Junction of St Catherine's Road circa 1950.

The white barn may have been the tannery courtesy of David Gibson

Bonshaw certainly had a demand for tanned leather as there have been shoemakers here since as least 1841 and a harness maker in the 18805. Whether these individuals were only serving the immediate area, or making products for export, is unknown.

CREAMERY

On April 9th, 1898 a meeting was held in the village hall (courthouse) regarding the formation of a dairying company in Bonshaw. A proposition from the Crapaud Dairy was read and explained and John B. Crosby spoke at some length on the advantages to the community of having such a factory. Directors were elected as follows: C. W. Crosby, Laughlan McKinnon, John Rodgerson, J as W. Smith, John A. McNevin, John McFadyen, and John McManus. A total of 102 individuals are noted as being the share holders of 1 16 shares. The site of the factory was discussed and it was decided to build at McRae's spring. Mr. McRae promised a free site. (The site was near the monument recently erected on the road from Bonshaw to Crosby Mills in honour of the early McRae settlers.)

Two days later the directors met and Beecher Crosby was appointed secretary and Mr. L McKinnon president. Discussions were had regarding the desired shape and elevation of the building and individuals were appointed to inquire as to the costs of equipment and terms. The company was named the 'Bonshaw Dairying Company'.

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