When I moved to Bayfield in the spring of 2003, the first community organization I joined was the Bayfield Historical Society. I’ve been a member ever since, and in 2009, I joined their Board as Secretary.
Over the years, I have seen our organization evolve from a local presence, collecting and preserving village artifacts, photos, documents and books, to a worldwide presence where our local heritage is accessible online to countless researchers and interested viewers.
BHS has been a rich source of research and information for local historical theatre, books, videos, informational panels and plaques, veteran images, marine maps, Indigenous artifacts, genealogical research, cemetery documentation, photo collections and much more!
Our Archives and Heritage Centre provides a safe and secure home for these valuable records and items that have informed and delighted thousands of visitors locally, from across Canada and beyond, myself included. One day, I happened to find a book that my great-great-grandfather, George Weston, once owned, Currie’s County of Huron Directory for 1876-1877, and whose signature appears on the inside flap!
Our organization has also been a launching pad for students and young people to develop and expand their interest and expertise in historical events, research and documentation. Our Speaker Series not only offers talks about interesting topics but also provides attendees with a rich social experience.
The Society has also participated in many local events, such as the Fall Fair, Collectors Show, Sail and Canvas, theatrical plays, the Lions Club Home and Lifestyle Show, Christmas in Bayfield, Open Doors Ontario and, most recently, the Main Street Arts Festival.
I’m immensely proud to be a part of our organization’s growth, contributions to our community and our work to ensure this continues.
