Wellington County has experienced the theft of 20 engraved plaques since May, with local authorities Currently Investigating the incidents.
In the heart of Wellington County, a series of unexpected events has left local communities in shock. Over the past few months, a total of at least 20 historical plaques, including 17 bridge plaques and three historical plaques, have mysteriously disappeared from their locations.
The thefts, which occurred in various parts of the county, have affected local communities deeply. The plaques, each with their unique stories and historical significance, represent a rich tapestry of the area's past. These stolen treasures hold deep meanings for the communities they once adorned, serving as reminders of the history and heritage that shaped the region.
The investigation into these thefts is currently ongoing, with Const. Kirk MacDonald urging anyone with information about the incidents to come forward. Two reports of stolen historical plaques in the last four weeks have prompted a more detailed investigation, as the police strive to unravel the mystery surrounding the missing plaques.
On July 29, one of the stolen plaques, titled The Queen's Bush Settlement 1820-1867, was reported missing from a post in Glen Allan Park on Side Road 17 in Mapleton Township. The plaque, believed to have significant historical and cultural value, is among those yet to be recovered.
As of the time of the announcement, no arrests have been made in connection with the plaque thefts. However, it is believed that the stolen bridges and historical plaques in Wellington County and Centre Wellington Township, between May and August 2021, were presumably buried near the Grand River.
This ongoing investigation serves as a stark reminder of the importance of preserving our historical artifacts and the role each of us plays in ensuring the safety of our shared heritage. If you have any information regarding the stolen plaques, please contact the local authorities to help bring these valuable pieces back to their rightful places.
