The 10th annual Doors Open event in Quinte West will take place virtually again this year from Oct. 1 to Dec. 31, 2021. Digital Doors Open Quinte West offers free, digital access for the public to explore and learn more about the history of local organizations, businesses and attractions throughout the city.
“Doors Open is a great opportunity for community members to get a behind-the-scenes look at organizations and landmarks in our area,” says Quinte West Mayor Jim Harrison. “This year’s virtual format will allow us to continue showcasing some of the region’s most unique organizations and heritage sites and while ensuring the safety of all participants.”
This year’s virtual event will feature some familiar favourites such as Research Casting International, Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Trenton, Quinte Waste Solutions and the Trent Severn Canal. To capture the rich history and culture of Quinte West, the virtual event will feature several documentary films from local filmmaker Sean Scally, including: Playing with Fire, which details the story of the British Chemical Company and the great explosion of 1814; Ritchie’s Folly, about the Central Ontario Railway Company; Lumberbaron, which tells the story of the Gilmour family and the Gilmour Lumber Company; and Apples and Egos, which uncovers the story about Trenton Cold Storage and the influence of apples in the history of Trenton.
“History is a passion of mine,” says filmmaker Sean Scally. “I’m not originally from here but have learned that Quinte West has a lot of interesting history and it is my pleasure to share these stories with the community. The Doors Open event generally provides a wonderful opportunity for a more hands on approach but these documentaries are also a great way to delve into the history of Quinte West’s past.”
The Digital Quinte West Doors Open, along with other participating communities, will be available for viewing on the Digital Doors Open Ontario website at https://www.doorsopenontario.on.ca/. Content can also be accessed through the City of Quinte West Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/quintewest.