Inductees

When discussing the talents of certain musicians, a phrase is often heard: “It’s in his blood.” That’s certainly very true of inductee William Wright.

Bill started on the drums at age ten and was soon performing in clubs long before he was old enough to partake of the ‘refreshments’ those clubs offered…

Bill’s first taste of the road came when he joined the band of ‘rock’n roll’ star Ray Smith, touring Canada and the U.S. He later played Las Vegas with Canadian pop legend, Bobby Curtola. Locally, Bill gained acclaim performing with such luminaries as Dino And The Capris, the Brian Browne Trio and Stu McCue & Wildwind.

In 1964, Bill opened Wright’s Music on George Street, which became a centre for Peterborough’s musical life. Bill taught many aspiring musicians, and his shop housed the local Academy of Music and the Musicians Union with which Bill was very active.

As performer, teacher, union supporter and businessman, there’s no doubt music remained a foundation, flowing through the veins of Bill Wright.

For more than three decades, no charity concert in Peterborough would be complete without the familiar figure of Johnny Driscoll. An avid Country Music enthusiast, he’d give unselfishly of his time and energy to organize and promote concerts in aid of many worthy fundraisers.

With a deep sense of commitment to Peterborough’s performing arts community, Johnny Driscoll was an early and vocal proponent of establishing a city performance centre. He was also a grassroots supporter of the Pathway of Fame.

There are those who just give of themselves to the community without seeking public acclaim for their efforts. Jim Coghlan is certainly one who fits that description. His volunteer work has taken him to many corners of this area over the years and it continues today.

Well past retirement age, one might expect Jim to have slowed down a little, but fortunate for us such is not the case. For example, he is currently the President of the St. Joseph’s at Fleming Foundation Board, Past Chair of the St. Anne’s Church Parish Council, a member of the church’s Volunteer Screening Council and is a Lector and Eucharistic Minister. He is also a Director of the Kawartha Men’s Social Club.

Jim Coghlan has held several prominent positions in both the public and private sectors of his working life in which health care and amateur sports have been his focus. Jim was a founding member of the Peterborough Region CAT Scan Fund, as well as the Peterborough Hospitals Lottery and the Festival of Trees.

Sports have always been of keen interest to him, both as an active player, coach and leader. In 1986 he served as Chair of Logistics for the Ontario Summer Games when the City hosted them, and again in 1992 Jim was the Ceremonies Chair.

The event dearest to his heart just may have been the highly successful Arborough Games of which he was Founding Chair. The games were an International sports and cultural exchange between Peterborough and Ann Arbour, Michigan. Each City hosted over 1000 young 10 to 16-year-old athletes in 10 different sports. What a tremendous accomplishment that was, and no wonder one would never forget it!

All of these activities and more brought Jim Coghlan the 1985 Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year Award, and he can boast 2 Peterborough Civic Awards as well.

• Photo courtesy PRHC Foundation

His commitment to community causes spanned more than six decades, making Gord Holnbeck one of Peterborough’s truly outstanding humanitarians. He served on City Council for several years while still finding time to volunteer time, and care to the betterment of others.

In 1980, Gord Holnbeck spearheaded the founding of the Peterborough County-City Disaster Trust Fund, providing essential lodging, logistical and financial support to thousands of Peterborough and area residents at a time of dire need.

Mr. Holnbeck passed away in 2012 at the age of 97.

Gordon Roper (d. 2012) was a Professor of English Literature at Trinity College, University of Toronto from 1944-1969, and then at Trent University from 1969-1977. His family was rooted in Peterborough, and he was a major scholar of local writers such as Robertson Davies, Susannah Moodie and others. His family came to Peterborough in 1915 when his father joined the staff of the local YMCA. He enjoyed lifetime friendships with F. M. de la Fosse, local naturalist William A. Breyfogle (1905-1958), Margaret Laurence and Mr. Davies.

He received the Peter Robinson medal in 2000 for his contributions to Peterborough and to its literary history. Streets in Peterborough – Roper, Hawthorne and Melville – were named for his heroes. His students have included professors now at Trent University, and the former Governor-General Adrienne Clarkson.

Gordon Roper was a pioneer in bringing the writing of local authors, to life.

By way of her chosen profession and her volunteer pursuits, Helen Weichel committed herself long ago to making life better for countless others.

Upon graduating from St. Mary’s School of Nursing, Helen came to St. Joseph’s Hospital in 1960 before moving to what was then Civic Hospital, where she worked in many departments. Before retiring from Civic, she held a number of positions, including supervisor, and was very involved in the nurses’ association. Helen was the first recipient of the James McNabb Award, which recognized the community volunteer efforts of hospital staff.

As the leader of Cub Pack 17 based at St. Alban’s Church, Helen never missed an opportunity to involve her young charges in major events. When the Prime Minister, or Royalty visited, Peterborough Cub Pack 17 was front and centre. When medals were handed out at the Summer Games, Cub Pack 17 was involved. When Hugh Faulkner became Secretary of State, Helen brought Cub Pack 17 to Ottawa for a tour of the Parliament buildings, given personally by Faulkner. Long after her sons Greg and Tom moved on from Cub Pack 17, Helen stayed on, providing its members with unique opportunities while dedicating herself to their growth and development as good citizens.

With a passion for fostering recreational opportunities, Helen became involved with the Peterborough Recreational Association in 1970. She would play an instrumental role in the merging of the Peterborough Parks, and Recreation departments. In addition, Helen served with the Ontario Municipal Recreation Association, sitting as its chair for a period.

Helen’s guiding belief that recreational opportunities are essential for people of all ages saw her advocate relentlessly on behalf of the middle-aged, and seniors. In addition, she pushed for equality in terms of the allocation of sport facilities and resources, providing girls and women with the same opportunities to participate, as did boys and men.

An extension of that was Helen’s long tenure with ParticiPaction Peterborough, an organization dedicated to raising the level of personal fitness in Peterborough and the surrounding area. Helen was a member of the organization’s Sources and Resources Committee, charged with securing access to existing facilities, including schools, for fitness-related events. The committee also established a speakers’ bureau, produced brochures, and promoted existing and new fitness activities in local schools, including Trent University and Fleming College.

In 1977, the City of Peterborough recognized Helen’s unmatched efforts in the promotion of fitness and recreation, bestowing upon her its Award of Merit.

In an ideal world, art becomes a journey of self-discovery. In that ideal world, the artist who’s made the journey gives something in turn, to those who follow.

That’s not a bad description of the road Edwin Matthews chose to travel. In his 20’s while working in a commercial art studio, Ed was apprenticed to the legendary A.J. Casson of the famous ‘Group of Seven.’ From Casson, he learned much about the use of colour, design and philosophy.

Ed’s more than 50 years of painting has produced works of art that adorn the walls of 14 Canadian Consulates, major corporations and thousands of private homes around the world. In a desire to promote aspiring artists, he established the renowned Gallery on the Lake, and the Buckhorn Wildlife Art Festival.

If one is looking for a model of a ‘complete artist,’ one who gives as well as receives, one needn’t look further than Edwin Matthews.

In the early part of this century, no one was more important to a community than a family doctor. Doctor Donald Munro met all medical requirements in the village of Warsaw and area, adding much more to the vitality of the community.

Dr. Munro opened his Warsaw practice in 1907. A time when house calls were the norm, he braved all kinds of weather to attend to more than 3,000 births over a 50 year period.

Reaching out to the heart of the community, Dr. Munro served as Church Elder, and Sunday School Superintendent at St. Andrew’s Church for over 25 years.

A self-taught violinist, he shared his love of music by teaching and conducting a local concert orchestra and, as an ardent political activist, he served as president of the East Peterborough Liberal Association.

Christine Nornabell’s service to her community aptly confirms that actions and words together, speak loudest. With an abiding commitment to conservation and waterfront preservation, Christine was instrumental in establishing many of Peterborough’s natural treasures we take for granted.

In 1953, she was a charter member of a group organized to preserve and beautify the banks of the Otonabee River and Jackson Creek. Her involvement led to the establishment of Otonabee Region Conservation Authority, and Foundation. Due to her tireless efforts and skilled diplomacy, more than 10,000 acres of environmentally-significant land and heritage landmarks are held in trust for our enjoyment, and that of future generations.

Christine is a charter member of the City Parks Board, spearheading the acquisition of 53 acres of park land in the heart of Peterborough.

In recognition of her efforts, she received the Peter Robinson Award, the City Award of Merit and is named to the Order of Canada. If one has any doubt that one individual can make a difference in his, or her community, spend some time at Roger’s Cove or Millenium Place, and thank Christine Nornabell.

While many have been, and still are champions of the preservation and celebration of local heritage and history, few have displayed the level of passion and sheer tenacity that Mary Laverty brought to bear over some three decades.

Starting in the early 1980s, Mary clearly recognized the need to preserve all forms of local heritage, including researching and presenting the history and architecture of buildings. She volunteered her time for restoration efforts, was involved with the naming and cataloging of Roy Studio Images, assisted in the writing and development of public policy on heritage issues, and rewrote the bylaws of the Peterborough Historical Society to bring them in line with 21st century thinking and practices. In short, Mary saw the pressing need for cultural preservation, rolled up her sleeves and made it happen.

Mary’s work with Roy Studio Images led to her researching for her book Upper Stoney Lake: Gem of the Kawarthas. Later, with her husband Doug, she researched and wrote Up The Burleigh Road: Beyond The Boulders. For her writing prowess and the breadth of her research, she received the 2011 Award of Merit from the Ontario Heritage Trust.

Among the many who worked with Mary on a number of committees and projects was inaugural Trent University president Dr. Tom Symons. Just recently, he remembered Mary for “standing out amongst those who have cherished and cared for the distinctive heritage of this old Ontario town.”

During her five terms as president of the Peterborough Historical Society, Mary sewed heritage dresses for volunteers to wear and managed the historical preservation of the museum. In addition, she organized the High School History Awards and the annual Heritage Awards presentation. Mary also spoke on heritage issues before numerous groups as well as promoted and organized active community participation in local heritage activities, most notably via the annual Doors Open Peterborough initiative.

Before her passing in July 2014, Mary amassed a number of awards and honours. In 1985, her championing of the educational and historical significance of PCVS brought her an Award of Merit as Educator of the Year; in 2007, and again in 2009, the City of Peterborough presented her with its Cultural Betterment Award; and 2011 brought her the Award of Merit from Heritage Ontario. Mary also won the George A. Cox Heritage Award.

It’s no small wonder that Trent Valley Archives director Elwood Jones praised Mary as the backbone of the Peterborough Historical Society, her husband Doug noting “When Mary got involved in a cause, she really believed in it.” Mary’s many contributions continue to form the foundation of historical understanding and preservation in Peterborough.

In the history of Peterborough, no one more personified the term ‘community service’ than did Stan McBride Sr.. Nearly all his adult life, he gave unselfishly of his time, energy and talents on behalf of almost every worthwhile community cause that came along.

In his early days, area residents cheered on his athletic abilities and, later, he served his city as Alderman, Mayor and Sheriff.

On a more casual basis, Stan was a popular and revered emcee, toastmaster and humourist – not to mention a willing volunteer for numerous boards and committees. For more than 50 years, Stan McBride Sr. demonstrated that volunteerism, with a smile, is the key to a better community.

For over 40 years, he was a beloved figure on the Peterborough entertainment scene.

Fred Coupland loved making audiences happy as much as he loved making music, itself. Songwriter, bandleader and entertainer extraordinaire. However going beyond his stage work, Fred always enjoyed the talents of his fellow musicians and lent a helping hand to those aspiring to make music their life’s work. In that capacity, he served as president of Peterborough Chapter of the American Federation of Musicians.

True testament to the popularity of Fred Coupland’s musical entertainment mastery was 13 consecutive-year engagements at the Rock Haven Motor Hotel. When not performing professionally, he gave graciously of his time and talents at area seniors’ residences, hospitals and Five Counties Children’s Centre.

Fred Coupland was a consummate musician who took a genuine liking to people. That’s what made him a treasured part of Peterborough’s entertainment tradition.

Corporal George Hendren was the only Canadian selected to serve as bodyguard to British Commander Lord Roberts in the Boer War.  He also became a ‘charter’ member of The Royal Northwest Mounted Police when it was established in 1904.

“’Tis not too late to build a better world…”

So said the iconic Canadian political leader, Tommy Douglas.

Linda and Alan Slavin are living examples of the truth of that statement.

The dynamic couple have been generations ahead of their time, working tirelessly to educate people in the community to make change for all in determinants of our health: physically, mentally and socially, and we are the better for their foresight.

Linda and Alan Slavin not only “talk the talk,” but they walk the walk – whether it be promoting matters of social justice, or the environment, or climate change. Individually and together they have led, educated, inspired, challenged and serve the Peterborough and area community in so many ways. They have widened understanding of our interconnected world.

Both have undertaken different initiatives for greater community good in such fields as climate change and women’s equality. In so doing, they have attempted to make us all better citizens.

Ms. Janet Duke (Linda’s sister) summarizes Linda and Alan’s vision and leadership best with these words…

“Together, she and Al have lived their lives in complete harmony with their values. They are a strong, connected couple that has lived a purposeful, and intentional life.”

Was it chance they taught at two local high schools? Coincidence they directed plays at each? No matter! Destiny played a part in their eventual union and thereby carried a mutual love of live theatre over their lifetime.

John and Nora Martyn have devoted their lives to various roles, comprising the production of musical and dramatic theatre. Their co-directed productions at Peterborough Theatre Guild have been met with much success.
John and Nora’s strength as directors reflects an ability to make the most out of the time, and resources available. Their direction, as good coaches in sport, is putting together the best team possible, and ensuring specific attention is paid by everyone to the meaning behind the words in the script.

Such investment of time, energy and encouragement combine to create the various nuances of a Martyn stage production.

• photo courtesy of The Peterborough Theatre Guild

America’s loss was Peterborough’s gain, when Ohio-born Ada Lee moved here in 1963.

Ada possesses a remarkable voice, moving with ease from Jazz to Classical to Sacred. Over the years, Ada worked in elite nightclubs around North America as well as the legendary bands of Duke Ellington and Count Basie. Since coming to Peterborough, Ada Lee, a jazz vocalist of international fame, is a tireless worker on behalf of many local causes: Cancer Society, Festival of Trees, Festival of Lights, Easter Seals Campaign.

Ada Lee now lives in Western Canada. She recently returned to Peterborough to help commemorate Black History Month.

• Photo courtesy Jason Bain, The Peterborough Examiner

The youngest in Canada at the time, Thomas H.B. Symons was named Trent University’s founding president, and his vision and vitality molded Trent into one of the country’s most distinctive and successful universities.  Over his lifetime Mr. Symons lent his talents to numerous national and international organizations by chairing such groups as The Ontario Human Rights Commission, The Association of Commonwealth Universities, and various federal conferences on multiculturalism, and social development.

In spite of his significant portfolio of accomplishments he conducted his life with the utmost humility, supporting his community in countless ways. A testament to his character, he approached everyone – from heads of state, to passersby on the street, to first-year university students – with equal respect and admiration.

Thomas H.B. Symons passed away on January 1st, 2021.

To see a need and to act upon it; to do the good act not for self-reward but because it is the right thing to do, is an admirable attribute.

Dr. Jim and Anne McCallum – in their own quiet and unassuming way and through their Friends of Honduran Children (FOHC) organization which they founded here in Peterborough – provide free medical, dental, and educational care, as well as building homes and schools for needy children in that country.

Both Dr. Jim and Anne are extremely community-minded, and support other local non-profit organizations. Recently they were successful at initiating a committee to accept refugees through their church community. Anne volunteers at her church and with St. Vincent de Paul. She deservedly received the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002.

It is through their efforts, together with those of several hundred volunteers who fuel the immense undertaking to provide for the extremely poor children of Honduras. In a country which does not offer the social, medical and support system such as we are blessed, Dr. Jim and Anne McCallum and Friends of Honduran Children serve as a social net for the Honduran poor.

Dr. Jim harbours a personal dream, and fervent wish that one day they will grow a children’s village into a settlement to house 500 orphaned, and abandoned children.

It is absolutely inspiring that among the citizens of Peterborough, are people such as Dr. Jim and Anne McCallum who truly live, and understand the credo “we, are our brother’s keeper.” They give of themselves on a daily basis to the care, and welfare of others.

True Samaritans indeed – Dr. Jim and Anne McCallum.

• photo courtesy of KawarthaNOW

Dr. Harterre is aptly labeled the ‘face of health care’ in Peterborough by his colleagues and peers. All who know Dr. Donald Harterre are aware of his caring concern as a devoted family physician, as well as a respected former hospital Chief of Staff, and again as champion and visionary for health care across this county, indeed the province.

Family Health Teams owe their existence to his undying positivity. Under Dr. Donald Harterre’s mentorship, the New Baby Placement Program provides placement of newborns in family practice.

His vision, guidance and professionalism benefit patient, family doctor and community, in countless ways. So much is owed by so many to this unique, caring individual we know as Dr. Donald Harterre.

• Photo courtesy Lance Anderson, Peterborough This Week and MYKawartha

No historical figure more romantically personifies the pioneer spirit of a young and growing Canada than does Catherine Parr-Traill.

Emigrating to Canada in 1832, Catherine lived in Lakefield, the Rice Lake area and finally, in Peterborough until her death.  During her 69 years in the Kawarthas, she balanced eking out life in the Canadian wilderness with a prolific writing career.  Her books are often referred to as complete studies in Canadian pioneer life, including the now- classics ‘The Backwoods of Canada,’ ‘The Female Emigrant’s Guide’ and ‘Plant Life in Canada.’

With the publication of her last book, ‘Pearls and Pebbles’ in 1894, she was held in esteem as the oldest living author in the British Empire.

Country Music fans in Peterborough area knew Stu McCue as a topnotch entertainer; what many don’t know, is the depth of his diversified talent.

A professional musician for more than 30 years, Stu McCue shared stages with many Country legends. However, he is equally talented as a landscape painter, and teacher. To better share a love of his heritage, Stu became a Certified Instructor of Native Languages and Culture in 1977.

Stu McCue is perhaps best known for his boundless generosity towards others. For years, he performed at local seniors’ residences and nursing homes on a weekly basis. He continually encouraged young talent by giving them an opportunity to perform with him. If there’s a local cause or charity in need of fundraising, Stu was always there to help.

Freely giving away to others that which is your own expertise may qualify one as a Samaritan. To do so however a calm, never judgmental demeanor may help assure such a title.

Such is the nature and gift of Robert H. (Bob) Bannon whose greatest passion lay in his knowledge and love of the “pipes”- as in bagpipes. He belonged to the General Electric Pipe Band for 30 plus years, being its Pipe Major for 26 of those years. It was during that time Bob Bannon taught more than a hundred people both young and old, never asking as much as a penny for his lessons.

During his tenure as Pipe Major the GE Pipe band won many prestigious awards at highland games across Ontario and the Northern USA. In 1966 the band won the honours of North American champions.

It was, however, as a patient, understanding, teacher of that most cantankerous musical instrument for which Robert H. Bannon became most well-known and admired. Many of his students went on to become world class pipers and some even became Pipe Majors of Canadian Pipe Bands. It was Bob’s trust and faith in people that shone through all he did to impart the art of piping to those he taught.

He is fondly remembered for his altruistic nature in never asking for recompense. One of his former students echoes the sentiment shared by all who knew Robert H. Bannon – “he was a true gentleman.”

For a great many musicians, a fond memory of youth is spending hours wandering through one of those wonderful, small music stores with guitars hanging everywhere, getting lost in dreams of a guitar you’ll own one day, if you work and practice hard enough.

For thousands of Peterborough musicians, that memory conjures up one name: Bud Monahan.

The Peterborough music scene and the name Bud Monahan have been synonymous for over 50 years. Few have exercised such an influence over musicians in the Kawartha region. For nearly all his life, music played an integral part.

In early days, Bud played with many legendary names in Peterborough music, such as Paul Konkle, Del Crary and Freddie Coupland. Teaching music at such memorable establishments as Rawson’s and Musicland led to opening Bud Monahan’s House of Guitars. For over 40 years, Bud supplied instruments and taught the rudiments to literally thousands of aspiring musicians. In many instances, Bud taught multiple members of the same family, employing many former students as teachers.

For Bud, music supplied an extended family and a generational rite of passage. Good musicians will tell you it’s in the sharing of same that music affords the greatest satisfaction – and it’s in playing, teaching and sharing by which Bud Monahan personified the greatest gift of music.

• photo courtesy Clifford Skarstedt, The Peterborough Examiner

There are not enough improv phrases to conjure up the immense contribution Dan Fewings has made to this community. No doubt, he has helped bridge the gap between the Trent University, and Peterborough communites through his varied activities, and as a consequence made Peterborough a more welcoming place to live.

Dan Fewings’ vocation as music teacher at PCVS and Crestwood High Schools enabled him to note, encourage and help promising talent. He became mentor to such exceptional people as Jimmy Bowskill. Dan single-handedly expanded the Peterborough Folk Scene, hosting and performing 5 years of Tuesday nights (count ’em ,256 in all) at Red Dog Ray McGregor’s (Inducted 1999) Hunter Street West Tavern stage in the early 1990’s.

It can be said of Dan Fewings that his comedic talents boarder on genius, making him sought after by numerous groups as performer, emcee and comic.

His presence in ‘Bowskills and Fewings,’ ‘The Three Martinis,’ ‘Slim Pickets’ and ‘The Union Cards,’ also with son Josh in ‘Fewings and Son,’ and then on occasion with the Citiots Improv Group, has resulted in the stuff legendary stories in equal parts colourful,and simply great.

It would be safe to say that those with whom he has graced the stage: Linda Kash (Inducted 2015), Sean Cullen, Serena Ryder (Inducted 2016) and Rick Mercer to name but a few, will concede that the billing could be just as meaningful the other way around!

It is estimated Dan has volunteered over 1000 hours of music, clowning around or emcee to numerous functions. His wit, energy, promotion of others and love of people combine to bestow Dan Fewings, an Honouree of the Peterborough and District Pathway of Fame.

Back in the 1980’s, Robert Winslow began giving voice to the dream of establishing a theatre company that would present original plays dealing with local history, and staged in a barnyard! Needless to say, the original reaction was one of ‘suspended credulity.’

But Robert Winslow followed his dream and created 4th Line Theatre.

He invited the world, and the world came.

4th Line Theatre has evolved an imposing reality, not only coping with challenges facing an outdoor theatre, but facing the challenges inherent with dramatizing oft times uncomfortable themes: Catholic vs. Protestant, East vs. West, Rural vs. Urban, white vs. native.

And yet, from Day One, 4th Line Theatre has been truly unique and compelling. Whether as producer, director, writer, actor and always as Artistic Director, Robert consistently nailed the essence of drama, and the essence of conflict. Through portrayal of both sides of conflict, we’re afforded an opportunity to better understand our roots, ourselves, and others.

4th Line Theatre is now recognized across Canada, drawing patrons from around the world. Today it ranks as one of Kawarthas’ major tourism draws and has given a remarkable number of aspiring artists a chance to shine, just before sundown.

Sometimes with pathos, often with humour, but always with poignancy, Robert Winslow has held up, for us a rear- view mirror through which audiences can disappear, for a brief moment, into an elusive but welcome past…

A musician and songwriter for over 30 years, Bryan D. Switzer is one of those genuine artists who uses his music to touch the hearts of people in his community, and country. He created a remarkable catalogue of songs celebrating Canada, the land’s history and beauty, and poignancy of the lives of individual Canadians. His songs had an impact on audiences across the country and as far away as Europe.

Throughout his career, Bryan’s been an ardent and passionate supporter of Canadian talent, especially those aspiring artists looking to get their foot in the door. There have been no worthy causes in our area that have yet to benefit from the musical generosity of Bryan D. Switzer.

If longevity is a hallmark of success, this gentleman has achieved his longevity with a caring commitment to his music, and his fellow Canadians.

If there’s any doubt that music is a doorway to a life well spent, as an individual and an integral community member, one has only to look at the life of Elsie Chambers Flett.

As one of the first members of Peterborough Branch of the Ontario Registered Music Teachers Association, she taught, and inspired children of this area for more than 50 years. As choir director and organist, she enriched services at St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church, as well as leading numerous musicals utilizing talented members of the choir.

However, it’s an offshoot of her work at St. Paul’s that many consider her most noteworthy achievement. She’s founder, producer and director of ‘Bethlehem Live.’ Through the marriage of music and spoken word, this yearly pageant brings to life the Christmas story in a poignant and tender way. Since its inception, the event has charmed, and inspired thousands of Peterborough residents and visitors.

The joy and meaning of music, accomplishment, and dedication to community.

Elsie Chambers Flett passed away in 2013, in her 90th year.

Without question, the greatest waste is a waste of human life and when that life belongs to a child, the waste is all the more poignant. In 19th Century England when the Industrial Revolution was taking its greatest toll, Dr. Thomas Barnardo was one of those rare human beings who didn’t simply lament the waste of human life, but did something about it.

Appalled by the number of homeless children scavenging an existence on city streets, Thomas began feeding them, then came up with an idea of starting up homes for destitute and unwanted children. In these homes, the children could receive proper food, warm clothing and training in useful trades, thereby allowing them a chance to build a life for themselves as adults. Dr. Barnardo’s good works came to the attention of Peterborough’s George Cox. Cox offered Barnardo the choice of two city properties. Barnardo saw this as an opportunity to help children escape the degradation they suffered in England and find gainful employment in a young country; itself hungry for those who were willing to work. Thus the home called Hazelbrae was born.

From 1884 to 1922, Dr. Barnardo was instrumental in bringing 10,000 young people to Peterborough to find better, more meaningful lives. Another 20,000 Barnardo children found equally suitable homes elsewhere in Canada.

Today the legacy of Barnardo Children and their descendants can be seen in the city, the country and families they’ve built. The legacy of Thomas Barnardo remains as meaningful today as it did then; what one person can accomplish when they have the courage to get involved.

Hard working and deeply religious, Lloyd McCarrell made the area a better place by putting his beliefs in the dignity of human life, into practice.

A North Monaghan farmer, Lloyd selflessly opened his home ,and heart to those less fortunate. Especially at Christmas, or any time a meal or place to stay was needed. Lloyd’s farmhouse became a haven for the homeless, and down-and-out.

That farmhouse, by the way, was already home to Lloyd, his wife and their 14 children.

The McCarrell home also served as a gathering place for local musicians and musical friends, such as Kent Brockwell and Stompin’ Tom Connors to come to play, and create music.

Lloyd McCarrell personified the best in human spirit by giving of himself to provide others with the four basics of life: food, warmth, love and music.

Novelist James Michener once said, “If it isn’t written down, it doesn’t exist.” Nowhere is it truer than in pursuit of local history. So much local history depends on the oral tradition of memory and storytelling. As older generations fade away, so too does history. The fascinating history of Smith Township will take much longer to fade, because of the dedication of Bernice Harris.

For over 25 years, Bernice worked to preserve what hadn’t necessarily been written down. Bernice was a founder of the Smith Ennismore Historical Society, and the Smith Ennismore Heritage Centre. Her research skills and meticulous eye to historical detail provided literary fodder for such illuminating and immensely readable publications as ‘At The Edge of the Shield: The History of Smith Township,’ ‘The Collected Poems of William Telford,’ ‘Bridgenorth, The Centre of the Universe’ and ‘Adam Scott, Master Millwright.’

Local history is part of who we are and will live on because it’s been written down. For that, we owe a continuing debt of gratitude to Bernice Harris.