Published on www.journalpontiac.com on July 2, 2025.
EARL YOUNG VIOLIN JOINS PONTIAC MUSEUM COLLECTION
The Pontiac Historical Society hosted a special event on June 18 at the Shawville Community Lodge celebrating the musical legacy of Earl Young and the donation of one
of his violins to the Pontiac Museum.
Young, a longtime resident of Onslow Corners, was a passionate fiddler known to many as “the Professor.” Over his lifetime, he collected 62 violins, many crafted by award-winning musician and luthier Dennis Alexander.
Before his passing in 2005, Young entrusted the 50 violins remaining in his collection
to Alexander, who has since found new homes for the instruments with musicians
across Canada.
The latest recipient of one of Young’s violins is the Pontiac Museum, which is celebrating
its 50th anniversary this year. The donated violin, built by Alexander for Young, reflects the museum’s mandate to preserve objects of local historical and cultural significance.
It will be on display this summer at the museum, located at 210 Lake Street in Shawville.
Following the presentation, guests enjoyed refreshments and live music performed by valley fiddlers Bruce Armitage, Dennis Alexander, Randy Foster, and guitarist Rolly Bernier, who played a selection of Young’s favourite old-time tunes. – Dale Shutt
Photo – Rolly Bernier, Randy Foster, Bruce Armitage, and Dennis Alexander perform at the Shawville Community Lodge, June 18. (DS)
