The Ladysmith and District Historical Society honoured the town’s most famous citizen during ite annual Ladysmith Heritage Awards ceremony via zoom last month.
Awards are given to individuals, organizations, and businesses that have played a key role in the preservation or promotion of local heritage.
Anderson has been hard at work restoring the Arcady property since she returned to Ladysmith in 2019. Anderson has worked with construction company Vertex 8 Ventures to carry out the restoration work. Vertex 8 Ventures was also recognized last year alongside Karen Olenik for their restoration work on the building that houses Plantitude vegan restaurant on 1st Avenue.
“Its very sweet to be recognized for all the hard work — I had a great team of men here — I kept telling them think Art Project,” Anderson said. “And we had a lot of fun too.”
The main Arcady building was teahouse and store. Cabins on the property were popular and rented by folks on holiday, newlyweds, and others. Anderson’s grandparents used to own the property before she purchased it from them. She spent much of her early life there.
“They both knew I’d look after it and not destroy its charm with greed or turn it into condos in the end, though I’ve received many offers, and sincerely explored. I couldn’t bring myself to remove any of the trees that have known me my whole life. I’d prefer to gently restore and enjoy for generations of family to come — I’m trying to create a space where my mom and dad can enjoy and live out their lives while we have enough space and fun things to do for my kids and grandkids to come,” Anderson said.
Anderson’s parents, Carol and Barry, accepted the award on her behalf.
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