Canadian Week in Review - 15 September 2014

I have come across the following Canadian websites, social media items, 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

On Sept 10, 1895, the Sault Ste. Marie Canal was opened.

For more on the history of Sault Ste. Marie, go to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sault_Ste._Marie, Ontario
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On Sept 13, 1886, the Canadian Pacific Telegram System was opened

Read about the Canadian Pacific Telegram System at http://www.trainweb.org/oldtimetrains/CPR/telegraph/history.html
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On Sept 15th, 1922, two brothers from Hamilton, Ontario — John and Alfred Billes — started Canadian Tire. Prior to 1922, it had been called the Hamilton Garage and Rubber Company.

To read the history of this iconic Canadian retail institution, go to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canadian_Tire

Social Media

(Video) Gone Again | Willow Anderson on the shifting of patterns
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/newfoundland-labrador/gone-again-willow-anderson-on-the-shifting-of-patterns-1.2764299
Learning how to shift in and out of a lifestyle where one person is gone and then returns takes patience from each partner as well as their families and friends

(Video) Heading to Alberta? The Rockies are amazing, but don't skip the Badlands
http://canadaam.ctvnews.ca/travel/heading-to-alberta-the-rockies-are-amazing-but-don-t-skip-the-badlands-1.2003654#ixzz3DCraj5Da
Loren Christie, travel writer for CTV, tells us not to forget that the large area east and southeast of Calgary offers a variety of sites and activities that are too good to be missed.

(Video) Cherryvale’s 87-year-old covered bridge being disassembled
http://globalnews.ca/news/1553642/cherryvales-87-year-old-covered-bridge-being-disassembled/
The covered bridge has had to be removed from the Canaan River this week, after flooding and ice broke the bridge free in the spring.

The Man Who Lived Airplanes - The Life of Keith B. MacDonald
http://macdonellfamily.wordpress.com/
This is a new blog started by Bonnie Jean MacDonald from the US: she has been taking trips to Ontario to research her Loyalists ancestors.

Nova Scotia

This Week in Hants History (Sept. 11, 2014 edition)
http://www.novanewsnow.com/Opinion/Columnists/2014-09-08/article-3862007/This-Week-in-Hants-History-(Sept.-11,-2014-edition)/1
This weekly column looks at the history 25 and 50 years ago.

Bedford boy finds 1,500-year-old arrowhead on N.S. beach
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/bedford-boy-finds-1-500-year-old-arrowhead-on-n-s-beach-1.2760308
Jack Milloy from Bedford has found a 1,500-year old arrowhead on a beach in southwestern Nova Scotia.

ED COLEMAN HISTORY: How did Kentville get its name?
http://www.novanewsnow.com/Opinion/2014-09-06/article-3859222/ED-COLEMAN-HISTORY%3A-How-did-Kentville-get-its-name%3F/1
Did you know that Kentville started out as Horton Corner? In 1826, it changed its name to Kentville.

Prince Edward Island

Down the line on P.E.I.
http://www.theguardian.pe.ca/150th-Charlottetown/2014-09-08/article-3861850/Down-the-line-on-P.E.I./1
A special series on descendants of the Island Fathers of Confederation leads to surprises, trends, and opportunities to remember.

Ontario

The First World War: Excerpts from the diary of Woodman Leonard
http://www.ottawasun.com/2014/09/12/the-first-world-war-excerpts-from-the-diary-of-woodman-leonard
In this installment, the fear of gas attacks on the troops grew day by day, even on their horses.
For links to the other installments, visit last week's CWR post at -
http://genealogycanada.blogspot.com/2014/09/anadian-week-in-review-08-september-2014.html

African American cemetery could get Ontario heritage designation
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/windsor/african-american-cemetery-could-get-o ntario-heritage-designation-1.2762159
A small group is working hard to try to preserve one of the 13 black cemeteries in the Windsor-Essex region by pushing for a provincial heritage designation.

Asking grandma beats online genealogical search
http://blogs.windsorstar.com/news/asking-grandma-beats-online-genealogical-search
Chelsea Meloche found that if she asked her grandmother to fill her in with family facts, she could start in genealogy the right way – by asking the previous generations about one's family first.

Manitoba

Newest national museum set to open in Winnipeg celebrating human rights
http://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/newest-national-museum-set-to-open-in-winnipeg-celebrating-human-rights-1.2004074#ixzz3DCwWQxf0
When Canada's newest national museum opens next weekend, it will mark the end of a 14-year journey sparked by one family's desire to have Canadians learn about the struggle for — and the fragility of — freedom.

Saskatchewan

Royal history to be revealed on tour
http://www.leaderpost.com/life/Royal+history+revealed+tour/10192366/story.html
Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex will make his 37th visit to Canada, from Sept. 17 to 19, with stops in Moose Jaw, Regina, Saskatoon, and Swift Current.

British Columbia 

New immigrants get taste of Canada and its history
http://www.theprogress.com/community/274820991.html
A series of programs at the Chilliwack Family YMCA is doing its part to welcome new immigrants to Canada, educate them about our history, and make them feel at home right here in Chilliwack.

British Columbia moves to redress historical aboriginal hangings
http://www.chicagotribune.com/sns-wp-blm-news-bc-canada11-20140911-story.html
British Columbia Premier Christy Clark agreed to look for ways to redress the execution of six chiefs during the Chilcotin War of 1864.

The value of heritage
http://www.vicnews.com/news/274777541.html
The Anglican Diocese of B.C. has applied for a demolition permit of a heritage building in Victoria, causing uproar in the James Bay community.

Story of the Week

They have found a ship!

Parks Canada and their partners have been busy in the Arctic this summer looking for the Franklin Expedition (1845) which was trying to find the Northwest Passage, which would have been a shortcut to China from Europe. But on their second trip, Franklin and his ships never returned to England, and fleets of rescue ships over the years have never found them.

But this past week, one of the two original ships was found on the ocean floor. They don’t know which ship they have found so far, but at least, they have found one of them.

Here is what some of the newspapers were saying about the discovery -

Lost Franklin expedition ship found in the Arctic
http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/lost-franklin-expedition-ship-found-in-the-arctic-1.2760311
Queen sends congratulations on image believed to be HMS Erebus or HMS Terror.

Manitoba history prof cheers Franklin expedition find
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/manitoba-history-prof-cheers-franklin-expedition-find-1.2760722
A University of Manitoba history professor says the discovery of one of the Franklin expedition ships will change the way he teaches his course in the future.

More than 150 years later, shipwreck is found where the Inuit said it was
http://www.theverge.com/2014/9/9/6128627/150-years-later-shipwreck-found-where-inuit-said-it-was

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 22 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/anadian-week-in-review-08-september-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.

Portuguese Presence in Kensington Market

The Kensington Market Historical Society (KMHS) is presenting the talk Portuguese Presence in Kensington Market on October 21st from 6:30 to 8:00 pm at the Lillian H. Smith Branch of the Toronto Public Library, 239 College Street, Toronto.

The KMHS “ gathers, studies, preserves, and disseminates information pertaining to the history of the Kensington Market area. KMHS is committed to discovering and articulating the variable narratives of the Market. We hold public events, publish a newsletter, and undertake research and other projects as interest and expertise permit. We welcome and encourage involvement from the community”.

To read more about the Portuguese community in Canada, go to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portuguese_Canadian 

To read the article Portuguese immigration reflect on 50 years in Canada at http://wx.toronto.ca/inter/it/newsrel.nsf/0/a1de0f2b56ea21d085256df60045c76c?OpenDocument

Save Norfolk County Branch – Call for Volunteers

Last week, in the 08 September 2014 edition of the Canadian Week in Review (CWR), I wrote an editorial under Story of the Week at http://genealogycanada.blogspot.com/2014/09/anadian-week-in-review-08-september-2014.html noting that the Norfolk County Branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society was going to disband. This action has been of great concern to a number of OGS members, and I have heard from them. Somehow, they want it saved: they do not want the Branch to be disbanded. 

And now, Alan Campbell, the president of the OGS, in the OGS e-Weekly Update, is asking for volunteers to come forward to save the Branch.

Here is his message -

Reminder: Save Norfolk County Branch – Call for Volunteers

Alan Campbell

President OGS

This is a reminder that there is a meeting of Norfolk County Branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society on Sept. 16, 2014 at 7:30 p.m. at the Delhi Seniors Centre, 418 Queen Street, Delhi, Ontario.

This meeting is being held to vote to become an inactive Branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society. The vote is being taken simply because new volunteers have not come forward to fill the positions on the Executive and those of Committee Chairs. It would be unfortunate if a Branch that was chartered in October of 1987, were to move to inactive status with the resulting loss of easier access to family history materials by researchers.

Remember, you don’t have to live in Norfolk County in order to be a volunteer. Many Branches already have volunteers who live in other parts of the world, and this could be your way to contribute to Norfolk County, Ontario genealogy.

Potential volunteers are welcome to contact either Co-chair of Norfolk Branch for more information prior to the meeting –

• Marie Shull at rmb@xplornet.com 

• Shirley Godfree at sgodfree@oxford.net

The Norfolk Branch is at http://www.ogs.on.ca/norfolk/

Virtual Institute of Genealogical Research (VIGR)

In order to give my research clients the most-up-to-date information, using modern methodology—and in addition to my working towards a Certificate in Professional Development from the National Institute for Genealogical Studies (NIGS)——I have just enrolled in Michael Hait’s course in Writing a Logical Proof Argument, a course from the new Virtual Institute of Genealogical Research (VIGR).

As I wrote to the people behind VIGR, “I am really excited to be a part of the first class! This is groundbreaking in the realm of genealogical institutes, and I am so glad that it has come to pass”. 

The link to the Virtual Institute of Genealogical Research (VIGR) website is  http://vigrgenealogy.com/news/ 

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

My research website is at www.elrs.biz.

Nuit Blanche at the Museum

The Canadian Museum of History is partnering again with Nuit Blanche, a dusk-till-dawn celebration of contemporary art and culture taking place in multiple venues in Ottawa–Gatineau.

Come experience history with an after-hours twist and groove to music spun by our own in-house DJ, performances by the Ottawa Stilt Union, and more. Sip on a “Bypass”, the signature drink created especially for the event… and enjoy. 

Nuit Blanche is on Saturday, September 20, 6:20 p.m. to Sunday, September 21, 4:21 a.m. 

Go to the website http://nbog.ca/ to see what else is on. 

Blankenstein Family Heritage Centre - Ontario Jewish Archives-

Back in 1973, the Ontario Jewish Archives, known as the Blankenstein Family Heritage Centre, started to acquire, preserve and today, it is making available documentary sources related to Ontario's Jewish community. 

Now, the Government of Canada has announced that it will be providing $195,100 through the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund to support a renovation project undertaken by the Ontario Jewish Archives Foundation. With this funding the Foundation will retrofit the vault and redesign and furnish the public access space and document processing area in the Blankenstein Family Heritage Centre. 

The Ontario Jewish Archives is the largest professionally maintained repository of Jewish archival material in Canada.

You can search their archives where they have over 5,000 cubic feet of textual records, photos, newspapers, films, and oral histories. 

The website is at http://ontariojewisharchives.org/

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

Niagara Peninsula has a new website!

The Niagara Peninsula of the Ontario Genealogical Society has a new website, and it is exciting because of the new features that are on the site. 

In addition to having a new website (which is very neat and well organized), they are also starting to put video of their meetings and cemetery tours under the heading of Media! 

Last evening, I watched a video of their last meeting, and I was impressed with the quality and media presence of the presenters. I was left with the thought that everyone should do this. It’s a great way to tell everybody about your Branch or Chapter for free!  

So why isn’t this an initiative from the head office? Maybe it is, and we are just finding out about it, but I don’t think so. 

The website is at http://www.ogs.on.ca/niagara/

9/11 - The day we shall never forget

There were 24 Canadians killed in 9/11 – The day we shall never forget. 

There is a list of the people plus their profiles at
http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/Canada/2006/09/07/1810996.html 

Canada on the 10th anniversary of 9/11 in 2011, started the National Day of Service. It honours and celebrates the acts of kindness that Canadians are known for at home and all over the world.

Two genealogical events at Quinte Branch, Ontario Genealogical Society

There are two genealogical events taking place at the Quinte Branch of the Genealogical Society in Trenton, Ontario this month, and they are – 

Doors Open 2014

Come and check out the holdings and resources of their Genealogical Library. Meet their volunteers and find out how they can help you in your research. 

The Open House will be held on Saturday September 13th at 1:00 pm.

Everyone is welcome!

And the second event is their regular monthly meeting which will be held on Saturday September the 20th at 1:00 pm and the topic will be Discovering the Lennox & Addington Archives . The talk will be given by Shelley Respondek, Lennox & Addington County Archivist.

Local repositories are vital for researchers, providing many collections not accessible elsewhere. Knowing what is available is important as we create our research plans.

Mark your calendars for this meeting and hope to see you there!

The venue is Quinte West City Hall Library, 7 Creswell Drive, Trenton, Ontario.

The webpage is http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~canqbogs/ 

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

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

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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

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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.