The premiere showing of OUR TOWN: BRANTFORD will be this Saturday evening at 6:30 pm on WNED Television (the Buffalo PBS station, cable 61 in Brantford).
In October 2009, 32 current residents captured some of Brantford’s foremost “points of pride” for OUR TOWN: BRANTFORD, WNED’s 14th community “video scrapbook” production.
As these volunteer videographers show through their film footage, Brantford has carefully preserved both its storied past and its natural beauty. In this city of about 90,000 people, bald eagles – as well as the historic downtown core – are making a comeback.
I joined up as one of the volunteers, hoping to highlight some of my favourite historic sites - including St. Jude's. I shot video at a number of places, including next to the casino at "Brant's Ford," at the Mohawk Chapel, at the Military Museum, at Victoria Square and at the Brant County War Memorial. Andrew Dunning was kind enough to electronically send along some of his fine photos of the interior of St. Jude's as well.
I was interviewed at the end of October and handed in all my "raw" video footage. The editors at WNED will now cut and paste the video and audio all together into a neat package - that will probably only last about 4 minutes at most. I have no control about what gets in and what gets left out at this point, and I haven't seen the finished video as I write, but I hope St. Jude's gets some exposure across New York State and Ontario when the program airs as it is one of the lesser known National Historic Sites.
I handed in close to 45 minutes of video and I was interviewed for over 30 minutes.... I am told that the editors have nearly 40 hours of video to boil down to a one-hour program!
Featured Topics - The Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts, Historic Sites (my topic), Trails, Wilfrid Laurier University, the Bell Homestead, Natural Assets/Wildlife, the Dufferin Club, the Personal Computer Museum, the Mohawk Chapel, Entertainment, the Waterfront, Hidden Gardens, Urban Renewal, Glenhyrst Gardens and Art Gallery, the Train Station, Volunteers and Community Groups, the Arts Block & Stir It Up Cafe, and the Brant Theatre Production of Dracula.
For more information on the Our Town series visit: www.wned.org.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
BRANT HISTORICAL SOCIETY - DECEMBER HAPPENINGS
The Board and Staff of the Brant Historical Society would like to wish you the best during the holidays and a very Happy New Year. As we approach the end of the year, I would like to update you on a few things happening during December.
BHS Speakers Series
David Judd will be joining us on Wednesday, December 16th (7:30-9:30 p.m.). David will continue with his traditional presentation on the history of Brantford and Brant County 100 years ago.
Open House at Myrtleville House Museum
Please join us on December 18th (6:00 - 9:00 p.m.) for a Victorian Christmas as Myrtleville House Museum is now decorated for the holidays. In addition to tours of the museum, classic Christmas stories will be read and the Brant Taletellers Guild will also be in attendance to tell a special Christmas story.
Recipes From the Past: For Busy People
Looking for a gift for that hard to buy for person? Consider the Society's latest cookbook which is now available. The cookbook sells for $9.95 and features a wonderful assortment of historic recipes. The recipe book is available at the Brant Museum and Archives, Myrtleville House Museum, the Museum-in-the-Square, and Green Heron Books.
If you have any questions, please contact the museum at 519-752-2483.
Wishing everyone a safe and happy holiday season and all the best in the New Year.
Sincerely,
Joan Kanigan, Executive Director
Brant Historical Society
57 Charlotte Street
Brantford, ON N3T 2W6
www.brantmuseums.ca
BHS Speakers Series
David Judd will be joining us on Wednesday, December 16th (7:30-9:30 p.m.). David will continue with his traditional presentation on the history of Brantford and Brant County 100 years ago.
Open House at Myrtleville House Museum
Please join us on December 18th (6:00 - 9:00 p.m.) for a Victorian Christmas as Myrtleville House Museum is now decorated for the holidays. In addition to tours of the museum, classic Christmas stories will be read and the Brant Taletellers Guild will also be in attendance to tell a special Christmas story.
Recipes From the Past: For Busy People
Looking for a gift for that hard to buy for person? Consider the Society's latest cookbook which is now available. The cookbook sells for $9.95 and features a wonderful assortment of historic recipes. The recipe book is available at the Brant Museum and Archives, Myrtleville House Museum, the Museum-in-the-Square, and Green Heron Books.
If you have any questions, please contact the museum at 519-752-2483.
Wishing everyone a safe and happy holiday season and all the best in the New Year.
Sincerely,
Joan Kanigan, Executive Director
Brant Historical Society
57 Charlotte Street
Brantford, ON N3T 2W6
www.brantmuseums.ca
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
'Twas the Night Before Christmas 2009 at Westfield Heritage Village
Christmas at Westfield is something my family always enjoys!
Special evening openings for the Village are on Saturdays, December 5th, 12th and 19th, from 5 pm to 9 pm.
Admission fees: Adults $9.75, Seniors/Disabled $8.75, Youth 6-12 years of age $5.75, Children 5 years and under are free. Parking is free.
Experience Christmas traditions in the round, literally... true origins of the upside down Christmas tree, candle powered rotating Nativity scenes, the kissing, granny and pomander ball, and much more.
Celebrate Christmas past from the Georgian to the modern eras and feel the warmth of the season through food samples, fireworks, horse and wagon rides and a visit from Saint Nick.
Visit with Father Christmas and Fire Works Display at 6:30 pm
Sugar Twist donuts courtesy of Tim Hortons. Trees donated by Will Farm, Vi, Buck and Michael Collins. Special Thanks to Bennet's Farms for their apple cider.
Please bring a non-perishable food item and help support the Salvation Army.
And if you would prefer visiting the Village while the sun is out....
The Christmas Open House happens on Sunday, December 20th, 2009, from 10 am to 4 pm.
Admission fees are the same as above.
Enjoy an old fashioned Christmas and celebrate the season where traditions of an earlier time brought to life.
TEL: 519-621-8851, or toll-free 1-800-883-0104
1049 Kirkwall Road, Rockton, Ontario, L0R 1X0
Special evening openings for the Village are on Saturdays, December 5th, 12th and 19th, from 5 pm to 9 pm.
Admission fees: Adults $9.75, Seniors/Disabled $8.75, Youth 6-12 years of age $5.75, Children 5 years and under are free. Parking is free.
Experience Christmas traditions in the round, literally... true origins of the upside down Christmas tree, candle powered rotating Nativity scenes, the kissing, granny and pomander ball, and much more.
Celebrate Christmas past from the Georgian to the modern eras and feel the warmth of the season through food samples, fireworks, horse and wagon rides and a visit from Saint Nick.
Visit with Father Christmas and Fire Works Display at 6:30 pm
Sugar Twist donuts courtesy of Tim Hortons. Trees donated by Will Farm, Vi, Buck and Michael Collins. Special Thanks to Bennet's Farms for their apple cider.
Please bring a non-perishable food item and help support the Salvation Army.
And if you would prefer visiting the Village while the sun is out....
The Christmas Open House happens on Sunday, December 20th, 2009, from 10 am to 4 pm.
Admission fees are the same as above.
Enjoy an old fashioned Christmas and celebrate the season where traditions of an earlier time brought to life.
TEL: 519-621-8851, or toll-free 1-800-883-0104
1049 Kirkwall Road, Rockton, Ontario, L0R 1X0
Paris Library Digital History Project
A reminder that the Paris Library's digital program launches this coming Sunday afternoon, December 6th, 2009. See the earlier blog posting for details.
We can add, however, the following links so that you can virtually witness the hard work they have put in:
See historical documents and photos from the County of Brant online: Visit http://images.ourontario.ca/brant
Share your memories and family history online at "Our Brant:" http://ourbrant.wikia.com
We can add, however, the following links so that you can virtually witness the hard work they have put in:
See historical documents and photos from the County of Brant online: Visit http://images.ourontario.ca/brant
Share your memories and family history online at "Our Brant:" http://ourbrant.wikia.com
Monday, November 23, 2009
CHRISTMAS AT THE BELL HOMESTEAD
Christmas Craft & Bake Sale
Saturday, November 28th, 10a.m. to 2p.m.
The ladies at the Homestead Café are baking up a storm so you don’t
have to! You’ll find a plethora of homemade pies, cookies, and squares.
Find just the right stocking stuffer or gift for that certain someone.
“Ringing in the Holidays” Yuletide Celebration
December 1st - 24th
Tuesday to Sunday, 9:30a.m. to 4:30p.m.
Haul out the holly! A traditional Victorian Christmas abounds with
plenty of garlands, greenery, and holiday cheer. See how many of our
own Yuletide traditions came into being over 100 years ago.
Holiday Lamplight Tours
December 12th and 13th
5p.m. to 8p.m.
An evening visit to the Bell’s home at our favourite time of the year will
enliven everyone’s holiday spirit. The Homestead and Henderson Home
come to life amid the glow of candles and oil lamps while the aroma of
Yuletide baking wafts its way from the kitchen and live musical
entertainment fills the drawing room with the sounds of yesteryear.
Admission by donation.
Also join us at our Café for Christmas dinner both nights $19.95 per
person. (reservations required).
Bell Homestead National Historic Site
94 Tutela Heights Road
Brantford, ON
N3T 1A1
Telephone: 519.756.6220
Saturday, November 28th, 10a.m. to 2p.m.
The ladies at the Homestead Café are baking up a storm so you don’t
have to! You’ll find a plethora of homemade pies, cookies, and squares.
Find just the right stocking stuffer or gift for that certain someone.
“Ringing in the Holidays” Yuletide Celebration
December 1st - 24th
Tuesday to Sunday, 9:30a.m. to 4:30p.m.
Haul out the holly! A traditional Victorian Christmas abounds with
plenty of garlands, greenery, and holiday cheer. See how many of our
own Yuletide traditions came into being over 100 years ago.
Holiday Lamplight Tours
December 12th and 13th
5p.m. to 8p.m.
An evening visit to the Bell’s home at our favourite time of the year will
enliven everyone’s holiday spirit. The Homestead and Henderson Home
come to life amid the glow of candles and oil lamps while the aroma of
Yuletide baking wafts its way from the kitchen and live musical
entertainment fills the drawing room with the sounds of yesteryear.
Admission by donation.
Also join us at our Café for Christmas dinner both nights $19.95 per
person. (reservations required).
Bell Homestead National Historic Site
94 Tutela Heights Road
Brantford, ON
N3T 1A1
Telephone: 519.756.6220
CANADIAN NAVY CENTENNIAL
The aim of the Canadian Naval Centennial is to build and strengthen in Canadians an appreciation for their navy and to promote the role of the navy within the Canadian Forces in a maritime nation like Canada. The theme is to “Bring the Navy to Canadians” and events will be focused to honour the past, to showcase the current navy and to reinforce the requirement for the future navy.
The navy, along with several civilian naval-oriented groups, has commenced planning for 2010 activities across the country. Major international fleet assemblies are scheduled for June 2010 in Victoria and a month later in Halifax during the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo. As well, a group of naval warships will visit Toronto during the Canadian National Exhibition and an increased number of port visits are planned for both coasts and in the St. Lawrence and Great Lakes.
The Naval Reserves, with their 24 divisions in cities across Canada, are key to promoting the centennial and the navy across the country. There are several activities both local and of a national nature that they are considering including “Freedom's of the City” parades, open houses, a cross-country run along the Canada Trail and other projects in cooperation with their municipality and local naval service groups.
An activity that promotes the underlying centennial theme is to develop a traveling road show, consisting of a small musical revue with naval band, an exhibition of naval artefacts and naval art. This troupe would, over the course of the centennial year, perform in many cities and towns across the country.
Another initiative being explored is for the navy to have a prominent role at major sporting events, exhibitions and other national cultural events during 2010.
Both Canada Post and the Royal Canadian Mint are considering a naval centennial stamp and coin respectively to commemorate this historic milestone. There are several other projects being progressed including the commissioning of a set of paintings and a coffee table book to commemorate the navy over the past one hundred years
Other ideas include a commemorative sword, historical conferences in Halifax and Ottawa, parades and dinners. Plans are underway to send to every First Nations people, city, town and region that has been honoured by having a Canadian warship named after it, information about their namesake ship so that they may have the opportunity to promote that ship, and thus, the Canadian Navy during the centennial year.
The centennial will be a momentous milestone both in our navy and nation’s history. We will honour the past, celebrate our achievements and recognize our obligation to Canada with the naval centennial slogan: Commemorate, Celebrate, Commit.
Canadians are encouraged to become involved in the centennial of our nation’s navy by joining in any of the public celebrations occurring near you.
http://www.navy.forces.gc.ca/centennial/
The navy, along with several civilian naval-oriented groups, has commenced planning for 2010 activities across the country. Major international fleet assemblies are scheduled for June 2010 in Victoria and a month later in Halifax during the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo. As well, a group of naval warships will visit Toronto during the Canadian National Exhibition and an increased number of port visits are planned for both coasts and in the St. Lawrence and Great Lakes.
The Naval Reserves, with their 24 divisions in cities across Canada, are key to promoting the centennial and the navy across the country. There are several activities both local and of a national nature that they are considering including “Freedom's of the City” parades, open houses, a cross-country run along the Canada Trail and other projects in cooperation with their municipality and local naval service groups.
An activity that promotes the underlying centennial theme is to develop a traveling road show, consisting of a small musical revue with naval band, an exhibition of naval artefacts and naval art. This troupe would, over the course of the centennial year, perform in many cities and towns across the country.
Another initiative being explored is for the navy to have a prominent role at major sporting events, exhibitions and other national cultural events during 2010.
Both Canada Post and the Royal Canadian Mint are considering a naval centennial stamp and coin respectively to commemorate this historic milestone. There are several other projects being progressed including the commissioning of a set of paintings and a coffee table book to commemorate the navy over the past one hundred years
Other ideas include a commemorative sword, historical conferences in Halifax and Ottawa, parades and dinners. Plans are underway to send to every First Nations people, city, town and region that has been honoured by having a Canadian warship named after it, information about their namesake ship so that they may have the opportunity to promote that ship, and thus, the Canadian Navy during the centennial year.
The centennial will be a momentous milestone both in our navy and nation’s history. We will honour the past, celebrate our achievements and recognize our obligation to Canada with the naval centennial slogan: Commemorate, Celebrate, Commit.
Canadians are encouraged to become involved in the centennial of our nation’s navy by joining in any of the public celebrations occurring near you.
http://www.navy.forces.gc.ca/centennial/
OPP: A CENTURY OF POLICING
Now until January 29, 2010
The OPP Museum’s current exhibition, FRONTIERS: A CENTURY OF POLICING, highlights key moments in OPP history, both early and recent, through a selection of compelling images, artifacts and personal stories which celebrate the last century of the Ontario Provincial Police.
The OPP Museum
777 Memorial Avenue
Orilllia, Ontario
L3V 7V3
Planning a Visit?
Just minutes from downtown Orillia, The OPP Museum is located right inside Ontario Provincial Police General Headquarters (GHQ). Visits to the museum are self-guided. The self-guided tour brochure for GHQ is available at the main information desk, and inside the museum. To book a self-guided group visit to the museum for groups more than 10, please call ahead of time (705) 329-6889.
Visitors are also welcome to stroll along inside the public front of GHQ and enjoy the OPP displays, visit The Off Duty ShOPP (705-329-6280) and pause for refreshments at The Steak-Out Cafeteria (705-329-6523).
Major exhibits are featured in the museum’s main gallery and smaller displays are created throughout the year. Interactive and hands-on elements in the activity area provide a learning experience for people of all ages. Community Service Officers, teachers and group leaders are encouraged to use the museum as a learning resource.
Museum Hours
Open year-round, Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Please note: The OPP Museum is closed on statutory holidays
The OPP Museum’s current exhibition, FRONTIERS: A CENTURY OF POLICING, highlights key moments in OPP history, both early and recent, through a selection of compelling images, artifacts and personal stories which celebrate the last century of the Ontario Provincial Police.
The OPP Museum
777 Memorial Avenue
Orilllia, Ontario
L3V 7V3
Planning a Visit?
Just minutes from downtown Orillia, The OPP Museum is located right inside Ontario Provincial Police General Headquarters (GHQ). Visits to the museum are self-guided. The self-guided tour brochure for GHQ is available at the main information desk, and inside the museum. To book a self-guided group visit to the museum for groups more than 10, please call ahead of time (705) 329-6889.
Visitors are also welcome to stroll along inside the public front of GHQ and enjoy the OPP displays, visit The Off Duty ShOPP (705-329-6280) and pause for refreshments at The Steak-Out Cafeteria (705-329-6523).
Major exhibits are featured in the museum’s main gallery and smaller displays are created throughout the year. Interactive and hands-on elements in the activity area provide a learning experience for people of all ages. Community Service Officers, teachers and group leaders are encouraged to use the museum as a learning resource.
Museum Hours
Open year-round, Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Please note: The OPP Museum is closed on statutory holidays
PADDLE SONG - DINNER THEATRE DECEMBER 4,5,6,11 & 12
PADDLE SONG - THE DINNER THEATRE
DECEMBER 4,5,6,11 & 12 -
Doors open at 6 pm - Dinner served at 6:30 pm
In conjunction with the exhibit "Faithfully Yours", the Woodland Cultural Centre is pleased to bring back this popular holiday event! Featuring the musical "Paddle Song" written by Dinah Christie and starring Cheri Maracle dircted by Pamela Matthews, this season's Dinner Theatre showcases the life and adventures of Mohawk poetess Pauline Johnson.
Each night begins with a delicious four course meal inspired by Indigenous and contemporary cuisines. Tickets must be reserved ahead of time - so call now to reserve your spot. Friends/Members of the Museum receive a discount on their ticket!
Tickets $50.00 per person.
The Woodland Cultural Centre
184 Mohawk Street
Brandford ON,
N3T 5V6
Phone: (519)759-2650
DECEMBER 4,5,6,11 & 12 -
Doors open at 6 pm - Dinner served at 6:30 pm
In conjunction with the exhibit "Faithfully Yours", the Woodland Cultural Centre is pleased to bring back this popular holiday event! Featuring the musical "Paddle Song" written by Dinah Christie and starring Cheri Maracle dircted by Pamela Matthews, this season's Dinner Theatre showcases the life and adventures of Mohawk poetess Pauline Johnson.
Each night begins with a delicious four course meal inspired by Indigenous and contemporary cuisines. Tickets must be reserved ahead of time - so call now to reserve your spot. Friends/Members of the Museum receive a discount on their ticket!
Tickets $50.00 per person.
The Woodland Cultural Centre
184 Mohawk Street
Brandford ON,
N3T 5V6
Phone: (519)759-2650
County of Brant Library Digital Project Lauch
DIGITAL PROJECT LAUNCH
The County of Brant Public Library is proud to announce the upcoming launch of its new Digital Collections. Their inaugural project is all about the history of Paris, Ontario, with special emphasis on its founder, Hiram Capron.
Join the project staff to get the very first look at this wonderful new electronic resource which allows the world to view original historical documents from the 19th century including personal letters, maps, and more.
Hiram Capron himself might also make an appearance!
Refreshments will be served.
What: Digital Collection Project Launch
When: Sunday December 6, 2009
Time: 12:00 PM—4:00 PM
Cost: Free
The support of the Government of Ontario, through the Ministry of Culture, is gratefully acknowledged.
The County of Brant Public Library is proud to announce the upcoming launch of its new Digital Collections. Their inaugural project is all about the history of Paris, Ontario, with special emphasis on its founder, Hiram Capron.
Join the project staff to get the very first look at this wonderful new electronic resource which allows the world to view original historical documents from the 19th century including personal letters, maps, and more.
Hiram Capron himself might also make an appearance!
Refreshments will be served.
What: Digital Collection Project Launch
When: Sunday December 6, 2009
Time: 12:00 PM—4:00 PM
Cost: Free
The support of the Government of Ontario, through the Ministry of Culture, is gratefully acknowledged.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Tickets are going fast for the November Dinner
If you wish to have a place at our November 14th dinner you should act quickly to reserve at ticket. We are headed toward an early sell-out this year.
Call Cliff Jones at (519) 448-1075 or email David Simpson at dsimpson@bfree.on.ca to have tickets set aside.
We hope to see you there!
Call Cliff Jones at (519) 448-1075 or email David Simpson at dsimpson@bfree.on.ca to have tickets set aside.
We hope to see you there!
Monday, August 17, 2009
Special Dinner in November at the St. George Legion
The SOUTH DUMFRIES HISTORICAL SOCIETY presents
A SPECIAL DINNER in HONOUR of the
Upcoming 100th Anniversary of
the CANADIAN NAVY
A buffet-style roast beef dinner
featuring brief presentations:
Lieutenant Commander
GLENNA SWING,
former Commander
of HMCS STAR (Hamilton),
and
MUSICAL GUEST
SHARILYN VANDERMOLEN
performing and discussing
Navy songs from the past 100 years
(some listener discretion advised).
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14th, 2009
at the ST. GEORGE LEGION (9 Main Street North)
4:30 PM RECEPTION; 5:30 pm first speaker
Tickets $18 in advance/$20 at the door if available
Tickets at the Museum, 36 Main Street South, and at the Legion,
or call Cliff Jones at (519) 448-1075.
A SPECIAL DINNER in HONOUR of the
Upcoming 100th Anniversary of
the CANADIAN NAVY
A buffet-style roast beef dinner
featuring brief presentations:
Lieutenant Commander
GLENNA SWING,
former Commander
of HMCS STAR (Hamilton),
and
MUSICAL GUEST
SHARILYN VANDERMOLEN
performing and discussing
Navy songs from the past 100 years
(some listener discretion advised).
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14th, 2009
at the ST. GEORGE LEGION (9 Main Street North)
4:30 PM RECEPTION; 5:30 pm first speaker
Tickets $18 in advance/$20 at the door if available
Tickets at the Museum, 36 Main Street South, and at the Legion,
or call Cliff Jones at (519) 448-1075.
Sky Art event this Friday afternoon at Woodland
This is passed along for Lauren Williams:
Good afternoon, I am writing to invite you to participate in the creation of the "World's Largest Living Wampum Belt"-- an aerial photography experience led by Sky Artist Daniel Dancer from Oregon.
As part of the indigenous arts festival Planet IndigenUS, at the Woodland Cultural Centre, August 15-22, 2009. Free t-shirts will be given to all participants.
We hope to have over 300 people recreate the Hiawatha belt at the Woodland Cultural Centre on Friday, August 21, 2009, at 2:00 p.m. and following this will be a corn soup cookoff and a performance by Hawaiian dancers.
If you wish to participate in the corn soup cook-off, a mug may be purchased for $5.00 for sampling the soups. All other programming on Friday, August 21 is free to the public.
To sign up or register for the sky art and your free t-shirt, please call 519-759-2650 and ask for Diane Kohoko at extension 226 or Joan Greenbird at extension 221.
Thank you, nia:wen, and we hope to see you there!
Please forward this email to anyone who may be interested. We hope there are local youth groups or other local organizations, businesses or individuals who might like to be involved in this project.
Sincerely, Lauren Williams
Executive Director
Woodland Cultural Centre
Brantford, Ontario N3T 5V6
(519) 759-2650 ex. 227
Toll-free 1-866-412-2202
Good afternoon, I am writing to invite you to participate in the creation of the "World's Largest Living Wampum Belt"-- an aerial photography experience led by Sky Artist Daniel Dancer from Oregon.
As part of the indigenous arts festival Planet IndigenUS, at the Woodland Cultural Centre, August 15-22, 2009. Free t-shirts will be given to all participants.
We hope to have over 300 people recreate the Hiawatha belt at the Woodland Cultural Centre on Friday, August 21, 2009, at 2:00 p.m. and following this will be a corn soup cookoff and a performance by Hawaiian dancers.
If you wish to participate in the corn soup cook-off, a mug may be purchased for $5.00 for sampling the soups. All other programming on Friday, August 21 is free to the public.
To sign up or register for the sky art and your free t-shirt, please call 519-759-2650 and ask for Diane Kohoko at extension 226 or Joan Greenbird at extension 221.
Thank you, nia:wen, and we hope to see you there!
Please forward this email to anyone who may be interested. We hope there are local youth groups or other local organizations, businesses or individuals who might like to be involved in this project.
Sincerely, Lauren Williams
Executive Director
Woodland Cultural Centre
Brantford, Ontario N3T 5V6
(519) 759-2650 ex. 227
Toll-free 1-866-412-2202
Another Murder Mystery at the Hoodless Homestead
Adelaide Hoodless is going to start getting a reputation as the Canadian version of Jessica Fletcher of Murder, She Wrote fame ... Yet another dead body is about to turn up at her Homestead on Saturday August 22nd, 2009.
You, your family and friends, are all invited to solve the murder mystery. Suspects will be placed throughout the Homestead and can be interviewed for clues.
The event runs from 6 - 9 pm and there is a modest admission fee.
For details call 519-448-1130 or visit the website at www.hoodlesshomestead.com
The Homestead is located at 359 Blue Lake Road in St. George - just west of the intersection of Hwy #24 and Beverly Street West.
You, your family and friends, are all invited to solve the murder mystery. Suspects will be placed throughout the Homestead and can be interviewed for clues.
The event runs from 6 - 9 pm and there is a modest admission fee.
For details call 519-448-1130 or visit the website at www.hoodlesshomestead.com
The Homestead is located at 359 Blue Lake Road in St. George - just west of the intersection of Hwy #24 and Beverly Street West.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Stars of the Town - St. George 1947
Dubbed "Stars of the Town" by their creator, the late Rev. LeRoy (Roy) H. Massecar (1918-2003), the collection of silent black and white 8mm films representing 88 Ontario locations depict small town life in the province between 1947 and 1949.
The St. George edition, although short in length, has wonderful footage of a dance in the Memorial Hall, various Main Street businesses, the Fire Department in action, and a parade of school children.
The DVD is available to borrow at the St. George Library, and is also available for purchase through the University of Western Ontario Archives department. The cost is just $15.00 (tax included) plus $3.00 for shipping. Visit the website for the Archives at
http://www.lib.uwo.ca/archives/stars%20of%20the%20town/index.html
for more information. Other communities such as Lynden, Ayr, Stoney Creek, Burford and Princeton are also available in the collection.
The St. George edition, although short in length, has wonderful footage of a dance in the Memorial Hall, various Main Street businesses, the Fire Department in action, and a parade of school children.
The DVD is available to borrow at the St. George Library, and is also available for purchase through the University of Western Ontario Archives department. The cost is just $15.00 (tax included) plus $3.00 for shipping. Visit the website for the Archives at
http://www.lib.uwo.ca/archives/stars%20of%20the%20town/index.html
for more information. Other communities such as Lynden, Ayr, Stoney Creek, Burford and Princeton are also available in the collection.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Memorial Hall Open House this Saturday
In anticipation of the Cobblestone Festival staging four of its productions in the St. George Memorial Hall this August, we are partnering with the Festival to have an Open House on Saturday, July 11th from 2 - 5 pm.
There will be refreshments as well as entertainment provided by Al Spurvey (of the Down East Kitchen Party). You will also find information on the Cobblestone Festival and the Memorial Hall. Pick up a copy of the Door Open Ontario guidebook as well.
Admission is free. Donations are rarely turned down.
32 Main Street South, St. George.
There will be refreshments as well as entertainment provided by Al Spurvey (of the Down East Kitchen Party). You will also find information on the Cobblestone Festival and the Memorial Hall. Pick up a copy of the Door Open Ontario guidebook as well.
Admission is free. Donations are rarely turned down.
32 Main Street South, St. George.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Take a walk into Historical Paris this summer
Enjoy a Sunday afternoon learning about Canada's Cobblestone Capital on a walking tour hosted by the Paris Historical Society.
Volunteer guides dressed in period costume will lead the 75-minute walks.
Tours will begin at the Asa Wolverton House at 52 Grand River St. South at 1:30 p. m., 2 p. m. and 2:30 p. m.
The cost is $10 per person. Refreshments will be available.
To book a tour, call 519-442-9295.
Tours will be held on July 12th, August 16th and September 13th.
Volunteer guides dressed in period costume will lead the 75-minute walks.
Tours will begin at the Asa Wolverton House at 52 Grand River St. South at 1:30 p. m., 2 p. m. and 2:30 p. m.
The cost is $10 per person. Refreshments will be available.
To book a tour, call 519-442-9295.
Tours will be held on July 12th, August 16th and September 13th.
Children's Summer Workshops at the Hoodless Homestead
Adelaide Hunter Hoodless Homestead, 359 Blue Lake Rd., St. George, presents Children's Summer Workshops for children aged 6 to 11, July 11, 14, 21 and 28, and Aug. 4 and 11, from 9 a. m. until noon.
Workshops will feature unique themes such as Crime at the Homestead, Pirate Scavenger Hunt, Teddy Bears' Picnic and Mad Hatter Tea, various games and crafts.
Admission if $5 per child.
Call 519-448-1130 for more information or email hoodlesshomestead@gmail.com.
Workshops will feature unique themes such as Crime at the Homestead, Pirate Scavenger Hunt, Teddy Bears' Picnic and Mad Hatter Tea, various games and crafts.
Admission if $5 per child.
Call 519-448-1130 for more information or email hoodlesshomestead@gmail.com.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Start Canada Day with Pancakes, finish with Fireworks!
Start your day on July 1st with a Canada Day pancake breakfast hosted by the St. George firefighters up at the Fire Hall, 72 Main Street North, from 8 a. m. to 11 a. m.
For $2, visitors can get pancakes, sausage, juice and coffee.
There will also be treats for the children.
If you finish up around 11 am, you will be just in time to head downtown and catch the start of Jean St. Pierre's tribute to Stompin' Tom Connors on the Main Street.
And save some room for treats on the Main Street, like ice cream, or something from the benefit BBQ that will help raise money for the young daughters of Mary Ann Hodgson, the former owner of Scrapbook Heaven on St. George's Main Street, who died recently at far too young an age.
You can also re-fuel later at King William Park with the Lions Club BBQ starting at 6 pm.
Canada Day performer Dave Jensen
Dave Jensen has been helping with sound for the past two years at St. George Canada Day and it was time to get him up on stage in front of a crowd!
Dave will be bringing some authentic East-Coast flavour to the festivities along with friends Jeremiah, Frank and Cindy.
Dave hosts the new Brantford Open Stage, which began on Friday, January 6, 2006 to fill the void left when the Brantford Folk Club stopped running their open stage sessions.
Many of the regular participants had expressed the hope that someone would carry onthe open stage tradition, and Dave Jensen stepped in to organize a new club carrying on in the same place and with the same schedule.
The Open Stage runs at the Brant Park Inn - Best Western Hotel at 19 Holiday Drive, Brantford(at the Hwy 403 and Wayne Gretzky Parkway interchange).
It runs every other Friday at 8 PM, September through June.
Open stage format (2-song sets).
Admission: $3 (performers free)
(The location is wheelchair accessible & smoke-free)
June 26th is the last evening before the Summer Break, but check the BOS website for dates when everything starts up again in September - or sign up for the Mailing List - to be added to our mailing list, please send an email tomailto:toBrantfordOpenStage@gmail.com
Canada Day artists CINDY ALEXANDER AND OFFSUIT
2-7 Offsuit is a Kitchener/St. George based rock n' roll band specializing in music that is recognizable to across generations. They play songs from legendary artists spanning four decades with which everyone is familiar, but avoid the songs that most cover bands have overdone.
From Guns n' Roses and Pink Floyd to The Monkees, The Eagles, even Huey Lewis and the News. The set is an eclectic blend of favourites suitable for all ages.
Cindy Alexander (of St. George) - Vocals
Steve Goodwin - Vocals, Guitar
Kevin Randall - Lead Guitar
Mike Koch - Bass
Barry Briere - Drums
For more information on upcoming shows, photos, etc. visit their website at: http://offsuitmusic.com/
Canada Day artist Jean St. Pierre - Tribute to Stompin' Tom
"STomPIERRE"
tribute to STOMPIN' TOM CONNORS
Jean St-Pierre goes by the stage name of "STomPIERRE." Originally from Ste-Perpétue, Québec, but now based in south-west Ontario, he is a bilingual French-English singer/songwriter specializing in a one-man tribute to Stompin Tom Connors. Beside entertaining festivals, fairs, clubs, hockey tournament parties and the likes, STomPIERRE is also available for indoor-outdoor special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, family gatherings, special holidays, etc.
Visit his website at: http://www.stompintomtribute.com/
Canada Day saved by generous donations
Canada Day in St. George has been rescued thanks to generous donations by STARLITE HOMES LTD. (Jack Speelziek) and ANNSPEL HOLDINGS LTD. (Debby Speelziek). They responded to the front page article in the Brantford Expositor that ran on Wednesday. Many thanks to Jack and Debby and their companies for helping us keep all the entertainment and fun in place.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Canada Day 2009
CANADA DAY IN St. GEORGE
Wednesday July 1st , 2009
AFTERNOON EVENTS ON THE MAIN STREET:
Main Street Contests & Games (1 – 3 pm for kids and adults,
including best Canada Day hat & outfit, Sidewalk chalk art competition,
Hula Hoops and best decorated bike contest – prizes to be awarded!)
Music by Stompin’ Tom artist JEAN ST. PIERRE,
East-coast flavoured music by
DAVE JENSEN & FRIENDS
and great pop/rock favourites with
CINDY ALEXANDER & OFFSUIT.
Bring your lawnchairs to enjoy the music. Sound by Bower Audio.
Museum Open House; Displays & Sidewalk Sales
BBQ presented by the Downtown Merchants.
FORMAL CEREMONY AT THE CENOTAPH CORNER:
Starting at 4 pm
The Royal Canadian Legion, Br. 605 Colour Party.
Greetings & Speeches & Birthday Cake & refreshments!
Singing of “O Canada” &
Young bagpiper Kaitlyn Billing (from St. George-German School)
“FIRE & THUNDER”
FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR!
At approx. 10 pm (when it is good and dark) – at King William Park.
BRING YOUR LAWNCHAIRS!
(No other fireworks or sparklers allowed)
(Tentative raindate is Saturday July 4th)
Presented by the St. George Volunteer Firefighters.
Supported by the County of Brant.
Coordinated by the South Dumfries Historical Society.
Schedule of events subject to change,
check the SDHS website for updates
at www.southdumfrieshistoricalsociety.blogspot.com
Wednesday July 1st , 2009
AFTERNOON EVENTS ON THE MAIN STREET:
Main Street Contests & Games (1 – 3 pm for kids and adults,
including best Canada Day hat & outfit, Sidewalk chalk art competition,
Hula Hoops and best decorated bike contest – prizes to be awarded!)
Music by Stompin’ Tom artist JEAN ST. PIERRE,
East-coast flavoured music by
DAVE JENSEN & FRIENDS
and great pop/rock favourites with
CINDY ALEXANDER & OFFSUIT.
Bring your lawnchairs to enjoy the music. Sound by Bower Audio.
Museum Open House; Displays & Sidewalk Sales
BBQ presented by the Downtown Merchants.
FORMAL CEREMONY AT THE CENOTAPH CORNER:
Starting at 4 pm
The Royal Canadian Legion, Br. 605 Colour Party.
Greetings & Speeches & Birthday Cake & refreshments!
Singing of “O Canada” &
Young bagpiper Kaitlyn Billing (from St. George-German School)
“FIRE & THUNDER”
FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR!
At approx. 10 pm (when it is good and dark) – at King William Park.
BRING YOUR LAWNCHAIRS!
(No other fireworks or sparklers allowed)
(Tentative raindate is Saturday July 4th)
Presented by the St. George Volunteer Firefighters.
Supported by the County of Brant.
Coordinated by the South Dumfries Historical Society.
Schedule of events subject to change,
check the SDHS website for updates
at www.southdumfrieshistoricalsociety.blogspot.com
Friday, May 22, 2009
Kevin Sylvester wins the 2009 Silver Birch Award for Non-Fiction
The Ontario Library Association announced the winner of the 2009 Silver Birch award for Non-Fiction last week at a big event in Toronto. The winner? Kevin Sylvester for Gold Medal for Weird! We offer congratulations here for now, but you can congratulate Kevin in person on Monday June 8th when he comes to St. George to talk about the book.
For more on the Silver Birch awards, see:
Monday, May 11, 2009
Kevin Sylvester talk on Monday, June 8th
The South Dumfries Historical Society presents a Public Talk by:
KEVIN SYLVESTER
Author, Artist, CBC Radio personality
presenting a talk on “WEIRD” OLYMPIC STORIES
The gold medals handed out in this talk are for inept athletes, shameful scandals, freakish weather, cheaters, chokers and much worse!
Kevin Sylvester is the bestselling author of Sports Hall of Weird. He is also a reporter, radio sports host, producer and documentary-maker, as well as an illustrator.
His book, The Gold Medal for Weird, the follow-up to the Sports Hall of Weird, is a nominee for the Ontario Library Association's Silver Birch Award.
He has a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and English (with a minor in Latin) from St. Michael's College at the University of Toronto, and is working on a degree in Fine Arts at the Ontario College of Art and Design. He has also worked for over a decade with CBC National Radio Sports.
Kevin lives in Toronto with his wife and two daughters.
Monday, June 8th, 2009
at the St. George United Church Hall
(9 Beverly Street East)
7:00 PM Start - Free Admission - All Welcome
Kevin will be giving a presentation on his book for the students at St. George-German School in the afternoon before his talk.
See Kevin’s Blog at: http://www.kevinarts.blogspot.com/
KEVIN SYLVESTER
Author, Artist, CBC Radio personality
presenting a talk on “WEIRD” OLYMPIC STORIES
The gold medals handed out in this talk are for inept athletes, shameful scandals, freakish weather, cheaters, chokers and much worse!
Kevin Sylvester is the bestselling author of Sports Hall of Weird. He is also a reporter, radio sports host, producer and documentary-maker, as well as an illustrator.
His book, The Gold Medal for Weird, the follow-up to the Sports Hall of Weird, is a nominee for the Ontario Library Association's Silver Birch Award.
He has a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and English (with a minor in Latin) from St. Michael's College at the University of Toronto, and is working on a degree in Fine Arts at the Ontario College of Art and Design. He has also worked for over a decade with CBC National Radio Sports.
Kevin lives in Toronto with his wife and two daughters.
Monday, June 8th, 2009
at the St. George United Church Hall
(9 Beverly Street East)
7:00 PM Start - Free Admission - All Welcome
Kevin will be giving a presentation on his book for the students at St. George-German School in the afternoon before his talk.
See Kevin’s Blog at: http://www.kevinarts.blogspot.com/
Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation to Dave Thomson
On May 11, the Honourable Greg Thompson, Minister of Veterans Affairs, will present the 2009 Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation to ten citizens of Ontario.
The Commendation is presented to individuals who have contributed to the care and well-being of Veterans and to the remembrance of their contributions, sacrifices and achievements.
The recipients on May 11th are:
Ray Cameron, Scarborough
Michael Comeau, Bradford
Stephen Cooper, Burlington
John Hare, Oro Station
Leslie Kemp, Oshawa
James Knox, Holland's Landing
Allan MacIsaac, Pickering
William McDonald, Toronto
Dave Thomson, St. George
Jan Van Der Rassel, Corbeil
Some background on the Commendation:
Since serving in uniform, many of Canada's Veterans continue to provide outstanding service to their country, their communities and their fellow Veterans. To formally recognize the contributions of these outstanding Canadians, the Governor General authorized the creation of the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation.
The Commendation is awarded annually to individuals who have contributed in an exemplary manner to the care and well-being of Veterans or to the remembrance of the contributions, sacrifices and achievements of Veterans.
The Commendation is intended primarily for Veterans, but may be awarded to non-Veterans.
In April, 2001 Her Majesty the Queen approved the design of a special bar to be worn with decorations to be known as the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation.
The Governor General has issued a Warrant creating this award, and the governing policies call for it to be "...awarded to individuals who have performed commendable service to the Veteran community and /or individuals who represent commendable role models for their fellow Veterans."
Insignia and Wear
The Commendation consists of a certificate, a lapel pin for civilian wear and a bar for wear with decorations. The design is a gold maple leaf resting on a red poppy, a flower long associated with the sacrifices of war, with the Royal Crown on the top of the pin.
The Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation is worn below official decorations on its gold bar. It can be worn on Veterans' blazers, formal wear etc. on occasions when it is appropriate for medals to be worn. The lapel pin may be worn at any time on civilian dress.
The SDHS extends congratulations to Dave Thomson and all of the other recipients of this commendation.
Here is the text of the Commendation for Dave Thomson:
Dave Thomson
St. George, Ontario
Mr. Thomson is an auto parts dealer with a soft spot for Veterans. In 2006, while browsing on eBay for items for his auto parts business, he discovered a First World War medal of a soldier from a nearby town. Mr. Thomson bought the medal and turned it over to his town museum.
Since then, Mr. Thomson spends much of his spare time surfing the Internet trying to locate other Canadian service medals which he, in turn, returns to family members, museums, or a Veterans' organization should the family members not be found. To date, Mr. Thomson has successfully returned the medals of close to 250 Canadian Veterans to families or communities.
He has bid and paid for medals out of his own pocket to ensure their safe return to family. In many newspaper articles, he has asked that people contact him should they come across medals for sale on the Internet.
He also encourages people to donate their bids to help him win auctions and return the medals to family. When he locates a Canadian military medal up for sale on the on-line auction, Mr. Thomson turns to the digitized records of Veterans Affairs, Library and Archives of Canada and gets help from a North Bay Ontario genealogist and local media to locate the soldier's descendants or hometown.
The Commendation is presented to individuals who have contributed to the care and well-being of Veterans and to the remembrance of their contributions, sacrifices and achievements.
The recipients on May 11th are:
Ray Cameron, Scarborough
Michael Comeau, Bradford
Stephen Cooper, Burlington
John Hare, Oro Station
Leslie Kemp, Oshawa
James Knox, Holland's Landing
Allan MacIsaac, Pickering
William McDonald, Toronto
Dave Thomson, St. George
Jan Van Der Rassel, Corbeil
Some background on the Commendation:
Since serving in uniform, many of Canada's Veterans continue to provide outstanding service to their country, their communities and their fellow Veterans. To formally recognize the contributions of these outstanding Canadians, the Governor General authorized the creation of the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation.
The Commendation is awarded annually to individuals who have contributed in an exemplary manner to the care and well-being of Veterans or to the remembrance of the contributions, sacrifices and achievements of Veterans.
The Commendation is intended primarily for Veterans, but may be awarded to non-Veterans.
In April, 2001 Her Majesty the Queen approved the design of a special bar to be worn with decorations to be known as the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation.
The Governor General has issued a Warrant creating this award, and the governing policies call for it to be "...awarded to individuals who have performed commendable service to the Veteran community and /or individuals who represent commendable role models for their fellow Veterans."
Insignia and Wear
The Commendation consists of a certificate, a lapel pin for civilian wear and a bar for wear with decorations. The design is a gold maple leaf resting on a red poppy, a flower long associated with the sacrifices of war, with the Royal Crown on the top of the pin.
The Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation is worn below official decorations on its gold bar. It can be worn on Veterans' blazers, formal wear etc. on occasions when it is appropriate for medals to be worn. The lapel pin may be worn at any time on civilian dress.
The SDHS extends congratulations to Dave Thomson and all of the other recipients of this commendation.
Here is the text of the Commendation for Dave Thomson:
Dave Thomson
St. George, Ontario
Mr. Thomson is an auto parts dealer with a soft spot for Veterans. In 2006, while browsing on eBay for items for his auto parts business, he discovered a First World War medal of a soldier from a nearby town. Mr. Thomson bought the medal and turned it over to his town museum.
Since then, Mr. Thomson spends much of his spare time surfing the Internet trying to locate other Canadian service medals which he, in turn, returns to family members, museums, or a Veterans' organization should the family members not be found. To date, Mr. Thomson has successfully returned the medals of close to 250 Canadian Veterans to families or communities.
He has bid and paid for medals out of his own pocket to ensure their safe return to family. In many newspaper articles, he has asked that people contact him should they come across medals for sale on the Internet.
He also encourages people to donate their bids to help him win auctions and return the medals to family. When he locates a Canadian military medal up for sale on the on-line auction, Mr. Thomson turns to the digitized records of Veterans Affairs, Library and Archives of Canada and gets help from a North Bay Ontario genealogist and local media to locate the soldier's descendants or hometown.
Friday, May 1, 2009
SDHS takes part in the Kellogg’s Adventure Pass Promotion
This Spring, Kellogg’s, the big cereal company, is bringing you fresh ideas for family entertainment like never before.
Kellogg’s has partnered with the Canadian Museums Association to offer you great added value on participating products with an adventure you don’t want to miss!
From museums and zoos to science centres and art galleries, the opportunities for family adventures are endless! With over 500 unique adventures all across Canada, there’s something for everyone.
The Kellogg’s Adventure Pass entitles you to up to $10 off the purchase price of one regular priced admission with the purchase of one accompanying fully paid adult admission.
You can find the Kellogg’s Adventure Pass printed inside specially marked packages of the following Kellogg’s products:
Rice Krispies* cereal (525 g)
Crixpix* Krispies* cereal (350 g)
Rice Krispies* Vanilla Flavour cereal (420 g)
Rice Krispies* Cocoa cereal (420 g)
MultiGrain Krispies* cereal (385 g)
Froot Loops* cereal (380 g)
Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes* cereal (485 g)
Corn Pops* cereal (345 g)
Mini-Wheats* Original Frosted cereal (555 g)
Mini-Wheats* Brown Sugar Flavour cereal (555 g)
Mini-Wheats* Maple Flavour cereal (540 g)
Mini-Wheats* Strawberry Flavour cereal (540 g)
Mini-Wheats* Cinnamon Streusel Flavour cereal (540 g)
Kellogg’s Two Scoops Raisin Bran* cereal (675 g)
The passes are Free with purchase of the cereal. It is a limited time offer. They are only available in specially marked boxes while supplies last. The Coupons expire on December 30, 2009.
For a complete list of venues and all the terms and restrictions, visit
http://www.kelloggsadventurepass.ca/
The St. George Museum & Archives is a participating location and, since admission is already free, we are offering a deal whereby the pass can be used for $5 off the $10 price of Doug Mannen's history of St. George.
Several other members of the Brant Museums and Galleries Association are participating as well.
So eat up and enjoy!
*©2009 Trademark of Kellogg Company used under licence by Kellogg Canada Inc.
Kellogg’s has partnered with the Canadian Museums Association to offer you great added value on participating products with an adventure you don’t want to miss!
From museums and zoos to science centres and art galleries, the opportunities for family adventures are endless! With over 500 unique adventures all across Canada, there’s something for everyone.
The Kellogg’s Adventure Pass entitles you to up to $10 off the purchase price of one regular priced admission with the purchase of one accompanying fully paid adult admission.
You can find the Kellogg’s Adventure Pass printed inside specially marked packages of the following Kellogg’s products:
Rice Krispies* cereal (525 g)
Crixpix* Krispies* cereal (350 g)
Rice Krispies* Vanilla Flavour cereal (420 g)
Rice Krispies* Cocoa cereal (420 g)
MultiGrain Krispies* cereal (385 g)
Froot Loops* cereal (380 g)
Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes* cereal (485 g)
Corn Pops* cereal (345 g)
Mini-Wheats* Original Frosted cereal (555 g)
Mini-Wheats* Brown Sugar Flavour cereal (555 g)
Mini-Wheats* Maple Flavour cereal (540 g)
Mini-Wheats* Strawberry Flavour cereal (540 g)
Mini-Wheats* Cinnamon Streusel Flavour cereal (540 g)
Kellogg’s Two Scoops Raisin Bran* cereal (675 g)
The passes are Free with purchase of the cereal. It is a limited time offer. They are only available in specially marked boxes while supplies last. The Coupons expire on December 30, 2009.
For a complete list of venues and all the terms and restrictions, visit
http://www.kelloggsadventurepass.ca/
The St. George Museum & Archives is a participating location and, since admission is already free, we are offering a deal whereby the pass can be used for $5 off the $10 price of Doug Mannen's history of St. George.
Several other members of the Brant Museums and Galleries Association are participating as well.
So eat up and enjoy!
*©2009 Trademark of Kellogg Company used under licence by Kellogg Canada Inc.
Paris Lioness Club presents "Florence Nightingale" - and decadent desserts
The Paris Lioness Club has a special evening coming up on Monday, May 25th at the Paris Fairgrounds (139 Silver Street, Paris).
Wendy MacDougall will be appearing as "Florence Nightingale" as part of their 15th Annual Dessert and Speaker Evening, which starts at 7:00 pm.
Wendy MacDougall is a transplanted Maritimer who is a fan of Florence Nightingale. She studies nursing at McMaster University in Hamilton. Wendy currently works for the Region of Halton as the Staff Development Co-ordinator and is a part-time instructor at Mohawk College.
As the title of the evening suggests, there will be desserts galore - including diabetic treats.
Tickets are just $10 from any Lioness Club member or to order by phone, call 519-442-6904 or 519-442-2618.
Proceeds support community projects.
Bring a friend for an inspirational and uplifting evening.
Some background on Florence Nightingale from the Florence Nightingale Museum website:
"Florence Nightingale is famous for being the 'Lady with the Lamp' who nursed soldiers during the Crimean War, but this was just one of her many great achievements.
Florence Nightingale was born in Italy on 12th May 1820. Despite opposition from her family she decided to devote her life to nursing and campaigning for better health care and sanitation for all.
It was her work during the Crimean War that created the legend of the Lady with the Lamp and it was her experience here that drove her to continue, researching, writing and tirelessly campaigning.
After the Crimean War she demanded a Royal Commission into the Military Hospitals and the health of the Army, she began investigating the health and sanitation in the British Army in India, and the local population.
Money which had been sent by the general public to thank her for her work in the Crimea was used to establish the first organised, training school for nurses, the Nightingale Training School at St Thomas’ Hospital.
Her greatest achievement was to make nursing a respectable profession for women. Florence's writings on hospital planning and organization had a profound effect in England and across the world, publishing over 200 books, reports and pamphlets.
Florence died at the age of 90, on 13th August 1910, she had become one of the most famous and influential women of the 19th century. Her writings continue to be a resource for nurses, health managers and planners to this day."
Florence Nightingale's collected works are being published in sixteen volumes as a project based at the University of Guelph.
For more information on this local project see:
http://www.sociology.uoguelph.ca/fnightingale/Introduction/index.htm
Wendy MacDougall will be appearing as "Florence Nightingale" as part of their 15th Annual Dessert and Speaker Evening, which starts at 7:00 pm.
Wendy MacDougall is a transplanted Maritimer who is a fan of Florence Nightingale. She studies nursing at McMaster University in Hamilton. Wendy currently works for the Region of Halton as the Staff Development Co-ordinator and is a part-time instructor at Mohawk College.
As the title of the evening suggests, there will be desserts galore - including diabetic treats.
Tickets are just $10 from any Lioness Club member or to order by phone, call 519-442-6904 or 519-442-2618.
Proceeds support community projects.
Bring a friend for an inspirational and uplifting evening.
Some background on Florence Nightingale from the Florence Nightingale Museum website:
"Florence Nightingale is famous for being the 'Lady with the Lamp' who nursed soldiers during the Crimean War, but this was just one of her many great achievements.
Florence Nightingale was born in Italy on 12th May 1820. Despite opposition from her family she decided to devote her life to nursing and campaigning for better health care and sanitation for all.
It was her work during the Crimean War that created the legend of the Lady with the Lamp and it was her experience here that drove her to continue, researching, writing and tirelessly campaigning.
After the Crimean War she demanded a Royal Commission into the Military Hospitals and the health of the Army, she began investigating the health and sanitation in the British Army in India, and the local population.
Money which had been sent by the general public to thank her for her work in the Crimea was used to establish the first organised, training school for nurses, the Nightingale Training School at St Thomas’ Hospital.
Her greatest achievement was to make nursing a respectable profession for women. Florence's writings on hospital planning and organization had a profound effect in England and across the world, publishing over 200 books, reports and pamphlets.
Florence died at the age of 90, on 13th August 1910, she had become one of the most famous and influential women of the 19th century. Her writings continue to be a resource for nurses, health managers and planners to this day."
Florence Nightingale's collected works are being published in sixteen volumes as a project based at the University of Guelph.
For more information on this local project see:
http://www.sociology.uoguelph.ca/fnightingale/Introduction/index.htm
Pierre Berton biography follow-up - father's war medals secured
Dave Thomson, an SDHS member and famous for his role as a "medal detector" on e-Bay, found war medals that belonged to Frank Berton, Pierre's father, on e-Bay recently.
Dave notified Pierre's son, Paul, editor in chief of the London Free Press, and also spoke with Brian McKillop, our guest speaker on Berton last weekend.
I received an email to follow-up that the medals had been withdrawn from eBay and secured by Paul Berton, Frank's grandson.
Dave notified Pierre's son, Paul, editor in chief of the London Free Press, and also spoke with Brian McKillop, our guest speaker on Berton last weekend.
I received an email to follow-up that the medals had been withdrawn from eBay and secured by Paul Berton, Frank's grandson.
Doors Open Hamilton is this Weekend, May 2 & 3
Doors Open Hamilton has scaled back a bit this year, but still offers 20 great sites to visit - including nearby Westfield Heritage Village.
For the complete list and details you can download the Guide (in PDF format) at their website:
www.doorsopenhamilton.ca
For the complete list and details you can download the Guide (in PDF format) at their website:
www.doorsopenhamilton.ca
Other Doors Open Events to mark on your calendar
Doors Open Brant is not until September, but you may want to mark your calendars now for some of the lead up events as well:
Everyone is welcome to each activity. Admission is free, or by freewill donation.
Special Speaker“Restoration of our Structural Heritage”
Paul Sapounzi, Architect & Partner
The Ventin Group
Wednesday, September 19, 2009; 7:30 pm
at the Brant Museum & Archives
57 Charlotte Street, Brantford
Special Exhibition
“Landscapes in Architecture”
Pen and ink drawings of future landscapes in the Brantford/Brant area
Brad Emsley,
Artist Opening: Wednesday, September 19, 2009, 7:00 pm
On exhibit until early November
at the Brant Museum & Archives
57 Charlotte Street, Brantford
Walking Tour
Brant Avenue Heritage Conservation District
Presented by the Brantford Heritage Committee
Sunday, September 20, 2009; 2:00 pm
Tour starts at the War Memorial
Look for the yellow ‘Doors Open Brant’ shirts
Media Launch & Orientation
Tuesday, September 22, 2009; 7:00 pm
Central Presbyterian Church, Meeting Hall
97 Wellington Street, Brantford
Photography Contest
Watch for details
Expect an announcement by the start of the school year
More details at http://www.doorsopenbrant.ca/
Everyone is welcome to each activity. Admission is free, or by freewill donation.
Special Speaker“Restoration of our Structural Heritage”
Paul Sapounzi, Architect & Partner
The Ventin Group
Wednesday, September 19, 2009; 7:30 pm
at the Brant Museum & Archives
57 Charlotte Street, Brantford
Special Exhibition
“Landscapes in Architecture”
Pen and ink drawings of future landscapes in the Brantford/Brant area
Brad Emsley,
Artist Opening: Wednesday, September 19, 2009, 7:00 pm
On exhibit until early November
at the Brant Museum & Archives
57 Charlotte Street, Brantford
Walking Tour
Brant Avenue Heritage Conservation District
Presented by the Brantford Heritage Committee
Sunday, September 20, 2009; 2:00 pm
Tour starts at the War Memorial
Look for the yellow ‘Doors Open Brant’ shirts
Media Launch & Orientation
Tuesday, September 22, 2009; 7:00 pm
Central Presbyterian Church, Meeting Hall
97 Wellington Street, Brantford
Photography Contest
Watch for details
Expect an announcement by the start of the school year
More details at http://www.doorsopenbrant.ca/
Friday, April 17, 2009
Welcome & Goodbye on the SDHS Board
At the South Dumfries Historical Society meeting in March, a new Board was elected by the membership. Well, a "new-ish" board....
Joann MacLachlan, one of those people who is far too busy in retirement, submitted her resignation from the board which was reluctantly accepted given that she has been a great help to us (and despite not coming on the board initially, she has been with us in a support role since our founding meetings).
She will find, of course, that we will continue to lean on her for help now and then, but we wish her the best in all her other activities.
At the same time, David Judd agreed to stand for election to the Board and we are delighted to have him as part of the team now.
David has a great deal of experience as a newspaperman, but he has also worked with the Brant Historical Society for years and helped them in many ways. He has been involved as part of their Board of Directors, as a member of their publications committee and as an annual guest speaker for their December meetings.
He is already excited about our upcoming Jane's Walk and is helping us to organize this first time event. Welcome aboard, David!
Betty Ames, Gwen Hunter, Cliff Jones and David Simpson return as Board members for this term.
Joann MacLachlan, one of those people who is far too busy in retirement, submitted her resignation from the board which was reluctantly accepted given that she has been a great help to us (and despite not coming on the board initially, she has been with us in a support role since our founding meetings).
She will find, of course, that we will continue to lean on her for help now and then, but we wish her the best in all her other activities.
At the same time, David Judd agreed to stand for election to the Board and we are delighted to have him as part of the team now.
David has a great deal of experience as a newspaperman, but he has also worked with the Brant Historical Society for years and helped them in many ways. He has been involved as part of their Board of Directors, as a member of their publications committee and as an annual guest speaker for their December meetings.
He is already excited about our upcoming Jane's Walk and is helping us to organize this first time event. Welcome aboard, David!
Betty Ames, Gwen Hunter, Cliff Jones and David Simpson return as Board members for this term.
Nina Moore Jamieson one-act play revived this June
Actress Maja Bannerman will be reprising her role as author Nina Moore Jamieson on Thursday, June 25th, 2009 at McFarland House in Niagara-on-the-Lake. The performance will start at 2 PM.
"Tales from Hillside House," was first presented at the Cobblestone Festival in Paris three years ago. Joann MacLachlan of the Historical Society helped to edit and re-arrange sections of the book "The Cattle in the Stall" by Nina Moore Jamieson for the production.
Mrs. Jamieson grew up in Dundas and moved to St. George after her marriage.
She contributed regular columns and poems to Toronto newspapers about the life of a farm wife.
When she died young after a battle with cancer, friends collected together and published her works as "The Cattle in the Stall." Mrs. Jamieson is buried in the St. George United Church cemetery.
The pieces in her book have such a nice, conversational quality to them that they translated very well into a one-act, one-woman play - especially when brought to life by a talented actress like Ms. Bannerman.
McFarland House is a historic house operated by the Niagara Parks Commission. It is located at 15927 Niagara Parkway, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario - just a short distance south of Niagara-on-the-Lake on scenic Niagara Parkway. The main floor and the tea garden of this historic building are wheelchair accessible.
For more information on McFarland House, visit:
http://www.niagaraparks.com/heritage/mcfarland.php
For more information on Maja Bannerman, visit:
http://www.parasollane.ca/
"Tales from Hillside House," was first presented at the Cobblestone Festival in Paris three years ago. Joann MacLachlan of the Historical Society helped to edit and re-arrange sections of the book "The Cattle in the Stall" by Nina Moore Jamieson for the production.
Mrs. Jamieson grew up in Dundas and moved to St. George after her marriage.
She contributed regular columns and poems to Toronto newspapers about the life of a farm wife.
When she died young after a battle with cancer, friends collected together and published her works as "The Cattle in the Stall." Mrs. Jamieson is buried in the St. George United Church cemetery.
The pieces in her book have such a nice, conversational quality to them that they translated very well into a one-act, one-woman play - especially when brought to life by a talented actress like Ms. Bannerman.
McFarland House is a historic house operated by the Niagara Parks Commission. It is located at 15927 Niagara Parkway, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario - just a short distance south of Niagara-on-the-Lake on scenic Niagara Parkway. The main floor and the tea garden of this historic building are wheelchair accessible.
For more information on McFarland House, visit:
http://www.niagaraparks.com/heritage/mcfarland.php
For more information on Maja Bannerman, visit:
http://www.parasollane.ca/
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Added incentive for Jane's Walk participants!
The Brown Dog Cafe is on board for our upcoming Jane’s Walk.
Owner Curtis Chandler is enthusiastic about the Cafe being a stop on the walk.
He has suggested the walk end at the Old Mill on Main Street South.
He’ll talk about the building and the renovations that were done to convert it to a coffee shop, veterinarian’s office and other offices.
He’ll also provide a couple of plates of freshly made apple fritters for the folks on the walk.
Plan to join us on Sunday, May 3rd at 2:30 pm, starting at the Museum.
Owner Curtis Chandler is enthusiastic about the Cafe being a stop on the walk.
He has suggested the walk end at the Old Mill on Main Street South.
He’ll talk about the building and the renovations that were done to convert it to a coffee shop, veterinarian’s office and other offices.
He’ll also provide a couple of plates of freshly made apple fritters for the folks on the walk.
Plan to join us on Sunday, May 3rd at 2:30 pm, starting at the Museum.
Woodland Cultural Centre news
The Woodland Cultural Centre is partnering with Toronto's Harbourfront Centre to bring Planet IndigenUs events to Brantford between August 14 - 23, 2009.
Planet IndigenUs is a multi-disciplinary arts festival showcasing professional Canadian Aboriginal artists in an international context. Providing a unique and provocative experience of the contemporary realities that define indigenous artistic expressions, the guiding themes of this festival are Identity, Rights, and Continuity.
Music, dance, visual arts, craft design, theatre, literary art, film, performance art, and an international indigenous art and food market fill this exciting two-weekend event. Interactive performances, workshops, and hands-on artistic/community collaboration projects help advance artists’ careers, develop local, national and international links, and build new audiences of indigenous art.
Weekday activities include artistic residencies, master classes, workshops, lunchtime concerts at Harbourfront Centre’s SIRIUS Satellite Radio Stage, presentations of new work, screenings, readings, receptions, panel discussions and debates.
http://www.harbourfrontcentre.com/planetindigenus/index.cfm
Announcements of events and headliners for this festival will begin next week.
In the meantime, you can visit the Museum at the Woodland Cultural Centre. Museum Hours are Monday to Friday 9 am until 4 pm, and Saturday & Sunday 10 am to 5 pm. Admission rates are: Adults $5.00; Seniors (65+) S4.00; Students (ages 6-16) $3.00 and those 5 & Under FREE.
Also at the Woodland Cultural Centre:
First Nations Art 2009: This Exhibition run from May 1 - July 5, 2009.
OPENING RECEPTION - FRIDAY, MAY 1st at 7 PM.
Established in 1975, this exhibition is one of the longest running annual exhibits that provides established and emerging First Nations artists an excellent opportunity to exhibit and sell their work in a fine art gallery setting.
http://www.woodland-centre.on.ca/
Planet IndigenUs is a multi-disciplinary arts festival showcasing professional Canadian Aboriginal artists in an international context. Providing a unique and provocative experience of the contemporary realities that define indigenous artistic expressions, the guiding themes of this festival are Identity, Rights, and Continuity.
Music, dance, visual arts, craft design, theatre, literary art, film, performance art, and an international indigenous art and food market fill this exciting two-weekend event. Interactive performances, workshops, and hands-on artistic/community collaboration projects help advance artists’ careers, develop local, national and international links, and build new audiences of indigenous art.
Weekday activities include artistic residencies, master classes, workshops, lunchtime concerts at Harbourfront Centre’s SIRIUS Satellite Radio Stage, presentations of new work, screenings, readings, receptions, panel discussions and debates.
http://www.harbourfrontcentre.com/planetindigenus/index.cfm
Announcements of events and headliners for this festival will begin next week.
In the meantime, you can visit the Museum at the Woodland Cultural Centre. Museum Hours are Monday to Friday 9 am until 4 pm, and Saturday & Sunday 10 am to 5 pm. Admission rates are: Adults $5.00; Seniors (65+) S4.00; Students (ages 6-16) $3.00 and those 5 & Under FREE.
Also at the Woodland Cultural Centre:
First Nations Art 2009: This Exhibition run from May 1 - July 5, 2009.
OPENING RECEPTION - FRIDAY, MAY 1st at 7 PM.
Established in 1975, this exhibition is one of the longest running annual exhibits that provides established and emerging First Nations artists an excellent opportunity to exhibit and sell their work in a fine art gallery setting.
http://www.woodland-centre.on.ca/
Canadian Military Heritage Museum, Brantford
The Canadian Military Heritage Museum in Brantford has a new, updated website that will provide on-line visitors with a better idea of what is available at the Museum. You can find the website at www.cmhmhq.ca
They will be hosting a Giant Yard sale in their parking lot on Saturday, June 6th, 2009.
The collection itself is huge and fills a large building on Greenwich Street in Brantford.
Take the Wayne Gretzky Parkway south to Colborne Street. Turn left (east) at Colborne Street to Locks Road. Turn right on Locks Road and follow it to Greenwich Street. Turn Right on Greenwich Street and look for the sign.
Hours are Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm (Closed Mondays).
They will be hosting a Giant Yard sale in their parking lot on Saturday, June 6th, 2009.
The collection itself is huge and fills a large building on Greenwich Street in Brantford.
Take the Wayne Gretzky Parkway south to Colborne Street. Turn left (east) at Colborne Street to Locks Road. Turn right on Locks Road and follow it to Greenwich Street. Turn Right on Greenwich Street and look for the sign.
Hours are Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm (Closed Mondays).
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
St. George Memorial Hall and St. George Old School declared "surplus" and budget for local history slashed
At a meeting of the Corporate Development Committee last night, the councillors present voted to accept staff's recommendation that the St. George Memorial Hall (home to our Museum) and the St. George Old School "be declared surplus to the needs of the County."
Staff is further "authorized to work with interested parties to transfer ownership of these properties; and further that any offers of purchase and sale or agreements to transfer ownership be brought to Council for approval."
The Northfield Hall and Bethel Hall were also declared surplus by the Committee. Other halls and community centres will be dealt with at later meetings.
According to the staff recommendation, "This is the first step towards disposal of these properties which could result in a lowering of ongoing operational costs."
Also on the Agenda last night, and a surprise to me, was the Historical Grants.
Without any heads-up to the SDHS (or the Brant Historical Society I am told) several grants were cut by over half.
Our grant went down from $3,500 to $1,500,
The Brant Historical Society went from $28,400 to $14,000,
The Brant OGS (Ontario Genealogical Society) went from $3,000 to $1,000,
Salt Springs Church Heritage Society went from $1,000 to $500;
and the Paris Museum went from $32,500 to $27,000.
The total budget was reduced from $68,400 to $44,000 "with the intent of further reductions in future years."
The Recommendation was passed by the Committee.
Staff is further "authorized to work with interested parties to transfer ownership of these properties; and further that any offers of purchase and sale or agreements to transfer ownership be brought to Council for approval."
The Northfield Hall and Bethel Hall were also declared surplus by the Committee. Other halls and community centres will be dealt with at later meetings.
According to the staff recommendation, "This is the first step towards disposal of these properties which could result in a lowering of ongoing operational costs."
Also on the Agenda last night, and a surprise to me, was the Historical Grants.
Without any heads-up to the SDHS (or the Brant Historical Society I am told) several grants were cut by over half.
Our grant went down from $3,500 to $1,500,
The Brant Historical Society went from $28,400 to $14,000,
The Brant OGS (Ontario Genealogical Society) went from $3,000 to $1,000,
Salt Springs Church Heritage Society went from $1,000 to $500;
and the Paris Museum went from $32,500 to $27,000.
The total budget was reduced from $68,400 to $44,000 "with the intent of further reductions in future years."
The Recommendation was passed by the Committee.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Bell Homestead visit at St. George-German School
On Friday, April 3rd, the students in Mrs. Stoner's and Mrs. Radke's Grade Two classes had a visitor from the Bell Homestead, National Historic Site.
The students learned about "Boats that Float!"
Did you know that Alexander Graham Bell built hydrofoils in his later years? This two hour session introduced students to the exciting world of water through hand-on experiments.
The students explored the properties and behaviours of various liquids and solids, and then the children built a floating boat.
All this in a historical context with a local angle.
This week will also see the return of GEM Fest to St. George-German School - in which classes will learn from a variety of presenters from local galleries and museums.
Good stuff!
The students learned about "Boats that Float!"
Did you know that Alexander Graham Bell built hydrofoils in his later years? This two hour session introduced students to the exciting world of water through hand-on experiments.
The students explored the properties and behaviours of various liquids and solids, and then the children built a floating boat.
All this in a historical context with a local angle.
This week will also see the return of GEM Fest to St. George-German School - in which classes will learn from a variety of presenters from local galleries and museums.
Good stuff!
Kevin Sylvester coming to St. George on June 8th
We are pleased to announce another upcoming speaker for the South Dumfries Historical Society.
Author, Artist & CBC Radio personality KEVIN SYLVESTER will be coming to town on Monday, June 8th, to talk about "WEIRD" OLYMPIC STORIES.
The gold medals handed out in this talk are for inept athletes, shameful scandals, freakish weather, cheaters, chokers and much worse!
Kevin Sylvester is the bestselling author of Sports Hall of Weird. He is also a reporter, radio sports host, producer and documentary-maker, as well as an illustrator.
He has a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and English (with a minor in Latin) from St. Michael's College at the University of Toronto, and is working on a degree in Fine Arts at the Ontario College of Art and Design. He has also worked for over a decade with CBC National Radio Sports.
Kevin lives in Toronto with his family.
His latest book, Gold Medal for Weird, is a nominee for the 2009 Silver Birch Award presented by the Ontario Library Association.
On June 8th, he will be coming to talk to students at St. George-German School in the afternoon and then will give a public talk at the St. George United Church Hall (9 Beverly Street East) at 7:00 PM.
FREE ADMISSION - ALL WELCOME!
See Kevin's blog at: www.kevinarts.blogspot.com
Sunday, April 5, 2009
New website and email addresses for the SDHS
The Brant FreeNet, which had been our generous host for many years, has closed shop.
We now have a new web address and email address in place thanks to the help of Syd Bolton at the Personal Computer Museum (Brantford).
Our old website can now be accessed at: www.southdumfrieshistory.ca
We will be working on updating the content on the page soon!
Our new email address is:
If you have the SDHS in your bookmarks or address book, please update this information.
Friday, April 3, 2009
How History Happened...Behind the Scenes at Hamilton Special Collections
"How History Happened... Behind the Scenes" promises to be an interesting talk.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009 at 2:00 PM.
Location: Central Library, Local History & Archives Department (3rd Floor)
55 York Blvd, Hamilton, L8R 3K1
Cost: Free
Call 905-546-3200 ext 3298 to register.
Short Description: Margaret Houghton will give you the full backroom tour of the Central Library’s Local History & Archives Department that includes not only tens of thousands of local historical documents and photographs, but other surprising treasures.
(Margaret came and spoke to the SDHS last year about her book "Hamilton at War - on the Homefront" - about the ways World War II affected local people. The book is available at the St. George library to borrow.)
Wednesday, April 29, 2009 at 2:00 PM.
Location: Central Library, Local History & Archives Department (3rd Floor)
55 York Blvd, Hamilton, L8R 3K1
Cost: Free
Call 905-546-3200 ext 3298 to register.
Short Description: Margaret Houghton will give you the full backroom tour of the Central Library’s Local History & Archives Department that includes not only tens of thousands of local historical documents and photographs, but other surprising treasures.
(Margaret came and spoke to the SDHS last year about her book "Hamilton at War - on the Homefront" - about the ways World War II affected local people. The book is available at the St. George library to borrow.)
How History Happened...at Ancaster's Old Town
Another talk in the Hamilton Public Library's series entitled "How History Happened..." will take place at Ancaster's Old Town and discuss the Wynnstay Estate.
Starts:April 28, 2009 - 7:00 PM
Location: Ancaster Branch, 300 Wilson Street East, Ancaster, L9G 2B9
Cost: Free
The event description: Join us for a glimpse behind the gates of the magnificent Wynnstay Estate, a historically significant property designed for Ancaster’s Dalley family by the prominent landscape architecture firm Dunington-Grubb.
The estate, along with the buildings that were designed by architect John M. Lyle, is currently the home to the Mount Mary Retreat Centre. The guest lecturer is an architectural historian,
Sharon Vattay, PhD, Associate of Goldsmith Borgal & Company Limited, Architects (Toronto).
Starts:April 28, 2009 - 7:00 PM
Location: Ancaster Branch, 300 Wilson Street East, Ancaster, L9G 2B9
Cost: Free
The event description: Join us for a glimpse behind the gates of the magnificent Wynnstay Estate, a historically significant property designed for Ancaster’s Dalley family by the prominent landscape architecture firm Dunington-Grubb.
The estate, along with the buildings that were designed by architect John M. Lyle, is currently the home to the Mount Mary Retreat Centre. The guest lecturer is an architectural historian,
Sharon Vattay, PhD, Associate of Goldsmith Borgal & Company Limited, Architects (Toronto).
How History Happened...Warplane History
The Hamilton Public Library is hosting a series of talks entitled "How History Happened..." and the next one is about Warplane History.
Monday, April 27, 2009 at 2:00 PM
Location: Sherwood Branch, 467 Upper Ottawa Street Hamilton, L8T 3T3
Cost: Free
Erin Napier, Curator at the Warplane Heritage Museum, will talk about the scope of the collections, her role as a curator and how she plans exhibits. She will also be bringing some artifacts from the Museum.
Monday, April 27, 2009 at 2:00 PM
Location: Sherwood Branch, 467 Upper Ottawa Street Hamilton, L8T 3T3
Cost: Free
Erin Napier, Curator at the Warplane Heritage Museum, will talk about the scope of the collections, her role as a curator and how she plans exhibits. She will also be bringing some artifacts from the Museum.
Murdoch Mystery set in St. George airs Saturday
You may recall a little bit of excitement last August when a television crew set up at Sunnyside Mansion, on St. George's Main Street, to film an episode of the Murdoch Mysteries.
The episode, entitled The Green Muse, aired on Wednesday evening and repeats this Saturday, April 4, 2009 on CITY TV at 8:00 pm.
The series is based on books written by Maureen Jennings and her husband has his own blog on which you can find some photographs taken during the filming:
http://idenford.blogspot.com/2008/08/mrs-kitchen-owned-sunnyside.html
The series has its own website at www.murdochmysteries.com
The episode, entitled The Green Muse, aired on Wednesday evening and repeats this Saturday, April 4, 2009 on CITY TV at 8:00 pm.
The series is based on books written by Maureen Jennings and her husband has his own blog on which you can find some photographs taken during the filming:
http://idenford.blogspot.com/2008/08/mrs-kitchen-owned-sunnyside.html
The series has its own website at www.murdochmysteries.com
A little bit of Jane Jacobs (from 1969)
The CBC Online archives have a clip you can watch and see Jane Jacobs being interviewed about how she feels Toronto and Montreal worked at the time (March 2, 1969). It is a little introduction to the woman who has inspired the Jane's Walks that will be held this coming May 2 & 3, 2009, including the one the SDHS will be hosting in St. George.
You can see the video at: http://archives.cbc.ca/society/education/clips/6895/
Jane's obituary on the CBC website, from April 25, 2006, can be found at this link:
http://www.cbc.ca/news/obit/jacobs_jane/
You can see the video at: http://archives.cbc.ca/society/education/clips/6895/
Jane's obituary on the CBC website, from April 25, 2006, can be found at this link:
http://www.cbc.ca/news/obit/jacobs_jane/
Doors Open Brant 2009
Doors Open Brant will be on Saturday, September 26th in 2009.
The St. George Museum & Archives is scheduled to be one of the sites open.
For a complete list of participating sites and local maps, contact Doors Open Brant:
Telephone: 1-800-265-6299
E-mail: billmary68@dtmn.com
Website: www.doorsopenbrant.ca
More site listings are to come, but here is a sneak peek at a few:
Brantford Arts Block/Temple Building
80 Dalhousie Street, Brantford
(519) 753-9400
www.brantfordartsblock.ca
Year Built: 1909
Dates/Hours Open: Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Brantford’s newest art centre provides gallery space and performance, studio and work areas for artists of all skill levels. The Brantford Arts Block is located in a heritage-designated, Masonic-style building, erected in 1909, that served as the Brantford Masonic Lodge for many years. View never-before-displayed historical photographs of Brantford.
Devlin’s Country Bistro
704 Mount Pleasant Road, Mount Pleasant
(519) 484-2258
www.devlinscountrybistro.com
Year Built: 1834
Dates/Hours Open: Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This 1834 building was the birthplace of Ontario Premier A.S. Hardy (1896–99). A later owner, F. Foster, operated it as a wholesale grocery store. George Devlin purchased the store from William Eadie and, four generations later, Devlin’s Country Bistro is now a fine-dining restaurant. Lunch available.
Henry Ellis House
693 Mount Pleasant Road, Mount Pleasant
(519) 484-2447
Year Built: 1796
Dates/Hours Open: Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Built by a Mount Pleasant settler and co-founder in 1796, this building has served as a store and an inn. On August 3, 1876, the first of a series of tests of the telephone was made here. Standing in the store, Alexander Graham Bell heard the voice of his uncle, David Bell, conveyed from the telegraph office in downtown Brantford.
Personal Computer Museum
13 Alma Street, Brantford
(519) 753-8825
www.pcmuseum.ca
Year Built: 1934
Dates/Hours Open: Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This fascinating museum is located in a 1934 building constructed of reclaimed bricks from the Brantford Opera House. Play with interactive computers dating from the mid-1970s to the 1990s, browse through thousands of magazines and books or try your hand at Pong, one of the first computer-based games, installed on a 1953 Canadian-made Admiral television set.
Riverside Glen Retreat and Healing Centre
357 Brant County Road 18, Brantford
(519) 759-5033
www.riversideglen.com
Year Built: 1905
Dates/Hours Open: Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Built in 1905 by Fredrick Mann, a prominent coal merchant, this two-and-a-half-storey house is reminiscent of the French country style. On eight acres of Carolinian forest, it overlooks the Grand River and the river’s Oxbow bend. The property has an outdoor labyrinth and a gatehouse studio that is used for yoga, workshops, art exhibits and other events.
Robert Hall Originals Pewter Studio
138 Sugar Maple Road, St. George
(519) 448-1236
www.roberthalloriginals.com
Dates/Hours Open: Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Observe the ancient art of pewtersmithing in the largest such studio in Ontario, with over 3,000 items on display. Learn about pewter and how it’s created. The showroom is filled with natural rocks, minerals and gemstones from around the world, and with one-of-a-kind gemstone jewellery, crafted and hand-finished on site.
Schell Residence
147 Brant Avenue, Brantford
(519) 446-3200
Year Built: Pre-1875
Dates/Hours Open: Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
R.S. Schell, manager of Royal Savings and Loan, built this stately High Victorian/Second Empire home sometime before 1875. The most notable features of the two-and-a-half-storey house are the mansard roof clad in octagonal slate and the Edwardian hip roof veranda supported by Tuscan columns. The residence is located in the Brant Avenue Heritage Conservation District.
Six Nations Forest Theatre Pageant
843 Seneca Road, Ohsweken
Year Built: 1948
Dates/Hours Open: Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Since 1948, people of all races have gathered in this natural outdoor amphitheatre to take a journey back in time, an entertaining history lesson that helps erase the stereotypical image of the Indian and show him as part of a rich, meaningful culture, ignored and misrepresented in recorded history. The presentation of original plays promotes understanding among cultures.
Six Nations GREAT Opportunity Centre
16 Sunrise Court, Ohsweken
Architect: Two Row Architect;
Year Built: 2003
Dates/Hours Open: Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This innovative, multipurpose community facility, based on a design concept of a group of converging longhouses, was opened in 2003 and pays homage to a traditional longhouse village where all types of activities co-existed. The barrel-vaulted steel structures and linkages serve as focal points for community gatherings, social functions, education and a resource training centre.
Six Nations Heritage Trails
Six Nations Tourism Centre, 2498 Chiefswood Road, Ohsweken
(519) 758-5444
Dates/Hours Open: Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The trail begins at the tourism centre, adjacent to Chiefswood National Historic Site, home of poet Pauline Johnson. The trail’s natural beauty includes the Carolinian forest with a variety of tree species, medicinal plants used in aboriginal culture, a small marsh and seasonal migratory birds. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the picnic area and exhibits at the tourism centre.
Two Roses Bed & Breakfast
6 Thompson Road, St. George
(519) 448-9999
www.tworosesbnb.com
Year Built: 1880
Dates/Hours Open: Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This elegant mansion, situated on an elevated half-acre with a commanding view from all vantage points, is one of the oldest homes in the area. Known as Braeside, it was built in 1880 for a Mr. Thompson, a successful local businessman. With its striking Victorian architecture, grand ceilings and antique décor, this B&B exudes an inviting, cosy charm.
The St. George Museum & Archives is scheduled to be one of the sites open.
For a complete list of participating sites and local maps, contact Doors Open Brant:
Telephone: 1-800-265-6299
E-mail: billmary68@dtmn.com
Website: www.doorsopenbrant.ca
More site listings are to come, but here is a sneak peek at a few:
Brantford Arts Block/Temple Building
80 Dalhousie Street, Brantford
(519) 753-9400
www.brantfordartsblock.ca
Year Built: 1909
Dates/Hours Open: Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Brantford’s newest art centre provides gallery space and performance, studio and work areas for artists of all skill levels. The Brantford Arts Block is located in a heritage-designated, Masonic-style building, erected in 1909, that served as the Brantford Masonic Lodge for many years. View never-before-displayed historical photographs of Brantford.
Devlin’s Country Bistro
704 Mount Pleasant Road, Mount Pleasant
(519) 484-2258
www.devlinscountrybistro.com
Year Built: 1834
Dates/Hours Open: Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This 1834 building was the birthplace of Ontario Premier A.S. Hardy (1896–99). A later owner, F. Foster, operated it as a wholesale grocery store. George Devlin purchased the store from William Eadie and, four generations later, Devlin’s Country Bistro is now a fine-dining restaurant. Lunch available.
Henry Ellis House
693 Mount Pleasant Road, Mount Pleasant
(519) 484-2447
Year Built: 1796
Dates/Hours Open: Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Built by a Mount Pleasant settler and co-founder in 1796, this building has served as a store and an inn. On August 3, 1876, the first of a series of tests of the telephone was made here. Standing in the store, Alexander Graham Bell heard the voice of his uncle, David Bell, conveyed from the telegraph office in downtown Brantford.
Personal Computer Museum
13 Alma Street, Brantford
(519) 753-8825
www.pcmuseum.ca
Year Built: 1934
Dates/Hours Open: Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This fascinating museum is located in a 1934 building constructed of reclaimed bricks from the Brantford Opera House. Play with interactive computers dating from the mid-1970s to the 1990s, browse through thousands of magazines and books or try your hand at Pong, one of the first computer-based games, installed on a 1953 Canadian-made Admiral television set.
Riverside Glen Retreat and Healing Centre
357 Brant County Road 18, Brantford
(519) 759-5033
www.riversideglen.com
Year Built: 1905
Dates/Hours Open: Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Built in 1905 by Fredrick Mann, a prominent coal merchant, this two-and-a-half-storey house is reminiscent of the French country style. On eight acres of Carolinian forest, it overlooks the Grand River and the river’s Oxbow bend. The property has an outdoor labyrinth and a gatehouse studio that is used for yoga, workshops, art exhibits and other events.
Robert Hall Originals Pewter Studio
138 Sugar Maple Road, St. George
(519) 448-1236
www.roberthalloriginals.com
Dates/Hours Open: Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Observe the ancient art of pewtersmithing in the largest such studio in Ontario, with over 3,000 items on display. Learn about pewter and how it’s created. The showroom is filled with natural rocks, minerals and gemstones from around the world, and with one-of-a-kind gemstone jewellery, crafted and hand-finished on site.
Schell Residence
147 Brant Avenue, Brantford
(519) 446-3200
Year Built: Pre-1875
Dates/Hours Open: Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
R.S. Schell, manager of Royal Savings and Loan, built this stately High Victorian/Second Empire home sometime before 1875. The most notable features of the two-and-a-half-storey house are the mansard roof clad in octagonal slate and the Edwardian hip roof veranda supported by Tuscan columns. The residence is located in the Brant Avenue Heritage Conservation District.
Six Nations Forest Theatre Pageant
843 Seneca Road, Ohsweken
Year Built: 1948
Dates/Hours Open: Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Since 1948, people of all races have gathered in this natural outdoor amphitheatre to take a journey back in time, an entertaining history lesson that helps erase the stereotypical image of the Indian and show him as part of a rich, meaningful culture, ignored and misrepresented in recorded history. The presentation of original plays promotes understanding among cultures.
Six Nations GREAT Opportunity Centre
16 Sunrise Court, Ohsweken
Architect: Two Row Architect;
Year Built: 2003
Dates/Hours Open: Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This innovative, multipurpose community facility, based on a design concept of a group of converging longhouses, was opened in 2003 and pays homage to a traditional longhouse village where all types of activities co-existed. The barrel-vaulted steel structures and linkages serve as focal points for community gatherings, social functions, education and a resource training centre.
Six Nations Heritage Trails
Six Nations Tourism Centre, 2498 Chiefswood Road, Ohsweken
(519) 758-5444
Dates/Hours Open: Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The trail begins at the tourism centre, adjacent to Chiefswood National Historic Site, home of poet Pauline Johnson. The trail’s natural beauty includes the Carolinian forest with a variety of tree species, medicinal plants used in aboriginal culture, a small marsh and seasonal migratory birds. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the picnic area and exhibits at the tourism centre.
Two Roses Bed & Breakfast
6 Thompson Road, St. George
(519) 448-9999
www.tworosesbnb.com
Year Built: 1880
Dates/Hours Open: Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This elegant mansion, situated on an elevated half-acre with a commanding view from all vantage points, is one of the oldest homes in the area. Known as Braeside, it was built in 1880 for a Mr. Thompson, a successful local businessman. With its striking Victorian architecture, grand ceilings and antique décor, this B&B exudes an inviting, cosy charm.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Easter Egg Hunt at Myrtleville House
Saturday April 11, 2009
from 10 am - 3 pm
For children ages 8 and under (Children must be accompanied by an adult).
Bring your Easter Basket and load up! Then join the Myrtleville House staff
after the hunt for some delicious bunny cookies, an Easter craft and many
more activities!
For more information contact:
Myrtleville House Museum
34 Myrtleville Drive
Brantford, Ontario N3V 1C2
(519) 752-3216
www.brantmuseums.ca
This is a free family event!
Paris Historical Society presents Walt Wingfield at the Sanderson Centre
Paris Historical Society fundraiser
The Paris Historical Society is trying something a little different as a fundraiser - bringing in one of the popular Wingfield Farm series of plays by Dan Needles to Brantford's Sanderson Centre on Saturday April 11th. Tickets are $30.
For more information about the tickets to the fundraiser, phone 519-758-8090 or 1-800-265-0710 or visit www.parishistoricalsociety.com.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
A JANE'S WALK OF ST. GEORGE - MAY 3rd
A JANE'S WALK OF ST. GEORGE
The SOUTH DUMFRIES HISTORICAL SOCIETY
PRESENTS A
JANE'S WALK of ST. GEORGE
SUNDAY, MAY 3rd, 2009
STARTING at the ST. GEORGE MUSEUM & ARCHIVES
36 MAIN STREET SOUTH
2:30 PM START - FREE ADMISSION - ALL WELCOME
What is a Jane's Walk?
Jane's Walk is a series of free neighbourhood walking tours that helps put people in touch with their environment and with each other, by bridging social and geographic gaps and creating a space for cities to discover themselves. Since it's inception in 2007, Jane's Walk has happened in twelve North American cities: Toronto, New York, Ottawa, Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver, Winnipeg, Halifax, Guelph, Charlottetown, Thornbury, and Salt Lake City. More partner cities and towns are being added in 2009 including Montreal, Regina, Boston, Chicago and New Orleans.
Jane's Walk honours the legacy and ideas of urban activist and writer Jane Jacobs who championed the interests of local residents and pedestrians over a car-centered approach to planning. Jane's Walk helps knit people together into a strong and resourceful community, instilling belonging and encouraging civic leadership.
All Jane's Walk tours are given and taken for free. These walks are led by anyone who has an interest in the neighbourhoods where they live, work or hang out. They are not always about architecture and heritage, and offer a more personal take on the local culture, the social history and the planning issues faced by the residents. Jane Jacobs believed strongly that local residents understood best how their neighbourhood works, and what is needed to strengthen and improve them. Jane's Walks are meant to be fun, engaged and participatory - everyone's got a story and they're usually keen to share it.
VISIT THE JANE'S WALK WEBSITE AT: www.janeswalk.net
PIERRE BERTON BIOGRAPHER TO SPEAK IN ST. GEORGE
PIERRE BERTON BIOGRAPHER TO SPEAK IN ST. GEORGE
The SOUTH DUMFRIES HISTORICAL SOCIETY
PRESENTS A PUBLIC TALK BY:
A. B. McKILLOP
Author of Pierre Berton: A Biography
About the SPEAKER:
Chancellor's Professor and Chair of the Department of History at Carleton University, Brian McKillop is one of Canada's leading historians. He is the author of several scholarly works, as well as The Spinster and the Prophet, which was shortlisted for the Governor General's Award for Nonfiction and the Charles Taylor Prize for Literary Non-Fiction and which won the Arthur Ellis Award for Best "True Crime," the UBC President's Medal for Biography, and the Toronto Book Award. He was elected to the Royal Society of Canada in 2001 and lives in Ottawa.
SUNDAY APRIL 26th, 2009
at the ST. GEORGE FIRE HALL (72 MAIN STREET NORTH)
2:30 PM START - FREE ADMISSION - ALL WELCOME
PUBLIC TALK ABOUT RARE BREEDS CANADA & DOON MUSEUM UPDATE
PUBLIC TALK ABOUT RARE BREEDS CANADA & DOON MUSEUM UPDATE
The SOUTH DUMFRIES HISTORICAL SOCIETY
PRESENTS A PUBLIC TALK BY:
AMY BRADLEY
Agricultural Specialist at Doon Heritage Crossroads
Rare Breeds Canada is a non-profit, national organization that promotes the use of rare and heritage breeds of livestock and poultry. The group's mission is to make Canadians more aware of their agricultural heritage and involve them in conserving endangered breeds of farm livestock. Currently Rare Breeds Canada lists over 100 breeds of livestock and poultry as endangered, critical or rare. The need to save these breeds is based on the genetic diversity and characteristics that they possess, as well as the unique story in agricultural history that these breeds hold.
Covered in this talk will be what criteria are used to determine if a breed is rare or not, what breeds are in the most need of help currently and how people can get involved.
Plus: An update on the construction of the new Regional History Museum at Doon Heritage Crossroads.
SATURDAY, MARCH 28th, 2009
at the ST. GEORGE FIRE HALL (72 MAIN STREET NORTH)
2:30 PM START - FREE ADMISSION - ALL WELCOME
This event will also feature the business of our Annual General Meeting.
Rare Breeds Canada Website: www.rarebreedscanada.ca/
Monday, February 23, 2009
Honourable Harry Corwin Nixon Marker Unveiled!
The Ontario Heritage Trust will be unveiling a marker commemorating the gravesite of the Honourable Harry Corwin Nixon at a ceremony at the St. George United Church (9 Beverly Street East, St. George) on Thursday, March 12th, 2009 at 10:30 a.m.
Further details on this program can be found in a posting from earlier this month on this blog.
For more information, call 416-325-5000.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
The Brant Branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society meeting on Sunday, Feb. 22
The Brant Branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society will meet on Sunday, Feb. 22 from 2 p. m. to 4 p. m. at the library/office building in Smokey Hollow Estates, 118 Powerline Rd. Brantford. Their Black History month speaker will be Brantford resident Marcus Snowden talking about early Black History in the Brantford area.
The meeting will also be a great opportunity, if you haven't already had the opportunity, to check out the great facilities that the Brant OGS have set up at Smokey Hollow. The library is a great resource and the new building provides an accessible and clean, well organized place to do research. They also have a great variety of publications available for purchase. Drop by if you can, either on Sunday or the next chance you get.
Other upcoming events include:
Tuesday, March 17 2009
Norfolk Branch OGS Meeting at 2:00 pm at Smokey Hollow
Free Admission - A chance for Norfolk to do reasearch at the Library
Sunday, March 22 2009 at 2:00 pm
Free Admission - Speaker: Heather Ibbotson - Crime Stories
Saturday, April 25 2009
Spring Workshop - United Kingdom researching
9:30 am - 3:00 pm
$20 including lunch if paid before April 21, otherwise $25 at the door.
Sunday, May 24 2009 at 2:00 pm
Free Admission - A presentation by Cheryl MacDonald and Bob Blakely
Also:
1st Tuesday every month, 2009 - British Isles Study Group
7:30 pm - Free Admission
3rd Thursday every month, 2009 - Family History Group
10:00 am - 12:00 pm - Free Admission
Library Hours: open from 10 AM to 4 PM Monday to Thursday (Saturdays 1 PM - 4 PM, closed Fridays)
On Site: Publications, books, maps, family histories, microfilm, microfiche, reading tables, cumputers, internet.
Of special interest: collection of Women's Institute Tweedsmuir Histories of Brant & Haldiman County.
Phone Number: 519-753-4140 or 519-753-8581 Fax Number: 519-753-9866
An e-mail message may be addressed to one of the following:
Brant OGS (brantogs@bellnet.ca) or Donna (smokeyhollow@sympatico.ca) or
Bill (bill.bowman@sympatico.ca)
The meeting will also be a great opportunity, if you haven't already had the opportunity, to check out the great facilities that the Brant OGS have set up at Smokey Hollow. The library is a great resource and the new building provides an accessible and clean, well organized place to do research. They also have a great variety of publications available for purchase. Drop by if you can, either on Sunday or the next chance you get.
Other upcoming events include:
Tuesday, March 17 2009
Norfolk Branch OGS Meeting at 2:00 pm at Smokey Hollow
Free Admission - A chance for Norfolk to do reasearch at the Library
Sunday, March 22 2009 at 2:00 pm
Free Admission - Speaker: Heather Ibbotson - Crime Stories
Saturday, April 25 2009
Spring Workshop - United Kingdom researching
9:30 am - 3:00 pm
$20 including lunch if paid before April 21, otherwise $25 at the door.
Sunday, May 24 2009 at 2:00 pm
Free Admission - A presentation by Cheryl MacDonald and Bob Blakely
Also:
1st Tuesday every month, 2009 - British Isles Study Group
7:30 pm - Free Admission
3rd Thursday every month, 2009 - Family History Group
10:00 am - 12:00 pm - Free Admission
Library Hours: open from 10 AM to 4 PM Monday to Thursday (Saturdays 1 PM - 4 PM, closed Fridays)
On Site: Publications, books, maps, family histories, microfilm, microfiche, reading tables, cumputers, internet.
Of special interest: collection of Women's Institute Tweedsmuir Histories of Brant & Haldiman County.
Phone Number: 519-753-4140 or 519-753-8581 Fax Number: 519-753-9866
Mailing address is:
Brant County Branch, OGS
114-118 Powerline Road
Brantford, Ontario N3T 5L8
Brant County Branch, OGS
114-118 Powerline Road
Brantford, Ontario N3T 5L8
An e-mail message may be addressed to one of the following:
Brant OGS (brantogs@bellnet.ca) or Donna (smokeyhollow@sympatico.ca) or
Bill (bill.bowman@sympatico.ca)
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Another clue and a plug for Doug Mannen's book
As a further clue to the Mystery of the St. George Strawberry Festival, the "Snowball Mill," now home to the Brown Dog Cafe and the St. George Mill Animal Hospital, was built by William Snowball (hence the name). He began work on the Mill in the Spring of 1869 and it was completed approximately three years later. So, in order for Ashley Cooper to paste a handbill to one of the support pillars, it would have likely had to have been after 1871....
If you had read Douglas A. Mannen's book "St. George: From Bauslaugh's Mill to the Present," which was conveniently reprinted by the South Dumfries Historical Society and is now available for the very reasonable price of just $10 a copy, you would have been able to find out that fact.
The book is available at the Museum and also at the Brantford Museum on Charlotte Street and at the Classic Vault Emporium, on Main Street St. George (Thanks to Jean Hastings, who regularly brings us in the proceeds from the sale of these books!)
You can learn all sorts of interesting things about St. George in this book and see a great photo of the Old Mill from 1907 on page 53.
If you had read Douglas A. Mannen's book "St. George: From Bauslaugh's Mill to the Present," which was conveniently reprinted by the South Dumfries Historical Society and is now available for the very reasonable price of just $10 a copy, you would have been able to find out that fact.
The book is available at the Museum and also at the Brantford Museum on Charlotte Street and at the Classic Vault Emporium, on Main Street St. George (Thanks to Jean Hastings, who regularly brings us in the proceeds from the sale of these books!)
You can learn all sorts of interesting things about St. George in this book and see a great photo of the Old Mill from 1907 on page 53.
Friday, February 13, 2009
How our neighbours in Waterloo support local history
Here in Brant County, the Council currently has a committee considering a staff recommendation to declare as surplus the buildings housing the Harley Museum (Burford Township) and the St. George Museum (St. George Memorial Hall) as well as the St. George Old School and several other community halls.
In that context, it might be interesting to compare that with what our neighbours in the Region of Waterloo are doing to support local history. Below is the text of a fact sheet describing the Regional History Museum project they are undertaking at a budgetted cost of $26 million dollars....
The SDHS doesn't really expect or believe that Brant County would spend $26 million on a similar project, but closing the museum and putting the collection into storage doesn't sound like a great way to promote local heritage.
Region of Waterloo History Museum Fact sheet – July 2008
Regional History Museum Facts
The vision for a community museum was first stated in 1912 by the Waterloo Historical Society and has been in the Region of Waterloo’s capital program since 1988.
A feasibility study approved in principle by Regional Council in mid-2007 recommended that a
Regional history museum, combined with visitor orientation to the living history village, be built at Doon Heritage Crossroads.
The overall project budget for the Region of Waterloo History Museum is $26 million; a $2 million grant has been received from the Government of Canada through the Cultural Spaces Canada program of the Department of Canadian Heritage.
The architects for the museum are Moriyama + Teshima of Toronto in association with The Walter Fedy Partnership from Kitchener.
The museum will be located at the intersection of Homer Watson Boulevard and Huron Road in
Kitchener, at Doon Heritage Crossroads, on property owned by the Region of Waterloo.
The museum will create more than 1,858 sq. metres (20,000 sq. ft.) of permanent and temporary gallery space; the entire building will be 4,366 sq. metres (47,000 sq. ft.) in size.
Building orientation and design considerations include: views from Homer Watson Boulevard and
from the living history village; public use; accessibility; respect for the existing village, the natural environment, and the neighbours; sustainability and energy efficiency; and exhibit planning.
The museum exhibits will tell the stories of this region, and will improve access to the more than
43,000 artifacts in storage at the Doon Heritage Crossroads CuratorialCentre. Building construction is scheduled to begin in the fall of 2008 and continue into early 2010. Exhibit
fabrication and installation will start in spring 2010 and will continue through November 2011.
Many groups will be consulted about the exhibit plans and community stories as this work
progresses.
The new museum building will be designed and constructed to the Canada Green Building Council Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) Silver Standard in accordance with Regional policy for all new construction projects. Public consultations for the building design were held in Cambridge, Kitchener, and Waterloo in April 2008.
The museum building is being designed to be fully accessible through consultation with the Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee.
What can you do to support the museum?
Check our website for updates on the project.
Talk about the project with others in your organization.
Visit the museum’s website at: www.region.waterloo.on.ca/museum
Email us at: newmuseum@region.waterloo.on.ca
To respond or obtain more information, contact
Tom Reitz, Manager/Curator
Doon Heritage Crossroads
519-748-1914 ext. 3270
rtom@region.waterloo.on.ca
In that context, it might be interesting to compare that with what our neighbours in the Region of Waterloo are doing to support local history. Below is the text of a fact sheet describing the Regional History Museum project they are undertaking at a budgetted cost of $26 million dollars....
The SDHS doesn't really expect or believe that Brant County would spend $26 million on a similar project, but closing the museum and putting the collection into storage doesn't sound like a great way to promote local heritage.
Region of Waterloo History Museum Fact sheet – July 2008
Regional History Museum Facts
The vision for a community museum was first stated in 1912 by the Waterloo Historical Society and has been in the Region of Waterloo’s capital program since 1988.
A feasibility study approved in principle by Regional Council in mid-2007 recommended that a
Regional history museum, combined with visitor orientation to the living history village, be built at Doon Heritage Crossroads.
The overall project budget for the Region of Waterloo History Museum is $26 million; a $2 million grant has been received from the Government of Canada through the Cultural Spaces Canada program of the Department of Canadian Heritage.
The architects for the museum are Moriyama + Teshima of Toronto in association with The Walter Fedy Partnership from Kitchener.
The museum will be located at the intersection of Homer Watson Boulevard and Huron Road in
Kitchener, at Doon Heritage Crossroads, on property owned by the Region of Waterloo.
The museum will create more than 1,858 sq. metres (20,000 sq. ft.) of permanent and temporary gallery space; the entire building will be 4,366 sq. metres (47,000 sq. ft.) in size.
Building orientation and design considerations include: views from Homer Watson Boulevard and
from the living history village; public use; accessibility; respect for the existing village, the natural environment, and the neighbours; sustainability and energy efficiency; and exhibit planning.
The museum exhibits will tell the stories of this region, and will improve access to the more than
43,000 artifacts in storage at the Doon Heritage Crossroads CuratorialCentre. Building construction is scheduled to begin in the fall of 2008 and continue into early 2010. Exhibit
fabrication and installation will start in spring 2010 and will continue through November 2011.
Many groups will be consulted about the exhibit plans and community stories as this work
progresses.
The new museum building will be designed and constructed to the Canada Green Building Council Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) Silver Standard in accordance with Regional policy for all new construction projects. Public consultations for the building design were held in Cambridge, Kitchener, and Waterloo in April 2008.
The museum building is being designed to be fully accessible through consultation with the Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee.
What can you do to support the museum?
Check our website for updates on the project.
Talk about the project with others in your organization.
Visit the museum’s website at: www.region.waterloo.on.ca/museum
Email us at: newmuseum@region.waterloo.on.ca
To respond or obtain more information, contact
Tom Reitz, Manager/Curator
Doon Heritage Crossroads
519-748-1914 ext. 3270
rtom@region.waterloo.on.ca
In Memory of Joyce Wehrstein
Joyce Wehrstein, who was named the Honourary President of the South Dumfries Historical Society upon its founding, passed away on Christmas Day, 2008. A service in her memory - or more accurately a celebration of her life - was held at the St. George United Church.
Her son John Wehrstein invited several people to speak at the service - representing different aspects of her life - as a neighbour, as a teacher, as a friend, as an actress. Ruth Lefler, a friend and fellow local historian, spoke about Joyce's great contribution to local history.
With Ruth's permission, here is the text of her eulogy:
Joyce Wehrstein
Joyce - THE historian of her beloved St. George
For five generations the Lawrason family has worked and given to this community and to the County of Brant.
Joyce continued that tradition.
At the end of Joyce's living room stands a special pine medicine cabinet of which she was very proud. It tells the story of her Uncle John who, as a veterinarian, mixed medications for the animals from the containers that are still held in this cupboard. The sight and smell of this cupboard have lingered well into history.
Joyce was the person that people sought out when looking for local historical information. She was always gentle and wise, gracious and willing to share her knowledge and rarely did they leave disappointed.
When the Old St. George Public School was closed in the early 1970's, Joyce was among those concerned citizens in the community who were able to convince the School Board to turn the building over to the former Township of South Dumfries. Joyce and Melva Jackson then proceeded to establish a local museum in a second floor classroom.
For over 15 years Joyce was a member of the Brant Historical Society. It was during this time that she and other members edited the Jean Waldie Papers to produce two volumes of her work entitled "Brant County, A Story of Its People". These books are still used extensively by researchers.
When Mike Hand wrote his book about the Lorimer Brothers of St. George who invented the machine telephone, it was Joyce who acted as the catalyst. She knew Egbert Lorimer's granddaughter and invited her and Mike to meet at her home to discuss archival material and valuable photographs.
In 2002, when I co/authored the sesquicentennial book about Brant County, my first stop, when researching South Dumfries Township history, was with Joyce. I was not dieappointed.
Joyce's interesting historical talks were often accented by her poems that were written in rhyming couplets. Whenever she was complimented about these, her reply was "Oh they're just dogeral".
It was a joyous occasion when Joyce was recognized by the Ontario Heritage Trust and the County of Brant for outstanding historical endeavours in her community. This recognition was well deserved.
When the South Dumfries Historical Society was formed in 2003, a wise choice was made in appointing Joyce as honourary president. It wasn't but a few days before Joyce's passed away, that I had a St. George historical question that Joyce had answered a long time ago. I didn't write it down and my mind has let the details slip. Will I now ever find the answer?
Joyce - thank you for the valuable legacy that you have generously given and left with this community.
Her son John Wehrstein invited several people to speak at the service - representing different aspects of her life - as a neighbour, as a teacher, as a friend, as an actress. Ruth Lefler, a friend and fellow local historian, spoke about Joyce's great contribution to local history.
With Ruth's permission, here is the text of her eulogy:
Joyce Wehrstein
Joyce - THE historian of her beloved St. George
For five generations the Lawrason family has worked and given to this community and to the County of Brant.
Joyce continued that tradition.
At the end of Joyce's living room stands a special pine medicine cabinet of which she was very proud. It tells the story of her Uncle John who, as a veterinarian, mixed medications for the animals from the containers that are still held in this cupboard. The sight and smell of this cupboard have lingered well into history.
Joyce was the person that people sought out when looking for local historical information. She was always gentle and wise, gracious and willing to share her knowledge and rarely did they leave disappointed.
When the Old St. George Public School was closed in the early 1970's, Joyce was among those concerned citizens in the community who were able to convince the School Board to turn the building over to the former Township of South Dumfries. Joyce and Melva Jackson then proceeded to establish a local museum in a second floor classroom.
For over 15 years Joyce was a member of the Brant Historical Society. It was during this time that she and other members edited the Jean Waldie Papers to produce two volumes of her work entitled "Brant County, A Story of Its People". These books are still used extensively by researchers.
When Mike Hand wrote his book about the Lorimer Brothers of St. George who invented the machine telephone, it was Joyce who acted as the catalyst. She knew Egbert Lorimer's granddaughter and invited her and Mike to meet at her home to discuss archival material and valuable photographs.
In 2002, when I co/authored the sesquicentennial book about Brant County, my first stop, when researching South Dumfries Township history, was with Joyce. I was not dieappointed.
Joyce's interesting historical talks were often accented by her poems that were written in rhyming couplets. Whenever she was complimented about these, her reply was "Oh they're just dogeral".
It was a joyous occasion when Joyce was recognized by the Ontario Heritage Trust and the County of Brant for outstanding historical endeavours in her community. This recognition was well deserved.
When the South Dumfries Historical Society was formed in 2003, a wise choice was made in appointing Joyce as honourary president. It wasn't but a few days before Joyce's passed away, that I had a St. George historical question that Joyce had answered a long time ago. I didn't write it down and my mind has let the details slip. Will I now ever find the answer?
Joyce - thank you for the valuable legacy that you have generously given and left with this community.
Dr. Henry (Hank) Hedges
This coming Tuesday, February 17th, Dr. Henry Hedges will be one of four people recognized by the County of Brant for their contributions to local heritage. For some background as to why Dr. Hedges is so deserving, I have been given permission from Ruth Lefler to post the submission she made to the province in support of Hank receiving an Ontario Heritage Trust recognition certificate and achievement pin.
Dr. Henry Hedges
The Heritage Committee of the County of Brant nominates Dr. Henry Hedges in the Natural History category for his leadership in the protection of this heritage. Throughout his life, he has always been keenly aware of our environment and has sought ways to preserve and protect it.
In 2004, three men, one of whom was Dr. Hedges, volunteered to initiate, develop and carry out the plan to plant 10 foot sugar maple trees along the roadsides of the County of Brant. For protection, all trees are planted five feet inside the fence lines. To date, 1 000 trees have been planted by students who volunteered from the Environmental Leadership class at Paris District High School. The project replicates the Government of Ontario's tree planting of 100 years ago. This significant project emphasizes the importance of trees to our environment.
To increase the numbers of Bob White Quail and Rig Necked Pheasants, Dr. Hedges has raised them on his farm and then has released them into their natural environment.
As a preservationist and educator, Dr. Hedges promotes natural heritage through his many slide presentations. One example is his Southern Ontario Wildflower presentation where he not only shows and explains the environment needed for them to grow but, also points out the problems these plants have with the draining of the wetlands and the clear cutting of the forests.
As a keen environmentalist, Dr. Hedges understands the necessity for conservation and acts upon it through his ideas and actions.
Nearly one year earlier, in February of 2008, Dr. Hedges was awarded by the Honourable David C. Onley, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, the province’s highest recognition for seniors.
The Ontario Senior Achievement Awards recognize seniors over the age of 65 who have made significant contributions to their communities through voluntary or professional activities.
Dr. Hedges was recognized as an "author, avid gardener and leading authority on horticulture."
We are also pleased to have Dr. Hedges as a member of our Historical Society.
Dr. Henry Hedges
The Heritage Committee of the County of Brant nominates Dr. Henry Hedges in the Natural History category for his leadership in the protection of this heritage. Throughout his life, he has always been keenly aware of our environment and has sought ways to preserve and protect it.
In 2004, three men, one of whom was Dr. Hedges, volunteered to initiate, develop and carry out the plan to plant 10 foot sugar maple trees along the roadsides of the County of Brant. For protection, all trees are planted five feet inside the fence lines. To date, 1 000 trees have been planted by students who volunteered from the Environmental Leadership class at Paris District High School. The project replicates the Government of Ontario's tree planting of 100 years ago. This significant project emphasizes the importance of trees to our environment.
To increase the numbers of Bob White Quail and Rig Necked Pheasants, Dr. Hedges has raised them on his farm and then has released them into their natural environment.
As a preservationist and educator, Dr. Hedges promotes natural heritage through his many slide presentations. One example is his Southern Ontario Wildflower presentation where he not only shows and explains the environment needed for them to grow but, also points out the problems these plants have with the draining of the wetlands and the clear cutting of the forests.
As a keen environmentalist, Dr. Hedges understands the necessity for conservation and acts upon it through his ideas and actions.
Nearly one year earlier, in February of 2008, Dr. Hedges was awarded by the Honourable David C. Onley, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, the province’s highest recognition for seniors.
The Ontario Senior Achievement Awards recognize seniors over the age of 65 who have made significant contributions to their communities through voluntary or professional activities.
Dr. Hedges was recognized as an "author, avid gardener and leading authority on horticulture."
We are also pleased to have Dr. Hedges as a member of our Historical Society.
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