BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Glencoe & District Historical Society - ECPv6.0.9//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Glencoe & District Historical Society X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Glencoe & District Historical Society REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Toronto BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20260308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20261101T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260509T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260509T120000 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20260410T104614Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260410T104719Z UID:4065-1778320800-1778328000@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:Clean up at Simpson Cemetery DESCRIPTION:Come join us to care for our ancestors’ resting place.  Bring your own tools.  10 am \n  URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/simpson_cemetery/ LOCATION:21563 Pratt Siding Rd\, Glencoe\, ON N0L 1M0\, 21563 Pratt Siding Rd\, Glencoe\, Ontario\, N0L 1M0\, Canada ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/IMG_6125-2.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="Glencoe%20%26%20District%20Historical%20Society":MAILTO:contactus@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260506T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260506T210000 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20260412T182906Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260419T012709Z UID:4141-1778094000-1778101200@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:May 6: Cheated! On-line. DESCRIPTION:Cheated: The LaurierLiberals and the Theft of First Nations Reserve Land (2023)  tells the surrender story from inside the Indian Affairs department. What happened\, how\, and most importantly why\, is documented in official government records held by Library and Archives Canada. \nThis on-line event is part of our 10\,000Years of History program.  \nBill Waiser is one of Canada’s foremost historians. For more than three decades\, he was a history professor at the University of Saskatchewan. He is now a full-time writer and public speaker. Bill Waiser is the author or more than a dozen books\, including A World We Have Lost: Saskatchewan before 1905 (2016)\, winner of the Governor General’s Literary Award for nonfiction\, and Cheated: The Laurier Liberals and the Theft of First Nations Reserve Land (2023)\, which he co-authored with historian Jennie Hansen. He is also the recipient of the Governor General’s History Award for Popular Media (the Pierre Berton Award). Bill lives in Saskatoon\, Saskatchewan. \nGo to this website to register: https://cihe.ca/eventcalendar/cheated-the-laurier-liberals-and-the-theft-of-first-nations-reserve-land/ \nScroll down for registering so you can attend online.  Hit ‘RSVP Button” \n  \n  \n\n\nDetails\n\nDate:May 6\nTime:  7:00 pm – 9:00 pm\nCost:Free\n\n\n\nOrganizer\n\nCanadian Institute for Historical Education\nEmailinfo@cihe.ca\nView Organizer Website\n\n\n\n\n\nVenue\n\nCameron Hall\n\n1585 Yonge St.\nToronto\, ON M4T 1Z9 Canada + Google Map URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/cheated/ LOCATION:Ontario ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/cheated.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Glencoe%20%26%20District%20Historical%20Society":MAILTO:contactus@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260502T103000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260502T120000 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20260412T105603Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260419T000153Z UID:4116-1777717800-1777723200@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:May 2 - Appin Jane's Walk DESCRIPTION:A walk exploring the Appin community and surrounding landscape.  Facilitated by Dunc Hodgson & Heather Jacobs \nMeet at.   The Ekfrid Museum behind the community centre \nThis walk will invite conversation about: \n\nThe story of Appin as a rural crossroads community\n\n\nKey places of gathering\, past and present\n\n\nConnections between land\, history\, and community life\n\n  \n \nAppin Community walk URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/appinwalk/ LOCATION:Appin Museum\, 48 Wellington Ave\, Appin\, Ontario\, N0L 1A0\, Canada ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/new.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="Glencoe%20%26%20District%20Historical%20Society":MAILTO:contactus@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260502T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260502T120000 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20260410T131455Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260412T104653Z UID:4071-1777716000-1777723200@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:May 2. Ken's Walk - Wardsville DESCRIPTION:Click here for larger image\nJoin local historian Ken Willis for a guided walk through Wardsville. This walking tour highlights the history of  Main Street\, sharing stores of the buildings\, people and events that have shaped the village.   Link to fb Event:  Ken’s Walk \nMeet at 10 a.m. at the Wardsville Museum.  Rain date is May 9\, 2026 \nWhat is Jane’s Walk? \nThis walk is part of the global Jane’s Walk festival (https://www.janeswalk.org)\, a weekend of community-led walking tours held around the world. \n  URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/kenswalk/ LOCATION:Ontario ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Kens-Walk-May-2-1200-x-1800.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260502T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260502T120000 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20260119T182333Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260424T193133Z UID:3812-1777716000-1777723200@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:May 2: Jane's Walk in Glencoe DESCRIPTION:Glencoe \nfacilitated by Harold Carruthers.  Meet at the corner of Main Street and Symes Street at 10:00 am. \nA walk through Glencoe looking at: \n\nHistoric gathering places\n\n\nOpportunities for neighbourhood and citizen care\n\n  \nWhat to Expect\n\n60–90 minute neighbourhood walk\n\n\nInformal\, participatory format (not a traditional guided tour)\n\n\nStories\, memories\, and local knowledge shared along the way\n\n\nExploration of parks\, halls\, churches\, sidewalks\, and gathering places\n\n\nConversation about strengths\, gaps\, and opportunities for care\n\nMore details (meeting locations and route specifics) will be added as they become available. \n  \nWhat is a Jane’s Walk?\nJane’s Walks are simple\, powerful\, and proven. They invite people to walk together\, share stories\, and talk about what makes a place liveable\, welcoming\, and worth caring for. \nNo lectures.\nNo formal presentations.\nJust walking\, listening\, and conversation. \nLearn more: https://janeswalk.org/ URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/janeswalk/ LOCATION:The Archives\, 178 McKellar Street\, Glencoe (Southwest Middlesex)\, Ontario\, N0L 1M0\, Canada ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/GlencoeWalk.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Glencoe%20%26%20District%20Historical%20Society":MAILTO:contactus@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260423T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260423T200000 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20250409T142600Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260424T181058Z UID:3140-1776967200-1776974400@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:April 23 - Newbury and the Sixties Scoop DESCRIPTION:Dr. Cody Groat shared a deeply personal and powerful presentation about the Sixties Scoop through the story of his late father\, Bill Groat.  About 45 people attended this moving presentation.  Thank you staff of Glencoe Library for working with the historical society to build a wonderful partnership.  \nA survivor of this dark chapter in Canadian history\, Bill was a Kanyen’kehaka (Mohawk) child raised in a foster home in Newbury\, Ontario\, before returning to his biological parents—survivors of the Indian Residential School System—in London\, Ontario.  \nPatrick Johnston\, a researcher for the Canadian Council on Social Development\, first used the term “Sixties Scoop” in his 1983 report on Indigenous children in the child welfare system\, entitled Native Children and the Child Welfare System. In the report\, Johnston describes the large-scale apprehension of Indigenous children in the 1960s from their homes\, communities and families of birth — often without their parents’ or band’s consent — and their subsequent adoption into predominantly non-Indigenous families across the United States and Canada. The Sixties Scoop was not an isolated event propelled by inferior Indigenous parenting\, but rather an extension of paternalistic policies in Canada that sought the assimilation of Indigenous cultures and communities.  Ref: The Canadian Encyclopedia \n  \nDr. Groat is an Assistant Professor in the Department of History and Indigenous Studies at Western University\, and a citizen of the Kanyen’kehaka nation and Six Nations of the Grand River Reserve. In 2025\, he received the King Charles III Coronation Medal for his work promoting Canadian heritage. \n\n\n\n\n\nDr. Groat is the author of Always a Part of the Land: the Federal Commemoration of Indigenous Histories\, available for pre-order here: https://www.indigo.ca/en-ca/always-a-part-of-the-land-the-federal-commemoration-of-indigenous-histories/9780228027775.html\n\n\n\nCheck out Dr. Groat commenting on the return of items from the Vatican:  https://youtu.be/MBx30UPx2jM?si=yb779M12tfELPxil.     He talks with APTN’s Creeson Agecoutay about the Indigenous artifacts coming into Canada from the Vatican. \nAlso\, here is more of his work: \nhttps://woodlandculturalcentre.ca/media-release-unesco-residential-schools-gathering/. \nThanks for coming everyone.  And thank you for sharing your incredible life journey stories. \nMary Simpson\, G&DHS Programming \nApril 23\, 2026\n  \n  \n  URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/cody_groat/ LOCATION:Glencoe Public Library\, 123 McKellar St.\, Glencoe\, Ontario\, N0L 1M0\, Canada ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Dr.-Cody-Groat-and-the-60s-Scopp.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="Glencoe%20%26%20District%20Historical%20Society":MAILTO:contactus@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260415T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260415T210000 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20250914T135720Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260418T224740Z UID:3432-1776279600-1776286800@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:April 15\, 2026  Annual General Meeting for 2025 - 2026 DESCRIPTION:Annual General Meeting \n📅 Wednesday\, April 15\, 2026\n 🕖 7:00 p.m.\n 📍 Archives\, 178 McKellar Street\, Glencoe\, Ontario \nReport by Marie Williams: \nThe Annual General Meeting of the Glencoe and District Historical Society drew a group of dedicated historians to The Archives on Wednesday evening\, April 15. The presentation of reports by directors\, executive members and volunteers preceded the election of officers. Harold Carruthers outlined the research completed and the events the Society took part in. It was reported that there were 2\,570 volunteer hours completed throughout the year. Outgoing president Mary Simpson reviewed the work of the Society and thanked members for their support. There are presently 73 paid memberships with more volunteers stepping up in various capacities. A brief show and tell of historical items closed the meeting before refreshments were shared. \n  URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/apr15agm/ LOCATION:The Archives\, 178 McKellar Street\, Glencoe (Southwest Middlesex)\, Ontario\, N0L 1M0\, Canada ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_1463-scaled.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="Glencoe%20%26%20District%20Historical%20Society":MAILTO:contactus@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260411T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260411T160000 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20260106T095054Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260418T234339Z UID:3757-1775901600-1775923200@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:Apr 11: Annual Heritage Fair DESCRIPTION:Area historians took part in the Middlesex Centre Archives Heritage Fair at the Delaware Community Centre on Saturday\, April 11.  \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHeritage Fair in Delaware 2026 – Strathroy & District Historical Socieety URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/heritage-fair/ LOCATION:Delaware Community Centre\, 2652 Gideon Drive\, Delaware\, Ontario\, Canada ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Screenshot-2026-01-06-at-4.57.31-AM.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260409 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260410 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20260207T133456Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260207T133639Z UID:3909-1775692800-1775779199@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:April 9: Vimy Ridge Day DESCRIPTION:Vimy Ridge Day is a day to commemorate the deaths and casualties of members of the Canadian Corps in the Battle of Vimy Ridge\, which took place during the First World War. The non-statutory observance has been designated to occur annually on 9 April since 2003. URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/vimy/ LOCATION:Glencoe Epitaph on Main Street by the train tracks\, Glencoe\, ON ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Ghosts_of_Vimy_Ridge-scaled.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260320T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260320T120000 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20260218T124512Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T212537Z UID:3949-1774000800-1774008000@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:Diana Jedig presents Barn Quilt Movement at Fanshawe Village DESCRIPTION:https://www.fanshawepioneervillage.ca/events/march-break-2026  Details \nFriday\, March 20th \n10:00-11:00 – The Longwoods Treaty (Treaty 21) Presentation \n11:00–2:00 Barn Quilt Movement by Diana Jedig \n  \nMarch Break: Family Drop-In Days\nEnds Friday March 20\, 2026 with closing Ceremony\n10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. each day\nFanshawe Pioneer Village\, 1424 Clarke Road\, London\, ON\, N5V 5B9.  Canada (map) \n  \nExplore history of wampum and the treaties of London and Middlesex County. Artwork and research by students from Antler River Elementary School at the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation illustrate how wampum has been used to record agreements and relationships throughout history. \nEngage with hands-on activities\, including wampum making\, drumming\, art activities\, and more! \n  \nTuesday\, March 17th \n10:00-11:00 – Opening ceremonies \n11:00-2:00 – Wampum making and art activities \n Wednesday\, March 18th \n10:00-11:00 – Wampum Belts Presentation \n11:00-2:00 – Wampum making and art activities \n Thursday\, March 19th \n10:00-11:00 – Children’s song\, justice work \n11:00-2:00 – Wampum making and art activities \nFriday\, March 20th \n10:00-11:00 – The Longwoods Treaty (Treaty 21) Presentation \n11:00–2:00 Barn Quilt Movement \n  \nRegistration is not required\, but recommended. \nA pre-registration link will be available on this website starting Feb. 23. Check-back to register. \nFor any questions\, please email: collections2@fanshawepioneervillage.ca \nActivities Location: \nAll activities will be held in the Trillium Community Gallery\, which is located in the Spriet Family Visitor Centre\, located directly beside the entrance to the Heritage Village (large red barn). \nAccessible parking located in front of building. \nFree by Donation \nThis is a drop-in event for all ages. (Children cannot be left unattended.) URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/wampum/ LOCATION:Fanshawe Pioneer Village\, 1424 Clarke Road\, London\, Ontario\, N5V 5B9\, Canada ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/NativeWomenbarnquilt.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="Fanshawe%20Pioneer%20Village":MAILTO:info@fanshawepioneervillage.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260318T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260318T210000 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20250914T123018Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260306T144830Z UID:3429-1773860400-1773867600@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:Mar 18\, 2026 - Treaty Relationships DESCRIPTION:Date & Time: Wednesday\, March 18\, 2026 – 7:00 p.m.\n Location: The Archives\, Glencoe\, ON\n Guest Speaker: Mark French \nShare an evening with Chippewas of the Thames First Nation Elder Mark French for an understanding of Treaties\, why they were made and the resulting impact on Canadian law from an Anishinaabe respective. \n  \n“Sell a country! Why not sell the air\, the great sea\, as well as the earth? Did not the Great Spirit make them all for the use of his children? – Chief Tecumseh” \n  \nThe concept of drawing lines on the ground to buy and sell land was completely foreign \nto First Nations who viewed their role as stewards of the land\, being respectful of its use \nand sharing resources with all. \n  \nFor more context\, you can view the official map of Ontario treaties here:\n 👉 Map of Ontario Treaties and Reserves \nAlso during March break –  https://www.fanshawepioneervillage.ca/events/march-break-2026 \nExplore history of wampum and the treaties of London and Middlesex County. Artwork and research by students from Antler River Elementary School at the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation illustrate how wampum has been used to record agreements and relationships throughout history.   \n  \nMarch 18\, 2026 poster for March French presentation.  Download and share.\n  \n  \n  URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/treaty21/ LOCATION:The Archives\, 178 McKellar Street\, Glencoe (Southwest Middlesex)\, Ontario\, N0L 1M0\, Canada ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Screenshot-2025-09-14-at-8.17.44-AM.png ORGANIZER;CN="Glencoe%20%26%20District%20Historical%20Society":MAILTO:contactus@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260301T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260301T160000 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20250415T202214Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260212T232534Z UID:3160-1772373600-1772380800@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:Mar 1\, 2026 - Memorial - Battle of the Longwoods DESCRIPTION:Join us on March 1st\, 2026 to commemorate the Battle of Longwoods which was originally fought on March 4th 1814.   \nArrive at 1:45 p.m. and park carefully.  Battle Hill National Historic Site\, 2945 Longwoods Rd\, Glencoe\, ON N0L 1M0 \nWe will  remember those injured and killed at the Battle of the Longwoods in 1814. \nPlease bring a wreath and let the emcee know your name and who you represent.  JoAnn Galbraith will also be reaching out to the organizations that lay a wreath every year. \nMany thanks to Alma Sitler and her team for making soup to serve at the St. John’s Presbyterian Church\, Wardsville.  Everyone who attends is invited to join the Re-enactors for soup after the memorial. \n\n  \n  \nWatch this beautiful short video of the MOURNING RING OF LIEUTENANT PATRICK GRAEME OF THE 89TH REGIMENT OF FOOT. KILLED ON MARCH 4\, 1814\, WHILE LEADING THE BRITISH ATTACK AT THE BATTLE OF LONGWOODS. \nOrganized by the Upper Thames Military Re-enactment Society  https://www.royal-scots.com/. \nTheir facebook Page. \nLocal organizations and families are encouraged to place a wreath.  Call JoAnn Galbraith 5192895954 to put your name on the list.  Or arrive early and approach the organizers to add your name and organization to the list. \nCo-promoted by the Glencoe & District Historical Society \n  \nWhen the Upper Thames Military Reenactment Society (UTMRS) and residents of Southwest Middlesex assemble on the first Sunday of March at Battle Hill in Mosa Township to commemorate the Battle of Longwoods\, we honour not only those who fought\, but also remember that the cost of war is and always has been horrible\, cruel\, wasteful and life changing.  – Glenn Stott\, Re-enactor \n\n \nThe Battle of Longwoods\nBy Glenn Stott for the Middlesex Banner Feb 2025 \nThe Battle of Longwoods fought on Wednesday\, March 4\, 1814\, was not a major battle in the context of the War of 1812 but it’s story endures for a number of reasons.  \nThere were examples of bravery on both sides. The Americans\, facing a superior force were encouraged to stand\, fight and die if necessary\, for the flag by Ensign Morgan Heard. On the British side\, Captain David Johnstone\, leading his Royal Scots\, reached within 3 metres of the front of the American position when he was gunned down. The Americans refused to plunder the dead and wounded British\, after the battle\, because of the courage they had shown. \nOver 20 British\, Upper Canadians and American soldiers lost their lives over the almost 90 minute struggle. Over 50 lives of the soldiers were altered forever when they suffered wounds from the battle.  \nYoung Benjamin Springer\, son of Captain Daniel Springer\, described his house in Delaware as resembling a slaughter house after the surgeons were finished treating the British wounded over the next two days. \nThe First Nations\, over 40 of them\, had again come to the aid of the British at Longwoods only to eventually lose their land and hope of proper recognition by their Sovereign and later\, Canada. \nGeorge Ward\, one of the only European residents of Paint Creek (now Wardsville) in 1814 \, lost his pension and his reputation as he was seen leaving the American encampment at Twenty Mile Creek and was suspected as a traitor by those who saw him. He spent the remainder of his life seeking justice. \nWilliam Shaw and his wife\, longtime residents of the Thames\, 18 year old son\, William\, was mortally wounded during the battle and buried they him in their family plot at Kent Bridge; the only known burial from the Battle of the Longwoods. \nThe family Graeme from Inchbrakie\, Perthshire\, Scotland\, lost their 25 year old son Lieutenant Patrick Graeme of the 89th Regiment at the battle. They were left only with a picture of him\, aged five\, and a lock of his hair which was put into a mourning ring\, worn by his mother. Graeme was buried somewhere on the east side of Twenty Mile Creek in a “shallow soldier’s grave”. \n  \nThe American commander\, Captain Andrew Hunter Holmes\, for a brief time became an American hero and gained a promotion to Major\, only to lose his life at the battle of Mackinac Island in August 1814. \n  \nCaptain John MacGregor of the Loyal Kent Volunteers eventually had his arm amputated after he was struck by two bullets in the battle. \nSo a battle fought in over a foot of snow\, at Twenty Mile Creek\, in the future Mosa Township did have a major impact. The British lost and the Americans won\, but both retreated. The loyal settlers of the Thames Valley found themselves totally abandoned by the British\, who after March 10\, 1814\, retreated to the east of the Grand River and to Norfolk County. It led to much loss and damage of personal property\, livestock\, and farm produce as the Americans soon realized that they had almost free range of the total region\, using it to supply their bases at Detroit\, Fort Gratiot and Fort Malden. \nCommemorating the Battle of the Longwoods 1814\nReflecting on History: The Battle of Longwoods Memorial Service\nBy David Gomez reporting on the 2024 memorial service\, the Middlesex Banner community newspaper \nMIDDLESEX COUNTY – The roar of rifles echoed in the name of the men who fought more than 200 years ago\, as we paid respect to them last Sunday\, March 3\, at the Battle of Longwoods memorial. Many residents from different towns of Middlesex County congregated at the Battle Hill cairn\, 2945 Longwoods Rd. in Glencoe\, to honour the 210th anniversary of the Battle of Longwoods. This event\, crucial in the tapestry of Canadian history\, drew participants from various sectors\, including local government officials and historical societies from all the region. The annual ceremony\, initiated at 2:00 pm\, was a poignant reminder of the conflict during the War of 1812. \nThe Battle of Longwoods\, occurring on March 4\, 1814\, represents a significant chapter in the War of 1812\, marking the war’s only battle within Middlesex County. It was a day when British and American forces clashed on Canadian soil\, a moment in history that the Upper Thames Military Re-Enactment Society and the Glencoe and District Historical Society aim to preserve through their organized memorial service. This gathering not only commemorates the fallen but also serves as an educational opportunity for the community\, highlighting the region’s historical importance and the complexities of early 19th-century warfare. \nThis act of remembrance brought together families\, historical organizations\, and public figures\, including Allan Mayhew\, Mayor of Southwest Middlesex; Colin Grantham\, Mayor of Strathroy-Caradoc; and Middlesex County Warden Aina DeViet\, highlighting the enduring significance of the Battle of Longwoods in the collective memory of the community and the county at large. \nThe service\, in its essence\, did more than just remember the fallen; it served as a bridge connecting past and present. Unlike the bitter cold and snowy conditions that characterized the day of the battle over two centuries ago\, attendees experienced a milder climate\, reflecting on history under a beautiful sky. This contrast further highlighted the passage of time and the changes that have since enveloped the land where soldiers once stood. \nThe Battle of Longwoods involved a complex engagement between American forces\, led by Colonel Holmes\, and British troops under Captain James Basden. The Americans\, fortified by a defensive position\, repelled British advances\, ultimately leading to a strategic retreat by the British forces. This confrontation was not just a display of military strategy but also of the resilience and fortitude of the combatants\, qualities that the ceremony sought to honour. \nThe memorial service is a testament to the enduring legacy of the War of 1812 and its impact on Canadian identity. It provides a moment for the community to reflect on the hardships endured by early settlers and soldiers\, acknowledging the role such conflicts have played in shaping the nation’s history. Through annual commemorations like this\, the story of the Battle of Longwoods and its participants remains alive\, fostering a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made in the pursuit of peace and sovereignty. \nAs we move forward\, the Battle of Longwoods memorial service stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of historical remembrance. It not only pays homage to those who fought in the conflict but also educates and unites the community\, bridging generational gaps and reinforcing the value of preserving our shared history. In doing so\, it ensures that the lessons learned and the bravery exhibited continue to resonate\, informing our present and enlightening our future. \nThis year’s commemoration\, while reflective of past ceremonies\, brought its unique moment of collective remembrance and educational enrichment\, proving that even as we look back\, we also look ahead\, carrying forward the legacy of those who shaped our past. \nBattle of the Longwoods\, War of 1812 – 1814\n  URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/mar-1-2026-memorial-battle-of-the-longwoods/ LOCATION:Battle Hill National Historic Site\, 2945 Longwoods Road\, Southwest Middlesex\, Ontario\, N0L 1M0\, Canada ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/battle04.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260224 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260225 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20260112T234341Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260212T225725Z UID:3773-1771891200-1771977599@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:Feb 24\, March 3 & 10\, 2026: Ancestry Junk Journaling Workshop series DESCRIPTION:Join us for three afternoons with guest instructor Lori Watson of Gathering Thyme & Grace for a hands-on Junk Journaling Workshop.  Register now – Small class of 4. \nTuesday\, February 24\, March 3 & 10\, 2026 | 2:00 – 5:00 p.m.\n📍 162 on Main\,  Glencoe\, ON\nHosted in fellowship with Lori Watson;  Kerri Crowdis Angus\, 162 on Main Art Collective ; and Mary Simpson\, Glencoe & District Historical Society \n  \nHere is the link to sign up; $75 per person.\n\nhttps://www.162onmain.ca/product/ancestry-junk-journal-workshop/Q5GNON3OAA66RB446GHCCIP4\n\n\nWhat is a Junk Journal and how does it relate to your ancestry?\nDon’t allow the work “junk“ to deter you\, these gorgeous journals look nothing like that in the end. The idea is that Lori will teach us how to build a journal from everyday items that you may regularly pitch in the recycling bin or trash bin. The ancestry part is where you bring along items like family photographs\, copies of birth records\, marriage licenses or even a piece of fabric with a cross stitch or embroidery that your great grandmother stitched. The possibilities are truly endless and we are in the best hands with Lori at the helm! \n\n\n\n\nThis wonderful idea was suggested to Lori and Kerri as a collaborative class by Glencoe & District Historical Society. They have done this project together in the past and the workshops were amazing. Kerri was blown away! \nWhat do you need to bring to class? \n\nA hard covered book measuring an approximate 6” X 9” or smaller. You will be removing the innards\, so a prized novel is not the one you want to use. Thrifting such books at Good Will or your favourite thrift shop is a great idea for little money.\nPictures\, copies of documents\, anything that is smaller than the book size or that can be folded inside of it.\nSpecial items that you have from those who came before you. That could be a handkerchief\, a love letter or favourite Christmas card kept for decades. An embroidered piece of fabric taken from a table cloth or perhaps a tiny bonnet from a christening gown. Do you happen to have a lock of hair that you saved and aren’t sure how to hold onto this keepsake\, well… adding it to your journal will make it all the more special. As noted above\, the ideas are endless. If you aren’t sure\, bring them along and Lori will happily help you.\nIf you happen to have craft paper or embellishments that you think will fit your journal well\, bring those along too!\n\nWhat is provided? \n\nInstruction on how to remove the innards of your chosen book\, how to put it back together and to secure it all in place.\n\n\nAll tools required along with glues\, pates etc..\nEnough papers to rebuild your journal\, along with instructions on how to create pockets\, hidden add ons etc…\nOptional appropriate embellishments\n\nOur classes are non refundable. Should a class be missed\, priority seating will be offered in a future class. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAbout the Instructor\nLori Watson is the creative heart behind Gathering Thyme & Grace.  A retired Development Service Worker\, wife\, mother\, and grandmother\, Lori has found her passion in bespoke junk journaling—giving old books a new lease on life through hand-dyed papers\, antique and vintage ephemera\, and thoughtful design. Each of her journals is handmade\, one-of-a-kind\, and deeply personal. Lori loves sharing her creative journey and encouraging others to explore their own. \nWho Should Attend?\n\nBeginners and experienced crafters welcome\nGenealogists and family historians\nJournal keepers and memory-keepers\nAnyone who loves paper\, storytelling\, or creative reuse\n\nCome as you are—no artistic experience required. \nLearn More About Lori Watson\n\nYouTube: www.youtube.com/@gatheringthymeandgrace1668\nInstagram: instagram.com/gathering_thyme_and_grace_\nEtsy: gatheringthymegrace.etsy.com\nKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/lori29677\n\n  \nHere is what Lori has been up to lately.   Her YouTube channel is great! URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/journal/ LOCATION:162 on Main\, 162 Main Street\, Glencoe\, Ontario\, N0L 1M0\, Canada ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Screenshot-2026-01-22-at-11.11.16-AM.png ORGANIZER;CN="Kerri%20Crowdis%20Angus%2C%20162%20On%20Main%20Art%20Collective":MAILTO:162onmain@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260218T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260218T150000 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20250504T201106Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260410T102141Z UID:3181-1771423200-1771426800@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:The Highgate Mastodon DESCRIPTION:This event was inspired by the mastodon tooth we have in The Archives collection that was discovered in north Mosa Township back in the 1930s.  It is a great story!   \nTom Chase\, told us about the mastodon\, its Ice Age habitat\, and what it teaches us about the ancient landscapes and peoples of Southern Ontario. Tom Chase has been with the Heritage Center since 2015\, working in education\, security\, and visitor services. statemuseum.nd.gov        ndstudies.gov \nHere’s story about the Highgate Mastodon: Journey of the Highgate Mastodon | Prairie Public. \n  \n\nAnd here is Peter Russell\, Curator Emeritus\, Earth Sciences Museum at the University of Waterloo.  Watch this before the zoom tour on February 18\, 2026:  This is another telling of The Highgate Mastodon Story.  We are hoping he will attend February 18th too! \n \n\nMarg Eberle\, one of the story keepers of the Highgate Mastodon at the Mary Webb Centre\, Highgate on December 7\, 2024.\n  \nMarg Eberle with a drawing of the HighGate Mastodon Centre at the Mary Webb Centre\, Highgate on December 7\, 2024. URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/mastodon/ LOCATION:The Archives\, 178 McKellar Street\, Glencoe (Southwest Middlesex)\, Ontario\, N0L 1M0\, Canada ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/highgate-mastodon.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Glencoe%20%26%20District%20Historical%20Society":MAILTO:contactus@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260216T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260216T140000 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20260211T033324Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260212T205547Z UID:3919-1771236000-1771250400@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:Family Day at the Archives DESCRIPTION:Welcome everyone.   Come to The Archives!   Drop by for a visit.  See the amazing records we have here.  Order a plaque for your house.  Check out the events coming up.  https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/events/list/  \nWe’ll make coffee.  Cookies.  Organize games for the kids.  Sign you up for a membership.  We are a safe\, inclusive space.  (We have a lot of cool projects and would love to sign you up.) \nHigh school kids!  We have a co-op space for you!  University kids!\, same. \nAnd all the organizations in Southwest Middlesex are open too \n  \n  \n  URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/family/ LOCATION:The Archives\, 178 McKellar Street\, Glencoe (Southwest Middlesex)\, Ontario\, N0L 1M0\, Canada ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Emma-Stack-book-launch-at-The-Archives-1-1.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="Glencoe%20%26%20District%20Historical%20Society":MAILTO:contactus@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260212T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260212T140000 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20260116T152644Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260218T120805Z UID:3785-1770901200-1770904800@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:Feb 12 - Gathering Oral Histories DESCRIPTION:Members of the Glencoe & District Historical Society recently joined a live online presentation by Sarah Walker on the art and practice of gathering oral histories. The session was both practical and inspiring\, reminding us that capturing memories is not simply about recording sound—it is about creating space for storytelling\, trust\, and preservation. \nWe learned that an oral history interview is closer to being a thoughtful radio host or podcast interviewer than a researcher reading questions from a page. Preparation matters greatly\, but so does allowing conversation to unfold naturally. \nWhy Oral Histories Matter\nOral histories capture: \n\nPersonal experiences not found in written records\nCommunity traditions such as foodways\, farming practices\, celebrations\, and daily life\nEmotional tone\, humour\, and memory that enrich archives\nStories that might otherwise be lost within a generation\n\nReflections on a Live Presentation by Sarah Walker\, Head of Reference Services\, North Dakota State Archives.  Reference: State Archives Facebook page  \n  \nStep 1: Set Up the Project Thoughtfully\nSarah encouraged beginning with clear planning: \n\nOutline the project. What stories are we trying to capture?\nChoose narrators intentionally. Look for people with lived experience\, good memories\, and willingness to share.\nSelect interviewers. They should be curious listeners\, not just question-askers.\nDecide on location. Quiet\, comfortable spaces work best.\nPrepare equipment. Test everything in advance.\nDevelop guiding questions. Use them as a framework\, not a script.\n\n  \n\n“It’s a conversation\, not an interrogation.”\n\nStep 2: Think of It as a Conversation\nBest approaches: \n\nAsk open-ended questions such as “Tell me about your earliest memory of….”\nAllow silence. People often recall more if given time.\nAvoid interrupting or correcting details.\nLet the narrator guide the emotional rhythm.\nThere are pros and cons to asking story tellers to write out their stories beforehand—spoken memories are richer and more authentic.\n\nProps such as photographs\, letters\, tools\, or newspaper clippings can help spark memories naturally. \nStep 3: Prepare Like a Broadcaster\nThis includes: \n\nResearching the topic beforehand so you can follow threads of conversation\nSetting a relaxed tone to put the narrator at ease\nListening actively and asking gentle follow-up questions\nKeeping the exchange conversational rather than rigidly structured\n\nStep 4: Avoid Common Pitfalls\nSeveral challenges to watch for: \n\nBackground noise or interruptions\nTrying to lead or control the narrator’s story\nRushing responses instead of allowing reflection\nBecoming overly tied to prepared questions\nTechnical failures due to lack of testing\nForgetting permissions and release forms\nToo many people present during the interview leads to side conversations and noise. \n\n  \n\nRespect the narrator’s perspective—even if you disagree. This is not a debate. \n  \n\nStep 5: Ethics\, Permissions\, and Care\nGood oral history practice includes: \n\nObtaining clear recorded consent for use and storage\nExplaining how the interview will be archived or shared\nRecognizing that storytelling can sometimes be emotional or cathartic\nStopping before fatigue sets in—schedule manageable sessions\n\nStep 6: Preserve the Original Record\nFrom an archival standpoint: \n\nKeep the unedited master recording as the historical record\nEdited versions may be created for exhibits or presentations\nStore files in stable formats with backups\nMaintain organized metadata (who\, what\, where\, when)\nUse both local backup and cloud storage when possible\nGet help from your county\, provincial\, or federal archivists\n\nPractical Tools Mentioned\n\nSimple recording setups (even phones) can work if audio quality is tested\nDigital storage systems should be chosen early to avoid file loss\nProviding interview questions ahead of time can help participants feel prepared—but answers should remain unscripted.\n\nAdditional Best Practices (From Current Oral History Standards)\nTo complement Sarah Walker’s guidance\, archival organizations commonly recommend: \n\nRecord in WAV format for preservation quality\nCapture a short introduction stating names\, date\, and location\nCreate a time-coded summary after the interview to aid researchers\nStore transcripts alongside audio when possible\nRevisit narrators later—oral history can be an ongoing relationship\n\nInspiration for Our Local Work\nThis session resonated. Oral histories can help us document: \n\nHistory since the ice melted 13\,000 years ago.\nChanges along the Thames River landscape. Indigenous history.  Treaty history. \nFarming transitions and rural life.  \nCommunity organizations and local businesses\nFamily traditions and settlement stories\nEveryday experiences that shaped our district\n\n  \n\n\n\n\n\n \nLink to all the State Museum’s:  Events. \n  URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/feb-12-capturing-oral-histories-virtual-workshop/ LOCATION:Ontario ORGANIZER;CN="State%20Historical%20Society%20of%20North%20Dakota":MAILTO:history@nd.gov END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260124T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260124T133000 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20251217T141323Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260124T210407Z UID:3697-1769252400-1769261400@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:Jan 24 - CANCELLED due to sickness: Mapping Heritage Farms in sw Ontario DESCRIPTION:The Workshop with Evan is cancelled Saturday morning.  He has COVID and the weather is too unpredictable.   \n11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Saturday\, January 24\, 2026 \n  \n 📍 Location: The Archives\, 178 McKellar Street\, Glencoe\, ON \n  \nJoin the Glencoe & District Historical Society for an engaging midday session with Evan Abma\, local historian\, Chair of the Sarnia Heritage Committee\, and a leading voice in documenting Ontario’s disappearing rural heritage. \nOver the past several years\, Evan has undertaken an ambitious research project mapping historic farmhouses across Lambton County. Using a wide range of sources—including historical land registers\, tax assessments\, farm directories\, topographic maps\, census records\, satellite imagery\, concession maps\, and digital tools such as Google MyMaps—he has documented approximately 1\,700 historic farmhouses still standing\, down from about 2\,000 in 2009. \nIn this 30–40 minute presentation\, Evan will: \n\nWalk participants through the research methods and tools used to identify and map historic farms\nDemonstrate how these approaches can be adapted by local historians\, heritage groups\, and landowners\nShare insights into patterns of loss\, including farm consolidation\, demolition trends\, and planning barriers\nReflect on why preserving historic farmhouses matters for understanding our rural landscape\, settlement history\, and architectural heritage\n\nThe Google Map. \nThe Facebook Group: Lost Lambton\, Found!  \nWhat are the implications here in SW Middlesex?  \n Over the years\, Glencoe & District Historical Society members have been actively documenting heritage architecture\, historic farms\, cemeteries\, and rural landscapes across Southwest Middlesex. We are eager to learn how historical land records\, assessments\, directories\, and census data can be layered with modern tools such as Google MyMaps to create living\, shareable records of our rural heritage. This presentation may help spark ideas for how we can apply similar methods locally\, building on the work already underway in our community. \nCall to Action:\n If you have an interest in historic farmhouses\, rural architecture\, mapping\, research\, or local history—and especially if you’ve already gathered notes\, photos\, or stories—this session is for you. Come learn\, ask questions\, and imagine what a shared\, community-driven heritage map for Southwest Middlesex could look like. Your knowledge and curiosity are part of preserving the stories written into our landscape. \n  \nBackground \nEvan’s work began after he noticed that many historic homes featured in an online article about Warwick Township were no longer standing. What started as a small tracking project quickly expanded to all of Lambton County\, revealing uneven patterns of preservation—some areas retaining many historic homes\, while others have seen rapid decline. \nThese farmhouses represent more than buildings. They embody the aspirations of early rural settlers\, marking a transition from log cabins to substantial homes that reflected permanence\, prosperity\, and connection to the land. Their loss\, Evan argues\, erodes not only housing stock but also our tangible link to rural history. \nThe presentation will be followed by time for conversation\, questions\, and informal discussion over lunch. \nThis event will be of interest to: \n\nLocal historians and genealogists\nFarmers and rural landowners\nHeritage advocates and planners\nAnyone interested in rural history\, landscape change\, and preservation\n\nAll are welcome.\n Please join us for learning\, conversation\, and community around the shared task of understanding—and caring for—our rural heritage. URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/jan-24-mapping-heritage-farms-in-sw-ontario/ LOCATION:The Archives\, 178 McKellar Street\, Glencoe (Southwest Middlesex)\, Ontario\, N0L 1M0\, Canada ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/lambton.png ORGANIZER;CN="Glencoe%20%26%20District%20Historical%20Society":MAILTO:contactus@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260121T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260121T143000 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20250328T191435Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260121T133714Z UID:3116-1769000400-1769005800@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:Jan 21: CANCELLED DUE TO SNOW STORM - 10\,000 years of Agriculture and Food in Southwestern Ontario DESCRIPTION:WE ARE RESCHEDULING KAE ELGIE TO MAY 20\, 2026.   \nTime and place to be decided. \nDrawing from extensive research saved by her ancestors and combined with her in-depth research into census and land records\, archaeological findings\, and historical texts\, Kae Elgie tells the remarkable story of 10\,000 years of food gathering and agricultural production on the 200-acre farm in Chatham-Kent where she grew up. \nWhat began as an exploration of her own family history soon evolved into a broader narrative of agricultural\, social\, and economic trends stretching back to the end of the last Ice Age. Her presentation will explore how changes in the land and its use reflect deep shifts over millennia\, from Indigenous food systems to the colonial and modern eras. \nElgie’s compelling research culminated in her book\, This Land: the story of two hundred acres in Kent County\, Ontario\, and her talk promises to inspire and fascinate anyone interested in agricultural history\, genealogy\, and the legacy of Southwestern Ontario’s farmland. \n  \nBio:\n Kae Elgie brings to her research a wealth of experience from her pre-retirement career as Manager of Information Technology for the Region of Waterloo Library. Her passion for organizing information continues to guide her family history and genealogy work. \nKae is a member of several historical organizations\, including the Kent County Branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society\, the Ontario Historical Society\, and Architectural Conservancy Ontario. She is the author of This Land: the story of two hundred acres in Kent County\, Ontario (Fountain Street Press\, 2019). \nBook Information:\n Elgie’s book\, This Land: the story of two hundred acres in Kent County\, Ontario (Fountain Street Press\, 2019\, ISBN 978-0-9812776-3-9)\, is available for purchase.\n Contact: info@fountainstreetpress.ca | 519-635-8951 \nWebsite:\n Visit Kae Elgie’s author page at https://www.facebook.com/FountainStreetPress/ \n  URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/elgie/ LOCATION:Glencoe Public Library\, 123 McKellar St.\, Glencoe\, Ontario\, N0L 1M0\, Canada ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/This-Land-display-22-July-2023.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Glencoe%20%26%20District%20Historical%20Society":MAILTO:contactus@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251119T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251119T210000 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20251124T193128Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251125T124645Z UID:2930-1763578800-1763586000@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:Nov 19 - Faith\, Family and Migration: The Old Colony Mennonite Experience DESCRIPTION:By Marie Williams \nGlencoe – A crowd of over 30 was seated in the sanctuary of Glencoe Presbyterian Church Wednesday evening for a presentation led by Maria Moore\, who described the complex history of the Mennonite people. Herself a Dutch-Russian Mennonite with Mexican roots\, she explained that there is a stigma between Mennonite groups\, something that led to the title of her first book\, “Not My Kind of Mennonite.” Her great-grandparents came to Canada from Russia in 1875\, the family later moving to Mexico after the First World War\, part of the largest emigration from this country. \nIn later years\, her family travelled back and forth to Canada as migrant workers\, having experienced struggles adapting to life in Mexico. During their final visit to Canada\, her father was murdered which left she and her siblings in the foster system. She was eventually adopted and raised in Lambton County. After researching the history of Mennonites for many years\, Moore capably described the differences between the multiple Mennonite and Amish orders\, concluding that understanding diversity helps avoid stereotypes. There are 59\,000 Mennonites in Ontario with an Amish community growing in Wardsville. Most recently\, Moore has written a new book: “The Silenced Path – Resilience\, Identity\, and the History of Institutional Care in Ontario.” \n Copies of Not My Kind of Mennonite are available at the Glencoe library\, Middlesex County system. \n  \n\n  \n\nHer new book: “The Silenced Path – Resilience\, Identity\, and  the history of Institutional Care in Ontario” \nThe Silenced Path\, a powerful novel inspired by the true story of Getruda Peters—a young woman of Old Colony Mennonite heritage whose life was shaped by trauma\, institutional neglect\, and profound cultural dislocation in 1980s Ontario. \nThis book delves into the systemic issues that affected—and continue to affect—vulnerable individuals placed in care\, particularly those from culturally distinct communities such as the Mennonites. Gerda’s story highlights how institutional systems often failed to understand or accommodate cultural identity\, faith traditions\, and language—elements essential to personal resilience and belonging. \nSeparated from her siblings and removed from her traditional community after the traumatic loss of her parents\, Gerda is thrust into a world that neither recognizes nor respects her background. Instead of receiving the support she needs\, she encounters repeated episodes of abuse\, disbelief\, and isolation within the very systems intended to protect her. \nYet within this story of adversity lies a testament to human strength. Gerda’s journey offers vital lessons in resilience\, the quiet healing power of nature\, and the importance of restoring dignity to those whose voices have been silenced. \nMaria can be booked too talk about her new book which  will appeal to educators\, caregivers\, health and social service professionals\, and anyone interested in improving institutional care and cultural sensitivity. It’s also a call to reflect on how care systems can better honor and preserve faith\, language\, and cultural roots—particularly for those from minority or insular communities. \n  \n \nMaria Moore is a Canadian writer\, advocate\, and former registered nurse whose work explores themes of resilience\, identity\, generational trauma\, and the search for personal empowerment. Raised in an Old Colony Mennonite community in Mexico\, she later immigrated to Canada and spent over forty years working in healthcare\, including mental health support. Her debut memoir\, Not My Kind of Mennonite (FriesenPress\, 2023)\, traces her family’s journey across borders and generations\, shedding light on the silent struggles faced by many women and men in closed communities. Now living in southwestern Ontario with her husband and their dog\, Maria continues to give back through volunteer work\, board service\, and public speaking that champions the voices of those too often overlooked. \n \n\n\nGoodreads  \nhttps://www.notmykindofmennonite.com/ \n  URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/2930/ LOCATION:Glencoe Presbyterian Church\, 177 Main Street\, Glencoe (Southwest Middlesex)\, Ontario\, N0L 1M0\, Canada ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Screenshot-2025-10-24-at-8.29.09-AM.png ORGANIZER;CN="Glencoe%20%26%20District%20Historical%20Society":MAILTO:contactus@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251115 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251117 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20250329T125026Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251125T123306Z UID:3130-1763164800-1763337599@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:November 15–16\, 2025: A Play - June Journey / Turas an Ògmhìos\, DESCRIPTION:A Local Revival\, Sparked at Tait’s Corners\nThe 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. 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. \nThe extraordinary turnout for June Journey suggests a renewed interest in reclaiming this nearly lost heritage. Audience members ranged from elders who remembered hearing Gaelic in their childhood to teenagers hearing it for the first time. Many expressed a desire to learn the language themselves. \nAcross Canada\, the Scots Gaelic revival has gained momentum: \n\nIn Nova Scotia\, over 500 students now study the language each year through community programs and online learning.\n\nThe province’s Gaelic Affairs Office reports an annual rise in youth participation of 14%.\n\nLinguists now estimate that Canada has the world’s second-largest potential revival community—after Scotland itself—due to the number of descendants of Highland settlers.\n \nThe cast takes a bow. the students earned a certificate for their commitment to learning Gaelic and their lines.\n\nA Community That Came Together \nThis play could not have happened without the collaborative spirit of: \n\nThe Tait’s Corners Community\, who steward the schoolhouse as a living heritage centre\n\nThe Glencoe & District Historical Society\, which proudly sponsored and promoted the event\n\nDirector Antje Giles\, whose vision brought the cast together in joyful harmony\n\nThe dedicated volunteers who handled seating\, parking\, staging\, props\, Gaelic pronunciation guides\, and refreshments\nThe audience – a full house for three performances.  \n \nGaelic Play by Trevor Atkins. Directed by Antje Giles.\n\nThe Cast  \n\nNarrator – Alyssa Giles\n\nMr. Ingle – Nathan Reycraft\n\nMr. McLauchlin – Trevor Aitkens\n\nSeanaid – Sophia Rodgers\n\nSeasaidh – Alexandra Giles\n\nRut – P. Thelma Tangah\n\nRaonaid – Alyssa Vandepol\n\nMairead – Kaitlyn Heyda\n\nMairi – Jillian Heyda\n\nMiss McKellar – Amy Giles\n\nMr. MacKay – Jeff Giles\n\nMr. MacPhail – Ron Hills\n\nMrs. Fraser – Bertha Rose Park\n\nMr. Dewar – Colin McGugan\n\nMrs. Campbell – Marilyn Dolbear\n\nMr. McLean – Donald Neil Leitch\n\nMrs. MacAlpine – Mary Campbell\n\nTrevor Atkins\, the playwright\, plays role of teacher shown here with Nathan Reycraft\, actor. \nWritten  by Gaelic scholar Trevor Aitken.  \nAs a 6th generation descendant of original Scottish highlanders to the Talbot Settlement\, Trevor Aitken has had a lifelong interest in the Scots Gaelic language.  Trevor spent studied the Gaelic language for 26 years and wants to bring the Gaelic language back to the local community where it used to be spoken as a first language.  Like many cultures in many places\, we too have lost a language and the culture and knowledge that went with it.  \nThe latest Canadian census from 2021 points to a devastating fall in the number of people learning Scots Gaelic. It is hoped that through these local presentations that interest in learning it can be sparked among old and young alike. \nTrevor Aitken teaching Gaelic at the Tait’s Corners school house \nScottish Gaelic Alphabet URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/nov-15-16-a-play-june-journey/ LOCATION:Tait’s Corners Community Centre\, 21365 Taits Road\, Glencoe\, ON\, N0L 1M0\, Canada ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/JUNE-JOURNEY-3.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="Glencoe%20%26%20District%20Historical%20Society":MAILTO:contactus@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251022T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251022T213000 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20250116T135335Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251008T004828Z UID:2914-1761159600-1761168600@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:Oct 22\, 2025: Building a Cenotaph for the Fallen DESCRIPTION:Oct 22\, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.  Live presentation.   \nDutton Dunwich has never had a cenotaph.  Thirty-two  First World War and fourteen Second World War sons and husbands died.  One of the WWI fallen is Ellis Wellwood Sifton\, a young fellow who fought at Vimy Ridge and was honoured with a Victoria Cross.  \nThis did not sit right with Blair Ferguson and he mustered a group to right this wrong.  Blair and friends designed and raised the money to build a cenotaph worthy of the soldiers’ incredible deeds of heroism.  It’s hard for us to imagine now how so many young fellows could be sent off to such terrible wars.   \nBlair Ferguson is a well known local historian\, especially in military matters. He has written a couple of books and contributed to many more.  Canadian author Ted Barris has sought out Blair’s expertise of Vimy hero Ellis Sifton for his best selling book Victory at Vimy. Blair has done 3 or 4 podcasts for the Backus Page Museum. He is a regular guest speaker at various high schools throughout the area\, and always eager to learn and expand his knowledge URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/oct-22-2025-building-a-cenotaph-for-the-fallen/ LOCATION:The Archives\, 178 McKellar Street\, Glencoe (Southwest Middlesex)\, Ontario\, N0L 1M0\, Canada ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/cenotaph.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Glencoe%20%26%20District%20Historical%20Society":MAILTO:contactus@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251016T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251016T203000 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20250919T122240Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251230T133408Z UID:3440-1760641200-1760646600@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:Oct 16: Members Meetup at The Archives   DESCRIPTION:Members Meet-Up — Thursday\, October 16\, 2025\n 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. | Archives Building\, Glencoe \nYikes!   The Blue Jays are playing tonight at 8:00 p.m. \nDraft agenda:\n\nGreetings and opening remarks\nThanks to Maria & Norm for refreshments\nAd for the Ontario Historical Society \n\n7:05 – 7:35 Member & Project Roundtable (30 min)\n\nQuick updates from members and volunteers\n\nFinancial report – Diana Jedig.\n\n\nCelebrate progress and identify where support is needed\n\n7:35 – 7:45 Many Hands Make Light Work – Mary Simpson\n7:45 – 8:00 Mini-Meetups & Networking (15 min)\n\nTalk to people you need to coordinate with\nBrainstorm\, plan\, or start a new project\n\n8:00 – 8:25 Exercise: Mapping Our Work (25 min)\n\nRecognize all the work being done by our members\nIdentify local and regional heritage connections\n\n8:25 – 8:30 Wrap-Up & Next Steps\n\nSummary by Norm McGill\n\nAnnouncements and future meetings\n\n\n\nGo Blue Jays!!! \n  \nMore and more volunteers are taking on roles and managing projects.  This is a chance to coordinate and support.  We’re also mapping out our role in the local community as well as the heritage district we are part of.  Bring your note pad and a marker for some planning work.  URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/oct16/ LOCATION:The Archives\, 178 McKellar Street\, Glencoe (Southwest Middlesex)\, Ontario\, N0L 1M0\, Canada ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/IMG_6647.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="Glencoe%20%26%20District%20Historical%20Society":MAILTO:contactus@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250925T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250925T193000 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20250910T022606Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251230T132232Z UID:3417-1758823200-1758828600@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:Behind the Bricks: The Life and Times of the Mohawk Institute DESCRIPTION:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/2025/10/03/behindthebricks/ \nHere is another book launch event in Willowdale a few days later.   URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/behind-the-bricks-the-life-and-times-of-the-mohawk-institute/ LOCATION:Ontario END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250921T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250921T163000 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20250910T020756Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251230T132005Z UID:3410-1758461400-1758472200@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:Open House at the Presbyterian Church Heritage Centre DESCRIPTION:Date: Sunday\, September 21\, 2025Time: 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.Location: Presbyterian Church Heritage Centre (PCHC)Carlisle United Church\, 19 Falkirk St.\, Carlisle\, ON (North Middlesex) \nJoin us for an informal open house at the Presbyterian Church Heritage Centre. \n1:30 – 4:30 p.m. – Drop in anytime\, no reservations required. Iced tea and old-fashioned cookies will be served. \n4:00 p.m. – Enjoy a Curator’s Tour of the Heritage Centre with Ian Mason. \n\nAbout the Centre\nThe PCHC moved into Carlisle United Church (originally Presbyterian) in 2021. Since then\, the former sanctuary has been carefully renovated into an exhibit hall\, including reinforced flooring to safely house the museum’s large and growing collection. The congregation now meets downstairs\, while the sanctuary upstairs becomes a space to celebrate Presbyterian history in Canada. \nThe Centre is the steward of the collection of the former National Presbyterian Museum (Toronto\, 2002–2018). In April 2024\, more than 400 boxes of artefacts were delivered from temporary storage to Carlisle. Exhibits will be gradually installed throughout 2024–2025\, leading up to the official grand opening and dedication on Saturday\, September 20\, 2025—timed with the 150th anniversary of The Presbyterian Church in Canada. \n\nSupporting the PCHC\nThe Heritage Centre receives no regular funding from Presbyterians Sharing. Its work depends entirely on the generosity of congregations and individuals. Donations are always welcome; gifts of $25 or more receive income tax receipts from The Presbyterian Church in Canada. \nMailing address:Presbyterian Church Heritage Centre19 Falkirk St.\, R.R. 3Denfield\, ON N0M 1P0 \n\nPlan Your Visit\nThe PCHC functions as a museum rather than an archive. While exhibits are still in progress until the 2025 grand opening\, visitors are warmly welcomed by appointment. Even a single guest is enough reason to open the doors. Local committee member Doug Carmichael\, who lives just a few houses away\, is often available to host spontaneous visits. \n📧 Doug Carmichael: carmy34159@gmail.com📞 519-232-4715 \nWe are grateful to the Ailsa Craig Museum and the North Middlesex Historical Society for their support in storing parts of the collection during renovations. \nStay Connected\n🌐 pcheritagecentre.ca📘 Facebook Group📞 Contact Ian Mason\, Curator: 416-469-1345 URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/pchc/ LOCATION:Presbyterian Church Heritage Centre (PCHC) Carlisle United Church\, 19 Falkirk St.\,\, Carlisle\, ON (North Middlesex)\, Ontario\, N0M 1P0\, Canada ORGANIZER;CN="Presbyterian%20Church%20Heritage%20Centre%20%28PCHC%29":MAILTO:ilmason773@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250918T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250918T210000 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20250207T203055Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251230T131642Z UID:2975-1758222000-1758229200@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:Sept 18: Bonnets and Bayonets: Women in the shadows during the War of 1812 DESCRIPTION:Emma Stack was an engaging speaker and we had a full house September 18\, 2025.   Here is the article by Emma written for the Middlesex Banner.  https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/2025/09/03/3392/ \nWho were the wives\, mothers\, and women during the War of 1812? Why has history largely forgotten these integral players in Canadian history and is this anyone’s fault? We can formulate our answers to these questions by examining and sharing stories of womanhood during the War. We will discuss famous women like Laura Secord and try to piece together the plight of the under-recorded women\, the wives and families of the British Army and Canadian Militia. What are the challenges in finding and presenting this history? Why is it so important to do so? \nOur presenter was Emma Stack: “I graduated with an Honours Degree in History and Philosophy. I went on to obtain and Bachelor of Education Degree and an Early Childhood Education Diploma. I taught history at the high school level. I have written and published four novels\, set during the War of 1812. I am an 1812 reenactor and the Historical Interpreter for the Royal Scots Regiment. I like to make Canadian history fun for anyone who will listen to me!’ \nwww.emmastackauthor.com \nemmastackbooks@gmail.com \nEmma writes historical romance novels set in Canadian history. She continues to add to her War or 1812 series.  Bring money to buy her books.   \nBetter Than This (2020) \nImperishable (2021) \nLed to You (2022) \nMercy (2025) URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/sept-18-bonnets-and-bayonets-women-in-the-shadows-during-the-war-of-1812/ LOCATION:The Archives\, 178 McKellar Street\, Glencoe (Southwest Middlesex)\, Ontario\, N0L 1M0\, Canada ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/IMG_8132-scaled.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Glencoe%20%26%20District%20Historical%20Society":MAILTO:contactus@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250727T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250727T150000 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20240912T155818Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251230T131330Z UID:2445-1753617600-1753628400@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:July 27 - Walk with the Ancestors - Simpson Cemetery Memorial DESCRIPTION:Simpson Cemetery Memorial – Honouring the Ancestors \nRemembering Our Ancestors at Simpson Cemetery \n \nOn 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. \nCemeteries\, 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. \nPROGRAM\n11:00 a.m.\n Bring your family and make a day of it and arrive in the morning and explore the\nSimpson Cemetery.  Bring a photo to tape on your ancestors’ stones.  Tell your kids\nabout their ancestors. \n12 Noon Picnic\n Time for an old-fashioned picnic.  Spread out your blanket and share a meal with your\nfamily and friends. \n1:00 p.m. Commencement\n Welcome and introductory remarks (Brian Huis)\no Land acknowledgement\n Remarks from the President\, Glencoe and District Historical Society (Mary Simpson)\n History of the Simpson Cemetery (Ken Willis)\n Walk with the Ancestors: a series of rotating talks and activities:\no Spirit walk with “Nicolas Bodine”\no The “Simpson” Ancestors (Wendy Bestward\, Dennis Simpson\, Wanda\nSimpson\, and Micheline Champagne-Johnston)\no Demonstration: How to properly clean and care for a gravestone (Norm McGill)\no Demonstration: How to do a gravestone rubbing (Ken Beecroft and Gerry\nCross)\no How to fix an old broken gravestone (Harold Carruthers) \n2:00 p.m.   Gather to Remember\n Honour Roll – Reading of the names from the plaque of those who served their\ncountry in times of war (is there a name attached to this?) \n Tribute to “Nicholas Bodine” (1788 to 1885)\, Upper Canada militia veteran\, War of\n1812 (Harold Carruthers)\n Closing prayer (Ken Willis?) \n2: 45 p.m.  Wrap-up and Adjournment \n\n2:30 – 5:00 Bill Allan’s Celebration of Life at the Glencoe Agricultural Hall – we will miss him. \nBill Allan \n \nWendy Simms Bestward telling a story about her ancestor\, Simpson Cemetery\, Woodgreen\, Southwest Middlesex\, ON \n  \nOrganized by the Glencoe & District Historical Society and the Simpson Descendants Circle:  Micheline Champagne-Johnston\,  Brian Huis\, Wanda Simpson\, Wendy Bestward\, Jan Simpson\, Dennis Simpson\, Mary Simpson. \nSupported by Ryan Tuer\, Scary Gnome Productions & Recording SG Studios\, Woodgreen. \n\n“Beyond the gates of the cemetery lives an historical account of our past\, a rich heritage populated by friends and relatives.  Loved ones who can no longer be with us\, but whose memories live on.”  – Josh Kekosz.   \nLink to History of Simpson Cemetery\, Woodgreen\, Ontario.\nSimpson Cemetery is located at M4.    Our District includes Woodgreen\, Newbury\, Mosa\, Ekfrid\, Alvinston\, Caradoc\, Appin\, Melbourne\, Wardsville\, Glencoe and the Thames Valley Watershed\, URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/2445/ LOCATION:Ontario ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/1000011789-scaled.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Glencoe%20%26%20District%20Historical%20Society":MAILTO:contactus@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250720T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250720T160000 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20250116T133501Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251230T130346Z UID:2909-1753016400-1753027200@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:July 20 - ALEXANDER FAMILY HOMESTEAD TOUR DESCRIPTION:July 20\, 2025  @ 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.   21303 Melbourne Road\, Melbourne\, ON \nThe Davenport family organized an amazing afternoon at their heritage farm –  a guided tour of the circa-1870 farm and homestead of the Alexander family\, early settlers to the Melbourne area by way of Scotland. Now into its sixth generation of the family\, the farm is still operational\, with many original structures and implements in active use. \nThe Alexanders’ 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. \nWe learned about the people behind the barns\, buildings and bridles. Experts from Ontario Barn Preservation were on-hand to delve deeper into the design of our circa 1880 barn. Mrs. Davenport organized a bountiful outdoor buffet. \n  \n \n \nHomework – Document Your Barn\nBefore you enter information in the Your Old Barn Study (YOBS) questionnaire on your computer\, go to your barn first to collect the information you need to answer the questions. Here is a Checklist. Print and take the Checklist to the barn as a guide to collecting and recording the barn information.  Click here.\n\nOntario Barn Preservation article in Farmtario June edition URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/alexander-homestead/ LOCATION:Davenport Farm\, 21303 Melbourne Road\, Melbourne\, Ontario\, Canada ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Alexander_Farm_poster-1.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Glencoe%20%26%20District%20Historical%20Society":MAILTO:contactus@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250719T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250719T140000 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20250710T203606Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T200250Z UID:3290-1752912000-1752933600@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:🗺️ Tartan Days 2025: A Wee Bit of Celtic Magic in Glencoe DESCRIPTION:Tartan Days 2025 in Glencoe was a resounding success — a community-wide celebration blending heritage\, creativity\, and rural spirit. This year\, the Glencoe & District Historical Society took part in several events\, offering residents and visitors alike a glimpse into the area’s Scottish settler past\, genealogical resources\, and folkloric traditions. \n📍 At the Archives — History in the Cool Shade\nHarold Carruthers and Norm McGill welcomed early birds and heritage enthusiasts to the G&DHS Archives at 178 McKellar Street. Sheltered from the summer heat\, guests enjoyed historic photographs of Glencoe and area screened throughout the day. Personal tours of the Archives sparking new interest in the local collections and society membership. \n  \n🎪 Mystical Fair — Magic & Memory Meet\nAt the Scottish Mystical Fair\, Mary Simpson\, President of the Society\, was joined by author Sharon Wilde\, Melanie Wendt\, and Aya Macdonald.  The team invited guests to craft their own miniature mystical brooms using herbs\, flowers\, and cedar — drawing on both settler and folkloric traditions of cleansing and protection. \n  \n🎨 Art in the Park — Archival Outreach\nAt the Art in the Park event near the Train Station\, Glenn Scarborough from Middlesex Centre Archives represented the broader regional archival network\, connecting with visitors about the importance of local preservation efforts. \nHistory Bites: \n\nScottish Clearances: In the 18th–19th centuries\, Highland landlords forcibly removed tenant farmers (crofters) to make way for sheep. Many families\, our ancestors came to Canada for new farmland.\nScottish folk feared “cunning folk” and witches. Witch hunts raged from the 16th–18th century. Folk magic survived in beliefs about charms\, second sight\, banshees\, and the bean-nighe (washing woman — an omen of death).\nCeltic Mysticism: Belief in fairies (Sidhe)\, sacred stones\, standing stones\, and tree lore (rowan trees protected homes). Many settlers brought charms and stories with them.\nOutlander Link: Diana Gabaldon’s series is steeped in real Jacobite and Highland history — Claire and Geillis Duncan’s “witchcraft” reflects real fear and fascination with folk healers and midwives.\nRob Easton piper URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/tartan-days-at-the-archives-the-mystical-fair/ LOCATION:The Archives\, 178 McKellar Street\, Glencoe (Southwest Middlesex)\, Ontario\, N0L 1M0\, Canada ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-10-at-4.41.31 PM.png ORGANIZER;CN="Glencoe%20%26%20District%20Historical%20Society":MAILTO:contactus@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250622T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250622T163000 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20250207T193602Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251223T011056Z UID:2971-1750604400-1750609800@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:June 22: Decoration Day Service at St. Mary’s Anglican Church – Napier DESCRIPTION:Here is the report of this special church service and community gathering by Jenny Grainger. \nWe had a wonderful turnout for this year’s Decoration Day at St. Mary’s—Ontario’s oldest surviving church building in Middlesex County! \nBuilt in the 1840s with walnut wood donated by Captain Christopher Beer (who even delayed building his own house to help make it happen!)\, this little church has a big story. \nThanks to the ongoing care of local families—especially the Toohills—St. Mary’s still stands as a place of peace\, memory\, and history. \nIt’s amazing to think that regular services stopped back in 1920\, but the tradition of gathering continues nearly a century later. \nThanks to everyone who joined us! 💐⛪️ \nSt. Mary’s Anglican Church – Napier – 1418 Melwood Drive\, Strathroy\, ON  N7G 3H5. \n  \n\nHistory of St. Mary’s Anglican Church – Napier\, ON\nThe following history is an excerpt from an old service bulletin and the author is unknown.  \nThis church has been standing straight\, fine and true for over one hundred and eighty years.  It stands as a testament to the faith of those who built it\, those who came to regular services\, and to those who worked over the years to keep their church alive and active.  But it is a symbol\, not primarily of their strength and perseverance\, but of the presence of God in their midst. \nThe first settler in this general area was Captain John Charlton in 1825.  In 1829\, Richard\, Thomas\, and Christopher Moyle and their families and Captain Christopher Beer established residences along the river in the Napier area.  In 1831\, Lieutenant Charles Preston and his family came from Cornwall in Upper Canada.  Preston had been granted 100 acres when he commuted his pension for land.  They settled on this property where St. Mary’s Church stands. \nThe first church services were held in Captain Christopher Beer’s house.  Captain Beer’s rank gave him the privilege of conducting the first church services and first burials in the community.  After the congregation became too large\, they moved to the home of Captain Johnson.  When the congregation became too large for his house\, a school was built on this property in 1839 and used for church services.  The log school was built on one acre of land donated by Charles Preston for a church and a cemetery.  Preston also gave three acres of land for a rectory.  \nIn 1841\, the residents of the community sent a petition to the Bishop of Toronto requesting permission and assistance to build a church. The petitioners declared themselves to be generally poor and unable to pay for a frame church to be built but the increase in the congregation was such that the school was no longer large enough. Captain Beer had prepared some walnut lumber to use in building a new house.  However\, when the news came that a church could be built\, he donated this lumber to the church and postponed construction of his own home.  This gift\, which represented a considerable sacrifice\, was well used; the walnut was worked into pews\, wainscotting and the chancel.  It still stands here as a memorial to a man who loved his church and community. \nIn 1860\, the church and cemetery were consecrated by the Right Reverend Benjamin Cronyn\, the Bishop of Huron and the church officially received the name “St. Mary”.  In Ireland\, the Cronyn’s had attended St. Mary’s Church Kilkenny.  This name linked the new land with the old. \nThe last regular weekly service was held on January 29\, 1920 and annual services were initiated in the early 1930’s.  We must be grateful to the residents of this area and especially to the Toohill family for their loving care of St. Mary’s Church.  It is thanks to them that this oldest church building in Middlesex County still exists.  URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/june-22-decoration-day-service-at-st-marys-anglican-church-napier/ LOCATION:St. Mary’s Anglican Church Napier\, 1418 Melwood Drive\, Strathroy\, ON\, N7G 3H5.\, Canada ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-07-at-2.28.50 PM.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250611T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250611T203000 DTSTAMP:20260429T222415 CREATED:20241001T131203Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250621T152253Z UID:2508-1749668400-1749673800@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca SUMMARY:June 11\, 2025 Virtual Tour of the Josiah Henson Museum of African-Canadian History  DESCRIPTION:The Josiah Henson Museum of African-Canadian History  \n\n\n\n\nDate: June 11\, 2025Format: Zoom Livestream from Dresden\, Ontario \nOn the evening of June 11th\, approximately 20 participants gathered—some in person at The Archives enjoying tea and cookies\, others from the comfort of their homes—for a compelling virtual tour of the Josiah Henson Museum of African-Canadian History. Led by curator Steven Cook\, this immersive Zoom event brought to life a deeply moving chapter of Canadian and North American history. \nBroadcast live from the museum in Dresden\, the tour provided a guided walk through the museum’s extensive five-acre property\, featuring the Josiah Henson House\, a sawmill\, three historical buildings\, two cemeteries\, and an Interpretive Centre. The experience was enriched by personal stories\, historical insight\, and preserved artifacts that highlight the courage and resilience of freedom seekers who escaped slavery and found refuge in Canada via the Underground Railroad. \nWe extend our sincere thanks to Steven Cook and the museum team for their dedication and storytelling. We learned about: \n\nThe trans-Atlantic slave trade\n\nSlavery in Ontario \n\n\nThe life and legacy of Josiah Henson \n\n\nThe history and operation of the Underground Railroad \n\n\nEarly Black settlements in Ontario \n\n\n— Mary Simpson\, Glencoe & District Historical Society \n\n\n\n\n\nAn estimated 30\,000 Black refugees from slavery in the United States fled to Canada along the silent tracks of the Underground Railroad – a network of people who aided these refugees as they followed the North Star to freedom. One of these freedom seekers was abolitionist\, Underground Railroad conductor and former slave Josiah Henson.  \nMr. Henson became known as Uncle Tom through his connection to Harriet Beecher Stowe’s 1852 anti-slavery novel\, Uncle Tom’s Cabin.  \n  \n  \nJosiah Henson House\, Dresden\, ON \n  URL:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/event/virtual-tour-of-josiah-henson-museum/ LOCATION:The Archives\, 178 McKellar Street\, Glencoe (Southwest Middlesex)\, Ontario\, N0L 1M0\, Canada ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://glencoehistoricalsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/josiahhenson.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Glencoe%20%26%20District%20Historical%20Society":MAILTO:contactus@glencoehistoricalsociety.ca END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR