Canadian Week in Review 20 February 2017

I have come across the following Canadian genealogy, history and heritage websites, social media, and newspaper articles this past week that were of interest to me, and I thought you might be interested in them, too.

This Week in Canadian History

No items this week.

Social Media

(Photos) Canada 150: 15 historic dates every Canadian should know
http://www.yorkregion.com/community-story/7035842-canada-150-15-historic-dates-every-canadian-should-know/

How well do you know Canadian history?

(Video) Leduc No. 1: Seven decades ago, a single oil well changed Alberta history
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/leduc-oil-discovery-anniversary-oil-boom-history-1.3980331

The ground rumbled when grease-covered roughnecks opened creaking valves, and a mix of crude oil and gas spewed flames 15 metres into the air.

Seventy years ago Monday, on a sleepy farm near Devon, Leduc No. 1 struck a rich deposit of oil and forever changed the course of Alberta history.

(Video)'Secret Alberta': New documentary brings Amber Valley back to life
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/secret-alberta-new-documentary-brings-amber-valley-back-to-life-1.3968766

To her ancestors, it was the Promised Land.

To Myrna Wisdom, it was home.

Though few traces of Amber Valley still exist, the forgotten town about 100 km north of Edmonton was once a thriving all-black settlement of homesteaders. 

Newspaper Articles

Nova Scotia

N.S. pardons late Mi'kmaq leader: 'He was the first to stand up for us'
http://atlantic.ctvnews.ca/n-s-pardons-late-mi-kmaq-leader-he-was-the-first-to-stand-up-for-us-1.3287955

Gabriel Sylliboy died feeling like he failed his Mi'kmaq people.

The grand chief launched a fight for aboriginal rights after being charged with illegal hunting in the 1920s, but the courts of the era dismissed the notion that a 1752 treaty gave Sylliboy any rights.

It would take another six decades before those rights were recognized by the courts.
 

Stellarton lines up events to mark Heritage Day
http://www.ngnews.ca/news/local/2017/2/16/stellarton-lines-up-events-to-mark-heritage-day.html
 

The Town of Stellarton will celebrate Nova Scotia Heritage Day with a sledding party, music, hot chocolate and snowshoeing. 

Pier 21 exhibit honours unit's Great War service
https://www.localxpress.ca/local-arts-and-life/pier-21-exhibit-honours-units-great-war-service-534666 

On March 25, 1917, the black soldiers of No. 2 Construction Battalion left Halifax for Europe to serve in a non-combat labour unit. To mark the anniversary of the unit's departure, the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 teamed up with the Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia to create the temporary exhibit called No. 2 Construction Battalion. It opens Thursday and runs till May 1. 

Sewer work in Amherst unearths collection of antique bottles
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/antiques-glass-bottles-history-amherst-1.3973647

Nancy Allen was struck by a wave a curiosity when she looked into a freshly dug hole in her lawn. Down near her sewer line were dozens of objects covered in years worth of muck and dirt — she wasn't sure what they were, but she wanted a closer look. 

Prince Edward Island 

Former PEI convent is born again as a luxury hotel
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/industry-news/property-report/former-pei-convent-is-born-again-as-a-luxury-hotel/article34009618/

On a recent visit to her former Notre Dame convent, Sister Elizabeth Dunn surveys the dramatic transformation that’s under way here at the cherished downtown landmark.

Sold to developers in 2014 and midway through a $9-million renovation, the 19th-century heritage building is set to open this spring as a luxury boutique inn and apartment suites in the heart of Prince Edward Island’s capital.

Quebec

The McCord Museum pays tribute to Montreal's leading families
http://www.thesuburban.com/arts_and_entertainment/arts/the-mccord-museum-pays-tribute-to-montreal-s-leading-families/article_4984e11e-efc3-11e6-ae72-6396331e642e.html

To mark Montreal's 375th anniversary, Sun Life Financial and the McCord Museum are partnering to give everyone a chance to experience "Our Amazing Families: Three Centuries of Quebec Documents and History", a textual records holding enhancement project that will spotlight the economic, social and family history of Quebec.  

Ontario

Outreach project seeks stories of First World War veterans
http://www.insidetoronto.com/community-story/7085031-outreach-project-seeks-stories-of-first-world-war-veterans/

When Private Henry Agassiz signed up to serve in The Great War in 1916, his proud portrait joined those of more than 2,200 of his fellow enlistees from T. Eaton Company’s Toronto store on the flagship’s walls. 

'Downton Abbey' castle may have been backdrop for Canadian history
http://www.ctvnews.ca/world/downton-abbey-castle-may-have-been-backdrop-for-canadian-history-1.3287735

For “Downton Abbey” fans, Highclere Castle remains a lasting reminder of the popular British television drama and the Crawley family’s struggle to adapt to a rapidly changing world of telephones, gramophones and women’s rights.

But for Canadians, the Victorian country house may have been the setting of a historic meeting that altered the course of Canada’s history.

Black History Month
http://theargus.ca/orillia-2/2017/black-history-month-shades-of-resistance/

The Lakehead University Student Union-Orillia presents Black History Month: Shades of Resistance, a period dedicated to celebrating and highlighting black students and black folks within Lakehead and the community at large. 

Canada history: Feb 15 1965- Canada finally gets its own, wonderful, flag
http://www.rcinet.ca/en/2017/02/15/canada-history-feb-15-1965-canada-finally-gets-its-wonderful-flag/

Canada is still a relatively young country, but our national flag is even younger. At 52, the Canadian Maple Leaf is now one of the most recognized flags in the world. 

Canada’s red and white Maple Leaf Flag was raised officially for the first time on this date February 15, 1965.  

How an Ontario couple is telling Black Canadians' stories — and setting Canadian history straight
http://tvo.org/article/current-affairs/shared-values/how-an-ontario-couple-is-telling-black-canadians-stories--and-setting-canadian-history-straight

When Camille and Roger Dundas launched ByBlacks.com, they wanted to provide a platform for celebrating Black Canadian history, and to amplify the stories of Black Canadians' contributions to their communities.  

Manitoba 

History Matters: No female homesteaders need apply

http://thestarphoenix.com/opinion/columnists/history-matters-no-female-homesteaders-need-apply

On April 30, 1910, Manitoba Conservative MP William J. Roche stood in the House of Commons and asked Interior Minister Frank Oliver whether he had ever given “serious consideration” to the idea of “permitting ladies … the privilege of homesteading.”  

Manitoba museum using social media to solve history mystery
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/pioneer-village-museum-photos-facebook-1.3971489

A Manitoba museum is taking to Facebook to get help solving a history mystery.

The Pioneer Village Museum in Beausejour, Manitoba is scanning photo negatives from the early 1900s and posting them on Facebook hoping to find out who is in them and even where they were taken.  

Original Indigenous place names collected in Manitoba
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/indigenous-place-names-manitoba-1.3968249   

Some people might know Pekwachnamaykoskwaskwaypinwanik Lake, located south of Red Sucker Lake near the Ontario border, for its trout fishing but others might recognize it for its long Cree name.

Pekwachnamaykoskwaskwaypinwanik translates to "where the wild trout are caught by fishing with hooks."  

Alberta 

Celebrating Black History Month in Red Deer
http://www.rdnewsnow.com/article/526984/celebrating-black-history-month-red-deer

A sign once hung in the window of a downtown Red Deer café near the old train station and Windsor Hotel.

‘Whites Only’ it read.  

Museum celebrates Black History Month
http://lethbridgeherald.com/news/lethbridge-news/2017/02/12/museum-celebrates-black-history-month/

The Galt Museum and Archives was the site of a celebration of African and African-Caribbean culture Saturday as the cty came together in honour of Black History Month.

Paul Tokode, one of the event organizers, said the event was intended to showcase African and African-Caribbean culture in the Lethbridge community.  

Saskatchewan 

Saskatchewan Archives Week comes to an end
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/saskatoon/saskatchewan-archives-week-2017-1.3977871

A picture may be worth a thousand words, but the story behind a photograph may not be known unless a record of it is kept.

That's where archivists come in.

Saskatchewan Archives Week is coming to an end after celebrating the history of the province and the people in it.

British Columbia 

How the Douglas-fir tree put Vancouver on the map
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/how-the-douglas-fir-tree-made-vancouver-1.3968058

Long before Vancouver's Shangri-La and Harbour Centre defined the city's skyline, giant evergreen trees towered over those who dared step foot inside the rugged wilderness.

The Douglas-fir was king

Museum gets Canadian world-war exhibit
http://www.kelownacapnews.com/news/412056563.html?mobile=true  

A special commemorative exhibition, From Vimy to Juno: Canada in France 1914-45, opened Jan. 27 at the Okanagan Military Museum.

This national travelling exhibition explores the connections between defining moments in Canadian history and the experiences of Canadians who fought in both world wars. From Vimy to Juno was developed by the Juno Beach Centre, Canada’s only museum on the D-Day Landing beaches in Normandy, France. 

Canada Stories this Week 

Update on the Digitization of the Canadian Expeditionary Force Personnel Service Files

This past week there was more good news from the Library and Archives Canada in that 404,164 of 640,000 files are now available online. 

The latest box digitized is Box 6831 and last name McGee.

Please check the database regularly for new additions and if you still have questions after checking the database, you may contact us directly at 1-866-578-7777 for more assistance.

The website is http://www.bac-lac.gc.ca/eng/discover/military-heritage/first-world-war/personnel-records/Pages/personnel-records.aspx

Be sure to tell your friends about us. 

If you would like to subscribe, please send your email to genealogycanada@aol.com 

Publishers Elizabeth and Mario Lapointe 

Sponsored by Elizabeth Lapointe Research Services. To learn more about the research services offered by ELRS, go to www.elrs.biz The email is genealogyreserch@aol.com 

(c)2017 All rights reserved.

Canadian Week in Review 13 February 2017

I have come across the following Canadian genealogy, history and heritage websites, social media, and newspaper articles this past week that were of interest to me, and I thought you might be interested in them, too.

This Week in Canadian History

Naming the Nation

On February 9, 1865, two years before Confederation, Thomas D’Arcy McGee made an impassioned speech recommending “Canada” as the name for the new union between Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.

To read a very good account, go to http://www.pc.gc.ca/apps/cseh-twih/index_e.asp

12 February 1901

When Kootenai Brown first came to the Waterton area of southern Alberta, people told him about oil seepage along what is today called Cameron Creek.

Brown told other local ranchers of the find, and on 12 February 1901, the Rocky Mountain Development Company was incorporated to drill for oil. 

Although short-lived, Rocky Mountain Development No. 1 was Western Canada's first producing oil well and the birthplace of today's oil industry.

To read more about this, go to https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_the_petroleum_industry_in_Canada



Social Media

Events planned to celebrate Devon's Newfoundland ties

http://www.totnes-today.co.uk/article.cfm?id=106086&headline=Events%20planned%20to%20celebrate%20Devon%E2%80%99s%20Newfoundland%20ties&sectionIs=news&searchyear=2017

Totnes is included in an international celebration linking Devon, New­foundland and the man from Compton who is said to have founded the British Empire.

Newspaper Articles 

Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia Archives wants you to search your attic for a historic black newspaper

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/the-clarion-newspaper-african-nova-scotians-1.3974228

The Nova Scotia Archives is asking people to check their old stacks of newspapers to help them piece together a part of the province's history.

The Clarion, based in New Glasgow, N.S., was one of the first newspapers published in the province specifically for the black community.

Historic Mounce Mansion listed for sale in Newport Landing

http://thechronicleherald.ca/novascotia/1440431-historic-mounce-mansion-listed-for-sale-in-newport-landing

A manor built in the community of Newport Landing has netted a great deal of attention for its historic qualities — and a $435,000 price tag.

The Mounce Mansion on Avondale Road is listed by Eastern Valley Real Estate Ltd., and has a grand history to go with it.

Black History Month: Black Loyalists Exodus to Nova Scotia (1783)

http://www.royalgazette.com/opinion/article/20170210/black-history-month-black-loyalists-exodus-to-nova-scotia-1783

The Black Loyalists were the approximately 3,000 African-American supporters of the British during the American Revolution who were repatriated to British Canada at the end of the conflict. Most settled in Nova Scotia and established what would be, for decades, the largest concentration of black residents in Canada and what was at the time the largest settlement of free blacks outside Africa.

Editor's Note: There are several historical inaccuracies in this article. The Black Loyalists came to Port Roseway (Shelburne) in the summer of 1783, not Halifax. There is the Black Loyalists Heritage Centre in Birchtown, right next to Shelburne, with many exciting programs, and the website is http://blackloyalist.com/ Personally, I am from the area, and my genealogy refers to Black Loyalists. - Elizabeth

http://www.kingscountynews.ca/community/2017/2/10/african-history-month-events-lined-up-at-acadia.html

On Monday, Feb 13, Dr. Catherine Cottreau-Robins, curator of archaeology for Nova Scotia Museums, will present a lecture at 6 p.m. in BAC 132 entitled, ‘The archaeology of slavery and freedom in Nova Scotia.’

Segregation 'even after death' for African Nova Scotians, researcher says

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/segregated-cemeteries-camp-hill-african-nova-scotians-black-communities-1.3971054

A researcher of African Nova Scotian history says shocking examples of systemic racism can be found in the histories of the province's cemeteries, where "even after death, there was segregation."

Ontario

Dionne quintuplets say birth home must be preserved as part of Canadian history

http://www.timescolonist.com/dionne-quintuplets-say-birth-home-must-be-preserved-as-part-of-canadian-history-1.9763744#sthash.tcuW6VN8.dpuf

The two surviving Dionne quintuplets are urging officials in northeastern Ontario to preserve the home where they were born, suggesting there is a "moral obligation" to safeguard a part of Canadian history.

Manitoba

Louis Riel’s Walking Stick Part of New Exhibit at Manitoba Museum

http://www.chrisd.ca/2017/02/09/manitoba-museum-legacies-of-confederation-exhibit/#.WJ3NVnko64s

A new temporary exhibit commemorating Canada’s 150th birthday opened at the Manitoba Museum on Thursday.

“Legacies of Confederation: A New Look at Manitoba History” highlights iconic artifacts and specimens from the museum’s vast collection, as well as some loaned items including the seldom seen walking stick used by Louis Riel and a Treaty document dating to 1875.

Saskatchewan 

Saskatoon doc to tell stories of Canada's historic movie theatres

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/saskatoon/saskatoon-documentary-historic-movie-theatres-1.3972330

When The Empire Strikes Back was playing at Saskatoon's Towne Cinema in 1980, it was the hottest ticket in the city, and Mike Fisher was a sleepy little boy out for a night at the movies with his mom and dad.

Alberta

'We have been here for a long time': group promotes black history in Alberta

http://www.metronews.ca/news/edmonton/2017/02/08/new-group-promotes-black-history-in-alberta-.html

Debbie Beaver is a fourth-generation Albertan who gets tired of people asking where she’s from.

The answer is a farm near Barrhead, but it doesn't satisfy most who ask, she said.

“They would say, ‘Well, before that, where was your dad from?’” she said.

“Well, my dad was born in the same place.”

British Columbia

Students preparing for historic trip

http://www.delta-optimist.com/news/students-preparing-for-historic-trip-1.9777995

A group of students and staff from Delta Secondary will be a part of history in April with a trip to Vimy Ridge to coincide with the 100th anniversary of Canada's military victory. The trip is through Education First tours with the focus being attending the anniversary ceremony alongside thousands of other students from across Canada.

Our history is harder than you think

http://www.campbellrivermirror.com/opinion/413069563.html

I’ve recently taken up a new morning ritual.

No, it’s not getting up earlier, getting early morning nutrition or going for a run or anything sensible like that.

I’m testing my knowledge.

Canada Stories this Week

He Won! He Won!

Remember last week when I told you that I was wishing Louis Kessler all the luck in the world with his invention to be debuted at the Innovation Summit on Friday at RootsTech 2017 in Salt Lake City???

He won!

His invention, which is called Double Match Triangulator, placed third.

I communicated while him late on Friday, and he was “thrilled”.

He went on to say that “Apparently I'm the first Canadian to ever win a Showdown prize”, and he is right. He IS the first Canadian to win a place on the showdown!

So congratulations, Louis. We wait to hear more news about your invention, and your continued good luck!

Go to http://lkessler.com/

His blog is at http://www.beholdgenealogy.com/blog/

#Ontario150 Twitter Campaign

The Archives of Ontario is always ahead of the latest news, and now, they are doing their share of getting their records on your computer and mobile devices by spotlighting people from Ontario in the next 150 days by Twitter.

So, the Archives of Ontario is counting down the 150 days until Ontario’s 150th birthday on July 1, 2017!

Like, re-tweet and follow our #Ontario150 Twitter Campaign @ArchivesOntario to see important people and moments from 1867 to the present, represented in our diverse collections.

Go to http://www.archives.gov.on.ca/en/index.aspx#sthash.Wn1CSNYK.dpuf

Happy Valentine's Day, Everyone!!

Be sure to tell your friends about us.

If you would like to subscribe, please send your email to genealogycanada@aol.com

Publishers Elizabeth and Mario Lapointe

Sponsored by Elizabeth Lapointe Research Services. To learn more about the research services offered by ELRS, go to www.elrs.biz.

The email is genealogyreserch@aol.com

(c)2017 All rights reserved.

Canadian Week in Review 06 February 2017

I have come across the following Canadian genealogy, history and heritage websites, social media, and newspaper articles this past week that were of interest to me, and I thought you might be interested in them, too.

This Week in Canadian History

Late in the evening of 03 February 1916, smoke was seen escaping from the reading room of the Centre Block.

The fire spread quickly, the roof collapsed, and in the early hours of 04 February, the clock tower collapsed. Seven people died in the blaze. By the next day, the fire was out, but the structure was a smoldering in an icy shell. 

To learn more, go to http://canadaonline.about.com/od/parliament/p/parlbldgsfire.htm 

Social Media

Northern Manitoba youth to preserve history of northern Manitoba First Nations with app 

http://aptnnews.ca/2017/01/30/youth-look-to-preserve-history-of-northern-manitoba-first-nations-with-app/ 

A group of Northern Manitoba youth are learning about new technology in Winnipeg this week hoping to bring new communications ideas back to their home communities. 

Newspaper Articles

Nova Scotia

39 Nova Scotia projects receive Canada 150th funding 

http://thechronicleherald.ca/novascotia/1436889-39-nova-scotia-projects-receive-canada-150th-funding  

The province has announced funding for 39 Nova Scotian non-profits and co-operatives to mark Canada’s 150th anniversary. 

A total of $841,000 was announced on Monday for those organizations holding events or celebrations to celebrate Nova Scotia’s role in Canada’s history.  

Did you know that this province has more than 48 Historic Black communities? 

http://www.ngnews.ca/community/2017/1/29/passing-the-torch---celebrating-african-heritage-month.html 

Each year, during the month of February we celebrate the history, heritage and contributions of African Nova Scotians, one of our founding settler communities by recognizing Black History Month/African Heritage Month. 

Prince Edward Island 

Historical Society sees a museum in train station's future

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/prince-edward-island/pei-summerside-train-station-1.3966241 

The Summerside and Area Historical Society wants city's old train station to become a municipal museum. 

The city is looking for a buyer for the 1927 structure. It was most recently a library before the opening of the new Inspire Learning Centre. 

Ontario  

Snow has fallen in the museum 

http://www.niagarathisweek.com/opinion-story/7093617-snow-has-fallen-in-the-museum/ 

Snow, the first exhibition of its kind in Canada, portrays the amazing love-hate relationship that the inhabitants of this great land have had with snow since the arrival of the First Peoples in North America. Created by the Canadian Museum of History, in partnership with the J. Armand Bombardier Museum, Snow gives visitors a historical and cultural perspective on this element of nature as a source of adaptation, passion, ingenuity and creativity.  

RBC announces 30 Black History Month Student Essay Competition scholarship winners  

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/rbc-announces-30-black-history-130000242.html 

As Canada prepares to celebrate its 150th birthday, RBC asked high school students to reflect on the contribution of black Canadians over the past 150 years and what future generations can learn from them. Thirty winners were chosen from a record-number of entries, including the top three winners. 

British Columbia 

Historic exhibit opens in Kelowna 

http://www.kelownacapnews.com/news/412154653.html 

A special commemorative exhibition entitled From Vimy to Juno: Canada in France 1914-45 opened today at the Okanagan Military Museum. This national travelling exhibition explores the connections between defining moments in Canadian history and the experiences of Canadians who fought in both world wars. From Vimy to Juno was developed by the Juno Beach Centre, Canada’s only museum on the D-Day Landing beaches in Normandy, France. 

Canadian Stories this Week 

RootsTech 2017

Are you ready? Do you have everything packed to go to the conference, and have you registered for the streaming of the lectures?

If you haven't register yet for the Streaming Schedule from Wednesday to Saturday, you can go to https://www.rootstech.org/live-stream-schedule to see the timetable. And you can view these lecture on any of your devices. 

Remember that on Friday, it is Innovator Showdown, and we have a Canadian in this year's competition - Louis Kessler and the Double Match Triangulator - Forging New Frontiers in DNA Analysis. 

Louis is from Winnipeg, and you can read his story of how he developed this new analysis of DNA at https://devpost.com/software/double-match-triangulator-dmt.  

So be sure to send best wishes to Louis and vote for him when his innovation comes up for a vote at in the Innovative Showdown. The website for his invention is at https://www.rootstech.org/innovator-showdown  

Today, if you wish to watch Dear Myrt Hangout at the Family History Library in downtown Salt Lake City, Utah, you can register at http://hangouts.dearmyrtle.com/6-feb-2016-mwm.html and join in with the fun! 

I will be watching, taking notes, and keeping my eyes and ears tuned for new developments at the conference. It is always innovative, interesting and there is always something new – so join me in watching. 

For more up-to-date information, go to the Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/RootsTech/  

Black History Month 2017

The  honoree this year is Viola Desmond, a Nova Scotian businesswoman who changed the course of Canadian history by refusing to leave a whites-only area of a movie theatre in 1946. 

The Government of Canada recently chose her as the face for Canada’s ten dollar bank note and Black History Month poster. 

If you can't go the various celebrations, you can take a victual tour of the Canadian Black History Virtual Museum and also Treasure Hunt which shows life in Canada for the Black Canadians. 

There is also a site on the site called Anniversary celebrations in 2017 in which they explore the subjects of the 180 year anniversary of the Corps of Negroes, the 160 year anniversary of William Neilson Hall winning the Victoria Cross, and the 100 year anniversary of the No. 2 Construction Battalion’s Departure Overseas

And you can watch a video about black history, and you can do this at on the site at https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/black-history-month.htmlhttps://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/black-history-month.html   

2017 Archives Week in Saskatchewan

The Provincial Archives invites you to attend the 2017 Archives Week celebration Perspectives on the Northwest Resistance at Bushwakker Brewpub on Wednesday, February 8 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.

Please join us for an evening of readings by renowned speakers.

Admission is free and refreshments are available for purchase.

You can contact the archives on it's main page to get further directions.

The website is at https://www.saskarchives.com/  

Be sure to tell your friends about us. 

If you would like to subscribe, please send your email to genealogycanada@aol.com 

Publishers Elizabeth and Mario Lapointe 

Sponsored by Elizabeth Lapointe Research Services. To learn more about the research services offered by ELRS, go to www.elrs.biz The email is genealogyreserch@aol.com 

(c)2017 All rights reserved.

Canadian Week in Review 30 January 2017

I have come across the following Canadian genealogy, history and heritage websites, social media, and newspaper articles this past week that were of interest to me, and I thought you might be interested in them, too.

 

This Week in Canadian History  

Flag of Quebec 

The provincial flag of Quebec was first hoisted on 21 January 1948. Quebec Flag Day, however, is celebrated on 24 May.

The flag contains white fleurs-de-lis on a blue field (which is colour Pantone 293). The flag's horizontal symmetry allows both sides of the flag to show the same image.

To read the history of the flag, and other interesting tidbits, go to http://www.crwflags.com/fotw/flags/ca-qc.html

Social Media

(Video) Saskatoon Heritage Society hopeful Third Avenue United Church gets designation

http://globalnews.ca/news/3203299/saskatoon-heritage-society-hopeful-third-avenue-united-church-gets-designation/

The Saskatoon Heritage Society is hopeful a provincial board will recommend the Third Avenue United Church be designated a municipal heritage property.

The church at 304 3rd Ave. North, which first saw construction in 1911, was up for consideration during a Monday evening meeting of city council.

(Video) Calgary’s Langevin Bridge renamed Reconciliation Bridge
http://globalnews.ca/news/3191789/calgary-city-council-expected-to-vote-in-favour-of-renaming-langevin-bridge/

Calgary city council voted to rename the Langevin Bridge as the Reconciliation Bridge Monday evening, with only Coun. Jim Stevenson opposed.

The bridge, which opened in 1910, spans the Bow River, connecting 4 Street S.E. with 4 Avenue S.E. 

(Blog) Protecting Fort Anne – One of Canada’s First Parks
https://thediscoverblog.com/2017/01/24/protecting-fort-anne-one-of-canadas-first-parks 

Fort Anne National Historic Site in Annapolis Royal sits at the edge of the Annapolis and Allain Rivers in Nova Scotia. The park, established 100 years ago, is Canada’s first federally-administered national historic site (Fort Howe in New Brunswick is the first historic site).
 

(Video) Calls to rename Ottawa’s Langevin Block over namesake’s connection to residential schools
http://www.thestarphoenix.com/news/national/calls+rename+ottawa+langevin+block+over+namesake/12783837/story.html

A recent decision to rename Calgary’s Langevin Bridge because of its namesake’s connection to residential schools is spurring calls to change the name of the building in Ottawa that houses the Prime Minister’s Office.

Newspapers Articles

Newfoundland

Company's test for Beothuk DNA called bogus by geneticists
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/newfoundland-labrador/beothuk-dna-ancestry-genetics-1.3953668

A North Carolina woman says DNA testing has revealed that she is Beothuk, a descendant of an Indigenous people from Newfoundland whose last known member died in 1829. 

Nova Scotia 

Coin, stamp to mark 100th anniversary of Halifax Explosion

http://thechronicleherald.ca/novascotia/1435557-coin-stamp-to-mark-100th-anniversary-of-halifax-explosion

A newly-minted $100 coin and a 2017 Canada Post stamp will commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Halifax Explosion.

Pre-orders are being taken for the $100 gold coin designed by Canadian artist Jamie Desrochers, which is expected to be popular among collectors after its Feb. 7 release. 

African Heritage Month launching in Amherst Jan. 30
http://www.cumberlandnewsnow.com/news/local/2017/1/23/african-heritage-month-launching-in-amherst-jan--30.html 

The past, present and future will all be celebrated during this year’s African Heritage Month, which will be given an official launch in Amherst on Monday, Jan. 30.

Members of New Brunswick’s black community say the time has come to bury a word once used in polite company, but is now considered offensive.

The word “Negro" is still being used as a name for roads, neighbourhoods and historic breakwater in the province.

STORIFY: African Heritage Month officially declared at Province House
http://thechronicleherald.ca/novascotia/1435096-storify-african-heritage-month-officially-declared-at-province-house

Lt.-Gov. J.J. Grant and African Nova Scotia Affairs Minister Tony Ince officially named February African Heritage Month at Province House Tuesday.

This year’s theme, “Passing the Torch — African Nova Scotians and the Next 150 Years,” recognizes the long history of African Nova Scotians, and documents their resiliency and triumphs in the face of adversity. The theme also highlights the African Nova Scotian community’s future. 

Exhibition depicts Canada's prime ministers with majesty and mischief
http://www.news1130.com/2017/01/24/exhibition-depicts-canadas-prime-ministers-with-majesty-and-mischief/

It’s John Diefenbaker as you’ve never seen him — standing on a chair, an intricate miniature statue of the 13th prime minister in a quirky exhibition that captures 150 years of Canadian political history.

Federal funds announced for Freeport legion, Cornwallis military museum
http://www.digbycourier.ca/community/2017/1/24/federal-funds-announced-for-freeport-legion--cornwallis-military.html

West Nova MP Colin Fraser has announced federal funding to help Royal Canadian Legion Carpiquet Branch 92, which received $81,450, and the Cornwallis Military Museum Association, which got $5,357. 

Volunteers revive historic cabin in the heart of Nova Scotia wilderness
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/cofan-cabin-construction-forest-cooperation-restoration-1.3951715 

It was the ultimate backwoods fixer-upper.

A dedicated group of Nova Scotians has worked to restore a nearly century-old log cabin deep in the woods of southwest Nova Scotia that's considered part of the province's heritage. 

New Brunswick

‘It's derogatory’: Black History Society pushing to remove ‘Negro’ from N.B. community names
http://atlantic.ctvnews.ca/it-s-derogatory-black-history-society-pushing-to-remove-negro-from-n-b-community-names-1.3253775

Members of New Brunswick’s black community say the time has come to bury a word once used in polite company, but is now considered offensive.

The word “Negro" is still being used as a name for roads, neighbourhoods and historic breakwater in the province.  

Saint John's racist place names need to change, group says
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/racist-names-saint-john-1.3947958

Several New Brunswick place names — like the Negro Point Breakwater in west Saint John, and Negro Head in Lorneville — are reminders of the province's racist heritage and should be changed, according to Ralph Thomas of PRUDE.

'It's ... insulting': Mi'kmaq warrior chief says of Canada's 150th celebration

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/mikmaq-canada-150-celebration-1.3949585

As Canada celebrates its 150th year of Confederation, Mi'kmaq Warrior Chief John Levi says First Nations people are still struggling with poverty and he's made a call to action to remind the country of its shortcomings.  

Ontario

A story a day to celebrate Black History Month
http://www.metronews.ca/news/toronto/2017/01/20/a-story-a-day-to-celebrate-black-history-month.html

While Black people make up 2.9 per cent of the Canadian population, according to the 2011 Statistics Canada numbers, Casey Palmer believes most of what’s reported in mainstream media isn’t necessarily reflective of his actual community.

Ryan Gosling and a brief history of Canadian actors at the Oscars
http://www.cbc.ca/beta/arts/ryan-gosling-and-a-brief-history-of-canadian-actors-at-the-oscars-1.3938260

So with our fingers firmly crossed for Gosling come next month (his hometown of London, Ont. might be something of a good luck charm, as you'll quickly see), let's take a quick look back at the 19 Canadian-born actors that join him in the all-too-exclusive club.

Join in this city’s year-long party
http://www.star2.com/travel/americas/2017/01/25/ottawa-celebrates-150th-birthday-with-a-year-long-party/

Jim Watson, the mayor of Canada’s capital, joined the Ottawa 2017 briefing in progress. He talked about the city he clearly loves and currently runs, sounded excited, then handed the reporter a puck.

“Most mayors hand out medals,” he said. “But I hand out pucks. So there you go …”

Canada history: Jan 26, 1924 Canada’s first (more or less) official flag
http://www.rcinet.ca/en/2017/01/26/canada-history-jan-26-1924-canadas-first-more-or-less-official-flag/

Canada has an interesting history with its national flags.

Canada came into being in 1867 and usually when a country is formed, one of the first things it does is create a flag as part of its new and distinct identity. That didn’t exactly happen in the Dominion of Canada.

Searching for a Canadian soldier: Belgian woman makes last-ditch effort to find her father
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/florence-heene-searches-for-canadian-soldier-father-1.3953738

A Belgian woman's plea for help to find the Canadian soldier she thinks is her biological father has captured the attention of thousands of people around the world, prompting Canadians to dig into the military pasts of their own families and to scour archival websites to try to solve the mystery 

Saskatchewan 

Former church owner objects to heritage status
http://thestarphoenix.com/news/local-news/former-church-owner-objects-to-heritage-status

A provincial review board will consider granting a heritage designation for Third Avenue United Church in Saskatoon after its former owner objected to granting protection for the historic building.

Alberta 

A step in time: Square Dance Club history
http://lethbridgeherald.com/news/lethbridge-news/2017/01/24/a-step-in-time-square-dance-club-history/

Whether country and western, polka or tango, community dancing has been enjoyed as a pastime in Lethbridge for generations.

In the early 1950s square dancing soared in popularity. An estimated 1,500 people in Lethbridge belonged to a club, and the waiting period for admission to membership into one of the city’s clubs was as much as a year.

Canada Stories this Week 

Soldiers of the Great War: The Fredericton Soldier Biography History Initiative

The introduction says that “The Fredericton Soldier Biography History Initiative brings together middle school students from George Street Middle School with educators, historians, archivists, and community members to help build greater awareness of soldiers named on the Fredericton Cenotaph and their families. It is also the goal of the project to highlight the historic complexities of New Brunswick societies during the Great War period, including the experiences of women, First Nations, African Canadians, and immigrant populations”.

If you go to the Name Index at http://archives.gnb.ca/Exhibits/SoldierBiographyHistoryInitiative/NameIndex.aspx?culture=en-CA, you will see the names of soldiers with background information, and war experience.

The website of the New Brunswick Archives is http://archives.gnb.ca/archives/default.aspx?culture=en-CA

Ontario Genealogical Society Conference 2017 Social Media Team

So we received word from the Ontario Genealogical Society conference that we have been named as a member of the Ontario Genealogical Society's Social Media Team to the conference in June 16 to 18, 2017. What an honour!

Do you know that this is the first time the Ontario Genealogical Society Conference has had a Social Media Team?

So we, along with other bloggers, have been tasked with the responsibility of telling our readers about the conference, and we will be there at the conference telling you what is going on. 

So stayed tuned. We will be your place for news on the conference. 

To read more about the conference, go to https://conference2017.ogs.ca/

Be sure to tell your friends about us. 

If you would like to subscribe, please send your email to genealogycanada@aol.com 

Publishers Elizabeth and Mario Lapointe 

Sponsored by Elizabeth Lapointe Research Services. To learn more about the research services offered by ELRS, go to www.elrs.biz The email is genealogyreserch@aol.com 

(c)2017 All rights reserved.

Canadian Week in Review 23 January 2017

I have come across the following Canadian genealogy, history and heritage websites, social media, and newspaper articles this past week that were of interest to me, and I thought you might be interested in them, too.

This Week in Canadian History
 

Superman - Man of Steel

On 16 January 1939, Joe Shuster from Toronto publishes his first self-titled Superman comic strip - the Man of Steel had been a character in Action Comics. New York. New York. 

The "man of steel" hid his extraordinary strength, speed, and superhuman powers under the self-effacing guise of the weak and clumsy Clark Kent. 

For more information, read https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joe_Shuster

Lorne Greene - Canadian actor 

Lorne Greene, the Canadian actor from my adapted hometown, Ottawa, starred as the lead in Bonanza, a TV series set on the Ponderosa Ranch in Nevada.

He played family patriarch and three-time widower Ben Cartwright, with his three sons (each by a different mother, by the way – and this would be of interest to genealogists) - Adam (Pernell Roberts), Hoss (Dan Blocker) and Little Joe (Michael Landon).

For more information, go to https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lorne_Greene

Social Media

(Photos) Retired doctor paints Gander’s past

http://www.thetelegram.com/living/2017/1/16/retired-doctor-paints-ganders-past.html

When most people think of Gander, they think of planes. But when artist Clayton Hann is working on one of his watercolours, he looks past the planes, to the trains that made building the town possible. 

Newspaper Articles

Nova Scotia

Wolfville honours war heroine
http://thechronicleherald.ca/novascotia/1432769-wolfville-honours-war-heroine

Wolfville is commemorating war heroine Mona Parsons by erecting a bronze statue of her near the town’s post office.

Plans are being made to erect the statue of Parsons, created by Dutch sculptor Nistal Prem de Boer, on the anniversary of VE Day in May.

Local author and history buff pens new book about local family
http://enfieldweeklypress.com/local-author-history-buff-pens-new-book-local-family/

One of East Hants’ most prominent names in their history is the topic of John “Jack” Hawkins latest book.

“This book is a brief account of the life of Jabob Horne and some of his descendants, ” said Hawkins. ” Over the years I have been given records and information on Jacob and the early settlers. Mary Horne Knotling or Oregon has done a lot of research and passed it along to me.” 

Halifax Explosion plaque tells wrong story for 17 years
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/halifax-explosion-fort-needham-park-plaque-imo-mont-blanc-1.3942098

For 17 years, a plaque at the Halifax Explosion memorial site in Fort Needham park has told passersby about the disaster that rocked the port city on Dec. 6, 1917.

"Reversing her engines, Mont-Blanc went astern to pull out the deep gash in Imo's side," the plaque reads.

"Steel rasped against ragged steel, sparks flew, Mont-Blanc caught fire and blew up at 9:04:35 a.m."

The trouble is that the plaque has the story wrong. 

New Brunswick 

Port Saint John: Canada's next National Historic Seaport?
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/saint-john-historic-seaport-1.3940789

The majority of Saint Johners don't visit Martello Tower, Fort LaTour or Partridge Island — but local historian Harold Wright is hoping to change that.

Sites like Fort Howe, Fort LaTour and Partridge Island "tell our story," Wright said.
 

Rustico priest had first automobile in Canada 150 years ago
http://www.theguardian.pe.ca/news/local/2017/1/15/rustico-priest-had-first-automobile-in-canada-150-years-ago.html

December marked the 150th anniversary of the first automobile arriving in Canada, before the country was even officially formed, a steam-powered carriage that was imported by Father George A. Belcourt.

Prince Edward Island 

New Brunswick’s 2017 slogan not sitting well with some P.E.I. Politicians
http://www.theguardian.pe.ca/news/local/2017/1/21/new-brunswick_s-2017-slogan-not-sitting-well-with-some-p-e-i--po.html

A wee bit of a tiff is developing between P.E.I. and New Brunswick over which province planted the seed for Confederation.

Quebec 

A beauty pageant of the sea is coming to Quebec City, river
http://www.wral.com/a-beauty-pageant-of-the-sea-is-coming-to-quebec-city-river/16441673/

As the story goes, the training ship Amerigo Vespucci was sailing the Mediterranean in 1962 when the U.S. aircraft carrier Independence spotted it and radioed: "Who are you?" Came the reply: "School ship Amerigo Vespucci, the Italian Navy." The Independence answered: "You are the most beautiful ship in the world." 

Ontario 

Burlington Heritage Fair celebrates Canada 150 on Feb. 4
http://www.insidehalton.com/community-story/7076857-burlington-heritage-fair-celebrates-canada-150-on-feb-4/

Residents may feel more nostalgic at this year’s Burlington Heritage Fair as the 2017 theme will celebrate Canada 150 and the history of sports in the city.

The free family event is the official kick off for Heritage Month (February) and is hosted by the Heritage Month Committee and Heritage Burlington. 

Canada Post: celebrating Canadian UNESCO sites
http://www.rcinet.ca/en/2017/01/16/canada-post-celebrating-canadian-unesco-sites/

­Canada post has released five new stamps. The stamps show fascinating world heritage sites as named by UNESCO, so declared for their importance to world history and heritage 

Archives making history
http://www.intelligencer.ca/2017/01/17/archives-making-history 

The community archives has had a record number of new historical documents flooding in. 

Curious locals can now wander into the Community Archives of Belleville and Hastings County and unearth circa 1800s details about taxes paid and prisoner treatment. 

Museum of History acquires 'Canadian Caper' collection
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/canadian-museum-of-history-acquires-canadian-caper-collection-1.3941272

Most Canadians who were around in the 1980s have vivid memories of the so-called Canadian Caper, an audacious rescue of six U.S. diplomats during the Iran hostage crisis.  

Manitoba

Nominations requested for annual historical preservation award
http://www.mysteinbach.ca/news/815/nominations-requested-for-annual-historical-preservation-award/

Lt.-Gov. Janice Filmon is encouraging the public to nominate a worthy Manitoban who has provided prolonged and meritorious service in the preservation and promotion of Manitoba history for an award, presented in consultation with the Manitoba Historical Society. 

Alberta

Museum honours 150 years of Canada

http://www.westernwheel.com/article/Museum-honours-150-years-of-Canada-20170118

Fascinating facts and intriguing stories about Okotoks’ unique history will fill the Okotoks Museum and Archives in a year-long devotion to a Canadian milestone.

In celebration of Canada’s 150th birthday, the museum is displaying facts and stories that reflect numerous aspects of the community since the nation’s confederation in an exhibit entitled Our Place in History.

Pictures: art contest celebrates Alberta's Ukrainian heritage

http://www.metronews.ca/news/edmonton/2017/01/20/art-contest-celebrates-albertas-ukranian-heritage.html

Six Alberta students were recognized Friday for their artwork showing 125 years of Ukrainian settlement in Canada.

The ‘We Became a Part of Canada’ art contest got students across the province to look at how Ukrainian-Canadian migrants became part of Alberta 

British Columbia

Province launching a funding program for museums, heritage sites
http://www.pqbnews.com/community/410958675.html

This program offers one-time grants of up to $100,000 for; developing infrastructure to improve museum spaces and facilities; conserving historic places and heritage sites; building lasting legacies with projects that physically represent B.C.’s unique and diverse histories, culture and heritage such as exhibitions, public art or statues; and sharing history through projects that promote sharing of collections and expertise between the Royal B.C. Museum and the wider museum community.

British Columbia

Central Saanich heritage home to be moved for development

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/central-saanich-verdier-1.3938500

The first purpose-built affordable housing to come to Central Saanich since the 1960s will blend history and access, proponents say.

The project on West Saanich Road in Brentwood Bay will see a heritage home moved to make way for 40 affordable rental apartments and six for-purchase townhomes.

Metlakatla First Nation working on plan to protect heritage, language

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/metlakatla-first-nation-1.3935980

Dozens of Metlakatla First Nation members are meeting in Prince Rupert, B.C. this weekend to find ways to preserve and pass down their culture, history and language.

Allowing future generations to connect with their roots as well as protecting sites of cultural significance will be the goals of a new cultural program from the Nation," said Metlakatla communications manager Shaun Thomas.

Canada Stories this Week 

First World War

387,710 of 640,000 files are available online in the Personnel Records of the First World War database at Library and Archives Canada.

They say that the ' digitizing the service files systematically, from box 1 to box 10686, which roughly corresponds to alphabetical order. Please note that over the years, the content of some boxes has had to be moved and you might find that the file you want, with a surname that is supposed to have been digitized, is now located in another box that has not yet been digitized'

So far, they have digitized the following files - Latest box digitized: Box 6526 and last name Murray.

Please check the database regularly for new additions, and if you still have questions after checking the database, you may contact us directly at 1-866-578-7777 for more assistance.

For more information, go to http://www.bac-lac.gc.ca/eng/discover/military-heritage/first-world-war/Pages/introduction.aspx 

A legacy carved in stone

There is going to be an exhibit at the Museum of War which I will try to go and see, and it's the Preserved in Stone – Underground Art of the First World War. The exhibit will be on from October 17, 2016 – January 7, 2018 and it's right inside the lobby, so it's easy to get to right beside the front door.

In the shadow of the Vimy Memorial in France lies a Celtic cross carved in soft stone. Both are monuments to Canadian soldiers who died in the First World War. But while one looms solemnly over the French countryside, the other is hidden in a cave beneath a farmer’s field.

A Celtic Cross is a highlight of Preserved in Stone – Underground Art of the First World War. The exhibition of photographs and 3D reproductions of artwork and graffiti left behind by Canadian troops preparing for the Battle of Vimy Ridge in 1917.

And if you are coming to Ottawa during the Ontario Genealogical 2017 Conference, you can take advantage of the tours that are available, and one of the tours is of the Museum of War, so you can make reservations now at https://conference2017.ogs.ca/program/thursday-2/

Canadian War Museum is http://www.warmuseum.ca/ 

Be sure to tell your friends about us. 

If you would like to subscribe, please send your email to genealogycanada@aol.com

Publishers Elizabeth and Mario Lapointe

Sponsored by Elizabeth Lapointe Research Services. To learn more about the research services offered by ELRS, go to www.elrs.biz The email is genealogyresearch@aol.com

(c)2017 All rights reserved.