OHS B u l l e t i n t h e n e w s l e t t e r o f t h e o n t a r i o h i s t o r i c a l s o c i e t y
I ss u e 176 O c t ob e r 2010
The Ontario Historical Society and Reading and Remembrance Dundurn Press is proud to host the 2010: Homeland Stories launch of Dorothy Duncan’s Feasting and Fasting: Canada’s Heritage Celebrations
Sunday November 7th 2:30 to 5:00 p.m. John McKenzie House 34 Parkview Ave. Willowdale Including special guest Barbara Wall La Rocque author, Wolfe Island
Refreshments | Free Parking RSVP to OHS by Nov. 1st
n 2005, the Year of the Veteran, Remembrance Day, butyear-round. IAngie Littlefield and Mary Cook For example, October 2010 will OHS Welcomes New Affiliate: launched Reading and Remem- commemorate Women’s History brance, a program offering free Month and Reading and Remem- Soo Pipe Band online Remembrance Day educa- brance features dozens of lessons tional resources for teachers and on female spies, war artists, pilots, Cliff Graham, Guest Writer educators across Ontario. Each year munitions workers, nurses, Silver [email protected] ten ready-to-use lessons which em- Cross mothers and wives, war phasize reading, diversity, equity, brides, and much more. Also new he Soo Pipe Band was and research into local history are to the website is the document en- Tincorporated in the posted online along a particular titled “Getting the Most” – which Province of Ontario through theme. Past themes have included is a downloadable user’s guide, affiliation with the OHS on ‘In Flanders Fields’, ‘Anti-Racism which acts as support for teachers June 12, 2010. The band is and Holocaust Education’, ‘Women new to the material. located in Sault Ste. Marie and and War’, ‘The Art of Dissent’, Teachers and educators are invit- has been in existence since ‘Medals and Memories’, and now ed to download and sample Reading 1915, when Scottish immigrant The Soo Pipe Band participated in 2010, ‘Homeland Stories’. In and Remembrance materials at Peter Buchan convinced 2009, the OHS became a leading the ease of a few clicks by visiting another re-located country- in celebrations commemorating partner in the program because of www.readingandremembrance.ca. man, John Murdo (Jock) King George VI’s Coronation, its unique dedication to its mandate Teachers may sign up their schools Nicolson, an accomplished May 1937. Photo Soo Pipe Band of getting more history education online or simply download and bagpipe player, that a pipe into Ontario’s schools. print materials for use in the class- band was needed for the town. The sociation with local cadet groups 2010’s theme ‘Homeland Stories’ room. Signing your school up will early years were a struggle and the allows younger players to practice follows a 161 km rule: practically allow it to be featured on the year- wives of the founders sold sprigs with the Soo Pipe Band with the every young person in Ontario end Honour Roll! of heather tied with tartan ribbon hope that this will foster an interest should be able to find an air base, The lesson plans for Reading and wherever the band performed to in joining the pipe band in future adopted ship, prisoner of war camp Remembrance, presented in both raise much-needed funds. Since its years. or a WWII tie-in within 161 km of French and English, are: inception, the band has been for- In the beginning, the band strug- his or her community. As such, this • Aerodrome of Democracy tunate to have some accomplished gled to find a permanent home for theme focuses on the local history • Battles on the Home Front teachers to provide instruction for meetings and practices and met in that connects youth to their heri- • Enemies Within new members and entertainment several locations throughout the tage. In addition, a special lesson • Helping Hands Across Canada for local crowds through the pro- city. Upon affiliation with the- lo on the Imperial Order Daughters of • IODE in WWII motion and support of Scottish cal Regiment, the band finally had the Empire (IODE) is in honour of • Movie Stars: Home Grown Heroes music and culture. their 110th anniversary of serving • Music And Meaning Although the majority of the ‘Soo’ cont’d page 5... communities across Canada. • Safe Haven band members are adults, an as- By visiting www.readingandre- • The Allure of Canada: War membrance.ca, educators are able Grooms and PoWs to browse through more than 50 ar- • Wedding Dresses, War Brides In This Issue chived lessons and an additional 30 and War Housing. shorter “Minutes” lessons, many of The Society would like to thank which are available in both English Ontario Power Generation and President’s Report ...... 2 Museum News ...... 4 and French. Teachers are welcome Veterans Affairs Canada, the 2010 to select past or current themes that sponsors for Reading and Remem- Executive Director’s Report ...... 2 coincide best with their curriculum brance: Homeland Stories. and to utilize materials not only on New Members and Donors ...... 2
Cemetery News ...... 5 The Ontario Historical Society 34 Parkview Avenue Exhibits, Events and Notices ...... 6 Willowdale, Ontario M2N 3Y2 Across The Province ...... 3 From The Bookshelf ...... 7-8
The Ontario Founded Historical Society 1888
www.ontariohistoricalsociety.ca President’s Report
Bob Leech, President Our intention is to digitize parts of [email protected] this collection, make it searchable via the OHS web site and provide Greetings OHS members and sup- access to this material for histori- porters! I am pleased to announce cal research at the John McKenzie that the OHS will be hosting a very House. To begin this effort, on special event on Sunday November Friday, September 24th, Deloitte 7th between 2:30 and 5:00 p.m., at held its annual Impact Day, a firm- Photo the historic John McKenzie House. wide day of volunteer service. 5 Andrea Izzo In partnership with the Dundurn Deloitte team members rolled up On September 24, Deloitte held its annual Impact Day, a firm- Group, the Society will be hosting their sleeves and contributed a wide day of volunteer service. The OHS was very fortunate to the official launch of author, his- great deal of hard work, assisting torian and former OHS Executive with the creation and computer have five hard-working volunteers assist with the cataloguing Director Dorothy Duncan’s new indexing of the Society’s library. and organization of its library. Deloitte also made a donation book Feasting and Fasting: Can- Although more work is still need- to purchase a number of bookshelves, which the volunteers ada’s Heritage Celebrations. The ed, this initiative gave the library assembled. Many thanks to (clockwise from left): Alex, Jason, event will also celebrate Barbara project a strong start. The OHS OHS President Bob Leech, Annette, Brenda and Samantha! Wall La Rocque’s Wolfe Island: A would like to extend a heartfelt Legacy in Stone. On behalf of the thanks to Alex, Annette, Brenda, in Willowdale. Enclosed, in this Coordinator Andrea Izzo at izzo@ OHS, I extend an invitation to our Jason and Samantha for their hard edition of the OHS Bulletin, is a ontariohistoricalsociety.ca. members and friends to attend this work and enthusiasm. Nominations Form for the 2010 Finally, I would like to remind important event. Interested parties I would like to take this oppor- Honours and Awards Programme. our members that as a growing not- must R.S.V.P. before November tunity to congratulate once again I encourage members to consider for-profit organization, the OHS’ 1st by e-mailing ohs@ontario- the recipients of the 2009 OHS submitting a nomination for a local finances are always stretched thin. historicalsociety.ca or phoning Honours and Awards. On June volunteer, organization, or author Donations are tax deductible con- 416.226.9011. 12, 2010, the Society recognized who has made a lasting contribu- tributions that help ensure the So- Over the past 100 years the OHS outstanding volunteers, organiza- tion to heritage in your commu- ciety’s continuing success. Thank has been the recipient of several tions and authors, from across nity. For more information please you in advance for any support! thousand books and documents. Ontario, at its Awards Ceremony visit our website or e-mail Awards
Executive Director’s Report W e l c o m e
N e w M e m b e r s D o n o r s Rob Leverty, Executive Director cal organization to ensure that [email protected] insurance policies are tailored to address specific needs and local Incorporation circumstances. The OHS had a very busy and As of August 31, 2010, the OHS productive summer. The Society has reviewed and approved over Algoma 1812 Thomas Basted continues to respond to the rising 85 non-profit corporations for the Planning Committee tide of applications by our fellow Society’s insurance programme. Gyuszi Berki Ontarians across the province to There are 41 historical organi- Heather Chambers incorporate through affiliation zations that have Directors and Joy Davis with the OHS. Between January Officers Liability Insurance -poli Marco Covi and June 2010, the OHS incor- cies underwritten at a limit of $2 porated four historical organiza- million each. There are 44 organi- Friends of Twelve Aline Desjardins tions. Throughout the summer, zations that have General Liability Mile Lake Church we received and processed many Insurance policies with liability Margaret Derry new applications for incorpora- limits of at least $2 million each of John Glass tion, engaged in community con- which 19 have purchased coverage Torrance Henderson sultations and held public meet- for contents and property. Haliburton County ings in various parts of Ontario. At present, the Directors and Historical Society I am pleased to report that on Officers Liability Insurance has Paul Huntington September 25th, the OHS Board of a $450 flat rate with $2 million Janice Hogg Directors incorporated Haliburton limits and the General Liability Ronald Junkin County Historical Society; National Insurance has $2 million limits Living History Historic Sites Alliance for Ontario; with a rate of $450 to $725 (based Patricia Kennedy Friends of Twelve Mile Lake on gross revenue). Organizations Art Studios Church and North Halton Celtic can request General Liability William J Lamb Historical Society as not-for-profit Insurance quotes with limits from Anne McIntyre corporations in the Province of On- $1 million to $5 million. Competi- tario. Congratulations to all the vol- tive rates for buildings/contents/ Jacob Minnetyan Mary Lemyre unteers who donated their time and collections are also now available. skills to ensure the incorporation of Currently, there are many active National Historic Marcel Martel these four historical organizations applications and therefore, insur- Sites Alliance through affiliation with the OHS. ance policies for our members for Ontario are underwritten and issued on an Catherine McEwen OHS Insurance Programme ongoing basis. North Halton Celtic The OHS insurance programme The OHS insurance programme Historical Society Joy Ormsby remains popular and the Society enables and protects volunteers continues to process insurance ap- across Ontario who donate their William Richardson plications on a regular basis. Any time and skills to serve on the Sharon O’Shea historical organization in Ontario Boards of Directors of our member that is a non-profit corporation and organizations. La Société Alan Shiels a member of the OHS “in good If your organization would like d’histoire de Toronto standing” is eligible to apply for further information or wishes Roberta Simpson General Liability Insurance and/or to apply to the OHS insurance Soul of the Mother Directors and Officers Liability programme, please contact me. James Stanley Insurance. Thomas Steinhoff As soon as the OHS approves Bill 65 an application for the Insurance On August 19th, I was informed Cynthia White Diana Taschereau Programme, John Thomas, that there was new proposed our Insurance Broker, JONES provincial legislation regarding DESLAURI- William Wicken Brenda Whitlock ERS, consults ‘Executive Director’s Report’ cont’d on page 5... each histori-
Page 2 OHS Bulletin October 2010 Across the Province
Scores of newsletters from histori- Books and contains not only prize cal societies and museums across winning recipes, but stories of the Ontario have brought us glimpses families and individuals who made of exciting programmes enjoyed them. Ask for this beautiful book in hosting communities as well as in your local book store and savour a fascinating preview of upcom- Essex County. ing events this fall. They always From two societies come ques- contain a range of topics, from tions: Robert Hammond, President Photo ADO research to recipes, local news and of the Lennox and Addington views, messages of congratulation Historical Society wants opin- On September 14th, the OHS participated in the EnAbling and condolence, and confirm for ions and ideas about his society’s Change Partnership Day at the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). us the incredible level of inter- celebrating (or not) the upcom- Seen here are (left to right) Alfred Spencer, Director, Outreach est in history and heritage in this ing bicentennial of the War of province. 1812. To share your thoughts: and Compliance Branch, Accessibility Directorate of Ontario; How about a “Bakeless Bake 613.354.3027. Warren Stauch, on Dr. Marie Bountrogianni, President and Executive Director of Sale” just like the one spon- behalf of the Waterloo Historical the ROM Governors and Rob Leverty, Executive Director, OHS. sored by the Haileybury Heritage Society reminds us of their 100th Before joining the ROM Governors, Dr. Bountrogianni served Museum in August? An invitation Anniversary in 2012 and wants as Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs for Ontario and to the community was extended to know who else is celebrating? Minister, Democratic Renewal. Previously, she was Minister of to join “the easiest Bakeless Bake Suggestions: 519.744.2935. Sale ever, because no baking was Well done Donald Booth! As Children and Youth Services and Minister of Citizenship and involved! Just send a donation, big June 19 approached, Donald, of Immigration for Ontario. She cites the passage of the Accessi- or small, and receive a tax receipt.” United Empire Loyalist descent, re- bility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (2005) as her proudest Did it work? Call 705.672.1922 for alized that the Loyalist Flag should accomplishment during her tenure at Queen’s Park. the answer. fly on the Guest Flagpole on June In 2008, the OHS, in partnership with the Accessibility The John R. Park Homestead is 19, Loyalist Day, at Queen’s Park. Directorate of Ontario, published Accessible Heritage – An publicizing the upcoming educa- He took the initiative to ensure it tional programmes at their spec- would happen, despite the fact it Accessibility Tool Kit For Ontario’s Heritage Organizations tacular site on the shore of Lake was a Saturday and the Legislative and Institutions. On October 28th, 2010, the OHS was one of Erie. This is the 33rd year of ser- Assembly would not be sitting. A the presenters at the 8th Annual Essex County Accessibility vice to the community and these great many other people did see it Workshop. year ‘round, seasonal, curriculum and commented to their local heri- based, hands-on programmes tage and historical organizations. are designed for all grade levels. The Town of York Historical Information and reservations: Society reports that Artscape, a for the benefit of everyone. Further Association has announced the 519.738.2029. non-profit corporation that revital- information: 705.676.2416. annual Andrew Hunter Award Congratulations to Dr. Rae izes buildings and communities A good news story comes from for 2011, offered for historical re- Fleming, former editor of Ontario through the arts, is coming to the the Markham Museum – where search on the County and written History on the publication of Peter rescue of the Shaw Street School the new Collections Building will by an undergraduate student for a Gzowski, A Biography, by Dun- in Toronto. It was declared surplus highlight an exhibit area and an en- course in any university or college. durn Press. This new biography in 2001, but in future will offer larged archives and storage area for Two awards are offered, one for has already received favourable space to arts organizations and stu- artifacts. The Town of Markham an essay, and the other for a the- reviews across Canada. dio space to artists. has established a new Friends of sis. For further information: www. John R. Park and his family Congratulations to Samara Cull the Markham Museum Foundation simcoecountyhistory.ca. Essay en- were very involved in community and the Town of Latchford on their to support the operation of the mu- tries must be postmarked by April life, including the local Agricul- new and very successful Commu- seum and to raise funds for it and 8, 2011 and theses by January 28, tural Society and Harrow Fair (that nity Garden. Mayor Peter Davies its programmes. To learn more: began in 1854) in Essex County. reminds us that it is ideas like this, 905.294.4576. ‘Across’ cont’d page 6... The Harrow Fair Cookbook has coming from folks like Samara The Simcoe County Historical just been published by Whitecap that brings communities together
present, it is open to researchers ensure access for all potential users. Letter to the Editor: Restore from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm weekdays. There are no Saturday hours. Access to Original (Non- Access to the Archives of Ontario These reduced hours have the Microfilmed) Holdings following repercussions: Prior to April 2009, a researcher • Workers with 9-to-5 jobs and could order material in advance self-employed workers must take and it was held in document lock- From The Committee for Our tional, with the thought that the time off to use the Archives. ers or a storage room. It could be Ontario Archives officials who read it may not be • Researchers from outside the accessed by the researcher when- aware of the situation or at least its GTA must travel during week- ever the Reading Room was open, In April 2009, the Archives of implications. day rush hours to maximize their including evenings and weekends. Ontario moved to a new state- In its first four weeks, the cam- research time. At present, there is no access to of-the-art building on the York paign has gained the enthusiastic • For researchers within the original material after 5:00 pm on University campus. At the time of support of 40 heritage organiza- GTA travelling by public transit, weekdays. the move, the hours of operation tions from around the province, the buses are overcrowded and were reduced by more than 60 per- representing at least 9,750 mem- frequently caught in rush hour Use of Classroom Space cent. Researchers have had greatly bers. Your organization can add its traffic. We also request a reconsid- diminished access to the holdings support to the campaign by send- • Researchers from outside the eration of the policy governing the of the Archives of Ontario—and ing an e-mail to the committee at GTA who cannot complete their use of classroom space. The new thereby Ontario’s documentary [email protected]. work in an 8-hour day must incur Archives of Ontario includes the heritage—and in fact many Ontar- Please include the full name of accommodation expenses. addition of a large classroom on ians have no opportunity to use the your organization and the number • Undergraduate and Continuing the main floor, accessible directly Archives of Ontario. of members you represent. Education Students at institutions from the public lobby. At present A small committee of historians Here is the text of the “Request” other than York University have the space is used only for Archives and genealogists stepped forward that the committee would like your little or no opportunity to use the of Ontario programs. While we in early August to initiate a cam- organization to consider: Archives of Ontario. understand that these programs paign to have service restored to We request the following aspects It is evident to those of us who must take precedence, we feel that pre-move standards. (The com- of public service be restored to have used the Reading Room since allowing historical, cultural and mittee is unaffiliated with any one pre-April 2009 levels: April 2009 that these barriers have educational groups to use the space organization.) The group has pre- resulted in severe underutilization for appropriate activities would pared a one-page document (text Reading Room Hours of the new facilities and equipment. complement the mandate of the reproduced below) that states its Prior to April 2009, the Reading Indeed, restoring the hours to pre- Archives of Ontario and enhance requests and sets out the “before- Room was open weekdays from April 2009 levels, and providing the public’s knowledge and aware- and-after” situations. The tone is 8:15 am to 10:30 pm, and 10:00 archival reference services on Sat- ness of Ontario’s heritage. supportive and non-confronta- am to 8:00 pm on Saturdays. At urday and some evenings would
October 2010 OHS Bulletin Page 3 The OHS Museums Committee Needs Your Input! Museum News Many of the museums in the province have roots in Historical Societies and many continue to operate a museum as a part of their mandate. Minden Hills Museum To better serve our Museum community, we invite you to answer a few questions and submit it to the OHS. With this survey, the Museum’s committee will be able to meet your Caroline McLachlan Darling, Curator other plants absorb more readily. needs, and information will assist us in representing our [email protected] Corn requires this form of nitrogen Historical Society Museums. for optimal growth. The squash, with their large and often prickly 1. Is your Historical Society a member of the OHS? The Minden Hills Museum is leaves, shade the soil, preventing 2. Does your Historical Society operate a museum? very fortunate to have the Three weed growth, and deter animal 3. How is your museum funded? Does your museum receive Sisters Community Garden on its pests. An ideal Three Sisters gar- Provincial Funding (Community Museum Operating Grant? site. You can see this garden at den also has a row of Marigolds or Heritage Organizations Development Grant?) If so, the front of this photograph and it growing along the outer edges of please comment on how the grant benefits you. draws considerable interest among the garden to deter insect pests 4. What services would you like to see from the OHS? which might harm the Please feel free to submit comments to Pam Cain, Chair, Photo OHS Museums Committee at [email protected], Rob Leverty garden. Teaching 34 Parkview Avenue, Willowdale ON, M2N 3Y2 or 1.866.955.2755 students that mutual ben- efit doesn’t exist only in the plant world, the picture, was built to government having volunteers provide living students help regulations: 20 feet by 24 feet. The history from time to time. Bowron gather the second floor above and an extend- House recently played home to produce in ed kitchen to the left were added Heritage Fibreworks, which ex- the fall and later. While the original house is hibited the techniques and materi- donate it restored to its 1890’s glory, the als used by the early settlers. An to the local kitchen addition is restored to a upcoming exhibit The History of food bank. 1920-30’s kitchen. the Camera will include a large This shows The addition of the kitchen number of camera and camera- students the does pose some challenges. A related artifacts which have been importance perfect seal is nearly impossible kindly loaned to the museum. This of giving to maintain and continual pres- winter will see a two-week interac- our visitors. back to their community. This ervation and maintenance is tive exhibit entitled Heritage Toys The Three Sisters garden is man- is just one of many programs the often required to ensure the preser- and Games, which will include aged by the Minden Horticultural Minden Hills Museum provides to vation of this building. opening and closing carnival style Society and the local grade 3 stu- the local schools and community. In addition to Bowron House, the competitions. Information on these dents. The Horticultural Society Behind the garden is Bowron Minden Hills Museum also houses and other exhibits are listed on our uses the gardens to aid in teaching House, perhaps the most inter- a schoolhouse which was built in website at www.mindencultural the grade 3 students about plant esting building in the museum’s the 1890s, a replica of an 1890s centre.com and in our regular life. These students learn primar- collection. Bowron House was Church built entirely by volunteers, member newsletter. ily about gardening and plants, built in 1861 by Francis Bowron. Minden’s first Bank built in 1915, The Minden Hills Museum is but also about how life is inter- Emigrating from England, Francis a logging camp, blacksmith shop part of the Minden Hills Cultural connected. The students learn this Bowron was hired to be Minden’s and a machinery barn. Many of our Centre which includes the Ag- through a gardening style which first schoolteacher. He arrived in visitors also enjoy our stocks and nes Jamieson Gallery, and R.D. the First Nations used to optimize the county in 1860 and taught in pillories, often putting each other Lawrence Place – a literary and plant growth, the Three Sisters. the newly built one room school- in the devices for pictures. naturalist centre. All these can be The Three Sisters, beans, squash house. As well as being the first As well as the existing build- accessed for a single small admis- and corn are the main plants grown schoolteacher, Francis Bowron ings and permanent artifacts of sion fee which goes towards the in the garden to form a system. also conducted the first official great interest any time of year, upkeep of these buildings. We Firstly, corn stalks support the census of the area in 1861. The Minden Hills Museum also look forward to welcoming you to beans. Beans then absorb nitrogen The original section of Bowron shows regular special exhibits in the Minden Hills Cultural Centre in the air and release it in a form that House, seen on the right of this the various buildings as well as soon.
of Ontario (LMMSO). The basic ings, workshops, concerts, teas and Lucy Maud Montgomery character of the building, both other social events. inside and outside, remains virtu- In recent years the LMMSO has Society of Ontario and ally unchanged since the time of involved itself in a great deal of Leaskdale Manse N.H.S. Montgomery’s residency. In 2006 fundraising, building restoration the Society purchased the decom- and renovation. In the process, it missioned St. Paul’s Presbyterian has secured two Trillium grants, Earle Lockerby, Guest Writer of Ingleside. Local topography in Church, a hundred yards or so from several New Horizons grants and [email protected] Leaskdale inspired Rainbow Valley the Manse, and renamed it Historic a Parks Canada grant. These have and a vacation in the Muskoka area Leaskdale Church. The building been applied toward substantial In 2011, Uxbridge Township will is reflected inThe Blue Castle. is historic in its own right since renovations to the church, while celebrate the 100th anniversary of It was the fall of 1911 when Lucy it was here where Montgomery preserving the historical integrity Lucy Maud Montgomery’s com- Maud and her husband, Rev. Ewan was active as a leader of women’s of the church sanctuary, and to a mencement of residency in Ontario. Macdonald, took up residence in groups, taught Sunday school and major period restoration of the in- Most people think of Montgomery Leaskdale where they would re- worked on charitable endeavours. terior of the Manse which is now only in the context of Prince Edward main for 15 years. He had assumed It was this church that was, in ef- underway. As a result of these Island. Yet it was in Ontario – first the position of minister of the fect, responsible for Lucy Maud activities and a series of events Leaskdale, followed by Norval and Presbyterian church in Leaskdale Montgomery’s relocation to On- sponsored throughout each year, then Toronto – where she wrote all and of the Presbyterian church in tario. Accordingly the building, the LMMSO has made a great except four of her 23 books. It was nearby Zephyr the previous year. built in 1906, has been declared deal of progress in raising public in Leaskdale where she was the Like Montgomery, he had grown a historic site by the Council of awareness of Montgomery and her most productive; here she wrote 11 up in PEI. Their arrival in Leask- the Township of Uxbridge. The national and international liter- books. It was in Leaskdale, now in dale followed a wedding in PEI church serves as an adjunct to the ary legacy, and of the Leaskdale Uxbridge Township, that she had and a honeymoon in England and Manse (a reversal of the relation- Manse as a principal setting for the first home that she could call Scotland. ship in former years) by providing what is perhaps the most important her own and where she raised her The Leaskdale home of the additional space for interpreting phase of her life. Having died in two sons. It was here that the angst Macdonalds is now the Leaskdale Montgomery’s life in Leaskdale, 1942, she remains one of Canada’s of the Great War formed an indel- Manse National Historic Site and and by providing parking space, ible mark upon her – an impact is operated as a museum by the public washrooms, kitchen facili- ‘Lucy’ cont’d page 6... that is reflected in her novel, Rilla Lucy Maud Montgomery Society ties and space for a gift shop, meet-
Page 4 OHS Bulletin October 2010 c. 1795. It was often the custom to Loyalist and Ancaster farmer who bury family members on their own built the first school in the area. Cemetery News property. Many family burial sites Henry Beasley, who died in 1793, still remain today. It is important is believed to have been among the to register these with the Ministry first burials. His wife Maria Noble of Consumer Services and with the and grandson, George, were bur- Marjorie Stuart, municipality. If there is no record ied there by 1812. Several of the Editor marjstuart@ Donations Needed for the of a cemetery burials can easily be Cooley children died in the 1790s. sympatico.ca OHS Cemetery Defence Fund! disturbed during construction. Preserved Cooley and his wife, A Master Plan is being developed Mary, died in 1816. Richard Hatt, The Steele Cemetery The resources of the OHS are constantly for Black Creek Pioneer Village who had married Mary (Polly) in Port Colborne has challenged as we try to defend threatened in Toronto at the same time as an Cooley, died in 1819. Richard Hatt been officially -re cemeteries across the province. We can’t do Environmental Assessment of is known as the founder of Dundas. named the Doan Cem- it alone. All donations receive a tax receipt. Steeles Avenue West from Keele He was a successful businessman etery. This cemetery Street to Jane Street in the City of and a member of the 7th Legisla- is the last resting place Vaughan. There are two cemeteries tive Assembly of Upper Canada. of Aaron Doan, a located within Black Creek Pio- He was also a Magistrate and Cap- United Empire Loyalist, and many names of those buried in the cem- neer Village. The Townline Cem- tain of the 5th Lincoln Militia in the of his descendants. The Niagara etery which was established c. etery or the Stong Family Burial War of 1812. Helen Butler Berrie Peninsula Branch of the Ontario 1830 and the second plaque will Ground was established c. 1845. and at least four of their children Genealogical Society and a team outline the history of the cemetery. The Daziel Pioneer Burial Ground, were buried in the Ancaster Burial of volunteers worked to have the A Trust Fund has been established. while still within the village, is Grounds. From Bloody Beginnings cemetery accurately named. It was Tax receipts may be issued with a located north of Steele’s Avenue by David Beasley has an account also designated as a heritage site minimum of $20 donation to the West and just west of Jane Street of the funeral for Tom Barry who and Loyalist burial ground. Kropf/Baden Cemetery Project in the City of Vaughan. This small died in 1799. Tom had established The township of Wilmot, in c/o The Township of Baden, 60 plot was established c. 1832. the business trade in York (now partnership with descendants and Snyder’s Road West, Baden, ON The Cooley-Hatt Cemetery hear- Toronto). His mourners lined the friends, has undertaken a project N3A 1A1. ings before the Ontario Municipal route from Burlington Heights to erect a memorial cairn in the Human remains were discovered Board start in Hamilton on Octo- as his coffin arrived for burial in Kropf/Baden Cemetery that will in Crystal Beach during natural gas ber 19, 2010. The Ancaster Burial the Ancaster Burial Grounds. An incorporate the existing pioneer line installation. These are believed Grounds, as the cemetery was first archaeological assessment deter- tombstones. Two granite plaques to be the remains of the Otway known, had been set aside by Pre- mined that there were at least 99 will be erected. One will list the Page family who settled in the area served Cooley, a United Empire burials in the cemetery.
more than one-third of the will copy and document each ‘Soo’ from page 1 directors of a public benefit petition before delivering the corporation may be officers originals to the Legislature. There or employees of the corpora- have been some enquiries as to tion or any of its affiliates. whether there is a deadline. We a place to call home. The band With respect to “officers”, have told everyone that we hope to accepted an invitation to become this is impractical and will have most petitions by the end of associated with the local militia cause unnecessary hardship February 2011. As of September regiment (49th Field Artillery) in for small non-profits who 21, 2010, citizens from 102 cities, 1952, being their band of record rely on volunteer Boards of towns and rural districts across and providing support for military Photo Rob Leverty Directors for their gover- Ontario have read and signed our parades. The official tartan for the nance. The Ontario Histori- petition. Your tremendous support band is the Gordon (Modern). Three generations of the Hall cal Society recommends that renews our confidence and inspires During the 1950s and ’60s the family visited the OHS’ display “officers” should be deleted us to stop the relocation of this pipe band was involved in many and book table on September 18, from Subsection 23 (4) of the historic cemetery. Thank you! competitions and regional tattoos. proposed legislation”. While competition has not been 2010, at MONO’S 2nd BIG DAY On Tuesday, August 31st, Remembering Barbara part of the band’s activities in recent OUT in downtown Mono Centre. the Standing Committee on Seargeant and Dorothy Milne years, the Soo Pipe Band continues Seen here with one month old Social Policy met for Clause- Many members of the heritage to promote their culture and music Josephine Jean, are proud parents by-Clause Consideration of community will be saddened to at various local venues including Mel and Jason with granny Carol. Bill 65. I attended the pro- learn of the passing of Barbara support for the Sault Ste. Marie Thank you to everyone for orga- ceedings and I am pleased to Seargeant of Port Hope on Septem- Museum’s annual Remembrance report that the Government ber 9 and Dorothy Heather Milne Concert, Remembrance Day Cer- nizing such a popular special event moved the following motion of Don Mills on September 16. emonies, community concerts and and inviting the OHS. We appreci- in Committee. “Subsection Barbara was a dedicated and parades. The band also travels to ated meeting so many new and 23 (4) of the Bill be struck tireless worker for many historical several communities celebrations old friends and our best wishes to out and the following sub- societies and museums in eastern in the Algoma District and towns all the individuals and families who stituted: (4) Not more than Ontario, and will also be remem- and villages throughout northern read and signed our Cooley-Hatt one-third of the directors bered as Past President of the Michigan. of a public benefit corpora- Ontario Museum Association In 1994 a former member Alfred Cemetery petition to the Legisla- tion may be employees of and Board Member of the OHS. I Abbott compiled a brief history tive Assembly of Ontario. OHS was the corporation or any of its remember Barbara who donated of band. As the band prepares for also very impressed with the excel- affiliates”. The motion was her time as an OHS workshop its 100th anniversary in 2015 it is lent display of historic photos by unanimously adopted and speaker on countless occasions making preparations for a variety the Town of Mono Heritage Com- therefore “officers” was - de and loyally attended our lectures of events to mark the occasion. As mittee and all the valuable work leted from Subsection 23 (4). and conferences. part of these preparations research I would like to sincere- Dorothy loved everything to do is being carried out in collaboration this volunteer committee does to ly thank Jim Brownell with history. North York was a with the Sault Ste. Marie Museum preserve and promote their local MPP (Stormont-Dundas- particular interest as she collabo- to produce a book on the band’s history. Well done! South Glengarry), Parliamen- rated, with Patricia Hart, to pub- history since 1915. Kim Forbes, tary Assistant to the Minister lish Pioneering in North York in curator for the museum, has been a ‘Executive Director’ from page 2 of Consumer Services and 1968. She kept in close touch with key member of the book commit- David Zimmer MPP (Willow- descendants of the North York tee in the difficult task of gathering not-for-profit corporations. The dale), Parliamentary Assistant to the pioneers and loved to tell their sto- information from years gone by. deadline for written submissions Attorney General for listening to ries. Dorothy helped to spearhead The current pipe-major for concerning Bill 65, An Act to revise the OHS’ concerns and supporting the preservation and restoration the band, Cliff Graham, started the law in respect of not-for-profit the Society’s submission on this of Gibson House Museum which playing pipes in 1967, has been corporations was August 25th. proposed legislation. opened in 1971. She belonged to associated with the band since After reviewing this legislation many historical and genealogical 1970 and is president of the band. and attending a legislative hear- Cooley-Hatt Cemetery Petition groups. Dorothy was a strong sup- Harry Thomas has been drum- ing, I wrote a submission which It seems that we now receive porter of the OHS’ efforts to pre- major with the band since 2006 and focused on our main concern that daily in the mail signed copies serve Ontario’s cemeteries and the is also the vice-president/secretary “based on the Society’s experi- of our Provincial Petition to the Society’s Cemetery Defence Fund. for the organization. ence in small communities across Legislative Assembly of Ontario Barbara and Dorothy were valued For more information about the Ontario, the Society is very con- urging protection of the Cooley- friends. We will miss them and Soo Pipe Band visit their website cerned about Part IV, Directors Hatt Cemetery (circa 1786) from send our warmest regards to their at www.soopipeband.com. and Officers, Subsection 23 (4)Not real estate development. The OHS families.
October 2010 OHS Bulletin Page 5 Exhibits, Events and Notices
NOVEMBER 8 DECEMBER 5 Puslinch Historical Society Grand Old Christmas Festival presents Martyn Pullin, who op- Experience traditional winter fun erates Sheffield Museum nearby, in a historical setting, explore an and who will show photos taken active Heritage Village where you by Sylvester Main 100 years ago. can visit with a blacksmith, inter- The photos document daily life in preters and Santa Claus himself. Photo pioneer times and are augmented Try your hand at candle dipping Rob Leverty by details from Mr. Main’s jour- and printing a souvenir bookmark. nals. Martyn’s book of these pho- Enjoy Christmas music, hot apple In August the OHS hosted a special event at the John McKenzie tos, Life in the Country will also cider and roasted chestnuts. Warm House. OHS volunteer David Peacock (left) is seen here with be available. 7:30 p.m., Township up with a cup of tea and Christmas David Crombie, former Mayor, City of Toronto (1972-1978) Offices, 7404 Rd. 34, Aberfoyle. pudding in Arabella’s Edwardian Tea Room. Visit Ornaments of following his address “The Civic Responsibilities of Politicians DECEMBER 4 Society, a winter and Christmas and Citizens”. Breakfast With Santa exhibit. Port Colborne Historical The Friends of the Elman W. & Marine Museum, 280 King St., ‘Lucy’ cont’d from page 4... Campbell Museum will host a Port Colborne 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. Send Us Your Submissions! continental breakfast with Santa 905.834.7604. Do you have an exhibit, at 8:30 a.m. and again at 9:30 event, or story that you most noted and beloved women of a.m. Admission to this event DECEMBER 9 to 11 would like to publicize in letters and novelists. At the same includes Breakfast, Photo Op- A Christmas Carol the OHS Bulletin? Send time, the Society is establishing an portunity with Santa and Museum The Humber River Shakespeare submissions to: important museum complex dedi- admission. Tickets are $10.00 per Company presents the Dickens cated to Lucy Maud Montgomery person and must be purchased in classic in the form of a full stage Editor, OHS Bulletin, and is developing complementary advance. For more information, production. 7:00 p.m. as well as [email protected] educational programming in the please call 905.953.5314. The Mu- a 2:00 p.m. matinee on the 11th. The OHS Bulletin reserves the literary arts with emphasis on out- seum is located at 134 Main St. S, Montgomery’s Inn, 4709 Dundas right to edit all submissions. reach to youth. Newmarket. St. West, Etobicoke. 416.394.8133. Good quality, high resolution A number of events will be images are always welcome. held in Uxbridge and Leaskdale in 2011 to mark the centenary of Montgomery’s arrival in Ontario, and in Leaskdale in particular. The crowning event will be a three- day celebration from October 13 to 15, featuring several keynote speakers, invited presentations Want More Event Info? concerning Montgomery and her The OHS now has an online writings, a ribbon cutting to un- events calendar at veil the restored Manse, tours of www.ontariohistoricalsociety.ca Maud’s local historic places, a theatre presentation, gala dinner Please bookmark the site and and much more. The Leaskdale check for heritage events in Manse National Historic Site, i.e. your area! If you are a mem- the principal museum, and the His- The OHS recently met with one of its affiliated societies, the ber of the Society, you may toric Leaskdale Church are open add your own heritage events to the public from late May until Ontario Heritage Fairs Association (OHFA) to plan for the to the calendar by logging-in joint “Beyond the Facts” workshop at the upcoming Ontario late September and can be visited to the site! Across the Province by appointment at other times. For History and Social Sciences Teachers’ Association (OHASSTA) (Page 3) also features events more information, please contact Conference on November 5th and 6th. The workshop will in your area! Kathy Wasylenky at 905.852.5284 run on November 6th between 12:00 and 1:00 p.m. Pictured or Nina Elliott at 905.852.7493. above (left to right) is Carol White, Executive Director, OHFA; The LMMSO incorporated Andrea Izzo, Coordinator of Communications, OHS; and through affiliation with the OHS in Jennifer Maddigan, Treasurer, OHFA. Photo Rob Leverty 2004.
‘Across the Province’ continued from page 3 Nobleton, Schomberg, Laskay and is dedicated to the veterans who 2011. Entries should be sent to: each won a prestigious award for Lloydtown. Funding for the film have served, and continue to serve The Corresponding Secretary, her display in competition at the was provided by the King Heritage Canada: 613.745.6335. Simcoe County Historical Asso- April 21st Aurora History Fair. Committee with narration by local November 8: Markham ciation, Box 144, Barrie, Ontario, The girls were students of teacher resident Andrew Marshall, former Historical Society will host a L4M 4S9. Elaine Robertson, former Chair of CBC radio host. The film had al- Pioneer Harvest Dinner at the Saturday, September 11th was a the King Township Heritage Com- ready captured third prize in the Transportation Building, Markham gala day at the Banting Homestead mittee and past President of York Multimedia Film Festival of York Museum. Tickets: 905.294.3342. in Alliston as many family mem- Pioneer and Historical Society. Region, adding extra jubilation to November 11: Manvers Town- bers, friends, neighbours, skilled After presentations to the winners the party. Congratulations! ship Historical Society will hon- craft workers, supporters and do- from the King Township Historical There are a host of interesting our our Canadian veterans on nors assembled on the lawn for Society and congratulations from progammes already underway and Remembrance Day at the Bethany the grand opening ceremony of the King’s Mayor Margaret Black, the planned for the coming months, Cenotaph: 705.277.2636. newly restored Octagonal Drive audience was electrified by Ms. including: November 13: “Kitchen Tool Shed. Congratulations to the Lions Robertson’s surprise announce- October 29, 30: “Desserts by Magic” hosted by The Tool Group and Rotary Clubs of Alliston, the ment that she had just returned from Lamplight” returns to Historic of Canada and the Culinary Histo- Town of New Tecumseth and the Los Angeles, California, bringing Bovaird House in Brampton, rians of Ontario at Victoria Square Banting Homestead Foundation home a Merit Award from the hosted by the Brampton Historical Community Centre from 8:30 a.m. for this first restoration on the site. Awareness Film and Arts Festival Society: 905.874.2804. to noon: 416.691.4877. Plans for the restoration of the for the historical documentary “An November 4: The Lundy’s November 20: A Fundraising Banting farm house, the construc- Exploration of a Township and Its Lane Historical Society presents Curling Bonspiel sponsored by tion of the new Heritage Room People,” which competed with over “The Battle of Stoney Creek” by the Friends of The OPP Museum near the house and the new Diabe- 90 films from around the world. James Elliott, author and historian, and the Coldwater Canadiana tes Outreach Centre are now in the The 35 minute film produced by at the Niagara Falls Public Library Heritage Museum at the Barnfield final stages. Mark Magro, starring Robertson’s at 7:30 p.m. Point Recreation Centre, Orillia: King Township history aficio- Kettleby AIM class illuminated November 6: Lanark County 705.326.5206 or 705.329.6889. nados gathered at the King Mu- the township villages’ vivid past as Genealogical Society will meet at December 5: Christmas seum for a joint celebration, May costumed Grades 6-8 students in- the Archives, Drummond Centre Sugarplum Tea will be hosted by 26th 2010, for three local students terpreted significant historic high- Hall at 1:30 p.m. with guest speaker Bonnechere Museum in Eganville: from Kettleby Public School who lights at King City, Ansnorveldt, Dr. Helen Douglas. This meeting 613.628.1000 for details.
Page 6 OHS Bulletin October 2010 of recognition, of admiration. Yet evolved to meet changing inter- success was not a given for a black ests and conditions. For example, From The Bookshelf child born in 1922 in a racially Henry writes, “the West Indian intolerant Toronto. His father was immigrants who settled in Toronto a railway porter and his mother a in the mid-1900s introduced the Chris and Pat Raible, Editors Elwood Jones. His book marks maid, both immigrants from the carnival feature to Independence [email protected] the cemetery’s 160th anniversary, Caribbean. Alexander credits his Day with the establishment of reviewing how the cemetery came mother, Mae Rose, for insisting Caribana in 1967.” There has been NATURAL HISTORY about and describing the many on the importance of education a recent revitalization in local cel- Ontario’s Old-Growth Forests: prominent and interesting people for any child, but most especially ebrations, due in part to interest in A Guidebook Complete with His- buried there. It was formed in for a black child. “She was the genealogy, Henry says, as well as a tory, Ecology, and Maps. Michael 1850 “as a joint-stock company one that indicated to me that being resurgence in the “freedom move- Henry and Peter Quinby. Fitz- without owners,” probably the first black you had to excel and reach ment.” In 2008, Ontario officially henry & Whiteside. 232 pages. privately incorporated cemetery for excellence at all times.” His recognized the first of August as Illustrations. $40.00 softbound. in Canada West. From the begin- parents separated when he was a Emancipation Day, appropriately To the early settlers, trees were ning, the trustees were committed teenager, and his mother took him coinciding with Civic Holiday a necessary commodity – for to the public good, with the intent to live with her in Harlem, New honouring John Graves Simcoe, building houses, for firewood, for that the cemetery should be self- York, where his further education who Henry notes was instrumental potash – or they were an infernal supporting. The natural beauty of included learning to use a switch- in setting the wheels in motion to nuisance, to be laboriously cleared its location has been augmented blade. He came back to Canada in end slavery in Upper Canada. away so that crops could be planted. by careful and continuing land- World War II and served in the air In 1838, Anna Jameson explained scaping. Excellent photographs force as a wireless operator. With REEXAMINED, REASSESSED “A Canadian settler hates a tree, of the landscape, monuments and veteran’s benefits he continued his Lord Selkirk: A Life. J. M. regards it as his natural enemy, as grave markers enhance the book education, at McMaster University Bumsted. University of something to be destroyed, eradi- and show that, like a public trust, and then Osgoode Hall law school. Manitoba Press. 517 pages. cated, annihilated by all and any this cemetery also is “a beautiful The second woman of influence, Illustrations. $39.95 hardbound. means.” Fortunately, our needs for thing”. his “rock” and the love of his life, At last! A sympathetic, critical, lumber seem more easily met and was Alexander’s beautiful, dig- detailed (dare we say definitive?) someone else grows our food. We GLENGARRY GREATNESS nified and ever-supportive wife, biography of a centrally important, can rejoice in these magnificent Dictionary of Glengarry Yvonne. This is an inspiring per- yet much misunderstood figure in ecological marvels, our old-growth Biography. Royce MacGillivray. sonal story – of one man’s extraor- early 19th century Canadian his- forests, and this is just the book to Glengarry Historical Society. 777 dinary achievements and influence tory, Thomas Douglas, Fifth Earl help us do so. It is a beautiful book pages. $95.00 hardbound. – but it is also a noteworthy slice of Selkirk. Best remembered for with its numerous colour photos Here is an extraordinarily of Canadian history. the tragic debacle of his Red River and maps that first invite browsing, comprehensive volume – 850,000 settlement in what became Mani- then more careful study. Chapters words describing 1,600 people toba, where competition between cover the many types of forest of historical significance – all the North West Company and the found in Ontario: Carolinian, associated in one way or another Hudson’s Bay Company brought Northern Hardwood, White and with Glengarry County, Ontario violence and murder. Many scenes Red Pine, Boreal and Ancient (and many of them familiar to all in Selkirk’s dramatic life took Cedars, explaining their history students of Canadian history). No place here in our province. He first and ecology, and listing selected library boasting an Ontario his- sponsored settling Scots in Prince old-growth sites. The authors point tory collection should be without Edward Island, but his next settle- out that many of these wonders it. Unlike volumes of the Diction- ment project was at Baldoon in Up- are just a day trip away and they ary of Canadian Biography, this per Canada. Important incidents in tell us how to get to them. Their book is all the work of one man, his infamous failures further west final chapter is “Conserving Old- University of Waterloo professor took place at Fort William (Thun- Growth Forests,” a fitting tribute Royce MacGillivray. Long appre- der Bay) and in the law courts of to our natural heritage. ciated by Canadian academics for York (Toronto) where he ran afoul his other published works – and of the Family Compact (as the elite for editing Ontario History in the later came to be called). Ultimate- 1980s – MacGillivray devoted FREE AT LAST! ly, Selkirk failed, was bankrupted, his retirement years to research- Emancipation Day: Celebrat- and died. Bumsted portrays him ing and writing this great volume. ing Freedom in Canada. Nata- a man so firm he was stubborn, His investment will pay dividends sha L. Henry. Dundurn Press. so optimistic he was impractical, to historical and genealogical re- 288 pages. Illustrations. $28.99 so idealistic he misjudged his en- searchers for many many years to softbound. emies. He was a loser, but he left come! In 2007 the OHS (among many a legacy that ultimately benefited others) celebrated the bicentennial our whole land. A MEMORABLE LIFE of the 1807 Abolition of the Atlan- “Go to School, You’re a Little tic Slave Trade. But it was another ‘Bookshelf’ cont’d page 8... BEAUTIFUL BURIAL GROUND Black Boy,” A Memoir. Lincoln twenty-seven years before an act Little Lake Cemetery: A Public M. Alexander with Herb Shovel- of the British Parliament freed all Trust is a Beautiful Thing. ler. Dundurn Press. 254 pages. slaves in its colonies, their eman- Please Note: More extensive Elwood H. Jones. Trent Valley Illustrations. $26.99 softbound. cipation to commence August 1, reviews of a number of books Archives for Little Lake Ceme- Originally published in hard- 1834. That first day of liberation relating to the history of our prov- tery Company. 64 pages. Illus- cover in 2006, this is the life story was truly a joyous occasion, and ince are published in each issue of trations. $10.00 softbound. (so far) of Lincoln MacCauley since that momentous date, cel- Ontario History, published by The Peterborough’s Little Lake Cem- Alexander – university graduate, ebrations have continued. Natasha Ontario Historical Society. etery is a drumlin on a point de- prominent lawyer, member of par- Henry’s careful study explores the The prices of books referred fined by Little Lake as it narrows liament, cabinet minister, lieuten- social, cultural, political and edu- to on this page may or may not to form the Otonabee River. Much ant governor of Ontario, chancellor cational aspects of Emancipation include GST or postage charges. All of the history of the Trent-Severn of the University of Guelph – cel- Day events over the years across prices are in Canadian dollars un- Waterway passed nearby, says ebrating a lifetime of achievement, Canada, showing how they have less otherwise noted.
+HOOLQ)ODQGHUV)LHOGV -DPHV)LW]MDPHV &ULPHDQG3XQLVKPHQW &DQDGLDQVDWWKH6HFRQG%DWWOH 7KH0\VWHU\0DQRIWKH)UDQNOLQ LQ8SSHU&DQDGD RI October 2010 OHS Bulletin Page 7 ‘Bookshelf’ from page 7 as Toronto or Kingston, Brown ence as a teacher, and expertise relates fascinating facts about old in sailing Lake Huron combine Directory buildings and historical artifacts. to weave a lively yarn. Esteemed REALITY RADIO Here is a compact but amazingly historian Barry Gough expertly of Publishers Peter Gzowski: A Biography. comprehensive guide to heritage presented the Nancy’s full fac- R. B. Fleming. Dundurn Press. sites you won’t see without getting tual history in Through Water, Borealis Book Publishers, 511 pages. Illustrations. $40.00 off the QEW and the 401. Ice & Fire: Schooner Nancy of 8 Mohawk Crescent, hardbound. the War of 1812 (reviewed by us Nepean, ON K2H 7G6 For nearly half a century as a Trillium and Toronto Island: three years ago). Readers look- www.borealispress.com journalist – especially in the 1980s The Centennial Edition. Mike ing for a rollicking re-telling of and ’90s as a radio journalist based Filey. Dundurn Press. 115 pages. the tale will also enjoy Burgess’s Coteau Books, in Toronto – Peter Gzowski cov- Illustrations. $24.99 softbound. version. distributed by ered Canada. His interviews and For thirty-five years, Toronto Fitzhenry and Whiteside essays transcribed our country’s Sunday Sun columnist and broad- IMPORTANT IMPOSTER current history. The great-great caster Mike Filey has offered deli- Honoré Jaxon: Prairie Vision- The Dundurn Group, grandson of Sir Casimir Gzowski cious details of Toronto’s diverse ary. Donald B. Smith. Coteau 3 Church St., Suite. 500, of 19th century fame and fortune, history. This is a new and expand- Books. 294 pages. Illustrations. Toronto, ON M5E 1MZ Peter was more humbly born in ed version of one of his more than $24.95 softbound. www.dundurn.com Galt (now part of Cambridge) On- twenty books. Its focus is the Tril- Here is incredible tale – but told tario. In his public career he rose to lium, the ferry that served Toronto by an academic with impeccable Fitzhenry & Whiteside, become one of the most loved and Island from 1910 to 1976, and after reputation, it must be believed. 195 Allstate Parkway, admired of his countrymen. His its resurrection again from 1973 to Born in 1861, William Henry Markham, ON L3R 4T8 private life, however, as revealed the present. Splendid photographs Jackson abandoned his southern in this thoroughly researched and old and new record a century of Ontario Methodist British Georgian Bay artfully presented biography, was service and, no doubt, will arouse immigrant upbringing, went west Historical Foundation, often depressed and at odds with in many readers fond memories. to organize discontented farmers 8 Queen St. E., his public persona. Author and his- in Saskatchewan, became Louis Elmvale, ON L0L 1P0. torian R. B. (Rae) Fleming lifts the Riel’s secretary, and adopted a mask off the man we thought we totally fictitious Metis identity: Glengarry Historical Society, knew. He sympathetically relates Honoré Joseph Jaxon. Arrested Box 416, basic facts, repeats amusing anec- and declared insane, he escaped Alexandria, ON K0C 1A0 dotes and records Gzowsky’s im- from an asylum and fled to glengarryhistoricalsociety.com pressive achievements. But Flem- Chicago where in time he ing also describes the darker – less became a prominent labour leader Trent Valley Archives, admirable but perhaps more human and spokesman for native Ameri- 567 Carnegie Ave., – aspects of the man whose 1997 can culture. He later shifted to Peterborough, ON K9L 1N1 radio retirement was bemoaned by New York, failed as a real estate www.trentvalleyarchives.com listeners as the loss of “the glue developer but achieved notice as holding Canada together.” a colourful champion of the dis- University of Manitoba Press, possessed. He died in 1952, his 423 University Crescent, THE WAY IT WAS extensive library lost in the city Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2 From Queenston to Kingston: landfill. According to Univer- www.umanitoba.ca/uofmpress The Hidden Heritage of Lake WAR ON THE WATER sity of Calgary Professor Donald Ontario’s Shoreline. Ron Brown. The Lake Captain, 1812. Ron B. Smith, Jaxon is especially Natural Heritage – Dundurn Burgess. Borealis Press. 313 important to our Canadian Press. 284 pages. Illustrations. pages. Maps. $19.96 softbound. understanding of Riel. And, as $26.99 softbound. The schooner Nancy played a Smith notes introducing the tale Writer (and adventurous inves- vital role in the Upper Great Lakes “occasionally those on the fringe tigator) Ron Brown’s guides to during the War of 1812. This is a see things more clearly than those neglected or forgotten places of highly fictionalized account of the in the mainstream.” social and historical interest are ap- ship and her captain, Alex Macin- preciated by all of us who seek out tosh. The Americans are all aggres- HISTORY NOTED spots in our province with remind- sive, the Indians are all admirable, Since our last issue of From the ers of its past. This volume, with the British officers are mostly Bookshelf, we received notice of its informative descriptions and arrogant, but the captain and his this publication of interest: attractive archival photographs, crew are crafty, colourful and cou- Axe Making in Ontario. tours the north shore of Lake On- rageous. Author Ron Burgess’s Gary E. French. Georgian Bay tario. Even in cities as familiar excitement with history, experi- Historical Foundation. $45.00 A comprehensive history of the trade, a discussion of ISSN 0714-6736 the development of North American axe forms, and an journal, Ontario History, is available to individu- overview of trade practices. It contains an alphabetical The OHS Bulletin is the newsletter of als for $22.00 per year, member organizations list, with biographies, of more than 350 axe makers (in- The Ontario Historical Society (OHS), and institutions and non-member individuals for cluding Samuel Lount) and axe making firms and illus- 34 Parkview Avenue, Willowdale, ON $32.00 and to non-member organizations and trates types of axes, related tools and their identification M2N 3Y2, 416.226.9011, Fax 416.226.2740. institutions for $43.00. Inquiries about member- markings. ship should be directed to: Christina Perfetto at Five issues will be published in 2010: [email protected]. March, April, Summer, October and December. December issue copy deadline: Inquiries about submissions and advertising Beautiful Country Retreat For Rent November 1, 2010. should be directed to: Editor, OHS Bulletin, 34 Parkview Avenue, Willowdale, ON M2N 3Y2, Historic 60-acre Catharine Parr Traill property Reprinting of articles must be accompanied 416.226.9011, [email protected]. by the acknowledgement: Reprinted from Scenic Northumberland Hills the OHS Bulletin, (issue & date) published Editor: Andrea Izzo; Cemetery News Editor: Birds, botany, trails by The Ontario Historical Society. All photo Marjorie Stuart; From the Bookshelf Editors: credits and bylines must be retained. Chris & Pat Raible; Printer: Harmony Printing 2 BR + study, FP, 7 appliances, high speed Internet $1800. Lease Views expressed by contributors and adver- The Ontario Historical Society 905.342.1107 tisers are not necessarily those of the OHS. 2010-11 Board of Directors: The OHS gratefully acknowledges the http://traill.ca/guesthouse.html support of the Ministry of Tourism and Culture. Robert Leech, President; Brad Rudachyk, First Vice-President; Types of membership in the Society are: Jim Leonard, Second Vice-President; Individual/Institution/Organization $35.00; Senior/Student $30.00; Family $45.00; Ken Turner, Past President; Affiliated Societies $50.00, Naresh Khosla, Treasurer; Life/Benefactor $1000.00. Linda Kelly, Recording Secretary; Pam Cain, Chair, Museums Membership is open to all Committee; Caroline Di Cocco; Serge individuals and societies Ducharme; Sharon Jaeger; Carolyn interested in the history of King; Jesse Kugler; Joe Stafford. Ontario. The OHS Bulletin Ontario History Editor: Tory Tronrud is sent free of charge to all Executive Director: Rob Leverty members of the OHS. The OHS’s biannual scholarly www.ontariohistoricalsociety.ca Page 8 OHS Bulletin October 2010