75th anniversary of Canada’s engagement in the Second World War

Today, September 10th, marks 75th anniversary of Canada’s engagement in the Second World War.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper has issued the following statement -

“On September 10th, 1939, nine days after Germany invaded Poland, Canada made its first declaration of war as a sovereign country.

“Though still recovering from the hardship and sacrifices wrought by the First World War and the Great Depression, Canada did not hesitate to stand up for what was right.

“The Canadian contribution to the war effort was remarkable. From a population of just 11 million, over one million Canadians and Newfoundlanders served in military uniform between 1939 and 1945. By war’s end, our country possessed the fourth-largest air force and the third-largest naval surface fleet in the world.

“In the air, on land and at sea, those young Canadians served with honour and integrity, both at home and abroad. Their resolve and clarity of purpose was evident in hostile skies, on the shores of Dieppe and Normandy, in the mountains of Italy, on the frigid North Atlantic waters, and in the searing Hong Kong sun. From Europe to the Far East, they stood strong, supported by the loved ones they left behind and millions of Canadians diligently working on the home front. Freedom was won, but at a tremendous cost, with more than 45,000 Canadians giving their lives and another 55,000 wounded.

“Though decades have passed, the effects of the Second World War are still felt in Canada. The courage and sacrifice of those who served must be honoured through meaningful remembrance.

“Today, as we mark the 75th anniversary of Canada’s engagement in the Second World War, I ask all Canadians to take time to think about the enormous contributions our Veterans and Canadian Armed Forces members have made to the country we enjoy today.

“Lest we forget.”

For a history of Canada's involvement in the Second World War, please read The Canadian Encyclopedia at http://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/second-world-war-wwii/  

New home for GANS

I received a notice from the Genealogical Association of Nova Scotia (GANS) (of which I am a member), that they have found a new place for their office in the Halifax – Dartmouth area of Nova Scotia.

They had received a notice of termination of their lease from their landlord dated July 1, 2014, and they only had three months to find a new office space.

As the notice says, “An earlier formed Premises Committee chaired by Vice President, Bob Davison and including Executive members Nathaniel Smith, Pam Wile, Jan Fralic-Brown, Holly Gunn and our Executive Director, Dawn Josey, was tasked with finding GANS a new home.

After an aggressive search, the Committee was successful in locating an office that meets GANS current and future needs.

The search committee established a set of criteria for the new location:

1. Room and structural integrity for expansion of research collection.

2. Quiet area for research.

3. Meeting and office administration space.

4. Separate room for processing and storing donations, acquisitions and our inventory.

5. Accessible space.

6. Lecture/large meeting room to seat 50 people.

7. Quiet building, suitable parking and street level visibility in high traffic/high profile area with potential for highly visible signage.

The Committee visited over a dozen locations throughout HRM. The office located in the Quaker Landing building at 33 Ochterloney Street, Dartmouth was the space that best met the above criteria. This 1731 square foot office will have a dedicated library area, a research room and a large meeting room where GANS can hold monthly lectures and workshops. library and collections will be protected for use by our members and the general public”.

So the new office is right downtown, just up from the ferry from Halifax, and is in the perfect place.

They plan to have an Open House once everything is unpacked, and you can
contact them through the Executive Director, Dawn Josey info@novascotiaancestors.ca.

The website is http://www.novascotiaancestors.ca/

The Facebook page is at https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaAncestors

Library and Archives Canada’s Transcription Service

Do you know that until the early 2000s, people and members of organizations such as the Literary and Historical Society of Quebec (LHSQ) travelled to Europe to scour records in British and French archives for any mention of Canada – and they copied them? 

They say that some of these “transcriptions” are on the Héritage website but they don't say which microfilm are copied. At least, I cannot find them and I would like to know. Does anyone know whichones are copied?

Read about the process in the Library and Archives Canada blog at http://thediscoverblog.com/2014/09/09/borrowing-the-blocks-nation-building-in-the-archives-and-libraries-of-great-britain-and-france/ 

Ontario Genealogical Society Conference 2015 - Tracks through Time

Just a note to remind you that the deadline for papers at next year’s OGS conference is September 12, 2014.

The annual conference will be held on 29-31 May 2015 at Georgian College Campus, Barrie, ON, Canada. 

The conference theme will be Tracks through Time, and it originates from the 130th Anniversary of the completion of the Canadian Pacific Railway across Canada. Many family historians have their roots in the immigrant laborers who built this railway across our vast country. 

As they say “Other ancestors were tempted by the transportation routes and migration opportunities allowed by its completion. Still others worked for the railway company itself over the years to follow. As researchers, we track our family history through time in many ways, always attempting to ensure we are tracking the right people from the right line". 

The variations on the theme Tracks through Time are endless.

You can read more about the process at http://www.ogs.on.ca/conference/call-for-speakers/

Culture Days 2014

On September 27, 2014 the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau, Quebec will present Behind the Scenes of Canada’s Titanic ― The Empress of Ireland exhibition.

Go behind the scenes into the Museum’s Objects Lab and get the inside story of the making of this major exhibition. Join curator John Willis and conservator Amanda Gould and discover the historical significance behind some of the treasured artifacts from the Empress of Ireland collection.

A unique opportunity not to be missed. This is suitable for ages 10+.

Space is limited. Free. Register as soon as possible by calling 819-776-7000.

For details, go to http://www.historymuseum.ca/empress 

Canadian Week in Review 08 September 2014

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

History Week in Canada

Genealogists will remember that on 02 September 1752, the Gregorian calendar was adopted in England. And it changed everything: the ‘double date’ found its way into our lexicon.

For a history, visit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gregorian_calendar

===================================================

In 1909, the Scarborough Beach Park, in suburban Toronto, hosted North America's first air show. However, the American plane, "The Flyer," was forced to make an emergency landing in Lake Ontario seconds after taking off. In 1995, seven British military airmen were killed when their RAF Nimrod jet slammed into Lake Ontario at the Canadian National Expedition Air Show in Toronto. 

To read about these events, go to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canadian_International_Air_Show

===================================================

Social Media

The First World War: Excerpts from the dairy of Woodman Leonard

http://www.ottawasun.com/2014/09/04/the-first-world-war-excerpts-from-the-diary-of-woodman-leonard

This is the third installment in the diary of Woodman Leonard.

For the first installment, go to http://www.ottawasun.com/2014/08/15/the-first-world-war-excerpts-from-the-diary-of-woodman-leonard from the Canadian Week in Review 18 August 2014 http://genealogycanada.blogspot.com/2014/08/canadian-week-in-review-18-august-2014_18.html

For the second installment, go to http://www.ottawasun.com/2014/08/21/the-first-world-war-excerpts-from-the-diary-of-woodman-leonardhttp://www.ottawasun.com/2014/08/21/the-first-world-war-excerpts-from-the-diary-of-woodman-leonard from the Canadian Week in Review 25 August 2014 http://genealogycanada.blogspot.com/2014/08/canadian-week-in-review-25-august-2014.html

(Blog) The 200th Birthday of Sir George-Étienne Cartier, a Prominent Father of Confederation

http://thediscoverblog.com/2014/09/05/the-200th-birthday-of-sir-george-etienne-cartier-a-prominent-father-of-confederation/

Last week marked the 200th birthday of one of Canada’s most important historical figures, Sir George-Étienne Cartier, a leading Father of Confederation. Cartier was born on September 6, 1814 in Sainte-Antoine-sur-Richelieu, Lower Canada.

(Video) Sharing Prince Edward Island's black history

http://www.theguardian.pe.ca/Living/Entertainment/2014-09-05/article-3859194/Sharing-Prince-Edward-Islands-black-history/1

It’s a stage production called Tales from the Old Stock: Stories and Songs of P.E.I Black History, and after it finishes its runs at the Confederation Centre, it will be shown in Island schools.

(Video) Saskatoon landmark little known part of province’s history

http://globalnews.ca/news/1537913/saskatoon-landmark-little-known-part-of-provinces-history/

Forestry Farm Park little-known part of Saskatchewan’s history.

(Blog) A Forgotten Hero of World War I 

http://spectator.org/articles/60358/forgotten-hero-world-war-i

A blog about the First World War has been written in which the author recognizes that it was an “arduous endeavor for Canada and very nearly tore it apart. But when the war was over, Canada would emerge as a stronger country even if the rest of the world’s attention was directed elsewhere”.

Newfoundland

Newfoundland’s ‘Blue Puttees’ made a name for themselves in historic First World War battles 

http://news.nationalpost.com/2014/08/31/newfoundlands-blue-puttees-made-a-name-for-themselves-in-historic-first-world-war-battles/

The former British colony and dominion raised the volunteer Newfoundland Regiment, or First 500, without official government involvement, such was the zeal to enlist.

Beothuk homes, fireplace unearthed on Exploits River 

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/newfoundland-labrador/beothuk-homes-fireplace-unearthed-on-exploits-river-1.2752622

An archeological dig on an island in the middle of Newfoundland's Exploits River is shedding light on how the Beothuk people cooked, lived, and socialized.

Nova Scotia

Gold River, Nova Scotia
http://www.marketwired.com/press-release/celebrating-aboriginal-arts-and-heritage-1943950.htm
The Acadia First Nation will present its 30th annual Pow Wow from September 12 to 14 in the Chester Municipal District, Nova Scotia. Aboriginal people and members of the broader community will come together to take part in activities such as traditional dancing, drumming, and a smudging ceremony. Workshops and demonstrations will highlight Mi'kmaq culture, and a sweat lodge will be open.

Quick Facts

• Acadia First Nation is located in southwestern Nova Scotia and is made up of five Mi'kmaq reserves: Gold River, Medway, Ponhook Lake, Wildcat, and Yarmouth. These were established between 1820 and 1887.

• Pow wows celebrate Aboriginal music, dance, crafts and food, and provide an opportunity for participants—which include Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people—to appreciate Aboriginal culture.

• About 3,000 people are expected to attend the 2014 Gold River Pow Wow.

Sable Island: A Living Treasure

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/sable-island-a-living-treasure-1.2754715

Sable Island is Canada's newest national park reserve, identified as a national treasure, preserved in legislation for future generations to enjoy. Make sure you take the time to look at the photos.

New Brunswick

New Ireland: How Maine almost became part of Canada at the end of the War of 1812

http://news.nationalpost.com/2014/09/03/new-ireland-how-maine-almost-became-part-of-canada-at-the-end-of-the-war-of-1812/
Did you know that pre-Confederation Canada seized Northern Maine during the final months of the War of 1812, sensing little local ability to resist and well aware of the strategic value of controlling the region separating Quebec and New Brunswick?

Ontario

Canada Post celebrates the Charlottetown Conference 150th anniversary with commemorative envelope

http://www.newswire.ca/en/story/1405288/canada-post-celebrates-the-charlottetown-conference-150th-anniversary-with-commemorative-envelope

Today, Canada Post is issuing a new commemorative envelope to recognize the 150th anniversary of the Charlottetown Conference that began on September 1, 1864 – a historic milestone in Canadian history, marking the discussions of representatives from the colonies of British North America.

Cross-Canada relay salutes unit’s history

http://www.lfpress.com/2014/08/29/cross-canada-relay-salutes-units-history
Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry is running a reply as they retrace the same steps their forefathers marched on the eve of their entrance into the war.

How Toronto’s Labour Day parade began

http://www.thestar.com/business/2014/09/01/the_start_of_the_march.html

In 1872, 10,000 people took to Toronto’s streets to fight for a nine-hour workday. And labour leaders say there’s still a reason to walk.

Ontario Creates Five New Provincial Parks

http://news.ontario.ca/mnr/en/2014/09/ontario-creates-five-new-provincial-parks.html

Ontario, in partnership with the Nature Conservancy of Canada, is opening five new provincial parks and expanding three others.

British Columbia

Peace Region buildings vie for best in B.C.

http://www.alaskahighwaynews.ca/news/local/peace-region-buildings-vie-for-best-in-b-c-1.1339641

A jail, a re-imagined Post Office, a nearly century-old pub, and a grain elevator-turned-art gallery are representing the Peace Region in the BC’s Best Buildings contest put on by the Architecture Foundation of British Columbia.

Story of the Week

(Editorial) Another OGS Branch to fold?

The news in Canada this week has been full of concern as another Ontario Genealogical Society Branch may have to fold its doors. The Norfolk Branch may close.

You can get more of the story at http://www.simcoereformer.ca/2014/09/04/genealogy-society-could-fold

The news in Canada this week has been full of concern as another Ontario Genealogical Society Branch may have to fold its doors. The Norfolk Branch may close.

You can get more of the story at http://www.simcoereformer.ca/2014/09/04/genealogy-society-could-fold

The closing of the Norfolk Branch will be the second to close in recent months (the Haldimand County Branch declared itself dormant), and it is hoped that Norfolk will choose the same option. The website is at http://www.ogs.on.ca/norfolk/

And now I wonder if the new word will be ‘consolidation’. Will some Branches consolidate into larger branches because the membership just isn’t there? So a Branch that has 200 members may consolidate with another Branch who has 300 members in hopes that the new Branch with 500 members can survive.

But where will it end? Will the OGS return to the way it was back in the 1960s when it first started with no branches. I feel that a conversation must be started to stop the eroding.

The word has to get out to the public that they should join these branches if they want to solve their brick walls, as they are holders of the material which will enhance what is available online, or is the material on which the online content is based. Either way, you can't do without the branches, and their holdings.

Any suggestions?

Reminder: Check the Canadian Week in Review next Monday for the latest in Genealogy, Heritage, and History news in Canada. It’s the ONLY news blog of its kind in country!

The next post will be on 15 September 2014.

Reminder: Canadian Week in Review

Check the Canadian Week in Review tomorrow morning for the latest in Genealogy, Heritage, and History news in Canada.

If you missed last week’s edition, it is at http://genealogycanada.blogspot.com/2014/09/canadian-week-in-review-01-september.html 

It has the most up-to-date news items covered in New/Updated Websites, History, Social Media, and Newspaper Articles. 

It’s the ONLY news blog of its kind in country! 

It has been a regular post every Monday morning since April 23, 2012. 

Edmonton City as Museum Project

The Edmonton City as Museum Project will tell the ‘stories of the people, places, and things’ that make up the city of Edmonton. 

So far, the site has explored the North Saskatchewan River, told the story of the Edmonton’s Pioneer Photographers, and they will host a special exhibit on Freedom this month. 

They would like you to recommend songs that will create a sense of freedom for the visitors to the exhibit. 

The songs will be compiled into the Freedom Playlist and will be shared in the exhibit and on line. 

The last day to submit is September 27, 2014 and the exhibit will take place on September 28th from 1 – 4 pm at the Prince of Wales Armoury. 

And they want your stories! So if you have a story to contribute, you can email them at 

mroberts@edmontonheritage.ca 

The website is at http://citymuseumedmonton.ca/ 

The Facebook page is on https://www.facebook.com/YEGCityasMuseum

Family history courses at the Surrey Library System

The Cloverdale Library (a branch of the Surrey Library System) is having a FREE introduction session called An Introduction to Family History on Sept 13 from 10:30 to noon.

This free session will show participants what's available, where to find it, and how to document your search. Learn some of the tips and tricks that are unique to genealogy research.

There will be workshop in five lessons called Start Searching Your Family History. 

It will be a series of five, three-hour classes, developed by writer and researcher Brenda Smith.

It starts Mondays from Sept. 22 to Nov. 17 (5:30 to 8:30 p.m.), the cost is $100, and participants must commit to all five sessions.

Learn How to Navigate Ancestry and Heritage Quest is a single session scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 27 (10:30 a.m. to noon). Ancestry Library Edition and Heritage Quest are free to use for anyone visiting the Cloverdale Library. Find out how these tools work, and how to interpret what you find.

The Cloverdale Library is at 5642 176A Street, Surrey, British Columbia. It is home to one of the largest Canadian family history collections in the country, with extensive resources, programs and expertise.

Register for these programs at 604-4598-7327 or email familyhistory@surrey.ca.

The website for Family History at the Surrey Library System is at http://www.surreylibraries.ca/programs-services/4815.aspx

Essex Branch has a new website

The Essex Branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society has a new exciting website on WordPress.

They have tagged themselves as Volunteer Genealogists: Networking & Collaborating. Advocates for Archives and Cemeteries.

They have the usual divisions of Publications, Events, Resources, and the ever-important Member’s Only page.

Plus, they highlight news of interest to people who have ancestors in the Essex area.

The Branch will celebrate it’s 35th anniversary by holding an Open House on Monday, September 8, 2014 from 6 pm – 8 pm at the Windsor Public Library, 850 Ouellette Avenue, Windsor.

If you are new to family history, or a seasoned researcher, they hope you will join them to discuss family history research, tour their library collection, hear about the branch history and their plans for the future, meet other members of the branch, other branches, and other Essex County family history-driven organizations, and, of course, enjoy some cake and good company!

So their site is at http://www.ogs.on.ca/essex/

If you wish to belong to Essex Branch, go to the Ontario Genealogical Society at http://www.ogs.on.ca/membership.php.

They are still offering a Partial Year Membership ($35.70 - available June 1 to October 31)

It is an introductory offer for brand new members that allows you to join right away rather than waiting for the next calendar year (this category is also available to those who have not been an OGS member for the past two years and would like to come back).

Canadian Expeditionary Force Registers

The pre-August 1914 Canadian Expeditionary Force Registers are now online at Canadiana at http://www.canadiana.ca/en/cef-register They are an important part of the picture of the First World War because they tell us who was in the militia, when they enlisted, how much they were paid. With the personnel files of the Canadian Expeditionary Force available at the Library and Archives Canada, we can paint a fairly complete picture of the life of a Canadian soldier.

Many of these battalions were broken up on arrival in Europe and absorbed into existing reserve units before being fed piecemeal to reinforce units at the Front. 

And I have run into this many times in my research. For instance, they may have left Canada as a member of the 1st Canadian Division and ended up in the 4th Canadian Division when they were sent from England to fight in France. So read the service file very carefully. 

The Canadian Army Services Registers are -

Canadian Field Artillery

1st Canadian Division

2nd Canadian Division

3rd Canadian Division

4th Canadian Division 

So if you think that your First World War person was in the militia before the war broke out, or he put the division on his enlistment paper, check these registers to see if he is there.

A Toronto Branch workshop - Industrial England

Gwyneth Pearce, Secretary of the Toronto Branch, Ontario Genealogical Society has sent us this notice -

“[The Toronto Branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society is pleased to announce that registration for our fall workshop, "Industrial England", is now open. 

This full-day workshop on Saturday 1 November 2014, co-sponsored with the Canadiana Department of North York Central Library, will explore the social, economic and cultural effects of the Industrial Revolutions on the lives of English people from 1750 to 1900. 

Author and professional genealogist Kirsty Gray, a founding member and Chair of the Society for One-Place Studies, and Director of English Studies with the National Institute for Genealogical Studies, will be our keynote speaker for this event. Kirsty and six other expert genealogists and social historians will team up to present a day of learning and discovery that you won’t want to miss.

The early-bird registration deadline is 18 September, and there is a further discount for OGS members. 

We hope this workshop will be of interest." 

Full details about the program, speakers and how to register, are available on our Branch website at http://torontofamilyhistory.org/learn/workshops/industrial-england-workshop/.

Canadian Week in Review 01 September 2014

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

History Week in Canada

In 1954, 16-year-old Marilyn Bell became the first person to swim across Lake Ontario. About 300,000 people were on hand when she came ashore in Toronto.

Bell continued her long-distance efforts, and, in 1955, became—at the time— the youngest person to swim the English Channel.

To read more, go to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marilyn_Bell

Nova Scotia

Gottingen Street celebrates 250 years with special audio project

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/gottingen-street-celebrates-250-years-with-special-audio-project-1.2746668

One of the most well-known streets in Halifax is about to turn 250 years old, and the birthday will be celebrated from September 9th-14th.

The webpage is http://gottingen.ca

Parrsboro's Ottawa House hosts genealogy workshop

http://www.cumberlandnewsnow.com/News/Local/2014-08-26/article-3848600/Parrsboros-Ottawa-House-hosts-genealogy-workshop/1

A two-day genealogy workshop called Muddles and Mysteries was held in Parrsboro last weekend.

Prince Edward Island

Creating their own success on and off P.E.I.

http://www.theguardian.pe.ca/150th-Charlottetown/2014-08-28/article-3851321/Creating-their-own-success-on-and-off-P.E.I./1

The family tree of Father of Confederation George Coles features generations of self-made men and women.

Fatal flights

http://www.journalpioneer.com/News/Local/2014-08-26/article-3848710/Fatal-flights/1

They have unveiled honouring those who lost their lives in three tragic training flights.

Canada's premiers pose like it's 1864 in Charlottetown

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/canada-s-premiers-pose-like-it-s-1864-in-charlottetown-1.2749853

Council of the Federation photo pays homage to 150th anniversary of Charlottetown Conference.

Quebec

Historical Day on the Plains of Abraham

http://www.lifeinquebec.com/historical-day-on-the-plains-of-abraham-10033

The National Battlefields Commission invites the public to its traditional “Historical Day”—this year, on the theme of War and the Plains—on Sunday, September 7th from 1 to 4:30 p.m.

Ontario

Mint unveils four new Superman coins at Fan Expo 2014

http://www.cbc.ca/news/arts/mint-unveils-four-new-superman-coins-at-fan-expo-2014-1.2750654

The limited-edition coins, inspired by iconic comic book covers, will be available Sept. 2nd.

Canada struggled to produce official historical record of First World War

http://ww1.canada.com/after-the-war/canada-struggled-to-produce-official-historical-record-of-first-world-war

Scottish-born former artilleryman and staff officer, Archer Fortescue Duguid, was pegged to write the first official history of the First World War.

Mint unveils coin marking 150th anniversary of Charlottetown, Quebec Conferences
http://www.kelownadailycourier.ca/news/national_news/article_cee8e0f9-f25d-52c1-9830-184199e4945f.html
The Royal Canadian Mint unveiled a new gold coin Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2014 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Charlottetown and Quebec Conferences.

Manitoba

Fighting for history: Uncovering the truth of residential schools

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2014/08/29/fighting_for_history_uncovering_the_truth_of_residential_schools.html

A report from the front lines of the search for “truth” in Truth and Reconciliation, and a look at the people trying to make history accessible to aboriginals and non-aboriginals alike.

Northern Manitoba featured in eighth season of Ice Road Truckers

http://globalnews.ca/news/1526232/northern-manitoba-featured-in-eighth-season-of-ice-road-truckers

Ice Road Truckers debuts its eighth season Wednesday night on the History Channel, and this year, its all about Manitoba’s northern ice roads, and it showcases the province.

Saskatchewan

Saskatoon berry at centre of naming spat

http://cjme.com/story/saskatoon-berry-centre-naming-spat/410099

American group wants to market them as 'Juneberries'.

Alberta

Red Ensign flag protected for future generations

http://www.highrivertimes.com/2014/08/29/red-ensign-flies-again-in-high-riverr

The historic Canadian Red Ensign—flown as the country's national flag from the late 19th century until 1965—has returned to its former home at the #187 Foothills Royal Canadian Air Cadets Squadron base at the High River Regional Airport after being out of sight for five decades.

Airplane parts stolen from Alberta Aviation Museum
http://www.edmontonsun.com/2014/08/25/airplane-parts-stolen-from-alberta-aviation-museum
The Boeing 737's emergency hatch and other parts were stolen, but thieves trashed the plane, to make the crime look like vandalism.

British Columbia

Vancouver real estate titles reveal city's racist history
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/vancouver-real-estate-titles-reveal-city-s-racist-history-1.2747924
Now-void land title clause was used to prevent sale or rent of land to people of Asian and African descent.

Story of the Week

War Brides of the First and Second World Wars

The Library and Archives Canada (LAC) has just released a press release about their holdings on the War Brides of the First and Second World Wars. 

During the First and Second World Wars, Canadian soldiers often found love overseas. They married their loved ones overseas, or sent for them once they were back in Canada, and then got married. 

As they point out, the majority of war brides were from Great Britain, with a smaller number originating from Ireland, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Italy and Germany.

The LAC has put together a new page, and on it, you will find the records from a variety of sources. The majority are found in the records of National Defence, Department of Employment and Immigration, Department of External Affairs, the Directorate of Repatriation, and the Canadian Wives′ Bureau, but many also come from private organizations.

Do not expect to be presented with lots of indexes because the records have not been indexed. You would have got through the microfilm yourself or hire a researcher to go through them for you.

Visit the War Brides page at http://www.bac-lac.gc.ca/eng/discover/military-heritage/Pages/war-brides.aspx which explains the printed and archival resources available at Library and Archives Canada.

Reminder: Check the Canadian Week in Review next Monday for the latest in Genealogy, Heritage, and History news in Canada. It’s the ONLY news blog of its kind in country!

The next post will be on September 8, 2014.

Reminder: Canadian Week in Review

Check the Canadian Week in Review tomorrow morning for the latest in Genealogy, Heritage, and History news in Canada. 

If you missed last week’s edition, it is at http://genealogycanada.blogspot.com/2014/08/canadian-week-in-review-25-august-2014.html

It has the most up-to-date news items covered in New/Updated Websites, History, Social Media, and Newspaper Articles. 

It’s the ONLY news blog of its kind in country! 

It has been a regular post every Monday morning since April 23, 2012.

Amherst Island Heritage House Tour

There will be an Amherst Island Heritage House tour held on September 27, 2014 on Amherst Island, off of the coast of the Greater Kingston area of Lake Ontario.

Amherst Island was settled during the Loyalist Period and has pretty much remained unchanged since, so quite unique to those interested in Loyalist history. 

To get direction, go to the Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/events/731484386917854/ 

To read about Amherst Island Genealogy, you can go to http://www.amherstisland.on.ca/genealogy.htm

Anglo-Celtic Roots Summer 2014

Tagged as a “Quarterly Journal”, the publication of the British Isles Family History Society of Greater Ottawa (BIFHSGO), called Anglo-Celtic Roots, issued their summer edition, and it has three interesting articles – 

Travels With My Aunt: Adventure in Europe 1914 by Barbara Tose. I read this article over about three times because it was so gripping, and I have a soft spot when it comes to travel stories. 

It involves a group of travellers led by James L. Hughes of Montreal, who, in 1914 (just before the start of the First World War) went to England and Europe. And one of those traveller was Tose’s great-great aunt, Ellen Margaret Miller, from Lindsay, Ontario. 

An Officer and a Gentleman by Andrew Billingsley is the recounting of Thomas Alexander Rowat’s experiences in the First World War. He is the author’s great-uncle.

He belonged to the Divisional Cyclists, and they were used to carry messages bask and forth between the division headquarters and the battlefield. 

By the summer of 1917, fighting had become unbearable, and on June 26, Lieut. Rowat was killed, and he is buried in Villers-au-Bois, France. 

John Henry McVittie: Before, During and after World War I by Brian Latham is a life story of his uncle, John Henry McVittie, from St. Joseph Island, encompassing the First World War, and his life after the war. 

BIFHSGO is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, and the conference will be held September 19-21, 2014 in the Library and Archives Canada in Ottawa. 

Their website is http://www.bifhsgo.ca.

WORLD WAR ONE - THUNDER BAY CENTENNIAL

The Thunder Bay Public Library in Thunder Bay, Ontario has issued the following press release -

“The Thunder Bay Public Library is spearheading a community partnership to commemorate the centennial of World War One. Members of the partnership, which includes the Library, the City of Thunder Bay Archives, City of Thunder Bay Heritage Advisory Committee, the Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame, the Thunder Bay Military Museum, Lakehead University History Department and the Northwestern Ontario Aviation Heritage Centre, will contribute photographs and records to a dynamic online exhibit depicting life in Thunder Bay during World War One.

The Library will host and administer the exhibit here on the website. New stories, photos and documents will be added throughout the next four years. The public will be invited to contribute their World War One stories, photos and documents at a launch planned for early November”.

It sounds as if they have taken on a large project, with many other museums, archives, libraries within the city. Each facility explains their involvement on the library webpage.

The website is at http//www.tbpl.ca/article/world-war-one--thunder-bay-centennial-1566.asp

Ancestry.ca - Free Access!

Word has come from Ancestry.ca that “In honour of Labour Day, from August 28 to September 1, Ancestry.ca is offering free access to all FamilySearch API records, which includes 1 billion records from 67 countries (nearly 200,000 records and more than 2 million images from Canada), so Canadians can discover more about their family’s working history”. 

You can visit the website at http://www.ancestry.ca/cs/ca/international

Canada's smallest library

According to Atlas Obscura, a magazine which reports on obscure things in the world, the smallest library in Canada is in Cardigan, in the province of Prince Edward Island.

It is operated by John A. MacDonald, who manages the library of 1,800 books, and offers a lifetime membership for $5.00.

And now MacDonald has sets his eyes on another title – he wants it added to the Guinness World Records, but sadly, there’s no category at the moment. 

View the story at http://www.atlasobscura.com/places/canada-s-smallest-library?sf4051357=1

Another Branch joins the group

The Nipissing Branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society has joined Facebook. 

Their mission is to encourage, assist, and bring together all those interested in the pursuit of family history in the Districts of Nipissing, Parry Sound and Timiskaming. 

Go to https://www.facebook.com/groups/338694066286724/ 

Their webpage is at http://www.nipissing.ogs.on.ca/oldsite/index.html although I understand they are going to put on a new website in the near future.

Canadian Week in Review 25 August 2014

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

Websites

Black Ribbon Day in Canada
http://www.blackribbonday.org
In November 2009, the Canadian parliament passed a resolution declaring August 23rd as Black Ribbon Day, an annual day of remembrance for the victims of Communism and Nazism in Europe.

History Week in Canada

In 1541, French explorer Jacques Cartier landed near Quebec City in his third voyage to the New World.

Read about Jacques Cartier at http://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/jacques-cartier/

===================================================

In 1957, Saskatchewan was the first province to complete its section of the Trans-Canada Highway.

To read more, go to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saskatchewan_Highway_1
===================================================
In 1890, Moncton, New Brunswick was officially incorporated as a city.

To read the history of Moncton at http://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/moncton/

===================================================
In 1882, Pile O’ Bones was named Regina when the Canadian Pacific Railroad arrived there.

Read the history of Regina at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Regina,_Saskatchewan

Social Media

WWI: How Canada remembers its fallen

http://www.cbc.ca/news/multimedia/wwi-how-canada-remembers-its-fallen-1.2744274
The CBC News Community captures how Canada remembers its WWI fallen a century later.

(Video) The First World War: Excerpts from the diary of Woodman Leonard

http://www.ottawasun.com/2014/08/21/the-first-world-war-excerpts-from-the-diary-of-woodman-leonard

The Ottawa Sun continues with excerpts from Leonard’s diary.

Last week\s installment is at http://www.ottawasun.com/2014/08/15/the-first-world-war-excerpts-from-the-diary-of-woodman-leonard

(Video) Prince Edward Island woodworker building replica ice boat
http://www.theguardian.pe.ca/News/Local/2014-08-17/article-3837723/Prince-Edward-Island-woodworker-building-replica-ice-boat/1

Project will see an ice boat replica as part of exhibit marking 100th anniversary of Transportation Association of Canada.

(Video) Prince Edward Island Potato Board launches video series

http://www.theguardian.pe.ca/News/Local/2014-08-20/article-3841600/Prince-Edward-Island-Potato-Board-launches-video-series/1

The PEI Potato Board is sharing the History of the P.E.I. Potato Industry with the Next Generation centrepiece of five-video series.

(Photos) Historic Thunder Bay buildings rendered in Lego
Kieran Marcus and his Lego creations inspire an exhibit at the Thunder Bay museum

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/thunder-bay/historic-thunder-bay-buildings-rendered-in-lego-1.2742006
The Thunder Bay museum's "City Beautiful" exhibit highlights amazing local architecture. But the inspiration for the exhibit is equally amazing, and they are made of Lego.

Newfoundland

What People Are Asking | What is the history of the transatlantic cable?

http://www.cecildaily.com/features/misc_features/article_f444fbac-53f0-5324-a43b-23b945537402.html

The man behind the laying of the transatlantic cable - Cyrus Field - is discussed.

Nova Scotia

Remembering a sad part of Canadian history

http://www.cumberlandnewsnow.com/News/Local/2014-08-18/article-3838924/Remembering-a-sad-part-of-Canadian-history/1

A commemorative plaque was laid at Cumberland County Museum on Friday as the first of 100 locations across Canada where the internment of Ukrainian and other enemy aliens during World War One happened a century ago.

Chapel Island thrilled to host 8,000 visitors to Mi’kmaq Summer Games

http://thechronicleherald.ca/novascotia/1230334-chapel-island-thrilled-to-host-8000-visitors-to-mi-kmaq-summer-games

The Mi’kmaq Summer Games takes place each summer on Chapel Island in the southwest corner of the Bras D’Or Lake in Cape Breton.

Prince Edward Island

Prince Edward Island, Canada: where the seeds of a nation were sown

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/northamerica/canada/11050549/Prince-Edward-Island-Canada-where-the-seeds-of-a-nation-were-sown.html

Read a short history of PEI as the birthplace of Canada.

Ontario

Aborists work to keep Canada’s oldest sugar maple’s legacy alive

http://www.torontosun.com/2014/08/21/aborists-work-to-keep-canadas-oldest-sugar-maples-legacy-alive#disqus_thread

Read about how Canada’s oldest sugar maple, called the Comfort Maple, is believed to be more than 500 years old!

Dark period in Canada's history

http://www.niagaraadvance.ca/2014/08/22/dark-period-in-canadas-history

Nikola Yerich of Niagara Falls, and thousands of others who came from certain European countries, ended up in Canada’s first internment camps during the time of the First World War.

Interim councillor calling for 'O Canada' change
http://toronto.ctvnews.ca/interim-councillor-calling-for-o-canada-change-1.1970843
A Toronto councilperson has put forward motion to make 'O Canada' gender neutral passes.

HISTORY: 'Alien enemies' sent to internment camps
http://www.timminspress.com/2014/08/17/history-alien-enemies-sent-to-internment-camps
Read about the fascinating history about interment camps in northwestern Ontario.

The perilous history of Canada’s Ross rifle
http://globalnews.ca/news/1511892/the-perilous-history-of-canadas-ross-rifle
Read about the history of the Ross Rifle, that notorious firearm that was used by Canadian troops at the start of the First World War.

Canadian War Museum welcomes your donated artifacts, but can’t take everything
http://ww1.canada.com/after-the-war/canadian-war-museum-welcomes-your-donated-artifacts-but-cant-take-everything
You should call the museum first to see if they can accept your donation first before you sent the article to the museum in Ottawa.

Local historian reveals region’s stories, myths and secrets
http://www.therecord.com/news-story/4765187-local-historian-uncovers-region-in-college-course
Joanna Rickert-Hall, a local cultural and social historian, has been successful in having the Conestoga College in Kitchener to have a course on local history. It is called History of Waterloo Region 1 & 2.

Alberta

Alberta's African Americans and the cowboy maverick honoured in John Ware Reimagined

http://www.calgarysun.com/2014/08/19/albertas-african-americans-and-the-cowboy-maverick-honoured-in-john-ware-reimagined

There is a new play about John Ware, the former American slave who helped establish ranching in Alberta, and whose own skills at steer wrestling made it a popular event at the Calgary Stampede.

Park actor to retell Alberta history
http://www.sherwoodparknews.com/2014/08/21/park-actor-to-retell-alberta-history
A Sherwood Park-born actor will be starring in a play that showcases the life of the first black cowboy in Alberta.

British Columbia

Queen’s Park Stadium has significant heritage value
http://www.royalcityrecord.com/opinion/your-letters/queen-s-park-stadium-has-significant-heritage-value-1.1319803#sthash.JIhDAVL9.dpuf
In a letter to the editor, a reader of the Royal City Record says that he thinks that Queen’s Park Stadium should receive Heritage Status.

BC ghost town for sale Bradian can be yours for $995,000
http://www.news1130.com/2014/08/20/bc-ghost-town-for-sale/
This town is for sale!
It is located next to where the gold rush took more than four million ounces of gold and 1.2 million ounces of silver from the Bralorne mine before it closed in 1971.

Story of the Week

Greek Canadian History Project

The Greek Canadian History Project (GCHP) is an archival initiative that seeks to preserve the knowledge, memory, and experiences of Canada’s Greek immigrants and their descendants.

They recently held an exhibit at Toronto City Hall called Memory and Migration: A History of Greek Immigrants in Toronto, 1864-2014.

They have a Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Greek-Canadian-History-Project/510739502333543

The Greek Canadian History Project is still seeking collections. If you have any questions or would like more information on how you can contribute materials to the archive project, please do not hesitate to contact them Sakis Gekas at agekas@yorku.ca or Christopher Grafos at cgrafos@yorku.ca 

They are looking collections of papers, diaries, photographs, books, pamphlets, audio, video, and other materials that will be valuable for research of the Greek-Canadian past.

The archives are at York University at http://archives.library.yorku.ca/exhibits/show/gchp

To read more about Greek immigration to Canada, go to http://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/greeks/

Reminder: Check the Canadian Week in Review next Monday for the latest in Genealogy, Heritage, and History news in Canada. It’s the ONLY news blog of its kind in country!

The next post will be on September 1, 2014.