Media Release - August 26, 2025 - Heritage Plaque Celebrates Salt Industry

Kincardine, ON – The Municipality of Kincardine is proud to recognize the work of Heritage Kincardine in commemorating an important chapter of the community’s past. A new plaque has been installed at MacPherson Park, locally known as Tiny Tots Park, highlighting the story of the nineteenth-century salt industry and its role in shaping Kincardine’s growth.

On Saturday, August 23rd at 1:30 p.m., Mayor Kenneth Craig joined members of Heritage Kincardine for an official unveiling ceremony 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 Mayor 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 Society hopes to ensure that the story of the Rightmeyer Salt Works—and the community’s larger connection to the salt trade—remains a visible part of the town’s heritage.

The Municipality of Kincardine extends its gratitude to Heritage Kincardine for their dedication to preserving and sharing the community’s history.

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Media Inquiries:
Sylvia Leigh
Heritage Kincardine Chair     
519-386-1867