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The City of St. Catharines is pleased to announce the successful grand opening of Williamson Point at Malcolmson Eco-Park, which took place this morning.
The event, attended by community members, City officials, and special guests, celebrated the dedication of a parkette in the northernmost part of the park in honour of the Williamson family, who played a significant role in the history of the Welland Canal.
"Williamson Point is not just a beautiful addition to our park system; it is a place where we can reflect on the vital roles that lighthouse keepers Cyril and Ethel Williamson played in St. Catharines’ history," said Mayor Mat Siscoe. “We are very proud to be able to do a small part to preserve the legacy of those who contributed so significantly to our important maritime heritage.”
City Councillor Bruce Williamson, whose grandparents Cyril and Ethel Williamson are the namesakes of Williamson Point, shared some of his family’s history at the Port Weller Lighthouse.
"Today is a deeply meaningful day for my family and me. Williamson Point is a tribute to my grandparents' dedication and service, and I am incredibly proud to see their legacy honoured in this way. This place will forever remind us of the importance of their work and the lives they touched."
Another one of the Williamson grandchildren, Jim Williamson, was also in attendance and participated in the ceremony.
The official opening of Williamson Point was marked with the cutting of a ribbon, and attendees were invited to explore the area, which serves as both a historical landmark and a space for reflection and appreciation of the natural beauty of Malcolmson Eco-Park. The parkette includes a pair of benches for seating that looks out over the canal – as the lighthouse once did – and is surrounded by a pollinator garden.
The renaming of this section of the park was first approved by St. Catharines City Council on Jan. 30, 2023. It honours the Williamson family, who lived and worked at the Port Weller Lighthouse from 1946 until its decommissioning in 1969. Cyril Williamson, a Royal Canadian Air Force veteran, and his wife Ethel were responsible for the lighthouse's operations, ensuring the safe navigation of ships entering and exiting the Welland Canal.
Ethel’s contributions as one of Canada’s first female ham radio operators were also highlighted during the event, emphasizing the family’s dedication to both maritime safety and community service.
The City of St. Catharines remains dedicated to preserving the history and culture of our community. Williamson Point is the latest example of the City’s commitment to honouring those who have shaped the City’s past, ensuring their stories continue to live on.
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