Barbara Brown, Bayfield resident 

I have always loved history and never found it boring. I became involved with the Bayfield Historical Society shortly after I moved to Bayfield in 2011. When Ralph Laviolette was the archivist, I completed an initial computer archive catalogue.

At Dave Gillians’ urging, I took up the challenge with Joyce Lambert to capture the unique spirit of Bayfield in a book using artistic and written images. In 2015, Reflections of Bayfield: Images Across the Decades was published. Despite some trepidation, creating this book was a labour of love, full of surprises and an awareness of the artistic community over the past 110 years. In 2023 at the Town Hall, the BHS and the Bayfield Centre for the Arts coordinated a showing of the original art in the book. 

Volunteering at the BHS has always been rewarding. I have learned about our village’s unique history and how the Society archives these stories. I also enjoy the Society’s Speaker Series as there is always more to discover about Bayfield. 

For me, the value of the Bayfield Historical Society is incalculable. Thanks to the work of the Society, the Bayfield community can learn its history and knowing our past helps us understand the present and plan for the future.

David Yates, retired teacher, historian and author

I have followed the Bayfield Historical Society with interest for many years. The team is knowledgeable, friendly and fun to be around. It is also a pleasure to be part of a group of like-minded individuals who share a passion for our local history and heritage.

I always enjoy collaborating with the BHS on projects and spending time in their Archives. I was particularly honoured when they asked me to write the biography of Admiral Henry Wolsey Bayfield as part of the Admiral Bayfield Commemorative. I thoroughly enjoyed bringing the story of one of the most seminal figures in Great Lakes history to life. I welcome the opportunity to work with the BHS on future projects!

In this era of hyper-speed change, the BHS is a calming force in our community, always reminding us of our traditions and past so we see the future more clearly.

Initiatives like the Admiral Bayfield Commemorative, the Penhale Wagon project and the legacy work honouring the fishing vessel, the Helen MacLeod II, are a source of great pride for Bayfielders.

I’m proud of my association with the BHS. The organization plays a vital role in keeping the village’s unique culture, small-town feel and quaint charm alive.