b'HISTORIC SCUGOGby J. Peter HvidstenThe Catholic Churchhistory in Port PerryChurches were one of the most important structures sought after by early pioneers in the back countrybut long before the first churches were built in Reach, preachers travelled by foot or horseback throughout the sparsely populated areas of the townshipSketch of the Port delivering their message. Elder Marsh, a Baptist preacher is said toPerry Catholic Church have been the first preacher to travel throughout Reach. 1885A number of churches, the Presbyterian, Primitive Methodist, Wesleyan Methodist and Baptist, were all constructed prior to the 1850s in the Reach Twp., but it wasnt until 1861 that the Roman Catholic Church had a presence in the community.The first attempt by the Catholics to build a church in Borelia ended in tragedy, the church being burned to the ground before construction was finished. The loss was heavy for the 30 families who made up the small congregation, but they united their energies and began to rebuild.Their new church was officially dedicated on Sunday, October 13, 1861. Described as a very nice little church,it was opened and dedicated in Borelia with Bishop Linch, of Toronto, the guest speaker. The church measured 20x55 and was finished up in Gothic style. For more than 20 years, this little Catholic Church served as a place of worship for its congregation.By 1884, then under the of leadership Father Allain, the congregation had committed to build a new brick church the following spring. At the same time, they heard the Methodist Church of Port Perry were about to undertake the construction of a large new church at the corner of Simcoe and Lilla (Simcoe) St., Port Perry. The Methodist Church, located at the corner of John and Casimir Streets, had been opened only 10 years earlier at a cost of $7,000.Father Allain contacted the trustees of the Methodist Church and was successful in negotiating a purchase of the Methodists church for the bargain price of $4,523. The Catholics took possession of the former Methodist Church during January 1885. It was officially opened and dedicated two months later, on Tuesday, March 3, 1885.QUALITY PARTSFAIR PRICINGQUALITY SERVICE Experience and knowledge of all makes and models Erin, Mark, Jarett & Kaliden Make sure your vehicle is prepared for THE COLD.Call Erin to book an appointmentAppointments: 1511 Reach Street, Unit 2, Port Perry 905-985-9292 Mon - Fri: 8 to 534FOCUS - FEBRUARY 2021'