Dear editor;

“The famous personages of Randwood,” (The Lake Report, Dec. 3), part one in a series on the Rand Estate is an interesting article written by Elizabeth Masson, a historical researcher at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum.

In providing some of the history of the Rand Estate, it is also hoped that more historical information will be unveiled in future articles that are intended to form part of the series mentioned.

This article gives an interesting view of the private and historical ownership of the property dating back to 1796 and through its research, I believe, supports the importance of the historical value connected to the Rand Estate.

Unfortunately, the value of these historical assets has been questioned and disputed by some, which has led to a considerable amount of controversy.

However, this article adds independent credence to the claims of many local residents and others who value the historical assets of the Rand Estate and believe strongly that any development must recognize its particular uniqueness and be appropriate, as well as being sensitive to the surrounding neighbourhood.

Derek Collins
NOTL