New heritage plaque celebrates Kincardine’s salt industry

A new plaque has been installed at Macpherson Park, located at the foot of Lambton Street in Kincardine, highlighting the story of the 19th Century salt industry and its role in shaping Kincardine’s growth.

Mayor Kenneth Craig joined members of Heritage Kincardine for an official unveiling ceremony, Saturday afternoon, as part of the Marine Heritage Festival.

The plaque tells the story of Levi Rightmeyer’s saltworks, which once operated on the site, and the thriving industry that exported thousands of barrels of salt to markets as far away as Chicago and Milwaukee.

“Heritage Kincardine has done incredible work to preserve and share the stories that define who we are as a community,” said Craig. “This plaque not only honours our history, but it also gives residents and visitors a chance to connect with the people and industries that built Kincardine.”

Heritage Kincardine first began planning the project in 2018, inspired by the importance of the salt industry to local and international commerce. By placing the plaque in Macpherson Park, the group hopes to ensure that the story of the saltworks — and the community’s larger connection to the salt trade — remains a visible part of the town’s heritage.

The Municipality of Kincardine appreciates Heritage Kincardine’s dedication to preserving and sharing the community’s history.



Gathered for the unveiling of the new plaque, celebrating Kincardine’s salt industry, are Olivia Gadzala (left), Sylvia Leigh, Bill Brown, Mary Lehman and Cathy Ellis of Heritage Kincardine, and Kincardine mayor Kenneth Craig, Saturday, at Macpherson Park