Date & Time: Wednesday, March 18, 2026 – 7:00 p.m. Location:To Be Determined Guest Speaker: Mark French Hosted by: Glencoe & District Historical Society
On March 9, 1819, representatives of the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation and the British Crown signed what became known as Treaty 21—the first of three written versions of the agreement now commonly called the Longwoods Treaty. This treaty set in motion a process that still shapes southwestern Ontario today.
The Longwoods Treaty covered land north of the Thames River, stretching from Strathroy and Komoka in the east to Oil Springs in the west, Bothwell in the south, and Watford in the north. While the second version (1820) repeated the same boundaries, the third version (1822) listed the land as 580,000 acres—a “rounding up” that continues to raise questions about accuracy and fairness.
Unlike earlier treaties, such as one that exchanged two million acres south of the Thames for a one-time payment of goods worth less than $5,000, Treaty 21 introduced the concept of an annuity. For the Longwoods Treaty, the Crown promised $2,400 annually, in perpetuity. While the payment is still made today, it goes into Canada’s consolidated revenue fund rather than directly to the First Nation.
Historical records also show that Indigenous leaders came to negotiations with their own vision for the future, including land for additional reserves, a blacksmith, and support for animal husbandry. Yet none of these provisions were written into the treaty.
Language and worldview also played a role in shaping outcomes. The treaty text, rooted in British legal nomenclature, could not be translated directly into Anishinaabemowin. The very concept of drawing lines on the ground to buy and sell land was foreign to the First Nations worldview, which saw the people as stewards of the land rather than owners.
As Mark French will explain, Treaty 21 is more than a historical document—it is a window into the complex relationships, misunderstandings, and negotiations between Indigenous peoples and the Crown. It also raises questions about what was truly agreed to, and how responsibilities to the land continue to this day.
In the spring of 1890, William Regcraft found some bones while digging a ditch on his uncle’s farm, one mile from Highgate, Ontario. A hardware merchant named William Hillhouse bought the bones, and he and his uncle, John Jelly, also bought the right to continue excavating. What they found was almost an entire skeleton of an Ice-Age mastodon, relative of the modern elephant.
Known locally as the “Mush Hole,” the Mohawk Institute in Brantford, Ont. was Canada’s oldest and longest-running residential school. But on September 30, 2025, it officially became an interpretive historic site. On that solemn day, what was once a place of suffering, erasure and intergenerational trauma was reborn as a museum, teaching site—and a space for truth-telling, remembrance and hope.
The transformation was decades in the making, built on persistent activism, deep community engagement, archival research, restoration efforts and, above all, the resolve of survivors and Indigenous leadership that this history not be buried.
Behind the Bricks: A New Chapter
At the London Museum on September 25, Mary Simpson attended the launch of Behind the Bricks: The Life and Times of the Mohawk Institute. Edited by Richard W. “Rick” Hill Sr., Alison Norman, Thomas Peace and Jennifer Pettit, Behind the Bricks draws together Indigenous and settler historians, community voices, archival researchers, archaeologists and survivors to reconstruct the layered history behind the walls of the institute. Another launch event was held by the Ontario Historical Society a couple nights later.
The book begins by tracing the school’s founding and historical context, before delving into the its architecture and physical spaces, the curriculum and daily regimes imposed on children, religious and governmental oversight, student resistance, and the long process of commemoration and preservation. To close, Behind the Bricks allows survivor voices to speak directly, offering their unique perspectives of lived experience.
The editors have emphasized that the Mohawk Institute was not an isolated institution—it was in many ways a model or prototype for national residential school policy. The takeaway: What can this case teach us about the wider system of Indigenous schooling and control in Canada? How did notions of “civilization,” assimilation and authority operate in this place? How do we reckon with the spaces—the bricks, corridors and dormitories—that bore witness to so much pain? Behind the Bricks does not offer easy answers, but rather invites readers into the difficult task of listening, digging and reflecting.
Allen Deleary of Bkejwanong (Walpole Island First Nation) speaking recently at a special Indigenous Lifeways Workshop locally. Allen shared teachings and insights from Anishinaabe traditions, exploring how Indigenous lifeways continue to guide relationships with the land, water, and one another. The evening included a community discussion, offering space for reflection, dialogue, and shared understanding:
Allen Deleary of Bkejwanong
And then there are the Elders:
Simon Winchester:
They keep a steady hand upon the tiller. That, in essence, seems to be the greatest and most enduring strength of aboriginal peoples around the world. The frantic pace of modern life, the endless bursts of technological advance, the alarums and excursions, and our various political and military adventures all come and go, but all the while and in the background, keeping their wary and watchful eyes upon us, are the wise ones…
When Ron McRae first began researching how to build a cedar strip canoe, it was during the COVID outbreak and at the urging of his son, Steven. Ron had recently retired and he and his wife, Linda had purchased two plastic kayaks. They enjoyed getting out on the water, but Ron found the seating position painful on his lower back. So he began researching canoes.
“I found Bear Mountain Boats in Peterborough,“ Ron recalls. “They sell cedar-strip canoe kits and have all these resources for amateur builders. I contacted them, hoping to register for a workshop with Ted Moores, the founder of the company and the man who wrote Canoecraft, the definitive how-to book for canoe builders. But his wife told me Ted was now in his seventies and had given up his in-person courses. She then said something that stuck with me: ‘Why don’t you buy the book, read it, and call me back if you still think you can do it?’”
So he did.
And he could.
And he did.
Ron ordered his first kit, which came with all the essential parts: carefully milled cedar strips in a range of colours from dark brown to nearly white, ash gunnels, deck pieces and seats and hardware. The key to a sound, straight tracking hull is the molds which shape it. Ron decided to purchase laser cut molds which were perfect, rather than risk cutting them by hand with a jigsaw. He chose a design that balanced form and function= something stable, not too long and suitable for beginners.
“I picked the Freedom 15 design,” he says. “It’s easy to paddle, good for two people or as a solo. I thought it would be a relatively easy build and perfect for novice paddlers like Linda and me.”
“I built that first canoe in about six months and really enjoyed the process. Linda and I have been exploring Southern Ontario paddling opportunities in it for the past three years and we seldom go out on the water without a comment on the beauty of our cedar strip canoe.”
As the agent of his excellency the Right Honourable Lord Howden, Her Majesty’s Ambassador at Madrid, I hereby certify that Mr. James Alexander has been employed as a farm manager on his Lordship’s Grimston Estate for six years.
By his own desire, he will leave this country to try his fortune in America. I have great pleasure in testifying that his conduct has always been most trustworthy, steady and exemplary in the extensive farm works carried on here.
Also, from his good education and experience in farming, I consider him well qualified to conduct and manage any agricultural operation in all its branches.
—M. Harington, Grimston Park, Tadcaster, Yorkshire.
Penned in 1853, this letter of reference launched the Alexander family legacy in Canada—and a long line of dedicated Ontario farmers. More than 170 years later, the Alexanders’ original crown settlement south of Melbourne, Ont. is still a working cattle farm, now into its sixth generation of the family.
These deep agricultural roots sprouted in rural Forfarshire, Scotland, before blossoming on a Yorkshire estate owned by a British lord and later blooming across the ocean in Southwest Middlesex. The Alexander story is a true migrant tale, showcasing the upheaval, ambition, dedication and success of newcomers to Canada.
Middlesex County Approves Feasibility Study for County Archives
In a landmark and unanimous decision, Middlesex County Council has voted to move ahead with a Middlesex County Archives Feasibility Study, marking the most significant progress to date toward establishing a permanent county-wide archives.
In November 2025, the motion—brought forward by Mayor McMillan and seconded by Mayor DeViet—sparked thoughtful questions around the council table, with councillors expressing both strong support and prudent concern for the project’s long-term sustainability. Following discussion, the vote passed unanimously, prompting applause from the gallery filled with advocates, historians, and community supporters.
For the Committee to Establish a Middlesex County Archives (CEMCA), this moment represents a breakthrough many years in the making. The idea of a county archives has circulated for decades. CEMCA has spent the past several years building awareness, engaging municipalities, and championing the need for proper stewardship of Middlesex County’s more than 225 years of documentary heritage.
While the vote does not commit the County to building an archives at this stage, it does confirm the County’s intention to undertake a comprehensive, professionally guided study. This study will assess needs, gaps, costs, and opportunities—ensuring that decisions about preserving local history are grounded in strong evidence and reflect today’s economic realities.
CEMCA emphasizes that all heritage, cultural, and community organizations throughout Middlesex County will be encouraged to participate in the study process if invited. Broad input will be essential to reflect the diversity of local collections, stories, and archival needs.
This important step could not have happened without the many residents, volunteers, historians, journalists, and local groups who wrote letters, attended meetings, raised awareness, and kept the conversation alive.
CEMCA extends heartfelt thanks to all supporters and media partners. The work continues—but the door is now open.
Mary Simpson, President, 2024-2026, Glencoe & District Historical Society
Tracing a Journey of Faith: Author Maria Moore shares the migration history of Old Colony Mennonites and her own family’s story during a presentation hosted by the Glencoe Historical Society.
The Old Colony Mennonite story stretches across continents and centuries—a journey shaped by faith, identity, and the ongoing search for a place where religious convictions can be lived without interference. This history, and its enduring impact, was the focus of a recent presentation by author Maria Moore at the Glencoe Presbyterian Church, hosted by the Glencoe & District Historical Society.
A Remarkable Revival of Scots Gaelic Heritage at Tait’s Corners
Written by Trevor Aitkens | Directed by Antje Giles Performed November 15–16, 2025
The Glencoe & District Historical Society was honoured to sponsor and support June Journey / Turas an Ògmhìos, a beautifully crafted Gaelic play written by Trevor Aitkens and hosted at the historic Tait’s Corners Schoolhouse. Over three sold-out performances on November 15–16, 2025, audiences filled the lovingly restored 1910 one-room school to experience a deeply moving, often humorous, always heartfelt return to the early school days of our region.
A Cast of 18 Bringing 1910 Back to Life
The production featured a remarkable cast of 18 local actors, intergenerational in age and representing families from across Southwest Middlesex and Strathroy-Caradoc. Their portrayals of teachers, students, elders, and neighbours transported audiences directly into a 1910 classroom at the very moment when Scots Gaelic—the language of their parents and grandparents—was slipping out of daily use.
The cast brought warmth, laughter, tenderness, and occasional heartbreak to the stage. Audience members noted that the play felt “like watching our great-grandparents speak again.”
The cast takes a bow. the students earned a certificate for their commitment to learning Gaelic and their lines.
The Glencoe area was settled predominately by Scottish immigrants many of whom spoke Gaelic.
Duncan Mitchell (1838-unknown) from Metcalfe Township lived on the South 1/2 of Lot 18, Conc 13. He had this book of 41 Gaelic poems published localy in Rodney, Ontario in 1887. This book was generously donated to the Historical Society from the McAlpine family in 1986, and several poems were translated by Donald Campbell in 1999.
D. Campbell included notes with the translation explaining that most Gaelic speakers did not learn to read and write from formal education, and that to a modern reader his spelling is very poor. He surmises that Duncan was likely quite a fluent speaker who wrote in Gaelic using what he had learned from personal study and practice. Campbell also states that he clearly used a regional dialect of Gaelic and that he was writing according to his accent, which was common.
Druchd Na Beinne (Original Gaelic Text) Druchd na beinne, druchd na beinne, Druchd na beinne, o anail Chriosd, Druchd na beinnes’s Dia bhi lienne ‘N am na gainne’s gus a chtioch.
Druchd na beinne, gu ar comhdach, Air an lon anar bhios sin sgith; druchd na beinne bheiradh beos dhuinn Air an rod san tsaoghal shios.
Druchd na beinne ann’s an fhasach, Gu ar sasachadh gu sior: Leis an dochas chaoidh nach basaich; Ach gu brath a mhareas fior.
Druchd na beinne ‘n am an earraich, Gu ar tarruinn dhionnsuidh Chriosd Druchd na beinne tha toirt barrachd: Bheir nach fannaich sin gu sior.
Druchd na beinne tha cho beodhach, Air na rosaibh sruthadh sios; ‘S leam bu tatneach e bhi dortadh; Air gach neonnan buidhe blion.
Druchd na beinne ‘n am an t’samhraidh, ‘S e a b’ansuidh lainn gu fior; Gu ar cumail dlu r’ar n’annsachd: ‘S tiormachd samhraidh orn’ a crion.
Druchd na beinne ‘n am an fhaoghair, Gu ar cumail dlu ri Criosd; Gu ar neartacha ‘S g’ar cobhair: Ann’s gach obair gus a chrioch.
Druchd na beinne’n am a gheamhraidh, ‘N nar bhios teanndtachd air tir; Druchd na beinne chum na cranndachd: Chuir a dh’ anntaobh chaoidh gu sior.
Druchd na beinne ann’s an t’siorruitrheachd, ‘S mi nach iarradh uaith gu fior; Ach bhi’m shuidhe’n sgail na diadhachd: ‘N glachdadh Chriosd gu suthinn sior.
The Dew of the Mountain (English Translation) The dew of the mount, the dew of the mount, The dew of the mount from the breath of Christ, The dew of the mount God being with us In the time of famine, to the end.
The dew of the mount, to cover us, on the morass when we are tired; dew of the mount that would enliven us on the road in the earth below.
Dew of the mount in the wilderness, To give us satisfaction never ending: with the hope that will never die; But forever will last true.
Dew of the mount in the spring time, Drawing us toward Christ Dew of the mountain that surpasses: Enabling that we shall not faint ever.
Dew of the mount that is so enlivening, On the roses dripping down; With me would be desirable to be pouring; On each small wilted yellow flower.
Dew of the mount during summer time, It would be preferable to us; to keep us close to our attachment: while drought of summer withers us.
Dew of the mount in time of autumn, To keep us close to Christ; Strengthening us, relieving us: in every toil to the end.
Dew of the mount in time of winter, When the land is paralyzed; Dew of the mount to put anger: To one side always and forever.
Dew of the mount in eternity truly, I would not desire to be without; But that I’d be sitting in the shadow of God: in the everlasting embrace of Christ.
There is never a doubt that a soldier marching obediently into a volley of musket fire is a hero. An army surgeon, his white apron stained with blood, working countless hours in the heat to save whomever he can, is also a hero. What of Generals, Lieutenants, and Captains who give orders, strategize, and feel the weight of entire armies on their shoulders as they command men to give everything to a cause? Surely, they are heroes as well. Historically, it seems easy to list the heroes of war, but it is rare that ordinary women and children are included on these lists. Today, I invite you to consider those left behind. They are not left behind by choice or lack of courage. Not because they didn’t feel the pull of the cause as deeply and passionately as their male counterparts. They were left behind, in the shadows, to do what women have always done: endure the hardships and try and prosper, all while maintaining their family’s wellbeing.
“Soldiers on a March.” The Army Children Archive (TACA), 14 Jan. 1884, www.archhistory.co.uk/taca/move.html. Accessed 14 Aug. 2025.
Contributions by Brian Huis and Gregory Childs. Edited by Mary Simpson.
On Sunday, July 27, 2025, the Simpson Cemetery in Southwest Middlesex came alive with memory, history, and community spirit. Over 50 descendants, neighbours, and friends gathered under the shade of the massive White Oak “heritage tree” for the annual cemetery memorial hosted by the Glencoe & District Historical Society (GDHS). This year a group of Simpson descendants, Micheline Champagne-Johnston, Wanda Simpson, Wendy Bestward, Jan Simpson, Dennis Simpson, Mary Simpson, and Brian Huis, joined in to give the event an interesting twist.
Cemeteries, particularly in rural Ontario, have long been places of both remembrance and reflection. Their park-like settings provide green space, cultural continuity, and a sense of belonging. This year’s memorial carried on the tradition of visiting and honouring one local cemetery each year.
Cemeteries are not only about the past; they are living classrooms and gathering spaces that remind us of who we are and the legacies we carry forward. – Brian Huis
Honouring Nicholas Bodine, War of 1812 Veteran
The central feature of the 2025 memorial was the recognition of Private Nicholas Bodine (1788–1885), a War of 1812 veteran buried in Simpson Cemetery. Bodine served in the 2nd Company, 1st Regiment of the Norfolk Militia and fought at the Battle of Lundy’s Lane on July 25, 1814—one of the war’s bloodiest encounters.
Nicholas’ service with the Norfolk Militia is perpetuated by the current Reserve Army Regiment, The 56th Field Artillery Regiment of the Royal Canadian Regiment of Artillery (56 FD), headquartered in Brantford. The Government of Canada awarded several War 1812-15 battle honours: ‘Detroit’, ‘Niagara’, ‘Queenston Heights’, ‘Defence of Canada 1812-15’, some of which, if not all were likely fought by Nicholas. The Norfolk Militia was also involved with the skirmish at the McCrae House near Chatham.
Born in Pennsylvania, Bodine came to Upper Canada in 1811, married Charlotte Sovereign, and farmed 50 acres in Mosa Township. His long life of 97 years was remembered in the Glencoe Transcript obituary of 1885, which praised his loyalty, faith, and wide respect in the community.
Glenn Stott and son, Brad Stott, stand attention to honour Nicholas Bodine, September 27, 2025Read more →
I am at a bit of a disadvantage writing about a man I never met. Those who remember him will each have their personal remembrances, that I know nothing about, but wish I did.
I have a hard time using the term “Grandfather” to describe this man. The name “Bill” comes easier and I will use it as I relate information about him. To a lot of people, Bill Edwards was “Stubbles from the Farm” in the person of “Claud Hopper” the central character in this farm based series.
The UTMRS— the Royal Scots —are more than skilled re-enactors; they are devoted stewards of local memory and dedicated community builders. Under the leadership of committed champions like Glenn Stott, they have brought the history of the Battle of the Longwoods to life for countless residents and visitors alike.
The Longwoods Memorial Service, held each March, is a vivid example of their impact. For decades, the story of the March 4th, 1814 skirmish was largely forgotten. In the 1980s, when my mother, Betty Simpson, noticed a solitary wreath placed at the federal monument near our family home, she discovered it was the Royal Scots who had revived this commemoration. Their dedication inspired local neighbours and organizations—including our Historical Society—to get involved and ensure the memory of those who fought and fell is never lost again.
The Royal Scots’ efforts extend beyond a single memorial service. They have taken on the ambitious Longwoods Heritage Weekend, an undertaking that draws families, students, and history enthusiasts from far and wide. Through authentic re-enactments, educational demonstrations, and engaging storytelling, they make our shared past accessible and meaningful for new generations.
Moreover, the UTMRS’s leadership and volunteer spirit have rippled outward. Champions like Glenn Stott were early supporters of the Canada Barn Quilt Trails project—encouraging community heritage work far beyond the battlefield. Their members give countless hours in costume and behind the scenes, sharing history with honesty, passion, and respect for the land and peoples connected to these stories.
Their work has even inspired film. The 2017 documentary by Barbara Urbach and Crocodile Productions is a testament to how the UTMRS bring history alive in both intimate, human ways and grand, dramatic moments on our historic landscapes.
In every sense, the Upper Thames Military Re-enactment Society are true keepers of our community memory. Their dedication ensures that stories like Lieutenant Patrick Graeme’s sacrifice—and the broader heritage of the War of 1812 in our region—continue to inspire reflection and understanding.
For these reasons, the Glencoe & District Historical Society wholeheartedly endorses the Upper Thames Military Re-enactment Society for the Governor General’s History Award. They richly deserve this recognition for their outstanding contribution to community history and heritage education.
There is so much more we could add. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us to learn more about their wonderful community work. It’s so much fun to work with them – they never say ‘no’ when we ask for a re-enactor to attend an event – no matter how small or modest the event is.
Normally, if you want to see the pioneer buildings constructed by our ancestors, you have to visit a museum like Fanshawe Pioneer Village. That’s because most of our early buildings were torn down and replaced with larger, grander ones as soon as it was practical to do so. If not demolished, the earliest buildings were usually modernized to include electricity, plumbing, openable windows, and insulation. Nobody likes privations.
That’s why it’s fascinating to enter one of those rare pioneer structures that’s almost completely unchanged. I’m talking about St. Mary’s, Napier...
It was in the year 1839 that John Strachan became the first Bishop of Toronto. When he received this appointment, his diocese covered the land area now known as Southern Ontario.
The Rev John Gunne was licensed ‘To perform the office of Travelling Missionary’ by the Bishop, for the Townships of Zone, Euphemia, Brooke, Ekfrid and Mosa on June 30, 1845. On one Sunday of each month he would ride his horse from Zone Mills (Florence) which was his headquarters, to hold services in Wardsville, likely in private homes until a church building was erected.
The first official parish to be formed was Wardsville, Glencoe and Newbury, also in 1845. About the same time, land was given to the Church of England, for the purposes of a church building, by Dr. Abraham Francis. (This land, 102 acres, was on the south Part of Lot 20, Range one North of the Longwoods Road.) A parsonage was subsequently built on this property but the year is not known.
Lots 18 and 19, south of Church Street, were obtained by the Church Society of the Diocese of Toronto by a Bargain and Sale agreement with William Hatelie, et al, on August 22, 1849. This was a year or two after a wooden framed church building had already been constructed on the lot. This is known from a letter penned by Bishop Strachan on May 8, 1848, to Hatelie and the Churchwardens of the Church of Wardsville. He wrote, gentlemen: I have the honour to acknowledge your Memorial of the 2nd instant, in which you state that you have erected a church at Wardsville, Township of Mosa at considerable expense, but that since the erection of said building, you have only had divine service in it every third Sunday. This building served a congregation of approx. 150 members until the very early 1870s when it fell into disrepair.
Published in the April 2025 issue of the Middlesex Banner.
Orval Shaw, a name that once echoed through over 40 cities, towns and countryside of Ontario, was more than just a petty criminal. He was a symbol of defiance, a master of evasion, and a figure who captured the public’s imagination. I have drawn his story from historical accounts and newspaper reports, revealing the life of the man known as the “Skunk’s Misery Bandit.”
I first found out about Orval while researching other local history topics in the area of Hespeler, Ontario where I lived. During my research Orval’s name turned up several times as he was in Guelph, Hespeler, Idylwild and Puslinch during his escapades.
I was amazed that nobody had researched his life previously. One of the main challenges was finding out more about Orval’s private life and the lack of photos of him. I was lucky to find a distant relative of Orval’s’ who supported my work.
Eventually I decided to do comprehensive research of Orval, and I am very pleased with the book that came out of that research.
Prepared by the Executive members for the members of G&DHS. For the AGM April 16, 2025.
Preserving Our Family Histories for Future Generations
Our ancestors—whether Indigenous, settler descendants, newer generations, or recent Canadians—have all contributed to the rich history of our communities. Each of us carries important stories that deserve to be told. Historians seek the truth, striving to understand what really happened and how people have worked together over time. We share a common past, woven together through generations. Consider this: each of us has two grandmothers, four great-grandmothers, eight great-great-grandmothers, and so on—each with their own unique stories waiting to be remembered.
Every family needs both storytellers and story keepers. The Glencoe & District Historical Society encourages families to record their histories—write down stories, label the backs of photographs, and document the details that future generations will cherish.
Some families are fortunate to collaborate with authors like CJ Frederick, who transform family histories into engaging historical novels. Others use platforms like Remento or StoryWorth to compile family memories into beautifully bound books that can be passed down for generations. Online genealogy tools such as Ancestry.ca have also made it easier than ever to trace our roots.
Many families bring their archives and precious artifacts to the Historical Society for safekeeping. In today’s digital world, we recognize what a treasure trove these collections are. While digitization allows for easy sharing, it does not guarantee long-term preservation. Whether in digital or physical form, historical records are always at risk. By working together to protect and document our shared past, we ensure that future generations will have access to the rich stories that shape our community.
These are our aims for 2024/2026:
Connect with membership and build close, working relationships with all our local groups, our regional heritage groups, and the elected reps and staff people of Southwest Middlesex and County of Middlesex.
Ramp up our outreach and channels. Mobilize an IT circle to support improved communication and decision-making.
Digitize and record our stories, curate, preserve, upload, and share. Figure out better platforms for working together. Facebook groups don’t cut it.
Learn the tools offered by dynamic governance, and the flourishing business canvas
Bring our elders and youth together. Tell all the stories. 10,000 years of local history. Place making.
Build a cultural network to link history with tourism. Nurture and support the arts in heritage and cultural communities.
Lead the interactive Barn Quilt Trail project, which features an alliance of four organizations plus FedDev Government of Canada, the funder. Link our cultural assets to local tourism strategies and investments. Work with Middlesex county tourism.
Advocate for county archives. Interpret history along the Thames river Watershed arts corridor
Invite skilled local people and support their history passions. Build teams around peoples’ interest. Assign domains. Delegate authority.
Update and revise our bylaws. Build a closer working relationship with the Ontario Historical Society.
Build out our organizational structure. We have a great foundation in our bylaws featuring managers. Build a circular hierarchy to support workers, facilitators, leaders, and admin support.
Engage the branding dream team to do an agile branding process for G&DHS, the interactive Barn Quilt Trail, and our various groups and projects that need a brand
Figure out how to tell our amazing stories, make sure they are preserved and interpret the amazing history of Ontario Southwest, that we want to share with family, friends, community, travelers, guests, youth, new, Canadians, refugees, children, all of the people that make up our Rural society people.
Working towards a County Archives
G&DHS is a member of the Committee to Establish a Middlesex County Archives and we continue to educate and lobby County representatives of the importance of doing their part to preserve our social and cultural history. Middlesex County has no official mechanism for the preservation, storage and archiving of historical documents and artifacts, both public and private.
As the older generation transfers family histories, photos, and records to the next generation, much ends up in dumpsters. Middlesex County is one of a few counties in southern Ontario that does not have a County Archive. This means that the responsibility falls to volunteers and we need help.
Ken Willis and The Wardsville Museum
Link to Ken Willis’ remarks in early December, 2025. Link to Denise Corneil’s remarks to Southwest Middlesex Council April 9, 2025.
For over two decades, Ken Willis, Wardsville’s Official Historian, has dedicated himself to preserving Wardsville’s history, curating a collection donated by residents that tells the story of Wardsville and its people. The Wardsville Museum houses this collection of artifacts and stories that showcase Wardsville and Mosa’s rich history.
On March 13th, the Glencoe and District Historical Society (GDHS) formally accepted the role of custodian for the Ken Willis Collection, which is housed at the Wardsville Museum, located at 1787 Longwoods Rd, Wardsville, ON N0L 2N0.
History of Wardsville Musuem
The Wardsville Museum holds deep historical and cultural value, but it currently faces significant infrastructure challenges:
No running water or bathroom facilities, limiting its functionality and accessibility for visitors.
Lack of wheelchair accessibility, making it difficult for all community members to enjoy.
We worry that these limitations leave the museum vulnerable to being considered “less viable for public use”—a concern given Southwest Middlesex’s past decisions regarding historic buildings.
Following municipal amalgamation in 2000, which merged Glencoe, Appin, Melbourne, Wardsville, Mosa, and Ekfrid Townships into the newly formed Municipality of Southwest Middlesex (SWM), municipal officials began assessing buildings that were outdated and required significant investment to meet modern standards.
Among the casualties was the Wardsville Community Hall, once the heart of the community, with its wood floors, stage, and historic charm. It contained washrooms that served Little Kin Park. Despite its historical and functional value, the hall was put up for sale by public tender with a closing date of June 6, 2001, and ownership was transferred to a new owner.
To preserve a local gathering place, the municipality partnered with the Hammond Masonic Lodge, designating the Wardsville Masonic Hall as the new community center. In 2023, the Wardsville Hammond Masons “went dark,”. In 2025 the Masonic Hall was gifted to Southwest Middlesex.
HERITAGE PLAQUE SIGNS
Nine aluminum signs have been installed on houses, farms, and businesses in Glencoe, Caradoc, Mosa and Ekfrid. They are 11’’ X 16” in bronze or silver aluminum and cost $150. Significant research by Harold Carruthers is required to determine facts about the properties. Contact research@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca if you would like to commission a sign for your property.
Houses: Information includes the year the house was built, the first owner’s name and occupation, the builder’s name, and the heritage location (original address).
Businesses: Name of business, architect, heritage location, and name of the builder.
Farm: original owner of the 100 acres, the builder/owner of the first house, year house was built and heritage location.
Cemetery Signs.
Thirty eight signs have been installed within SWM, and three outside of SWM, but within our area. Hykut Signs was our local manufacturer. These standardized signs show the name of area cemeteries and when they were established. We have identified and signed the forgotten ones also, so that our pioneer ancestors will be remembered. This year, we concluded this project by getting these signs installed. Our partnership with the Municipality of Southwest Middlesex allowed this to happen. Our Society funded the manufacture of the signs and SWM covered the installation.
Ken Beecroft, Gerry Cross and other enthusiasts in the district assist with the Find A Grave.com website database. Find A Grave is a worldwide collection site developed to identify and document those who have gone before us. This initiative depends upon knowledgeable volunteers who share a passion for history. Identifying the individuals who make up history, especially local history is by no means an easy matter. Find A Grave volunteers have identified, pinpointed and defined over half a million cemeteries worldwide.
Ken Beecroft focuses on Find A Grave data development in the G&DHS geographic area, which dovetails well with cemetery and family research information onhand in the Archives. Obituary information used to be painstakingly gathered by volunteers but now it can be entered locally into this huge on-line data base and accessed by descendants from anywhere in the world. A great genealogical tool indeed.
Facebook moderator and Curator of the Glencoe Transcript Archives
Marie Williams has been actively involved in heritage projects, including the murals and house signs, working with Harold and Rick at Hykut Signs to ensure historical accuracy and clarity in the details.
She collaborated with Harold on organizing and promoting the Peter McArthur events, designed event posters for the Society’s monthly meetings, and contributed to online event promotions. She also prepared display boards for both the arena anniversary and the Peter McArthur event.
Marie regularly photographs meetings and events to document and share the Society’s activities.
Marie manages the The Glencoe and District Historical Society Facebook Page which has 1.1K followers, ensuring a minimum of two historical posts per week. Yearbook posts are particularly well-received, along with historical research compiled from the Glencoe Transcript, London Free Press, and other sources. She also collaborates with Harold on historical posts, which inspired her to create dedicated content for Burns Presbyterian Church Mosa in a Facebook Group. .
In a recent 28-day period, the Society’s Facebook page achieved the following:
Page Views: 43,232
Reach: 10,245
Content Interactions: 999
New Followers: 24
Followers:1100
Heritage Mural Project.
In 2022, G&DHS was initially approved for a Grant from Middlesex County, the “Makeover Middlesex 2022” program, which paid for the mural signs. The historical society funded the installations.
We have plans for more murals in Appin, Melbourne, and Wardsville and need to find sponsors. Harold Carruthers is coordinating. Current locations are:
McKellar Hotel – 230 Main Street, Glencoe, ON. Photo shows East side of Main Street. Between McRae and McKellar Street
CIBC, 252 Main St, Glencoe, ON N0L 1M0. Photo shows Main Street during the 1890s looking north.
The Archives – Photo shows the Glencoe Town Hall, 1898 – 1962.
The Archives – Photo shows the Glencoe Post Office and Customs House, 1909 – 1965.
Appin Main street – Photo shows General Store east side of Main Street.
Wardsville, 1787 Longwoods Road on the Wardsville Museum wall – photo shows Main Street.
Glencoe Fair Grounds, two murals featuring the Glencoe Fair installed by the Glencoe Agricultural Society.
Foodland – 195 Main St, Glencoe, ON N0L 1M0. Photo shows Apple Pickers, Ekfrid Gore Road.
Mary Simpson’s grandson Ryan Snider at Strathburn Park, 3577 Middlesex County Rd 2, Glencoe, ON N0L 1M0.
Connecting with Membership
By Harold Carruthers
Current membership on March 31, 2025 is 109. This is up from approximately 55 in 2023. Seven members were gained from the House Sign project.
Estimated Volunteer hours – April 1, 2024 – March 31, 2025 – 1945 hours. Those are just the recorded hours. Three times as many estimated.
Operational Roles
We have incredible volunteers and need more. We think we are a pretty fun group: talk to Mary Simpson or any executive member about what we need to support this work.
General Manager – Harold Carruthers
Archives and Collections – Norm McGill
Treasurer – Diana Jedig
Secretary for the Executive – Denise Corneil
Membership Secretary – Harold Carruthers
Facebook Page – Marie Williams
Church Architecture – Interior & Exterior documentation – Bill Simpson
Objective – build close, working relationships with all our local groups, our regional heritage groups, and the elected reps and staff people of Southwest Middlesex, Newbury and County of Middlesex.
We do our best to support other cultural and heritage groups in our district:
A Split Village at a Crossroad, Melbourne, Ontario. JoAnn Lucas Galbraith, Richard Hathaway. They publish a weekly on-line newspaper.
Your Wardsville – Wardsville Museum – Official Historian Ken Willis
Appin Ekfrid Museum – Heather Jacobs, Dunc Hodgson, Marilyn MacCallum
Tyrconnell Heritage Society – Backus Page House and Museum
Middlesex Centre Archives
Committee to Establish a Middlesex County Archives
Strathroy & District Historical Society – great monthly programs.
Upper Thames Military Re-enactment Society. They organize the annual memorial in early March every year.
Chippewa of the Thames cultural staff
Muncey community – Mt. Elgin Residential School – Deb Richter and Reta Hart. Brown Tom’s School Days.
History Symposium – monthly events.
Municipality of Southwest Middlesex – new CAO Amanda Gubbels and recreation staff, Kevin Miller.
United Empire Loyalists
Royal Canadian Legion Reg Lovell Br 219, Glencoe
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 510, Melbourne
Words – by Josh Lambier. Monthly author series often featuring authors who write historical fiction and local histories.
Roots and Neighbours Community Summit
We want to work with SWM and all the organizations in our District on building collaborative working relationships. Sometime in 2026, we hope to meet at the “Roots and Neighbours Community Summit” to strategize to make the most of scarce resources and have fun doing it.
Because of taxpayer support, G&DHS gives a safe home to documents, photographs and artifacts of local historical significance, which have been donated to us by area residents and Society members. The Archives has room for meetings, restoration workshop, a sales area, an office, stacks for books, documents and artifacts along with special collections, microfilm library, and archival space for artifacts.
Due to the commitment of Harold Carruthers, Irene Mathyson, and the Society during the 1990s, instead of being shredded after being digitized by the Ontario Government, our precious property records have made their way home to the original Registry Office, which we now call “The Vault”.
We share this space with the community. This wonderful facility, The Archives, allows us to host educational activities onsite. We have everything available –access, washrooms, seating capacity, wifi, parking – the only think we are missing is a kitchenette.
G&DHS and the Municipality of Southwest Middlesex have an agreement for the stewardship of 178 McKellar Street. In March 2025, we met with municipal staff to clarify responsibilities for the building and grounds.
We share The Archives with other community organizations. Organizations such as local cemetery boards, such as Oakland and Eddie, and Southwest Middlesex’ “Celebrate Community Committee” have conducted their routine members’ meetings at 178 McKellar Street.
Southwestern Ontario’s barn quilts
The barn quilts—vibrant artworks adorning barns—continue to captivate travelers, yet their origins and connections to local history remain unknown to many.
In 2024, four groups applied to the Tourism Growth Fund to transform the Barn Quilt Trails into a tourism experience: Glencoe & District Historical Society; Creative Communities – stewards of Barnquilttrails.ca ; Chippewa of the Thames cultural group; and EXAR Studios. While the request was unsuccessful, the Glencoe & District Historical Society remains committed to supporting barn quilts.
This year, efforts will focus on revitalizing the Native Women’s Trail of Tears Barn Quilt Trail and sustaining BarnQuiltTrails.ca, the national barn quilt database.
G&DHS and the Middlesex Centre Archives take turns finding authors to contribute to the Archive Alley, a full page featured in this biweekly newspaper covering Middlesex County news. This past year:
Peter McArthur by Stephanie McDonald March 2024
Barn Quilt history by Mary Simpson and Denise Corneil. April 2024
Profile of Jean Hewitt May 20 2024
Installment of suffragette history by Jean Hewitt complementing the 1st Wave Suffragettes meeting held at Tait’s Community Centre, June 2024.
Reverend Enos Montour (1898-1985) a United Church minister and writer from Six Nations of the Grand River Territory. Brown Tom’s School Days, 2nd Edition.
Local Author bookfair – On December 5, 2024, we supported an Afternoon With Authors book sale organized by the Mary Webb Centre in Highgate, a fundraiser to restore the beautiful stained glass dome.
“Peter McArthur: Our Famous Canadian – 1866 – 1924”
February 22, 2024, we kicked off a year long tribute to our local sage, Peter McArthur. Joining from Ireland, guest speaker Stephanie McDonald, described McArthur’s life and works, focussing on the last 16 years of his life after he moved back to the home farm in Ekfrid Township.
Another long- time McArthur enthusiast, Don Sinclair closed the afternoon event, speaking about his connection to McArthur through the home farm and, in particular, the demonstration woodlot where McArthur wrote about his unique appreciation for rural life and nature.
June 16, 2024. Peter McArthur.An impressive crowd gathered for the “Haunts of Peter McArthur” road trip Sunday afternoon, June 16, starting out at what was the McArthur homestead on McArthur Rd. before moving onto the Eddie Cemetery on Glendon Dr. and finally back to the Archives in Glencoe. Two plaques were unveiled along the way as McArthur trivia and memories were shared. Both young and more established fans of the works of the “Sage of Ekfrid,” family members and historians enjoyed the afternoon which was organized by the Glencoe and District Historical Society. The Society is marking the 100th anniversary of the death of Peter McArthur in 2024.
October 27, 2024: Tree Planting to Honour Peter McArthur. Nineteen were in attendance for the tree planting ceremony honouring Peter McArthur held at the Eddie Cemetery on a sunny Sunday afternoon, October 27, the 100th anniversary of McArthur’s death.
Isabel Sinclair and Kasia Kalita – next generation historians learning and sharing stories about their heritage.
Programs: Sharing Our History
Obj: Discover, preserve, and share the incredible stories of Southwestern Ontario’s history. We aim to ensure these histories are safeguarded and interpreted for all—family, friends, community members, travelers, guests, youth, newcomers, refugees, children, and everyone who contributes to the fabric of our rural society.
April 17. 2024 – Annual report for 2023 and highlights from the meeting. Marilyn McCallum and Ken Willis retired from the Executive but continue their work as local historians. Joining the Executive were Diana Jedig (Treas), Denise Corneil (Sec’y), and Rhonda Long (Promotion).
May 25, 26, 2024 – Canadian Wartime Homefront – Backus Page House and Museum. Our volunteers participated in this event to bring awareness to what life was like on the Canadian Homefront during the two world wars. There were interactive stations, educational booths and book signings. We learned about wartime livelihoods: Rationing, Red Cross Efforts, Farmerettes, Entertainment, the Miss War Worker Pageant, and a Wartime Wedding.
May 29, 2024 The Famous Five presented by the London Women’s History Project at Tait’s Corners Community Centre. Set in Edmonton during the Great War, we saw the Famous Five return from a protest march to drink tea and discuss their cause and the war. Prime Minister, Robert Borden is in Edmonton and they must speak up.
Edmontonian Emily Murphy became the first female judge in the Commonwealth on January 1, 1916. On her first day in court and frequently thereafter, lawyers would begin their presentation by objecting to having their case heard by a woman judge because, they said, women were not “persons” as defined by the British North America Act of 1867.
Luckily for the women of Alberta, in 1917 the ruling by a Calgary judge, Alice Jamieson, was upheld by the Supreme Court of Alberta, thereby establishing the principle that both men and women were persons and therefore equals.
June 16, 2024. Peter McArthur. The “Haunts of Peter McArthur” road trip Sunday afternoon, We started out at what was the McArthur homestead on McArthur Rd. before moving onto the Eddie Cemetery on Glendon Dr. and finally back to the Archives in Glencoe.
June 22, 2024. Royal Canadian Melbourne Legion Branch 510 dedicated a beautiful new mural painted by Ohla Kovalenka located at the Melbourne Legion, 21884 Melbourne Rd, Melbourne.
July 20, 2024 – Tartan Days in Glencoe, over the past several decades, has been a unique opportunity for the community to celebrate its Gaelic heritage and allow the people of Glencoe and area to get involved in local activities and have some fun. G&DHS hosted an open house event at the ARCHIVES. After numerous visitors made their way to the Archives throughout the morning, a ceremony was held at 1:00 pm, celebrating the 150th anniversary of the incorporation of the Village of Glencoe, the belated 200th anniversaries of the Townships of Mosa and Ekfrid, the 170th anniversary of arrival of the first train in Glencoe.
G&DHS also had a booth near the Glencoe Train Station beside the Old Auto magazine. Author CJ Frederick joined the booth offering local readers a sneak peak to her first full length historical fiction novel, Rooted & Remembered. The author’s parents and husband were on hand to help CJ Frederick get this new book into the hands of readers.
July 28, 2024: – Appin Cemetery Commemoration
Every July we take time to honour those who came before us by conducting Memorial Service at an area cemetery. This past year it was held at Appin Cemetery, Ekfrid Township, where we enjoyed a beautiful Sunday afternoon under the shade, with about 40 people present. It was noted that the cemetery was very well maintained. The history of the Cemetery was provided by James May along with several Cemetery Board members and G&DHS members. After the Memorial, folks toured the cemetery. We are planning this event for July 2025 for Simpson Cemetery in Mosa Township. Link to event report.
August 21, 2024: McEachren Collection at Forty-87 Well over 100 visitors, including members of the Glencoe and District Historical Society, neighbours, community members and John Deere enthusiasts from far and wide, gathered at the home of Dave McEachren on Olde Dr. on Wednesday evening, August 21.
After self-guided tours of his outdoor displays, Dave spoke to the crowd explaining that, at age 10, he had first become involved in the Glencoe Fair farm toy competition. He recalled buying his “first toy that he didn’t play with” from Tips. Following the advice of his uncle, he chose to focus on one thing to collect and he chose John Deere. His focus grew from toys to signs, memorabilia, tractors and other equipment.
Heritage Farm Show, September Labour Day Weekend – Backus Page House Annual Farm Heritage weekend. Thanks to our volunteers, we were able to provide our travelling display inside the agricultural museum for the two day event. This certainly a worthwhile event for families. G&DHS has made a commitment to support this event every year.
Author and storyteller Bob Gentleman signed his new book, “They Settled in Riverside,” and presented a copy to Ina Nelms for The Archives in Glencoe.
Gail McHardy-Leitch showed off her sunflower quilt block, painted at the Crazy 8 Barn, to barn quilt enthusiast Denise Corneil at the Heritage Farm Show.
Glencoe Fair, September: Harold and Norm maintained a steady presence at Glencoe Fair alongside the Quest Centre booth and CJ Frederick’s book promoting her new book, Rooted and Remembered.
October 27, 2024: Tree Planting to Honour Peter McArthur. Speakers at the event, recognizing the “The Sage of Ekfrid” were Mirah Simpson, Isabel Sinclair, Kasia Kalita and Harold Carruthers.
November 11 – “ Remembrance Day” G&DHS always lays a wreath in tribute to those who served during Canada’s wars and military conflicts. This year our wreath was laid by Past President Ken Beecroft and honourary member, Ina Nelms, who celebrated her 100th birthday on December 17, 2024.
January 25, 2025. The Truth in Truth and Reconciliation Educational Board Game.
Aya Macdonald hosted a game board meetup. Says Aya: “Authentic, Original, Indigenous, all elements of this board game are credibly sourced. This board game is designed as a grade 10 History class resource but is not just for students and teachers — we all have a role to play in Truth and Reconciliation”
Norm McGill is our Vice-President and curator. He carefully organizes and describes our collection of artifacts and papers. Saturdays are a great time for members to drop in and we have started organizing special activities for our members and the public. Norm has organized a couple.
On March 15, 2025, we encouraged members to drop in with their computer and phone issues. Aya Macdonald was available to help people with their glitches and devised work flows for handling photos.
Karen Aranha goes home happy after Ayako solved her phone problem.
March 16 – John Little In Conversation: Reimagining The Donnellys
An on-line visit with award-winning author and filmmaker John Little to talk about The Donnellys, his two-volume tour-de-force history of Southwestern Ontario’s most famous true crime story.
Thank you from James Stewart Reaney, President: London and Middlesex Historical Society. londonhistory.orgJust a quick note of appreciation, Josh, for the first-rate conversation with John Little. The Donnellys tragedy was reimagined over the fascinating twists & turns & revelations of the Words event. The audience was engaged & many seemed to be personally involved through family & other connections. Thanks, Mary Simpson, for bringing The Glencoe & District Historical Society family to the party. On behalf of The London and Middlesex Historical Society, thanks Josh & John & Mary for this excellence — & let’s see what other adventures we might find.
March 30, 2025. Burns Presbyterian Church.
A great crowd attended Sunday’s “Stroll Through Time” at Burns. The event had been postponed from February due to icy conditions. Morgan MacTavish served as narrator with cast members Sarah, Sophie, Anela and Audrey Faulds, Andrew Johnson, Courtney Bailey, John David MacTavish, Taylor Chalupka and Carol Leitch doing a great job in their roles. Scriptwriters and organizers were Flora Walker, Louise Campbell and Mary Simpson.
Meet our Executive
Mary Simpson, President 519-318-1074 mary@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca
Rhonda Long, Director 519-873-0243 Retiring after one year.
President, Mary Simpson: Mary is a champion for collaboration and is intent on inviting the younger generations into culture and heritage spaces. She enjoys networking with our sister organizations and identifying speakers and activities for future programs. She is half way through her two year term and is actively seeking people who have a passion for local history to join the fun at the Society.
Vice President, Norm McGill: “Growing up in West Lorne after WWII, there were so many different veterans from different wars and eras and some of them told their stories. I always liked the old artifacts. Objects help us remember people and places. A lot of my personal collection is family and local – not expensive articles – but objects that become treasures as the years pass”. Norm is a passionate collector who cares for the artifacts and papers housed in The Archives. He started collecting coins and stamps when he was five years old and the collections grew from there.
Past President, Ken Beecroft: This position provides continuity and transition from President and past president acts in the President’s absence. Through 2023-24, G&DHS continued with on-going agenda items, allowing Past President duties to encompass “house projects”. One Project involves Ken’s interest in assisting with the Find A Grave.com website database. Find A Grav.com is a worldwide collection site developed to identify and document those who have gone before us.
Secretary, Denise Corneil: Taking on the role of Executive’s secretary, she is beefing up the Society’s admin capacity and acting as a link with Ken Willis to Wardsville. Denise was integral to the launch of North America’s first “Story Telling” barn quilt trail. Denise animated the Wardsville residents to design a unique trail project which intertwined fabric, film, paint, and pen, showcasing the life of founders Mr. and Mrs. George Ward through thirty 8’x8′ barn quilts crafted with 1000 volunteer hours in 2010.
Treasurer, Diane Jedig: Diana has 19 years of board governance within the Canadian CED Network. With 35 years in non-for-profit management, Diana Jedig excels in fundraising and project coordination. She is a member of Creative Communities and a stalwart supporter of Canada Barn Quilt Trails. She is one of the protectors of the Native Women’s Trail of Tears Barn Quilt Project and lives in Chippewa of the Thames community.
Director, Promotions & Outreach: Rhonda Long is a passionate advocate for Southwestern Ontario tourism, dedicating 18 years to promoting the region through “Daytripping in Southwestern Ontario.” With a knack for forging connections across the tourism sector, from Direct Marketing Organizations to quaint museums, Rhonda’s mission is to unveil the wonders of one’s own backyard.
Director: IT & HR, Ayako MacDonald – Aya is a recent arrival from Tokyo who is captivated by local culture and history. One cultural insight that truly surprised her is the limited emphasis on local history in Canadian schools. This discovery ignited her passion for preserving the stories and traditions that shape our community. Aya brings a fresh perspective to our historical society by: modernizing workflows, connecting the past and present, and helping us plan for the future.
General Manager, Harold Carruthers: Harold manages operations and is assisted by Norm McGill. Harold is a wealth of knowledge and keeps the Archives and its collections and programs coordinated and supported. He is the official historian for the Carruthers Clan internationally and is widely known throughout history circles.
Honouring Lorne Munro
We miss Lorne. We lost Lorne at Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital , Strathroy on Monday, March 18, 2024 William “Lorne” Munro passed away in his 91st year. Predeceased by his wife Phyllis (2023). Dear father to Janice and Tom McCallum, Susan Sinclair and Steve Schneider and Cheryl and Roy Neves.
Lorne was a great supporter of local projects. When the local Society didn’t have many active projects, Lorne encouraged us to support other projects. Lorne helped digitize 2300 wills and maintained a list of obituaries and births dating back to the 1870s.
Objects of G&DHS
Founded in 1978, the Glencoe & District Historical Society (G&DHS) set out on a mission to preserve the rich history of Southwestern Ontario, particularly around the Glencoe area. Ambitious projects, such as mapping local cemeteries, took place from 1978 to 1988. In 1983, G&DHS found a home in the basement of the old Andrew Carnegie Library and expanded to both floors in 1994. A substantial collection of land registry deeds was rescued in 1997, finding a secure home in the original land registry vault. The partnership restoration of the Glencoe Train Station in 2001 became a symbol of the society’s commitment to preserving local heritage. The Society is a not-for-profit volunteer organization with charitable status and a member of the Ontario Historical Society.
The 2018 relocation of the Glencoe library allowed the Society to shift to the old land registry office and library at 178 McKellar Street, inadvertently returning the land deed collection to its original home, now known as The Archives. Facing the challenge of preserving historical materials in a digital world, G&DHS actively educates and lobbies for administrative and archival support, supported by a membership of almost 100 individuals and backing from the Municipality of Southwest Middlesex.
Our objectives are:
To promote, encourage and foster the study of local history and genealogy, including original research. We encourage, support and solicit research information on heritage buildings in our District. We lend our support to other community groups who are active and interested in the preservation and restoration of heritage buildings.
To provide and maintain a local archival repository for the collection and preservation of books, manuscripts, typescripts, charts, maps, photographs, journals, Photostats, microfilms, tapes and artifacts.
To reproduce some of the presentations presented to the Society, as well as other research and materials.
To provide education through newsletters, presentations, social media and participation in local and surrounding area events.
The Society actively collects and preserves local artifacts, showcasing rotating displays and a captivating train display on Main Street.
Operating three days a week, G&DHS opens its doors to the public, offering free access to historical materials. Marie Williams maintains a popular Facebook Page featuring local photos and history from the Transcript and Free Press archives. An up-to-date website features reports of our events, photos, videos, and history vignettes.
G&DHS actively supports neighboring heritage organizations. We work together to foster an appreciation for Southwestern Ontario’s rich history.
On April 5, 2025, Carrie Jeffery conducted a workshop on capturing oral histories. We had members of our community, visiting members of other heritage groups, and members of our own historical society in attendance. The engaging and interactive talk was followed by an informative presentation that showcased the various aspects of modern record-keeping that are now accessible for ancestral storytelling. Left to right: Donna Lynam, David Campbell, Carrie Jeffery, Susan McWilliam. Mary Simpson, the president of our historical society, also presented.
L-R: Donna Lynam, David Campbell, Carrie Jeffery, Susan McWilliam.
Imagine for a moment the mystery of your history.
By Carrie Jeffery. Published in the March 2025 issue of Middlesex Banner’s ‘Archive Alley’
Personal storytelling can be both fun and provide new perspectives on how we came to be. These stories can challenge our understanding of the past and give a voice to people who are often left out of traditional historical records: the everyday people that played a role not just in our own lives but also in the communities we live in that they helped shape.
With the help of today’s technology, we can translate an afternoon visit with our elders into a published collection of stories that honour their lives and their place in history.
They get to relive their younger days while we either transcribe them ourselves or even utilize voice memo software to transcribe them for us automatically!
In doing this now while this aging generation is still here, we are able to ask questions like “What year would that have been?” and “Why did you do things that way?” before it’s too late. We can learn about the passions and values they may have held that were similar to our own and what shaped their career or other interests. We can witness and capture the changes that have occurred in just one or two generations.
Stories about the Kilmartin community who established Burns Presbyterian Church in the hills of North Mosa.
Jennifer Grainger reporting from Mosa Township: On Sunday, March 30 at 2:00 pm I attended a rare event, an historic church celebrating an anniversary. At a time when many rural churches are closing, it’s a pleasure to see one commemorating the 190th anniversary of the congregation.
The March 30th event wasn’t an actual church service, mind you, but a celebration of the surrounding community and the role Burns Presbyterian played in it. The occasion, more historical than religious, was entitled “A Stroll Through Time.” Actors portrayed fictional, but plausible, characters from the church’s past, including an early Scottish settler, a later Dutch arrival, the last Precentor, a member of the women’s auxiliary, etc. Sometimes amusing and often poignant, the stories of former congregants were well written and allowed the modern audience to imagine life in Middlesex County, Ontario in the Good Old Days.
