Sponsored by:
Arundel Lodge, Boston Pizza, Chamberlain TIM-BR Mart, Copland International, Cruise Automotive & Car Sales, HBC Heritage Foundation, Morley & Associates, Muskoka Bed & Breakfast Association, Muskoka Seniors & Special Services, Terrys Independent Grocer, Thomas A. Bunker
A Diary of Life in Muskoka Sunday Sept. 28 2 PM
Bob Bullen comes from a long line of Muskoka residents. He will read from his family diaries that tell of life in various resorts. The story goes from the time of Free Land Grants to farming to the hotel and resort business. It includes Scarcliffe and Inglewood resorts.
Ships Sunday, Oct.26 2 PM
Phil Gunyon, as a boy of seven years of age was aboard the S.S. Athenia when she was torpedoed by a German submarine. Using sides and old photographs, Phil will describe his experience of this warlike act of World War II.
The Life and Times of A.P. Cockburn Sunday, Nov. 23 2 PM
Richard Tatley, author and historian, will tell the story of “Muskoka’s Father of Tourism”, Alexander Peter Cockburn. From his vision of starting the first steamships on the Muskoka Lakes to his company Muskoka Lakes Navigation and Hotel Company, we will learn the many details of this important man.
Porthole To The Past Day,
Celebrating our heritage through our archives
Saturday, February 21, 2009, 10 am – 4 pm
PAST SPEAKER SERIES EVENTS:
History of Gidley-Grew & Bonnie Boat Company Sunday, May 25, 2 PM
Joe Fossey, a boating historian, will give a detailed talk on the 100 year old history of Gidley, grew and Bonnie boat building companies. The part they played in WW II production of Navy and Air force vessels will also be discussed.
The History of Dispros Sunday, June 22, 2 PM
Paul Dodington, known as the Dippy Doctor, will share amazing stories and the history of the Disappearing Propeller Boats. From the approximately 3000 such boats built to the 300 in existence today, Paul will trace the history of the company and tell use about why they are so popular today.
Wild Muskoka Tuesday, July 8, 7 PM
Hap Wilson, artist, photographer, writer and environmentalist, Hap Wilson has been a wilderness guide for over 30 years. Hap will look at Muskoka’s natural treasures and wild rivers. He will share his four years of mapping out some of Ontario’s best canoe routes from right here in Muskoka.
Century Cottage and Summer Estates Sunday, July 20, 2 PM
Liz Lundell will talk about her research into more than forty century-old cottages and the families who spent their summers there. These cherished family retreats are important to not just because of their age, but also because they are rich with stories about their builder, owners, visitors, summer gatherings and vintage boats.
Towards a Sustainable Future: A Break with the Past Tuesday, July 29, 7 PM
Lola Bratty and Hank Smith, members of Climate Change Action Muskoka will address issue of environmental sustainability for land use and infrastructure planning in the District of Muskoka. By learning from the past and looking to the future, there is much to be discussed.
The Muskoka Novels: Fact in Fiction Sunday, August 10, 2 PM
Gabriele Wills, author of four books, will discuss how she blends meticulously research fact with compelling fiction to enlighten and entertain. What better way to immerse yourself in history than to experience it through the lives of others, even if they are fictional characters. The Summer Before The Storm is the first in her series of “Muskoka Novels” with book 2 to be published soon
S.S. Badger Tuesday, August 19, 7 PM
Steven Duff, steamboat buff from Parry Sound, will share his trip on the S.S. Badger across Lake Michigan. Video clips, story telling and descriptions of touring the ship including the coal bunkers are all part of his story.
Portage Flyer Sunday, August 31, 2 PM
Russ Nicholls, 21 year president of the Portage Flyer, will describe the early history of this tiny railway. In recent years, he will tell us how the train came back to Muskoka after 23 years away. Now an active tourist attraction, we will hear the story of “the smallest commercially operated railway in the world.”