Point Clark
 In
1850, this area was known simply as "The Point". The name
was changed to "Pine Point" because a lantern was hung
from a pine tree to warn sailors of the offshore shoal in pre-lighthouse
days. When, during the 1870s, settlers arrived from Clark Township,
Durham County, they renamed their new-found home, Point Clark.
Point Clark is best known for its imperial lighthouse tower which
warns sailors of the dangers of the reefs about 2 miles off the
Lake Huron shoreline. The lantern was first lit on April 1, 1859
and there are 114 narrow steps up to the red-domed lantern room.
It was the first Ontario lighthouse to be designated as a National
Historic Site by Parks Canada in 1967. Tours of the lighthouse and
museum (located in the former keeper's quarters) are available from
mid-June to Labour Day.
The first lighthouse keeper, John Young, and his wife lived in
the small, stone lightkeeper's cottage until 1878. Other businesses,
such as gristmills and stores, sprung up around the lighthouse but
Point Clark did not experience any serious growth. Eventually, some
of the buildings were moved to other lots of land to be used as
farmhouses.
Point Clark Today
Point Clark today is a pretty residential community tucked into
the shoreline. A quiet, sandy beach is adjacent to the lighthouse
tower, perfect for a relaxing day by the water. Lighthouse Park
is equipped with playground equipment and washrooms. Berthing in
the small harbour with its boat ramp makes the beach handy for boaters,
too. Four nature trails-the Point Clark Greenway Project-are accessible
at various points throughout Point Clark. Guides can be picked up
at the lighthouse museum during its summer hours or by contacting
the Township of Huron-Kinloss at 519-395-3735. Cross country skiing
during the winter months is a popular activity.
The Point Clark Community
Centre is next door to a ball diamond (equipped with lights
for night-time play), a good-sized pavilion, horseshoe pits, playground
equipment and volleyball posts (bring your own net!). The community
center is a gathering place for the community. Weekly card games,
shuffleboard and other activities are enjoyed by the Huron Lakeshore
Friendship Club. The community centre is also the home of the Point
Clark Kinsman Club, which organizes various events throughout the
year including the Canada Day fireworks at the Point Clark Harbour.
A quiet, peaceful community, Point Clark is a welcoming haven for
summer residents, young families and retirees.
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