community through the efforts of members like Einwechter's uncle Cam and his wife Jane, along with relative Mary Jane Jackson.

Jackson later recalled that one of the club's community projects was constructing and donating three concrete barbecues to the town. Their vision was simple yet generous: create permanent outdoor cooking facilities that any resident could use, fostering community gatherings and outdoor recreation.

Forbes Park - Location of one of two surviving KIN Barbeques

Tracing the Legacy: Where the Barbecues Stand Today

Of the three original barbecues, two survive as quiet monuments to this forgotten chapter of Hespeler's civic life:

Woodland Park - The first barbecue has been lost to time. Originally positioned near what was once a drive-through area, the site is now part of the pathway connecting Kribs Street to Strathcona Street. No trace of the structure remains.

Forbes Park - Hidden in plain sight, the second barbecue stands next to the parking lot on Forbes Street. Its weathered condition reflects decades of exposure to the elements, and it's easily overlooked by passersby. The structure serves as a testament to both the club's craftsmanship and the passage of time.

Hillcrest Park - The third barbecue has fared best, nestled within this small neighborhood park surrounded by residential homes. Accessible through a modest entrance off Elizabeth Street, the barbecue remains in relatively good condition, though there are trees around it.

Hillcrest Park - - Location of one of KIN Barbeques

Preserving Community Memory

These concrete structures represent more than just outdoor cooking facilities—they embody the community spirit of an era when local service clubs took pride in creating lasting improvements for their neighbors. While the Kinsmen Club of Hespeler may have disbanded, their contribution continues to serve the community decades later.

The next time you're exploring Hespeler's parks, keep an eye out for these humble monuments. They're reminders that sometimes the most meaningful community contributions are the ones that quietly serve residents long after their creators have moved on.

Have memories or information about Hespeler's Kinsmen Club? Local history thrives when community members share their stories and recollections. Email me through the website. Thanks Paul Langan