Events

Friday, June 12, 2026 was a gift — one of those days when you set out to explore and come home knowing you've made connections that will last. The Heritage Day in North Middlesex brought together some of the most vibrant archivists, artists, and community builders in this region. As a member of the Glencoe and District Historical Society, I was proud to take part. I also wore my Google Guide hat all day, uploading photos to each of these cultural spaces on Google Maps so that future visitors can find them more easily.

🔎 Why do some places vanish while others endure? Join us to explore how geography, transportation, industry, and timing shaped the fate of Middlesex County’s lost communities—and what their stories still tell us today. In this illustrated and engaging talk, local historian Jennifer Grainger explores the rise and fall of these vanished villages. Drawing on maps, photographs, land records, and archaeological clues, she traces where these communities were located, how historians and genealogists research them today, and what—if anything—remains on the landscape.

Join us for our Annual St. Mary’s Service at one of Middlesex County’s most treasured historic landmarks, lovingly preserved since the 1840s.

Built of local walnut—generously donated by Captain Christopher Beer, who even postponed building his own home to support the church—St. Mary’s stands as a testament to dedication, sacrifice, and community vision. Although regular services ended in 1920, the tradition of gathering here has continued for over a century.

Step into a miniature world where imagination meets historical curiosity. Steve Robson will guide visitors through the creative process of using LEGO-style bricks to reconstruct scenes from small towns — whether rooted in historical accuracy, modern-day reflections, or imaginative blends of different eras.

This hands-on approach to local history brings buildings and streetscapes to life, offering a playful yet thoughtful lens on how communities grow and change over time. Attendees will discover how anyone can begin exploring small-town design — choosing a place, picking an era (or mixing a few!), and recreating it one brick at a time.

Join us on Saturday, July 18th, from 10 AM to 2 PM at two locations:

the Archives at 178 McKellar St, Glencoe,

the Parkette at 241A Main Street, where we'll have a prime spot right on Main Street with the car show.

We'll be selling local history books and promoting our upcoming events. Stop by, say hello, buy a membership and browse our selection.

Willey Cemetery, 5267 Gentleman Drive, Ekfrid Township. The Glencoe & District Historical Society, in partnership with the United Empire Loyalists' Association of Canada, invites the public to a commemoration ceremony honouring two veterans of early Canadian and American history — and the family they planted here in Ekfrid Township.

Have you ever been to a powwow? A Powwow is a living celebration of Indigenous culture — a gathering of song, dance, community, tradition, and connection that welcomes people of all backgrounds. Expect spirited drumming, colourful regalia, dancing competitions, and vendors showcasing traditional crafts and foods.

September 25, 26, 2026.  Fair weekend. Go to Glencoe Fair site: https://glencoefair.ca/ The Society always has a booth at the Glencoe Fair staffed by historians Harold Carruthers, Norm McGill and […]

This Zoom session is ideal for:

Anyone researching their family tree
Visitors using Find A Grave who want to understand how to get the most out of it
Community members curious about early cemeteries and pioneer history
People who would like to contribute to online memorial projects
Researchers wanting to learn what the G&DHS Archives can offer

Valrita Fournier is a multi-talented playwright, poet, mystic, novelist, composer, and master of ceremonies. A graduate of the University of Toronto with a degree in English Language and Literature, she won first prize in a one-act play competition with her comedic work Eggs-Actly My Dear!.

Though not a musician by training, Valrita has organized musical and theatrical events at numerous venues including Place Concorde, Mackenzie Hall, WEDS Theatre, church halls, wedding stages, and even a Women’s Day whiskey-tasting book talk at a distillery restaurant.

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