Hope for a Gordon Lightfoot museum ‘still very much alive’ in his hometown

TORONTO – Gordon Lightfoot’s folk music legacy could still be honoured with a museum in his Ontario hometown.
Pam Carter, president of the Mariposa Folk Festival, says local officials in Orillia, Ont. haven’t given up hope that artifacts from the late singer-songwriter’s life may wind up at a dedicated space in the city.
But she says it’s too early to say when those plans might take shape.
Carter is part of a working group formed by Orillia city council under a mandate to consult with Lightfoot’s estate on memorabilia that might be available for display.
So far, she says it remains unclear what – if any – items may become available to the city, which she says has made it difficult to consider suitable locations, apply for grants or seek other financial assistance.
Lightfoot’s estate has recently put dozens of his personal belongings up for auction in the United States, including a selection of his guitars that include the one featured on the “Sundown” album cover, sparking concern from some fans.
The auction is currently being held online and closes with an in-person ceremony on Nov. 17, the late musician’s birthday. Lightfoot died last year at the age of 84.
“We continue to communicate with the executors,” Carter said.
“It’s still very much alive.”
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 3, 2024.