A giant snowman turns heads in Shakespeare

Sarah Johnston and daughter Bella stand proudly beside the family’s 13-foot snowman on William Shakespeare Street. Wesley Johnston, who was at work when the photo was taken, takes on the challenge each year of building the biggest snowman he can – a tradition the family loves to share with the community. Gary West photo

By Gary West

Drivers making their way down William Shakespeare Street in the village of Shakespeare may find themselves stopping for a second look – and with good reason.

The Wesley Johnston family has once again built one of the tallest and widest snowmen the village has ever seen.

Towering roughly 13 feet high, the snowman was rolled together during last week’s stretch of perfect packing snow. Wesley Johnston has a reputation for going big, and this year’s frosty figure didn’t disappoint. He said last winter’s version was even taller thanks to a helping hand from a neighbour.

The massive creation has quickly become a roadside attraction, prompting double takes from motorists and plenty of smiles from those passing by. It’s far from an ordinary snowman – more like a landmark of winter enthusiasm on display weeks before Christmas.