Oasis in the Centre
The Oasis in the Centre is both a tribute to our ancestors and a symbol of hope for the future. It was created in the year
2000 in celebration of Wilmot Township's 150th anniversary. The Oasis is our gift to future generations.
The focal point of the Oasis is the bronze statue Leap of Faith by renowned sculptor and Wilmot resident, Ruth Abernethy. The statue depicts a boy and girl holding hands, leaping into the future with spirit and confidence. They overlook a fieldstone foundation and sitting wall that mark the site of the original 1850 Wilmot Township Hall. The wall, built with stones contributed by Wilmot families, represents the strong foundation established for us through the wisdom and foresight of early Wilmot settlers.
The creation of this project took a huge leap of faith on the part of all involved!
Here are some of the keys to our success:
- Donation of land: The current owners of the land where the original Wilmot
Township Hall stood donated the half-acre parcel of land to make it all possible.
- Diverse committee: The committee chair carefully selected individuals with
different strengths, skills and resources to make a strong committee.
Shared vision, commitment, and determination: Every member of the committee
believed in the value of the Oasis and was determined and willing to work hard
to overcome any obstacle to make this dream come true.
- Resources: Committee members knew where to turn for advice, help and both
financial and in-kind contributions.
- Skilled trades people: The surveyor, engineer, planner, landscaper, stonemason,
sculptor and construction team were all local people who donated a portion of
their services.
- Government grant: A successful application to the Canada 2000 Millennium
Program for a $21,000 grant provided momentum early in the process.
- Timing: At a time when the future of Wilmot Township within Waterloo Region
was uncertain it was essential to preserve a portion of our heritage.
Plaques
There are two plaques on the foundation walls. The inscriptions on these plaques can be
seen here.
Oasis in the Centre Committee
| Marilyn A. Sararus, Chair |
Harold O'Krafka, Twp. Planner |
| Ruth Abernethy, Sculptor |
Lynn Sararus |
| Willie Cober, Twp. Councillor |
Ralph Shantz, Twp. Councillor |
| Lou and John Cull |
Lisa and Stephen Yantzi |
| Pat Mighton |
How to get there
The Oasis in the Centre is set on a half-acre parcel of farmland a few kilometers south of Baden, Ontario, in the rural
heartland of Wilmot Township. The Oasis is easy to reach from east or west on Highway 7 A 8. Take the Baden exit at
Waterloo Regional Rd 51 (Wilmot Centre Road). Turn right at the end of the off ramp and head south 1.4 km to the Bleams
Rd. The Oasis is there ahead of you, on the southeast corner.
The Oasis is wheelchair accessible. No admission charge. Free parking. No washroom facilities.
Maintaining the site:
The Oasis in the Centre was made possible through the generous contributions of the individuals and organizations whose
names appear on the bronze donor plaque near the time capsules - and many others! Donations to help with continuing
development of the site, additional plantings and ongoing maintenance may be made to the Township of Wilmot and are very
much appreciated. Tax receipts will be issued. For more information please call Marilyn Sararus, 519-696-3061, or the
Township of Wilmot, 519-634-8444.