Barrett's Wagon Shop

Born in England on September 30, 1830, William Barrett seems to have apprentinced to the wagonmaker's trade while there. He purchased this lot in 1862, when at the time Orpheus Street still connected with Main Street (now Lynden Road). By 1863, Barrett had built a frame house and a wagon shop and was conducting his trade in Lynden, while during his non-productive times with regards to wagon-making he performed carpentry work. His annual lumber use was 5,000 board feet, which manufactured wagons, sleighs, and harrows. Repairs of the same were also done.

William died unexpectedly at the age of 45 in 1974. He was predeceased by his wife, leaving their seven children without parents. Their eldest daughter Margaret was only 19 at the time.

One of Barrett's season employees, William Baker, took over the shop for a time. By spring of 1878, George Chapman had leased the property for several years, carrying on a shoemaking and repair business until he moved on to St. George in 1888. Wesley Vansickle then established a butcher shop in the former wagon works. After further exchange of hands and businesses being re-established at other locations, the old frame buildings were removed in 1898 and the white brick structure was built for Samuel and Sarah Doherty.