"Tales of pioneer hardship and deprivation have been told many times. Yet still we remember in wonder, that people accomplished so much with so little; that men and women with simple tools, their bare hands, and their own inventiveness cleared the land, drained the swamps, made their own clothing and provided their own food. Through all these difficulties God was with them and they wanted their children educated intellectually and spritually." from Norfolk Street United Church history

Monday, December 23, 2013

New Museum Exhibit to Feature 50 Years of U of G History


GUELPH, Ontario - December 23, 2013 - University of Guelph News Release - Beekeeping, the Branion Plaza cannon and fake poop will all come together as part of an exhibit celebrating the university’s 50th anniversary.
The exhibit, organized by students in U of G’s Museum Project courses, will be on display at the Guelph Civic Museum from early January until the anniversary celebrations in June. On the exhibit’s opening day Jan. 4, Don O’Leary, vice-president (finance and administration), will host a university levee at 2 p.m. at the museum.
Guests may don a beekeeper’s outfit, check out the Gryph mascot and the “cannon,” and view the Sanders portrait, believed to be the only likeness of William Shakespeare painted from life. Also on display will be the “robo-gut,” a lab assembly by Prof. Emma Allen-Vercoe, Molecular and Cellular Biology, that makes synthetic feces for studying gut bacteria.
Touch screens will feature videos of other University research projects.
It has taken more than a year to put together the exhibit, said Sue Bennett, director, university and community relations, who teaches the museum project courses.
“We’ve had three courses, so different students were involved throughout. In the first course, they researched potential ideas. They interviewed people and designed the plan and model for the exhibits in the second course, and in the last course, created the exhibits in studio,” she said.
“So we aren’t moving the cannon. The students created a replica, complete with painting it. They also built displays, including cases for some items, such as skeletons from the Ontario Veterinary College.”
The students, who are all in arts programs, learned about the University, said Bennett.
“They found out about our history in arts and also about our scientific achievements, such as our work with zoonotic diseases -- diseases that transfer from animals to people -- or with DNA barcoding. They also learned about the university’s work in international development. I think in some cases they were surprised at how much the university has done.”
Those lessons will be valuable in their careers, she said.
“They now know the process and all the jobs that go into creating an end product and about all aspects of arts administration. I liked seeing them understand how to make history come alive, bringing meaning to the university and showing what we have done in the past.”
The students made the exhibits in components for ease of transport among venues, so the displays can be reused, all while staying within budget. They spent extra hours outside of the classroom creating the materials.
Bennett hopes community members will visit the exhibit.
“Even if you never attended the university, U of G and the community have always been intrinsically engaged and connected with each other. We share common goals, including developing community, health and wellness, and the environment, and each have a focus on food. This exhibit will show how the university and the community have worked together to change the world.” 

Friday, December 20, 2013

Art Deco and the Decorative Arts in the 1920s and 1930sMontreal

Montreal Eatons' Restaurant on the 9th floor, ca.1931
 
This celebration of Art Deco and the decorative arts was lovingly crafted by the specialists at McGill University's Library.

The original in situ exhibit that accompanied this site was crafted for the 10th World Congress on Art Deco.

Here, visitors can browse through the images from the collection organized into categories that include Bon Voyage, Montreal Leisure, Interior Design, and Book Illustration.

Visitors should not miss The Exhibition area as it features a thematic essay about the famous 1925 Paris Exposition International des Arts Decoratifs et Industriels Modernes, which set the design world on fire with its promises of modernity and beautiful living.

Visit the site at: http://digital.library.mcgill.ca/artdeco/index.php


>From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout 1994-2012. http://scout.wisc.edu/

Monday, December 16, 2013

Government of Canada Launches New Call for Proposals for Projects to Conserve Canada's Historic Places


Nathaniel Dett British Methodist Episcopal Church
Niagara Falls, Ontario

OTTAWA, December 16, 2013 /Canada NewsWire/ - The Government of Canada is continuing to support communities in the preservation of the country's national historic sites. The Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Canada's Environment Minister and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, today announced the Government's renewed commitment to Parks Canada's National Historic Sites Cost-Sharing Program with the launch of a call for proposals under the program.

"Since 2009, our Government has funded a total of 132 projects across the country for the conservation of non-federally owned national historic sites," said Minister Aglukkaq. "Through these projects, we have injected $17.7 million into local communities, while recognizing the importance of conserving and presenting our history for future generations of Canadians."

Through this program, up to 50% of eligible costs incurred in the conservation and presentation of a national historic site are reimbursed, up to a maximum of $100,000. For the year 2013-2014, 17 projects were funded throughout the country.

"The success of this unique program is the result of a strong and efficient partnership with local organizations," added Minister Aglukkaq. "I heartily invite owners of national historic sites across the country to submit their conservation proposals to help us collectively continue protecting and presenting Canada's history, while at the same time stimulating the economy and tourism, and developing local know-how."

Eligible recipients are non-profit organizations, aboriginal organizations and other levels of government that are owners or eligible lessees of national historic sites. The funded projects aim to address the most critical needs of the national historic sites such as stabilization, restoration and repairs to structures of national historic significance. Submissions must be received before Jan 27, 2014.

Parks Canada works to ensure Canada's historic and natural heritage is protected and, through a network of 44 national parks, 167 national historic sites and four national marine conservation areas, invites Canadians and people around the world to engage in personal moments of inspiring discovery at our country's treasured natural and historic places.

Friday, December 13, 2013

Government of Canada Invites Canadians to "Have Your Say" On Canada's 150th Celebrations


TORONTO, December 11, 2013 - The Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, today launched pan-Canadian consultations to seek Canadians' views on how they would like to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation.
“Canada's 150th celebrations will give us the opportunity to reflect on all the things that make Canada the united, prosperous and free country it is today,” said Minister Glover. “I invite all Canadians across our great country to tell us how they would like to celebrate in 2017.”
The Government of Canada will undertake extensive consultations, with meetings being planned throughout Canada.  The consultations kicked off today with a roundtable in Toronto, where Minister Glover met with community leaders to discuss their perspective on Canada's approaching milestone anniversary. Additional roundtables in other communities will be announced at a later date.

At the same time, Canadians are invited to participate in the consultations through an online questionnaire at Canada.ca/150 or Canada150.gc.ca.

Over the next four years, on the Road to 2017, celebrations will mark key historic milestones that have defined our country.  In 2014, commemorations will include the centennial of the start of the First World War, the 75th anniversary of the start of the Second World War, the bicentennial of Sir George-Étienne Cartier's birth and the 150th anniversary of the Charlottetown and Québec Conferences.

To learn more about the commemorations leading up to Canada 150 and to participate in the online forum visit Canada.ca/150 or Canada150.gc.ca.

Canadian Museum of History Act Receives Royal Assent



OTTAWA, December 12, 2013 /Canada NewsWire/ - The Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, is pleased to announce that the legislation to create the Canadian Museum of History passed the Senate and received Royal Assent. Bill C-7, which amends the Museums Act, changes the name and mandate of the Canadian Museum of Civilization Corporation.

"I am delighted that, by the time we celebrate Canada's 150th birthday in 2017, Canadians will have the Canadian Museum of History to learn more about our history and the achievements that define who we are as Canadians," said Minister Glover.

The progressive transformation of the museum will take place over the next four years and will provide a number of opportunities to celebrate Canada's history in the lead-up to 2017. More than half of the Canadian Museum of Civilization's permanent galleries will be renovated.

The Canadian Museum of History is also leading the establishment of a network that will connect history museums across this country for the benefit of all Canadians. Through these partnerships, the Canadian Museum of History will make our national collections accessible to as many Canadians as possible.

The Government of Canada is providing a one-time investment of $25 million to assist the museum in its transformation.

The purpose of the Canadian Museum of History is to enhance Canadians' knowledge, understanding and appreciation of events, experiences, people and objects that reflect and have shaped Canada's history and identity, and also to enhance their awareness of world history and cultures.

Saturday, December 7, 2013

CBC Digital Archives: On This Day



The Canadian Broadcasting Company (CBC) celebrates and documents all aspects of Canadian life and its online resources are most useful and entertaining.

This corner of its Digital Archives site, On This Day, is definitely worth a close look.

From here, visitors can scan 366 days of key moments in Canadian history. Each day has a particularly unique event, complete with a short video clip, a Did You Know? bonus feature, credits, and a citation.

If so desired, visitors can search all of the features via the "All Clips From This Topic" tab.

December is a particularly rich month as it includes investigations into the ban on happy hours in Ontario and the canonization of the first Canadian-born saint.

Visit the site at: http://www.cbc.ca/archives/onthisday/december.html

>From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout 1994-2012. http://scout.wisc.edu/

Thursday, November 28, 2013

Experts to Debate, Discuss Canadian Portrait of Shakespeare

© All rights reserved.
"Sanders Portrait." Canadian Conservation Institute
Department of Canadian Heritage, 2001.

GUELPH, Ontario - November 27, 2013 - University of Guelph News Release - The face of William Shakespeare and its ties to the University of Guelph are the focus of an unprecedented conference being held in Toronto this week.

“Look Here Upon This Picture: A Symposium on the Sanders Portrait of Shakespeare” will share evidence gathered by U of G experts and others showing that a Canadian man owns the only portrait of William Shakespeare painted while the playwright was alive. Sanders Portrait of Shakespeare

Thought to depict the Bard at age 39, the Sanders portrait is owned by Ottawa resident Lloyd Sullivan, a friend and supporter of U of G.

“The University of Guelph has played a key role in the analysis of the Sanders portrait,”
said president Alastair Summerlee.

“After many years of effort, we are now prepared to share an insider’s view of how this research can enhance the world’s understanding of the impact of the Bard.”

It’s believed that Shakespeare sat for an ancestor of Sullivan’s, an actor and painter named John Sanders, in 1603. The portrait was held in the family for 400 years and at one time was stored under Sullivan’s grandmother’s bed. Sullivan inherited it from his mother in 1972.

The Sanders portrait was the centrepiece of a months-long exhibit at Guelph’s Macdonald Stewart Art Centre in 2007. It’s also the signature image of U of G’s Canadian Adaptations of Shakespeare Project (CASP), the world’s largest and most complete website about Shakespeare’s cultural influence.

CASP was founded and directed by Guelph English professor Daniel Fischlin, who has spent the past decade helping to authenticate the portrait and trace family connections between Shakespeare and Sullivan’s ancestors.

“We embarked on this journey to find the truth,” Fischlin said. Referring to scientific, historical and genealogical evidence, he said, “The cumulative weight of it is unprecedented and makes the portrait the rarest of all art commodities: the only image of Shakespeare painted during his lifetime that has survived the period. No portrait comes close or has faced the same degree of interdisciplinary scholarly scrutiny.”

The symposium, sponsored by U of G and CASP, will be held Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Munk School of Global Affairs in Toronto.

Speakers will discuss the history of the portrait and Shakespeare’s presence in Canada. Besides Summerlee and Fischlin, the symposium will include U of G professors John Kissick, director of the School of Fine Art and Music and a respected painter; and Robert Enright, University Research Professor in Art Criticism and one of Canada’s most prominent cultural journalists.

Panel discussions and talks will also feature journalists, scholars, gallery directors, museum curators, filmmakers, historians and costume designers discussing everything from the portrait’s provenance and context to its value and legacy.

“It’s in the best public interest to move this portrait into the public domain where ongoing research and debate can continue,” Summerlee said.

“Canadians also should be able to access this wonderful image in a properly curated setting. We hope that this symposium plays a prominent role in making that happen.”

More than a dozen forensic tests have confirmed that the Sanders painting dates from around 1600 and has remained unaltered. They include tests of ink from a hand-written inscription on a label identifying the subject as William Shakespeare and listing his birth and death dates.

Working with British genealogist Pam Hinks, Fischlin and his team have uncovered relations between Sullivan and Shakespeare and his closest associates that extend back thirteen generations. With Hinks, Fischlin and his research team have visited gravesites, uncovered and transcribed historical documents, examined major historical archives in the U.K., and interviewed Sullivan’s relatives. The full results of that work will be outlined at the symposium.

Fischlin learned about the Sanders portrait while seeking original Canadian adaptations of Shakespeare for CASP. He contacted Sullivan and obtained the right to use the image.

In 2006, the portrait was part of “Searching for Shakespeare,” an international exhibit by the National Portrait Gallery in London that toured North America. It joined the gallery’s famed Chandos painting and four other early “contenders” purporting to represent Shakespeare.

The Sanders portrait was also the subject of the 2001 book Shakespeare’s Face and of award-winning Canadian documentarian Anne Henderson’s 2008 film Battle of Wills.

Friday, November 15, 2013

CBC’S “MURDOCH MYSTERIES” Films at Wellington County Heritage Building

photo credit: Mike Hume via Flickr

GUELPH, Ontario November 15, 2013 An upcoming episode of the CBC hit television programme “Murdoch Mysteries,” was filmed in downtown Guelph today. Production shut down Douglas Street and the exterior of County’s Child Care office was the central location for the shoot. The heritage building was used as a 1900’s piano store. The television crew transformed Douglas Street into a busy marketplace.

“To be a top choice for location filming is more than an honour, it’s an economic contribution,” said Jana Reichert, County Economic Development Officer. “Crews shop and eat locally, bringing business to the community.

Wellington County has many diverse shooting options for production companies. We welcome future partnerships with the entertainment industry.”

“Murdoch Mysteries” is a Canadian drama television series, featuring Yannick Bisson as William Murdoch, a police detective working in Toronto in the early 1900’s. The television series is based on the series of novels by Maureen Jennings.

“The County would like to thank the production team at “Murdoch Mysteries,” commented Andrea Ravensdale, County Communications Manager. “Filming did not affect County business and this experience was positive for both parties. The County would welcome the opportunity to work together again.”

This episode of “Murdoch Mysteries will air on CBC in February.

Friday, October 18, 2013

“Getting Hooked on Harness Brass, Barn Lanterns and License Plates"

Bert Black's Collection at the
Wellington County Museum and Archives

ABOYNE, Ontario - October 15, 2013 – Ornate, functional and fun, a collection of harness brass, barn lanterns and license plates will hook your attention this fall. Bert Black is the third collector to be featured in the Wellington County Collects exhibit that showcases the unique collections of Wellington County residents on display in the Wellington County Archives.

“From hundreds of different objects, these three collections highlight a selection of pieces that our third collector loves the most,” Amy Dunlop, Curatorial Assistant, said. “There is a little bit of everything and each object tells a part of Bert Black’s story. That is what makes this exhibition a wonderful experience for the public.”

“In my collection, I have over 120 horse brasses, more than 150 license plates (dating from 1917 to the 1970s) and a variety of Wellington County-made lanterns, including railroad and construction lanterns,” Bert said. “Why do I collect? Nostalgia...preserving articles that were used or part of days gone by is what interests me.”

Bert Black’s collection will be on display until January 5, 2014

If you’d like to bring your collection to the Museum, please contact Amy Dunlop at: 519.846.0916 x 5232 or amyd@wellington.ca to get your name on the list.

The Wellington County Museum and Archives is located on Wellington Road #18 between Fergus and Elora. Admission is by donation. It is open weekdays from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm and 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

Friday, October 4, 2013

Canadian company uses Facebook campaign for new obituary and memorial website featuring partnership with CanadaHelps.org

theObituaries.ca asks Canadians: How do you want to be remembered?

OSHAWA, Ontario, October 3, 2013 /Canada NewsWire/ - Most of us have probably paused at one time or another to reflect on our lives while wondering how people might remember us after we are gone. theObituaries.ca is inviting Canadians to think about just that through a new Facebook app. This app was developed in conjunction with the launch of the organization's advanced pre-plan, obituary and memorial website designed to build a national online registry with all the services needed to assist those affected by the loss of a loved one.

"Unfortunately death is a fact of life. By asking people to reflect on their life and how they would like to be remembered through our Facebook campaign and other popular social networking sites, we think people might be surprised by what they learn about themselves, their family and friends", says John Cowie, a partner at theObituaries.ca and President of Adlure Media.

theObituaries.ca has everything families and friends need to respectfully honour a loved one. Beautiful obituary announcements that include photos, service details and maps; the ability to offer condolences privately, publicly and via social media; make secure charitable donations;deliver flowers or sympathy cards and more. Individuals can Pre-Plan announcements during a less stressful time; create and post Obituaries with many photos and unlimited text; and/or ensure there is a lasting online Memorial that perpetually honours the loved one.

An affordable integrated solution

The value for someone signing up with theObituaries.ca is that regardless of when the product is selected, there is only a one-time fee of $125. An individual creates a Pre-Planned Obituary that transitions to an Obituary Announcement, and then automatically converts to a Memorial without any additional fees. The assigned owners of the Memorial are able to update and refresh the content anytime, from anywhere. The fully integrated site includes social media platforms and easy sharing tools, group email sharing, Facebook wall posts, Twitter and even LinkedIn for business related network sharing and awareness.

Partnership with CanadaHelps.org facilitates fast and easy donations

theObituaries.ca is a feature-rich website. One of its key features is its partnership with CanadaHelps.org. When honouring the deceased, families often suggest donations be made to a specific charity. Those viewing an obituary or memorial on theObituaries.ca are able to easily and securely donate to any of the more than 85,000 registered Canadian charities.and instantly receive a tax receipt by e-mail.

"We're excited to partner with theObituaries.ca to help make it easier for people to make donations in honour of a loved one," said Marina Glogavac, President & CEO, CanadaHelps.org. "Since 2000, through our web site we have facilitated over $300 million in charitable donations to over 13,000 charities. We are all about making giving simple which takes on an even greater importance during the difficult time of losing a friend, family member and loved one." "CanadaHelps.org was the only partner for us to truly consider," added James Stewart, Founder & CEO of theObituaries.ca. "They make 'in memory of donations' easy for our customers."

Jody Rowland placed a Memorial on theObituaries.ca and reached more people more quickly

Jody Rowland, a carpenter in Gravenhurst, Ontario, was considering placing a memorial in his local newspaper to mark the 10-year anniversary of the passing of his father. Then he thought about who he wanted to share it with and the best way to reach them. As a military veteran, his father had lived in many parts of Canada, far beyond the reach of his local newspaper. A conversation with Randy Smart, a member of his baseball team and co-founder of theObituaries.ca, provided Jody with the forum and reach he was looking for.

"We set up a beautiful memorial for my father that has been shared with his loved ones who live across the country, Jody says. " And over time we plan to continue to update the memorial with more stories and photos including an early one of him in his Royal Canadian Navy uniform."

Having lost his father at a young age and with a wife in the life insurance business, Jody is very aware of the importance of planning for one's passing, which now has him very interested in theObituaries.ca's Pre-plan Obituary service.

"My wife and I definitely plan to do this. I want to make all the arrangements in advance, have my obituary written and ready to post so I know exactly how it is going to be seen and that nothing will be left to chance or get lost in translation."

Inspiration behind theObituaries.ca

Inspired by personal loss and the challenges his family faced when trying to ensure friends, coworkers and communities were aware and afforded the opportunity to pay their respects, Oshawa resident, James Stewart, decided there had to be a better way. Along with his three partners, he launched theObituaries.ca. The original concept was a website for consumers, however the project grew to include funeral professionals and the services families need to plan and receive support.

"With nearly 2,000 funeral homes in Canada and approximately 280,000 families affected by deaths each year, and the fact that many funeral services occur within 1 to 3 days of the passing, sharing announcements quickly and effectively is critical," said Stewart, Founder and CEO of theObituaries.ca. "We make it easier for funeral homes and families to tastefully inform more people, more quickly, with less effort and cost than available elsewhere."

theObituatries.ca makes it easier for funeral homes

In addition to the complete solution for consumers, theObituaries.ca also provides funeral homes with a free professional, integrated and customized web site or they will work with a funeral home's existing site to leverage their services.

"If we help funeral homes with their technology needs, they should be able to focus more time on what they do best - helping families, when they need it most," added Randy Smart, Co-Founder and COO of theObituaries.ca."

Based in Oshawa, Ontario, theObituaries.ca is an all-Canadian company founded in 2012. The site and web services are designed to provide families with affordable, respectable obituaries and memorials that families can own and manage in perpetuity, sharing their family history with future generations.

Thursday, September 26, 2013

Chapbooks Reveal Unhappy Fairy Tale Endings

University of Guelph library holds more than 600 titles

Seated: PhD student Sierra Dye. Standing, left to right: Post-doc Andrew Ross, librarian Melissa McAfee, visiting PhD student Dara Folan from the National University of Ireland and Guelph undergrad Jeremy Dechert.

GUELPH, Ontario - September 25, 2013 at Guelph by Andrew Vowles

Happily ever after? Not really, says Adrienne Briggs, a recent Guelph history grad. Fairy tale endings are for Disney. To learn about the original and often graphic stories of Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella and the like, you might look over some of the hundreds of Scottish chapbooks in the U of G library archives.

That’s what Briggs and other students did earlier this year for a pilot project in their U of G history class that will see old-time chapbooks meet modern communications technology.

Chapbooks were popular booklets containing songs, ballads, poems and short stories written for the increasingly literate Scottish masses of the mid-1700s to mid-1800s, says history post-doc Andrew Ross. Between eight and 24 pages in length, they covered such topics as romance, travel, comedy, politics, fairy tales and social customs.

The books were sold town to town by peddlers, or chapmen, says Ross. Eventually, chapbooks were supplanted by newspapers and other periodicals....read more

Saturday, September 21, 2013

Sheet Music From Canada's Past

Sheet Music From Canada's Past

If you love Canadian history and music, you will most find this site most fetching. Created by the Library and Archives Canada, the site brings together intriguing and historically important sheet music from the past 150 years.

The collection exists due to the diligence of Helmut Kallmann, a young CBC music librarian who began to collect sheet music in the early 1950s. Today, the archives contain over 20,000 pieces of sheet music, many of which are available online. In addition, the site offers a handful of musical clips that represent pre-1921 Canadian musicality.

Visitors can Search Sheet Music to get started or browse the Gallery area. Here visitors can look around via themes, including Colleges, Flowers, Summer Sports, and Winter.

It is worth noting that although we reviewed the English site, the archives are also available in French.

Visit the site at: http://www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/sheetmusic/

>From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout 1994-2012. http://scout.wisc.edu/

Sunday, September 1, 2013

Library and Archives Canada and Canadiana.org partner on digitization, online publication of millions of images from archival microfilm collection

OTTAWA, Ontario August 29, 2013 - Library and Archives Canada (LAC) and Canadiana.org have strengthened their long-standing partnership to considerably increase access to Canada’s documentary heritage by way of a large-scale digitization partnership involving about 60 million images from numerous collections. Over the coming years, this partnership will triple LAC’s digital content on the Web, and allow Canadians to access tens of millions of additional images regardless of where they live, at no charge.

Canadiana.org is a not-for-profit charitable organization dedicated to building Canada’s digital preservation infrastructure and providing the broadest possible access to Canadian documentary heritage. Members of Canadiana.org include a Canada-wide network of public and research libraries that share tools and capacity, lead innovative open-access initiatives, and plan the future of digital preservation in Canada.

LAC’s 10-year agreement with this longstanding partner covers the digitization, indexing and description of millions of personal, administrative and government documents, as well as land grants, war diaries and photographs. There will be no change for those Canadians who wish to access these collections at LAC.

Canadiana.org also will also transcribe millions of handwritten pages, and create related descriptions. Enhanced search tools facilitating access to these records will be available to Canadians free of charge at LAC, as well as at hundreds of subscribing libraries in regions across Canada. For a small monthly fee, Canadians will also be able to use the enhanced tools online to conduct advanced searches without leaving home.

Friday, August 9, 2013

On the Hunt for a Missing Piece of Canadian History - Parks Canada Continues Search for Lost Franklin Ships

OTTAWA, August 9, 2013 /Canada NewsWire/ - The Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Canada's Environment Minister and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, today announced that Parks Canada Underwater Archaeologists will return to Canada's Arctic to continue an expedition of international significance; the continuing search for the lost vessels HMS Erebus and HMS Terror, from the ill-fated Sir John Franklin voyage.

"Our government is pleased to pull together for a fifth season both existing and new Canadian partners and researchers to continue the search for HMS Erebus and HMS Terror," said Minister Aglukkaq. "Being from Nunavut, I am especially excited about this project, as it will collectively increase our understanding of early Arctic exploration and its impact on Canada's development as a nation, while showcasing the beauty and unique culture of the Arctic."

The search capacity this year will be the most comprehensive yet. Beginning around August 10th and continuing for almost 6 weeks - the longest amount of continuous time on the water to date - Parks Canada will be joined by a broad array of partners for a fifth season in search for the historic shipwrecks. This year, the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) and Defence Research & Development Canada (DRDC) will lend their expertise and enthusiasm to the project, which also includes the Arctic Research Foundation, the Government of Nunavut, Canadian Hydrographic Service, Canadian Coast Guard, the Canadian Ice Service, and Canadian Space Agency.

The Parks Canada-led survey team will conduct the underwater search from aboard the Arctic Research Foundation's Research Vessel Martin Bergmann for the full 6 weeks or so, and will be further supported during that time by the Canadian Coast Guard Ship Sir Wilfrid Laurier for an additional week. The team's traditional side-scan sonar surveying method will be boosted this year with the addition of a military-grade, side-scan sonar provided by DRDC, and by a new autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) and remotely-operated vehicle (ROV), recently acquired by Parks Canada.

As with all past surveys, the data acquired will be shared among partnering organizations, which contributes to important priorities like safe navigation and environmental knowledge of the Canadian Arctic.

"I am proud of the incredible commitment, research capability and momentum this team continues to harness from so many valuable partners each year," added Minister Aglukkaq. "Having already covered more than 800 km2, the team is narrowing their search on the world's most elusive shipwrecks, while systematically surveying Canada's vast and largely uncharted Arctic waters. Weather permitting, this year's search will significantly build upon the important scientific and archaeological understanding in this fascinating part of Canada's history, and geography."

History of the 1845 Franklin Expedition and his Lost Ships HMS Erebus and HMS Terror

On May 19, 1845, the Royal Navy ships HMS Erebus and HMS Terror departed Greenhithe, England on a much-heralded Arctic expedition in search of a Northwest Passage. Under the command of Sir John Franklin, with Captain Francis Rawdon Crozier second in command, the expedition's two ships set out with a total complement of 134 officers and men. HMS Erebus and HMS Terror were converted bomb vessels of 378 and 331 tons respectively and both had already seen prior service in polar exploration. They were stoutly-built and soundly reinforced for operation in the ice, equipped with novel auxiliary-steam screw propulsion systems, fitted expressly for the expedition, and lavishly provisioned for a voyage of up to three years expected duration. Sir John Franklin's orders were to traverse the passage and return to England without delay via the Pacific. The expedition was also expected to conduct a variety of zoological, botanical, magnetic and geological surveys.

The last Europeans to have contact with HMS Erebus and HMS Terror were the crews of two whaling vessels, the Enterprise and Prince of Wales. Conversation during this chance meeting in August 1845, between the expedition leaders and the Captains of the whaling ships, indicated that Franklin was waiting for an opportunity to cross Baffin Bay to Lancaster Sound. However, after entering the eastern Arctic Archipelago later that season and enjoying initial success, the promising expedition soon began to fatally unravel. Indeed, except for occasional encounters with the Inuit, the crews of the vessels would never be seen alive again.

The disappearance of the Franklin expedition set off a massive search effort in the Arctic and the broad circumstances of the expedition's fate were not revealed until 1859 when Lt. William Hobson of the steam yacht Fox, a vessel privately chartered by the indomitable Lady Jane Franklin, found a sombre message left in a cairn on Victory Point, King William Island.

The message revealed that both ships had become trapped in ice in late 1846 and had remained so for approximately one and half years. It indicated Franklin had died on June 11, 1847, while an additional 23 crew members had similarly perished under unknown circumstances. On April 22 1848, the 105 remaining survivors deserted the ships and recorded their intention to proceed on foot in the direction of Back's Fish River. None would survive; the entire complement of both ships perished and HMS Erebus and HMS Terror were lost to the ice. While the message revealed the general vicinity of the two vessels at the time of their abandonment, neither wreck location is presently known.

In 1992, the Government of Canada declared the missing wrecks to be a national historic site. This designation came about as a result of their association with Franklin's last expedition, and their role in the history of exploration of Canada's north and the development of Canada as a nation.

Wednesday, July 31, 2013

The War of 1812 at the Nova Scotia Archives

The War of 1812 began in June 1812, when the United States of America declared war on the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland — only three decades after the rebellious Thirteen Colonies had achieved their independence from Great Britain in the War of the American Revolution.

The declaration of war in 1812 meant that regardless of their proximity to or relationships with their neighbour to the south, all the remaining British North American colonies — Nova Scotia, Cape Breton Island (then separate from Nova Scotia), New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Lower Canada (Quebec) and Upper Canada (Ontario) were automatically at war with the United States.

The impact of the war in British North America was experienced mostly in Upper Canada and on the Great Lakes but the other colonies, including Nova Scotia, also had a role to play, primarily at sea. This activity was led by the Royal Navy from its North Atlantic Squadron base at Halifax, joined by privateer vessels from home ports along the Atlantic coast and Bay of Fundy.

The War of 1812 was part of a much larger European struggle which ended with the Treaty of Ghent, signed on 24 December 1814 and ratified by the United Kingdom six days later. News travelled slowly in those days, however, and it took a long time for sailing vessels carrying mail and newspapers to cross the North Atlantic in winter. As a result, the United States did not sign the treaty until February 1815 — and in the meantime unknowingly continued the hostilities, with a significant victory at the Battle of New Orleans in January.

Explore these resources on their website to learn more about Nova Scotia’s involvement in the War of 1812:

Thursday, July 18, 2013

Canadian War Museum mourns the passing of Alex Colville

OTTAWA, July 17, 2013 /Canada NewsWire/ - The Canadian War Museum joins all Canadians in mourning the passing of Alex Colville, one of the country's most accomplished and celebrated artists. Mr. Colville's exceptional work as an official war artist during the Second World War is especially prized at the War Museum, where it continues to enhance public understanding of human conflict in general and Canada's wartime experience in particular. The Museum is currently planning a special exhibition of his works to honour his memory.

The Museum's Beaverbrook War Art collection includes over 340 of Mr. Colville's oil paintings, watercolours and sketches from that era. The holdings include iconic works such as Infantry, near Nijmegen, currently on loan to the Winnipeg Art Gallery; and Bodies in a Grave, Belsen, which Mr. Colville painted after visiting the Nazi concentration camp soon after its liberation in 1945.

"Alex Colville's genius as a war artist stemmed from his ability to capture the human dimension of armed conflict through his creative interpretation of what he saw and experienced," said Laura Brandon, an art historian and Acting Director of Research at the Canadian War Museum. "His work will forevermore enhance our understanding of war in general, and the service and sacrifice of Canadians who served overseas during Second World War."

Mr. Colville's work was featured prominently in the 2005 War Museum exhibition Art and War - Australia, Britain, and Canada in the Second World War, an international production marking the 60th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. In 2000, he was well represented in the travelling exhibition Canvas of War, Masterpieces from the Canadian War Museum. That year, the War Museum also displayed a selection of his paintings in Colville at War: Watercolours, 1944-1945.

Alex Colville enlisted in the Canadian Infantry in 1942. In 1944 he was appointed an official war artist and painted in England, France, Holland and Germany. The bleak existentialist view of the world reflected in his later paintings has been attributed to his wartime experience.

The Canadian War Museum is Canada's national museum of military history. Its mission is to promote public understanding of Canada's military history in its personal, national, and international dimensions.

Friday, July 5, 2013

Opening of Anne Frank - A History for Today Exhibition at Régiment de la Chaudière Museum

LÉVIS, Quebec, July 4, 2013 /Canada NewsWire/ - The Honourable Steven Blaney, Member of Parliament for Lévis, Bellechasse and Les Etchemins, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Minister for La Francophonie, today took part in the opening of the Anne Frank - A History for Today exhibition. He joined representatives of the Régiment de la Chaudière to open the exhibition, which will be on display at the Régiment de la Chaudière Museum from July to September.

"It gives me great pleasure to be here for the opening of this exhibition which not only portrays a young girl who has touched hearts around the world, but will enhance Lévis residents' awareness about the role played by Canadian soldiers in the Second World War," said Minister Blaney. "The Régiment de la Chaudière played an important role in this conflict, for example when it contributed to liberate the Netherlands. We must never forget the sacrifices made by these men from our area."

The exhibition, which presents the life of Anne Frank, highlights the values of democracy, tolerance, mutual respect and human rights, and their significance in society. It also touches on the duty of remembrance.

This travelling exhibition was developed by Anne Frank House in the Netherlands and has been shown in more than 60 countries, on five continents, since the early 1990s. It is presented an average of 300 times a year in 60 different languages. Canada is one of the 18 countries that will host the exhibition in 2013.

2013 is the Year of the Korean War Veteran. Canada proudly remembers the heroes of the Korean War and their brave fight to uphold freedom, democracy and the rule of law. To learn more about the Korean War, please visit veterans.gc.ca.

Thursday, July 4, 2013

INSIGHTS’ at Wellington County Museum and Archives

ABOYNE, Ontario - July 3, 2013 – Celebrate local art at Wellington County Museum and Archives (WCMA) this summer!

One of the longest running juried art exhibitions in Ontario, Insights returns to the Museum providing new experiences for all art lovers. Presented by the Elora Arts Council and the Museum, the display runs until September 1st.

“This exhibit provides artists with an opportunity to showcase their creativity in an outstanding venue alongside 50 others from the area,” Susan Dunlop, Curator said. “With over 200 people attending the opening reception last Wednesday, it proves to be one of the Museum’s most popular exhibitions.”

From over 300 submissions, 97 pieces were chosen by jurors Sara Angelucci, Yael Brotman and Barry McCarthy.

Local prize winners include:

SECOND PRIZE – ELLEN LANGLANDS MEMORIAL AWARD
Julia Vandepolder, Hillsburgh
Stitch and Weave #2 (medium oil on panel)

DRAWING AWARD
Gail Root, Rockwood
Early Morning, Banderos Bay (chalk pastel)

FIBRE AWARD
Melanie Morel, West Garafraxa Twp
Winter in the Forest (weaving)

Wellington County Museum and Archives is located on Wellington Road 18 between Fergus and Elora. The galleries are open weekdays from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm and 12:00 to 4:00 pm on weekends and holidays.

Friday, June 28, 2013

Official Opening of the Poor House Cemetery at the Wellington County Museum

ABOYNE, Ontario – June 28, 2013 - The Wellington County Museum and Archives (WCMA) has officially opened the Poor House Cemetery Exhibit. This outdoor exhibit explores the stories of the men, women and children that lived and died at the County of Wellington’s House of Industry and Refuge.

One hundred and thirty-six years after the Poorhouse burial ground received its first burial (1877), the Cemetery officially opened as an interpretive site and outdoor exhibit of the Wellington County Museum and Archives. It is here that 271 men, woman and children who lived and died at the Poorhouse between 1877 and 1946 are being honoured.

“Wellington County is very proud of this exhibit. WCMA staff have restored this important burial place to its original state and have created a wonderful spot for patrons to visit and quietly reflect,” said Warden Chris White. “I encourage residents to visit this exhibit. It’s a very important part of our local history.”

A staircase leads down into the site from the Cataract Trailway, and a stone gravel path winds through the cemetery to the Cairn where the names of those buried have been listed on new panels. QR codes have been used to link people to more information on those buried at the Cemetery and benches invite people to sit and reflect.

“I’d like to thank everyone who helped get this exhibit ready to open today,” commented Janice Hindley, WCMA Administrator. “This project has been a labour of love for the WCMA staff. It’s important to honour the people buried here and share their stories.”

Goals of the Cemetery Exhibit:

...Restore the overgrown, neglected site to a proper Cemetery
...Honour those buried here and tell their stories
...Create a natural, peaceful place where people can reflect on this important story in Wellington County’s social history

The Wellington County Museum and Archives, located on Wellington Road #18 between Fergus and Elora.

Friday, June 21, 2013

Two heroes in the fight for Canada commemorated on new War of 1812 stamps

(CNW Group/Canada Post)

OTTAWA, June 20, 2013 /Canada NewsWire/ - Today, Canada Post unveiled two stamps honouring the daring exploits of two legendary Canadian heroes Laura Secord and Charles de Salaberry. These stamps are the second in a series commemorating the War of 1812.

Laura Secord and Charles de Salaberry's pivotal actions helped to secure this country's distinct identity when its future was threatened in a conflict with the Americans. Secord braved a 30 kilometer walk through the Canadian wilderness trek to warn a British outpost of an impending American attack. As commander of a group of fighters in Lower Canada, de Salaberry's strategy and resourcefulness enabled his outnumbered Canadian force to repel an American invasion aimed at capturing Montréal.

"The events of the War of 1812 helped define the territory that would become Canada," said the Honourable Steven Fletcher, Minister of State (Transport). "Charles de Salaberry and Laura Secord both played a vital role in halting invading forces through courage and conviction. They are truly Canadian heroes and I am thrilled they are being honoured for the important role they played in the Canadian victory of the War of 1812."

"Canada Post creates stamps that tell Canada's story. They serve as reminders of the fabric of our past," said Deepak Chopra, President and CEO, Canada Post. "Today's commemorative stamps celebrate the bold initiative and determination of two people whose efforts should not be forgotten."

In June 1813, a group of American officers billeted themselves at the home of Laura Secord in Queenston, Ontario, near Niagara Falls. Secord overheard the officers discussing plans to attack a British outpost. Loyal and determined, Secord slipped away in secret to warn the British of the American plans. Secord took a cross-country route of more than 30 kilometres to avoid enemy sentries. She found the local British commander, Lieutenant James Fitzgibbon and her breathless tale allowed the commander to position his men and First Nations warriors to ambush the enemy and capture more than 400 American soldiers.

Just a few months later, in the fall of 1813, approximately 4,000 American soldiers advanced toward Montréal. Lieutenant-Colonel Charles de Salaberry, commander of the outnumbered Canadian and First Nation fighters, anticipated the invaders would cross the Châteauguay River 50 km southwest of Montréal. De Salaberry used the swampland and trees of the area to his advantage. He ordered his men to build barricades of felled trees and then spread his forces across the area. When the attack came, de Salaberry ordered his men to give the impression of a large, hidden Canadian force. After four hours of fighting, the Americans retreated and the victory of the Battle of the Châteauguay saved Montréal from attack.

Though the backgrounds of the two stamps merge at the perforations, differences in each stamp's background point to details in each story. The forest in the Secord stamp is the green of summer, while the landscape behind de Salaberry is the gold of autumn. The fallen trees seen beside de Salaberry hints at the useful barricades he had constructed. Over Secord's shoulder, a beaver dam references the destination of her pivotal journey.

About the stamps

The two Permanent™ War of 1812 stamps measure 40 mm x 32 mm with 13+ perforations and are printed by the Canadian Bank Note company on Tullis Russell paper using lithography in five colours. They are general tagged on three sides. The Official First Day Cover will be cancelled in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. The stamps are available in panes of 16 stamps. More information about Canadian stamps and photos of these new stamps are available on Canada Post's website under About Us/News. You can purchase stamps and other products at participating post offices or order them online by following the links at canadapost.ca/collecting. Order from Canada and the U.S. by calling toll-free 1-800-565-4362; from other countries, call 902-863-6550.

Thursday, June 20, 2013

Canada's History Society Unveils Shortlist for Top History Educators for 2013

25 Classrooms That Are Inspiring Our Kids' Interest in History

WINNIPEG, June 20, 2013 /Canada NewsWire/ - In fully wireless schools and classrooms, students are 'living history' by using tablets to create their own virtual museums that document Canada's past and present. Some elementary and secondary school students are creating blogs and videos about their discussions with First Nation leaders and the historic background to contemporary challenges they're facing. Still others are re-creating CSI-styled crime scenes complete with authentic artifacts to help them better understand the past.

Deborah Morrison, CEO of Canada's History Society remarked,

"Canada's most passionate educators are now turning to social media, cyberspace and digitized projects to create interactive and novel lesson plans that transform their classrooms into time machines and transport students hundreds of years into the past. Through these awards our goal is to inspire more teachers to 'do' history and to create more inventive ways to engage their students in learning about Canada's past and present."

For their innovative and interactive teaching approaches, Canada's History Society has selected the following educators as finalists for the 2013 Governor General's History Award for Excellence in Teaching.

Connie Wyatt Anderson - Oscar Lathlin Collegiate - Opaskwayak Cree Nation, MB
Nicole Aucoin - Horizon Alternative Senior School - Toronto, ON
Rachel Collishaw - Glebe Collegiate Institute - Ottawa, ON
Romy Cooper and Graeme Cotton - General Gordon Elementary - Vancouver, BC
Wayne Demerse - Carihi Secondary School - Campbell River, BC
Robert Flosman - Waterdown District High School - Waterdown, ON
Christopher Garner - Swift Current Comprehensive High School - Swift Current, SK
Elia Gindin and Shirley Coughlan - Foundations for the Future Charter Academy - Calgary, AB
Jan Haskings-Winner - Birchmount Park Collegiate Institute - Toronto, ON
Matt Henderson - St. John's-Ravenscourt School - Winnipeg, MB
Lindsay Hutchison - Tamanawis Secondary - Surrey, BC
Jennifer Janzen - University of Winnipeg Collegiate - Winnipeg, MB
Lucie Jean-Mercier - Académie Lafontaine - St-Jérôme, QC
Sylvain Larose - Collège de Montréal - Montréal, QC
Catherine MacDonald - Fr. L. J. Austin Catholic Secondary School - Whitby, ON
Melissa MacIntyre - Sir Frederick Banting Secondary School - London, ON
Garth Nichols, Charles Jennings, and Alex Hurley - Greenwood College School - Toronto, ON
Sue Novak - George Harvey Collegiate Institute - Toronto, ON
Neil Orford - Centre Dufferin District High School - Shelburne, ON
Mark Perry - Kennebecasis Valley High School - Rothesay, NB
Éric Rochon - École secondaire publique L'Héritage - Cornwall, ON
Manon St. Hilaire - Ste-Thérèse-de-l'Enfant-Jésus - St-Jérôme, QC
John Stone - Armbrae Academy - Halifax, NS
Ervin Theunissen - École secondaire Grande-Rivière - Gatineau, QC
Chesley West - Macdonald Drive Junior High - St. John's, NL

Now in its seventeenth year, the Awards recognize the outstanding contributions of Canada's history and social studies teachers, ranging from elementary grades through to secondary schools. For a list of the finalists project descriptions, photos and podcasts, please visit www.CanadasHistory.ca/Awards/Teaching

"We can be proud of these outstanding individuals who are committed to sharing our history in new and innovative ways, inspiring youth to learn about the people and events that have shaped Canada," said the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages. "Learning about Canada's history is important. It helps us understand the country we live in today and encourages us to work together to continue to build the country we are happy to call home."

A national panel of judges will next select six recipients out of the twenty-five finalists, based on a submission outlining the nominee's achievements in the field of teaching Canadian History or Social Studies. Those recipients will receive a trip to Ottawa this fall to receive a gold medal presented by the Governor General at Rideau Hall. They will also individually receive $2,500, while their respective schools will also be awarded a cash gift of $1,000. The Awards prizes and program support are made possible through the generous investment of TD Bank Group.

"History can be such an important guide of the future. These teachers work hard every day to help the next generation of leaders understand where we have come from to know where we are going," said Frank McKenna, Deputy Chair, TD Bank Group. "TD is proud to support the Governor General's History Awards for Excellence in Teaching -recognizing these educators that encourage students to learn about our history in creative and innovative ways."

Each recipient will have the opportunity to join hundreds of Canadian students and teachers on an EF Educational Tours program commemorating the 70th Anniversary of D-Day on Juno Beach in France (valued at $2,000), in June of 2014. The trip will take teachers to historical sites in Europe, providing them with first-hand experience they can bring back to the classroom.

More information about the finalists can be found at CanadasHistory.ca/Awards/Teaching.

About Canada's History Society

Canada's History Society is a national charitable organization devoted to popularizing Canadian history. In addition to presenting the Governor General's History Awards and publishing Canada's History (formerly The Beaver) magazine, as well as Kayak: Canada's History Magazine for Kids, the Society also produces a number of educational and online programs to encourage more discovery, celebration, and understanding about our rich history and culture. More details can be found at CanadasHistory.ca.

About TD Bank Group

The Toronto-Dominion Bank and its subsidiaries are collectively known as TD Bank Group (TD). TD is the sixth largest bank in North America by branches and serves approximately 22 million customers in four key businesses operating in a number of locations in key financial centres around the globe.

Sunday, June 16, 2013

Canadian Government Announces Partnership Between The Manitoba Museum and the Canadian Museum of History

WINNIPEG, Manitoba - June 14, 2013 /Canada NewsWire/ - The Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, today announced a partnership agreement between The Manitoba Museum and the future Canadian Museum of History. This is the second in a series of partnership agreements that will allow the new Canadian Museum of History to fulfill its mandate.

"Through this partnership, Canadians will have greater access to their history and heritage," said Minister Moore. "Canada has many great museums that showcase particular aspects of our country's history—those collections are of interest for people across the country. As we are heading towards Canada's 150th birthday in 2017, Canadians want to learn more about the achievements and accomplishments that have shaped our great country."

These partnership agreements will increase collaboration in producing and presenting exhibitions and programs across Canada. As a partner, The Manitoba Museum will have access to important pieces from the future Canadian Museum of History's collection, which includes some three and a half million items.

"It is our great pleasure to embark on a collaboration with the outstanding Manitoba Museum. This new partnership will allow us to work on many exciting projects, starting with the presentation at the future Canadian Museum of History of very symbolic artifacts from the Hudson Bay Company Collection of the Manitoba Museum later this fall", said Mark O'Neill, President and CEO of the Canadian Museum of Civilization Corporation. "We look forward to working together in telling Canada's stories".

"Our Museum has been built around collaboration and community engagement. Manitobans are proud of their history and this agreement will allow us to share that history beyond our Province," said Claudette Leclerc, CEO of The Manitoba Museum. "This partnership agreement will also give us the opportunity to access treasures from other parts of Canada that we look forward to sharing with all Manitobans."

The Government of Canada is a long-time funding partner of The Manitoba Museum through the Department of Canadian Heritage.

About the Network of Canadian Museums of History

On October 16, 2012, Minister Moore announced the Government of Canada's intention to create the Canadian Museum of History.

The new Museum will highlight the national achievements, accomplishments and artifacts that have shaped our country, including the "Last Spike" from the construction of the Canada Pacific Railway, Maurice "Rocket" Richard's hockey jersey and items from Terry Fox's Marathon of Hope. As part of this transition, the Canadian Museum of Civilization - soon to become the Canadian Museum of History, will renovate over 50,000 square feet of public space to create this new permanent exhibition. This renovation, to be completed before Canada's 150th birthday in 2017, will provide the public with the opportunity to appreciate how Canada's identity has been shaped over the course of our history.

The future Canadian Museum of History sought input from Canadians across the country on the major themes, events, and accomplishments that have shaped our country. Approximately 20,000 people shared their ideas by participating in an online forum and in public engagement sessions in nine Canadian cities over a three-month period.

The Museum is also leading the creation of a nation-wide museum network that will greatly enhance the production and reach of exhibitions focusing on Canadian history.

The creation of a pan-Canadian network of history museums will provide greater access to our heritage and our shared history, allowing Canadians from coast to coast to coast to benefit from the exquisite collections safeguarded by museums across the country. Partnership agreements will allow artifacts and collections, which might otherwise be stored in the museums vaults, to circulate between partnering institutions.

The network will promote collaboration and co-productions, the sharing of artifacts, the development of new online projects and tools, and the exchange of professional expertise. The ultimate goal is to enhance public understanding of Canadian history from both a national and regional perspective, and to foster a common sense of identity throughout the country.

Through the network, museums across the country will have a national showcase in the new Canadian Museum of History, which will devote a permanent space to exhibitions produced by network members.

In addition, the Government of Canada is supporting museums through several programs such as the Museums Assistance Program, the Canada Travelling Exhibitions Indemnification Program, the Movable Cultural Property Program, and the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund. These programs will also continue to work with museums and galleries across the country to offer maximum opportunities to Canadians to enjoy access to international and Canadian treasures.

Thursday, June 13, 2013

New Book Traces History of Ontario Veterinary College

GUELPH, Ontario - June 12, 2013 - University of Guelph News Release - With 150 years of history come a number of stories, images and successes, and the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) will celebrate all of these with the release of a new book this Alumni Weekend.

Milestones: 150 Years of the Ontario Veterinary College includes photos and details from the opening of the first veterinary college in Canada and the United States to today’s OVC. The book will be available for purchase during Alumni Weekend, and later on Amazon.com.

Co-authors Lisa Cox, a PhD history candidate, and OVC associate dean Peter Conlon dug through the University archives and interviewed former faculty and donors to find the 150 most interesting stories.

“I think the biggest challenge when creating a book like this is to determine the balance between historical and modern,” said Cox. “We’re talking about a school that was so critical to the professionalization of veterinary medicine, so there are many historical achievements. But we also have some great modern successes, so a significant issue is finding ways to integrate both into the book.”

The new book contains many more photos than a historical volume published for the college's centennial. Some of Cox’s favourite pictures depict the Canadian Army Veterinary Corps serving Canadian and British troops during the First World War. A total of 309 OVC students, faculty and graduates served in the war, with some dying in battle.

“What surprised me the most was the number of firsts OVC has accomplished,” she said. “I know that OVC conducts a lot of research now through various labs, and that we’re at the front of treatment solutions in many instances. But we have historical proof of the many ways that OVC was a leader in research and treatment going back to the late nineteenth century.”

Conlon has worked at OVC for 30 years and was a student here earlier. The project gave him a chance to learn something new.

“One surprise for me was that the first international graduates at OVC were in the class of 1869 -- two men, one from Illinois and one from Michigan -- and that in our first 50 years we had welcomed students from many parts of the world,” he said. “Readers can expect to see events and people that may be familiar to them but also many that they will discover for the first time.”

For Conlon, it was educational to see what the college was, knowing what it has become.

“The stories were chosen to try to demonstrate unique aspects of OVC’s history and how that history is interwoven with the history of Ontario and Canada over 150 years,” he said. “I’m proud that we were able to recognize so many people’s contribution to the success of the college and all of veterinary medicine. Some of these people are well-known, but many are not; however, each one has contributed in various ways to create our history. Without every one of them, who knows what OVC would look like today?”

Saturday, June 1, 2013

More awards for the Canadian War Museum's 1812 exhibition

1812-1813: Invasion Repelled

OTTAWA, May 31, 2013 /Canada NewsWire/ - The Canadian War Museum has earned another prestigious award for its exhibition marking the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812. The latest accolade is from the Canadian Museums Association, which has conferred on 1812 an Outstanding Achievement in Exhibitions award. The War Museum was one of two recipients of this coveted prize which was presented on May 30 during the Association's annual conference in Whitehorse, Yukon.

The exhibition and a companion book, The Four Wars of 1812, have also been recognized by the Ontario Museum Association. The exhibition won the Association's 2012 Award of Excellence in Exhibitions and the book received an honourable mention in the Publications category.

"By examining the conflict from multiple perspectives, 1812 offers visitors a new and different way of learning about this pivotal event in Canadian history," said James Whitham, Director General of the Canadian War Museum. "We are delighted at the recognition from our museum peers."

1812 was one of the largest and most innovative exhibitions ever produced by the War Museum. The exhibition broke new ground by examining the conflict from the different perspectives of the four major participants: the Americans, the British, Canadians (including Canadian First Peoples) and Native Americans.

The award-winning exhibition was presented at the War Museum from June 13, 2012, to January 6, 2013. Two other versions of the exhibition are now on tour, with stops in multiple venues in Canada and the United States. The larger of the travelling exhibitions is currently featured at the St. Catharines Museum in St. Catharines, Ontario. The War Museum has also produced an online version of 1812, available at www.warmuseum.ca/war-of-1812.

The Canadian War Museum is Canada's national museum of military history. Its mission is to promote public understanding of Canada's military history in its personal, national, and international dimensions.

For more information visit www.warmuseum.ca. Follow us on twitter.com/CanWarMuseum

Friday, May 10, 2013

Develop a Taste for History with New Beer from Black Creek Historic Brewery

Historic Brewery Launches Black Creek Pale Ale at the LCBO

TORONTO, May 10, 2013 /Canada NewsWire/ - Black Creek Historic Brewery, today announced the launch of Montgomery's Courage at select LCBO stores. The beer is the 3rd Edition in a series of 12 historic beers that represents each consecutive decade of Canadian and brewing history, Montgomery's Courage represents the decade from 1830 - 1839 when the separate colonies of Upper and Lower Canada both revolted against unjust government rule.

In 1837, Toronto's Montgomery's Tavern became the base for a rebellious force led by William Lyon Mackenzie that was quickly defeated. Legend has it that the rebels courage was due in large part to consumption of the tavern's fine ales.

"In 1830's rye based ales like Montgomery's Courage were in abundance,' said Ed Koren, Brewmaster, Black Creek Historic Brewery. "This amber ale is lightly carbonated and balanced to favour a slightly bitter hopping while delivering peppery, spicy notes with a bouquet reminiscent of ripe apples or calvados."

Black Creek Montgomery's Courage (product # 34137) retails for $3.95 per 500 mL (pint) bottle and is available in May and only for a short time. LCBO customers can search the LCBO website, www.lcbo.com to locate stores offering the product, or simply ask for it at their local outlet.

About Black Creek Historic Brewery

Located in Black Creek Pioneer Village, the Black Creek Historic Brewery is a working recreation of a 19th century brewery, an era when beer was both a popular beverage and a staple food. Using only period equipment and no electricity, the Brewery handcrafts the same ale and porter varieties enjoyed in Ontario before Confederation.

Open daily to the public, visitors can chat with costumed interpreters or join guided tours and taste samples drawn from oak barrels. The beer can be enjoyed on the premises at the Black Creek Historic Brewery Restaurant and Pub, or brought home in returnable "growlers."

Public events are held throughout the year at the Brewery; the facility is also available for corporate and private functions. Black Creek ales and porters sold off-site at LCBO stores are brewed at a commercial facility under the supervision of the Brewmaster. Black Creek Historic Brewery is a member of the Ontario Craft Brewers and is operated by Black Creek Pioneer Village in partnership with Pioneer Breweries Limited.

For more information, visit http://www.blackcreekbrewery.ca.

Thursday, May 9, 2013

From high seas drama to summer fun at the lake, the Royal Canadian Mint's newest collector coins open many new windows on the story of Canada

OTTAWA, May 9, 2013 /Canada NewsWire/ - Canadians have countless ways to define their identity; from proud historical moments to fond memories of outdoor life. All of these stories are captured on the Mint's latest offering of finely crafted collector coins which include vivid portrayals in pure gold, silver and platinum of the pitched ocean battle between HMS Shannon and USS Chesapeake at the height of the War of 1812, as well as fine silver coins celebrating the joys of summer of Canada with idyllic scenes of a fishing family and fun at the cottage. Natural themes are also present, along with new coins celebrating Canada's rich heritage by commemorating the 60th anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and celebrating the addition of Asian traditions to Canadian culture. These latest products can now be ordered from the Mint and will start shipping on May 14, 2013.

"The Royal Canadian Mint is known world-wide for crafting coins which stand out for their rich designs and exceptional quality and we are proud to delight our customers with spectacular new pieces of numismatic art with uniquely Canadian stories to tell," said Ian E. Bennett, President and CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint. "After registering record collector coin sales in 2012, we are pleased to attract new fans in Canada and around the world, and we are committed to expanding the horizons of our numismatic program to get more of the world's best coins into the hands of more satisfied customers."

On June 1, 1813, HMS Shannon, commanded by Captain Philip Broke, clashed with USS Chesapeake 40 kilometres east of Boston in a battle which would sway the morale of Royal Navy grappling with a string of recent losses to U.S. warships. Captain Broke and his outnumbered crew's determination to restore the pride and confidence of the Royal Navy brilliantly defeated and captured USS Chesapeake in one of the bloodiest naval battles of the War of 1812. The epic scene of the height of battle is dramatically recreated by artist John Horton on three new coins preserving this turning point in history on new 5 oz., 99.99% pure gold and silver coins, as well as on a very limited mintage of 1 oz., 99.95% pure platinum coins.

After 200 years of peace on the North American continent, the mood has considerably lightened with a pair of fine silver coins celebrating fun and relaxation on Canada's countless lakes and waterways. The newest release of the $10 fine silver O Canada series pays tribute to the great Canadian tradition of cottage living with artist Claudio D'Angelo's portrayal of dockside swimmers, a Muskoka chair, a canoe and the classic waterfront cottage. Artist John Mantha captures the priceless serenity of a father and child fishing from a dock, with the loyal family dog at their side, on a 99.99% pure silver coin with a $3 face value.

In keeping with its trademark pursuit of innovation, the Mint is also proud to feature impressive technology on several new coins including a selectively coloured $10 fine silver Canadian Tiger Swallowtail and a 50-cent silver-plated coin of the same design from a new Butterflies of Canada series, as well as a selectively gold-plated fine silver kilo coin featuring the Maple Leaf Forever.

Canada's cultural diversity inspires many outstanding coin designs and the Mint's latest expressions of this theme celebrate the unique heritage of Chinese Canadians. Adding to this popular series is a new Blessings of Peace $150 face-value, 99.999% pure gold lotus-shaped coin featuring a dazzling phoenix and the Chinese symbols for peace. A Maple of Peace fine silver coin features the Mint's newest design of a maple leaf hologram radiating from the back of an ornately decorated Asian elephant.

Adding a regal touch to the Mint's latest release of collector coins is a specimen-finish, 25-cent cupro-nickel coin honouring the 60th anniversary of the coronation of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. It features a vivid colour reproduction of a masterpiece by Canadian painter Phil Richard, who was hand-picked by Her Majesty to paint her official Canadian Diamond Jubilee portrait. Part of the original work, which measures over three metres in height, is captured on a richly coloured 35 mm coin showing Queen Elizabeth II posing at Rideau Hall, with a portrait her great-great-grandmother Queen Victoria in the background.

The Mint's latest offering concludes with a new series of 99.99% pure silver coins celebrating different perspectives on the majestic Bald Eagle. The first coin in the series features the dramatic profile of a Bald Eagle's head whose feathers are engraved to stunning detail. The coin is also edge-lettered with "1 OZ FINE SILVER 1 OZ ARGENT PUR".

Mintages, pricing and full background information on each product can be found on the "Shop" tab of www.mint.ca.

All of these products can be ordered directly from the Mint at 1-800-267-1871 in Canada, 1-800-268-6468 in the US, or online at www.mint.ca. The coins will also be available at the Royal Canadian Mint's boutiques in Ottawa, Winnipeg and Vancouver, as well as through our global network of dealers and distributors, including participating Canada Post outlets.

About the Royal Canadian Mint

The Royal Canadian Mint is the Crown Corporation responsible for the minting and distribution of Canada's circulation coins. An ISO 9001-2008 certified company, the Mint is recognized as one of the largest and most versatile mints in the world, offering a wide range of specialized, high quality coinage products and related services on an international scale. For more information on the Mint, its products and services, visit www.mint.ca

Friday, May 3, 2013

Second Annual Genealogy Workshop at the Wellington County Museum and Archives

On Saturday, May 11, 2013 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, there will be the Second Annual Genealogy Workshop at 536 Wellington Road 18, between the villages of Fergus and Elora.

Presenters include:

Gwen Armstrong, Family History Centre, Getting the Most out of FamilySearch.org

Rick Roberts, Global Genealogy, Beginning a Family History Project: 12 Steps for Success and Researching Your Ontario Roots Using Traditional and Online Resources

Susan Dunlop, Curator, Wellington County Museum and Archives, Exploring Lesser Known Resources: A Case Study of the Hollinghead-Everson Family of Wellington County

Registration: $35.00, light lunch included

Call 519.846.0916, X 5225 or Toll Free 1.800.663.0750 X 5225 to register.

Email at karen@wcm.on.ca, and the website is at http://www.wellington.ca/museum

Canada Remembers the Liberation of the Netherlands

OTTAWA, May 3, 2013 /Canada NewsWire/ - The Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Minister for La Francophonie, issued the following statement today regarding the 68th anniversary of the Liberation of the Netherlands.

"The struggle to liberate the Netherlands was an important chapter in the events leading to victory in Europe and the end of the Second World War. Canada's vital contributions helped lay the foundation for a strong relationship between our two countries that we continue to enjoy today.

Many Canadians serving overseas during the Second World War played a role in the Liberation of the Netherlands. Over nine long and grueling months, more than 7,600 Canadians gave their lives to help bring freedom and peace to this country.

In honour of their gift of freedom, the Dutch people have donated tulip bulbs to Canada annually since the end of the Second World War. In Ottawa, we see this symbol of our enduring connection as the tulips bloom each spring.

Even though the cost of lives was heavy and the sacrifice great, Canadians take pride in the role they played as liberators. We remember, with everlasting gratitude, the contributions of all who served and those who made the supreme sacrifice. Lest we forget."

For more information on Canada's contribution to the Liberation of the Netherlands, visit the Veterans Affairs Canada website at veterans.gc.ca.

2013 is the Year of the Korean War Veteran—Canada proudly remembers the heroes of the Korean War and their brave fight to uphold freedom, democracy and the rule of law. For more information on Canada's role in the Korean War, visit veterans.gc.ca, visit our Facebook "Canada Remembers" page to leave a message of remembrance or follow us on Twitter @VeteransENG_CA.

Thursday, April 25, 2013

Doors Open Ontario 2013 kicks off in Guelph April 27

TORONTO, April 25, 2013 /Canada NewsWire/ - Doors Open Ontario 2013 is just around the corner! The season officially kicks off on April 27 with events in two communities - Guelph and Prince Edward County.

Every year from April to October, communities across the province open the doors to hundreds of historic buildings, places of worship, museums, private homes, industrial areas, green buildings, heritage gardens and other interesting venues, some of which are rarely accessible to the public. Many of the participating sites offer special activities, such as tours, exhibitions and demonstrations - all free of charge.

"Our government is proud to partner with the Ontario Heritage Trust in making Ontario's historical buildings, structures, natural heritage sites and trails open and accessible. Growing year after year, Doors Open Ontario is an exciting opportunity to share and celebrate our unique shared identity and vibrant cultural landscape. I encourage people across the province to explore and experience all that Ontario's historical legacy has to offer." - Michael Chan, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport

Trails and natural heritage sites will also take part. Participants can explore Ontario's breathtaking natural heritage along thousands of kilometres of walking, hiking and cycling trails, many of which will feature special tours and activities.

"The Ontario Heritage Trust is proud to present Doors Open Ontario, now in its 12th year. The theme for 2013, Cultural expressions, sheds light on the relationship between heritage and the arts. Venues such as theatres, opera houses, art galleries, studios and recital halls play a vital role in fostering a sense of creativity and pride in our communities. I do hope you will take the time to experience these and other interesting sites participating in this year's program!" - Thomas H.B. Symons, Chairman, Ontario Heritage Trust

Visit www.doorsopenontario.on.ca for detailed event information, highlights and site details. The website also offers interactive tools to help users plan their Doors Open Ontario experience - social networking tools to share information with friends and family, a "My Favourites" feature to help create a travel itinerary and keep track of favourite sites, and a quick links tool to help narrow site searches.

Doors Open Ontario is a program of the Ontario Heritage Trust, with funding support from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport.

Quick Facts

...Doors Open Ontario 2013 features hundreds of communities participating in 55 events across the province.

...Three new communities have joined Doors Open Ontario this year: Innisfil, Northumberland and Bradford West Gwillimbury.

...Nine out of 10 Ontarians live in a community that has hosted a Doors Open Ontario event.

...In total, nearly 5 million visits have been made to 5,150 different Doors Open Ontario sites since the program's launch in 2002.

...Visitors to Doors Open Ontario events have spent an estimated $39 million to support local economies.

Learn More

Find out more about Doors Open Ontario 2013 and the Doors Open Ontario 2013 Art Contest, and search for participating communities.

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

The United Church of Canada’s Toronto Archives Is Moving

TORONTO - March 6, 2013 - The United Church of Canada announced today that its Toronto-based archives will be moving this summer from its current location at the United Church’s national office in west-end Toronto to the Toronto Christian Resource Centre in the Regent Park neighbourhood of downtown Toronto.

In announcing the decision on the new location for the archives, Nora Sanders, General Secretary of the General Council, said, “I am pleased that this move will mean not only that we will be saving a considerable amount of money but also that as a tenant we will be financially supporting a local United Church ministry.”

Sanders says that in addition to being able to house the United Church’s archival collection now located at the General Council Office at 3250 Bloor Street West in Toronto, the new location at 40 Oak Street offers more than enough space to accommodate records that are currently stored off-site at an archival facility.

She explains the decision to move the archives ahead of the anticipated relocation of the General Council Office to Bloor Street United Church in 2018 was an opportunity that made financial sense for all parties to the five-year lease agreement.

The United Church of Canada supports a network of archives situated in eight different locations throughout Canada. The archives in Toronto manages the records of the General Council and the Central Ontario Conference records of Bay of Quinte, London, Hamilton, Manitou, and Toronto Conferences and their respective presbyteries and pastoral charges. The church’s archives outside of Ontario are not affected by the move.

The United Church’s Toronto archives moved to its current location in 2008, after more than 50 years on the campus of the University of Toronto’s Victoria University. No decision has been made about whether the Archives will move again when the General Council Office relocates to Bloor Street United Church.

Nichole Vonk, General Council Archivist, will oversee the monumental task of moving close to 20,000 boxes of records to the new site. The church will be contracting specialized movers, the new location will meet the institutional standards set by the Canadian Council of Archives, and all the records will continue to be administered by professional staff.

Although not located directly on a subway line, the Archives’ new location at 40 Oak Street is easily accessible by public transit, will have on-site parking, and is closer to the United Church’s theological school at the University of Toronto.

While planning and preparations are underway to move the collection from its current location,

...the Archives will remain open during regular public hours until June 6, 2013.

...the Archives will not receive any records deposits after April 30, 2013. Records can be donated to the Archives when it reopens in September 2013.

...the Archives will be closed to all researchers June 10–September 15, 2013, reopening in the new location September 16, 2013.

...the Archives will continue to provide reference service for certificates or legal requests while it is closed to the public.

Vonk emphasizes that, throughout the transition, the church remains committed to providing continued uninterrupted, open access to its archival records related to residential schools for the purposes of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

For up-to-date information about The United Church of Canada’s archival programs and on the move, see the Archives webpage. Questions and concerns about the move should be directed to Nichole Vonk, General Council Archivist.