The latest page in local history was turned earlier this year when “ The Vision Clinic” Port Perry, opened in the landmark building at 305 Queen St. It is co-owned by Brock and Wendy Reville, Optician’s owners of Port Perry Optical and Dr. Brian & Darlene Hadden owners of Dr. Hadden & Associates, Optometrists, who were previously established on Water St. where they successfully practiced and cared for their patients for more than 25 years. The Vision Clinic team purchased the attractive Victorian building from Irwin Smith. It has been totally renovated and updated while maintaining its unique charm and delightful appearance. “It’s bright, airy and open” Wendy described. Renovations included, removing walls, installing new windows and adding a new washroom, making it easier for wheelchair navigation. ‘The Vision Clinic is now fully accessible. The new owners met with the members of the Port Perry Heritage Committee to ensure that all changes were in keeping with the historical integrity of the building. There's ample parking, conveniently located behind the building at the Simcoe St. entrance. PAID ADVERTISEMENT THE VISION CLINIC ‘The beautiful brick home at 305 Queen St., where Dr. George Clemens had his medical practice, was lost in a tragic fire in 1895. Dr. Proctor purchased the site and built the appealing building still standing today, and he doctored there until 1908 when he moved to Whitby. Dr. John D. Berry was the last physician to occupy the premises. Reach Township councillor Wm. M. Real and his wife Mina lived there from 1918 to 1942. Over the next 40 years, this house was owned by the Spooner, Drake, Bryden, McDermott, Glidden and Decan families. Local musician Irwin Smith converted part of the building into a retail store in 1991. The Smiths lived upstairs until they moved to their family farm southwest of Port Perry, circa 1995, and established Ocala Orchards Farm Winery. A bridal shop, Everlasting Memories, was the most recent tenant. Darlene Hadden, Office Manager for Dr. Brian Hadden & Associates, explained that the historical significance of the Victorian building at the junction of Simcoe and Queen St. was a major consideration in establishing The Vision Clinic on this site. Darlene remarked “We feel so fortunate and proud to be a part of Port Perry’s beautiful and vibrant Heritage District. Our staff and patients alike, have shared their admiration and respect of our new building” Interestingly, Dr. Hadden is a direct descendent of Elias Williams, who is acknowledged as the ‘first resident’ of Port Perry. Two elderly residents shared memories of playing with the children who lived in the “old house” when they were youngsters. Some claim that there is a friendly ghost lingering in the building... Commonly known as the Dr. E. L. Proctor residence, this attractive two-storey frame house was built in 1897. Since it was originally utilized as a home-based practice for a physician, it is appropriate that the latest occupants are also professionals in a medical field. Optometrists Dr. Brian Hadden & Associates continue to offer outstanding professional eye care and treatment. The latest in modern equipment is used for eye examinations, including new computerized eye charts and Opto Map retinal scans. There’s a new pediatric examination room, especially designed and decorated to accommodate young families. Dr. Hadden, Dr. Gilliver and Dr. Hsia are all accepting new patients. With 30 years of experience, the professionals at Port Perry Optical continue to offer superior service an eyewear products. The Revilles have a strong background in lab work, and they offer state-of-the-art digital design to optimize lens optics. Frame fit is of number one importance. There are hundreds of attractive designer frames and sunglasses to choose from. FRIDAY, JUNE 12 3:00 - 7:00 pm Patients, special guests and the general public, are all invited for refreshments, to celebrate the occasion. Drop in to welcome THE VISION CLINIC to historic downtown Port Perry! FOCUS - JUNE 2015 17