Cape Breton community remembers builder known for making ‘baby barns’

A beloved member of the Cape Breton community, Murdock MacLeod, is being fondly remembered for his contributions as a community builder. In the 1970s, MacLeod established Cabot Building Supplies, which was the first hardware store in the area, providing essential supplies to the residents of Cape North. Additionally, he played a vital role in founding the Cabot volunteer fire department in the 1950s, ensuring that emergency services were available to those living in rural and remote parts of northern Cape Breton.

However, in recent years, MacLeod became renowned for his skill in building “baby barns,” small sheds that he crafted alongside his granddaughter, Kimber MacLeod, at the family business. Over the span of several decades, MacLeod constructed approximately 300 to 400 of these barns for the community. Tragically, MacLeod passed away in February while in the process of creating a new barn, just one day before his 92nd birthday.

Kimber MacLeod reminisced about her grandfather’s work ethic, describing him as a dedicated and hardworking individual who was always busy building these structures. She expressed the difficulty of coping with his absence and missing their time spent working together.

Stephane Poitras, a local campground owner, praised MacLeod as a local legend, admiring his tireless work ethic and craftsmanship. Chief of the Cabot volunteer fire department, Kyle Rambeau, highlighted MacLeod’s significant role in helping establish the fire station, which was crucial for providing emergency response services to the community.

To honor MacLeod’s legacy, his family has organized a fundraiser called “Murdock’s Last Baby Barn,” where the final barn he built will be raffled off to raise funds for new uniforms and equipment for the firefighters in Cape North. Rambeau expressed gratitude for the support, emphasizing the importance of having uniforms and equipment to boost morale and pride among the department members.

Kimber MacLeod believed that her grandfather would have found amusement in their fundraising efforts, imagining his reaction and how pleased he would have been to see the community come together to support the firefighters. Overall, the initiative serves as a heartfelt tribute to MacLeod’s dedication to his community and his enduring impact on the Cape Breton region.