The David Dunlap Observatory and its telescope are on the auction block, but residents fighting to preserve the property haven’t given up.
Richmond Hill
February 21, 2008 07:59 AM
Fight to save Observatory and lands takes new path
David Fleischer
The fight to save the David Dunlap Observatory lands gained a spiritual facet on Sunday.
Dozens of residents joined David Grey Eagle, a Mohawk of the Bear Clan, for the Four Directions Teaching Ceremony.
The ceremony, the specifics of which may not be discussed amongst those who were not present Mr. Grey Eagle said, is aimed at invoking the spiritual protection of the 189-acre site.
A Great Barred Owl appeared to welcome attendees from a nearby tree, and a red-tailed hawk intently watched the ceremony.
Heritage consultant Andre Scheinman, who prepared a report on the site’s heritage for the town, said the site likely has a First Nations history, due to its location on a tributary of the German Mills Creek.
Mr. Grey Eagle spoke before Richmond Hill council on Feb. 11, touting the need to protect our green spaces and listing a long series of broken promises to save land from development.
Last Friday was the closing date for bids on the lands which the University of Toronto have declared surplus and put up for sale.
The winning bid is set to be announced on March 15.