Brockville Museum Volume 24 Issue #2 August 2009

The Monitor

Only Yesterday By Stan Westall An enormous piece of brightly-painted farm machinery sprawls across a corner of the Brockville Museum. Fully restored to working condition in 1998 (but not destined to move anytime soon) it's a fascinating study in 19th century agricultural technique. It's not difficult to imagine it hitched to a matched team of bays by its 18-foot tongue, drawing on four-foot wheels, this huge Monarch seeder-cultivator made by artisans in 19th century Brockville. Harder to conjure up are the images it represents – early civic enterprise, revolutionary technology, industrial optimism, farming tenacity and the overarching drama of late 19th century politics in North America. Briefly, this Mann seeder was built in 1888 to prize-winning specifications in J.W. Mann's engineering works (on the waterfront, between Apple and St. Andrew's streets), five years after the company had been founded so hopefully by Mann and a board of Brockville investors. Unfortunately, civic hopes for a solid, job-making establishment were short-lived. The company, facing a labour dispute, moved to Hamilton in 1903. Mann must have been a superior engineer. In a highly competitive field his designs won acceptance and rave reviews at the Paris Exhibition of 1900. This was a time when technology was transforming the countryside. At the start of the century pioneers had broadcast seed by hand over newly-cleared land. Now, horses and ingenuity were making it possible to multiply farm production while saving time, labour and material. Between 1896 and 1911 wheat acreage tripled. Wheat production quadrupled. Ever-changing technology stimulated the growth of start-up companies in this, Canada's first major industry.

Leading Brockville entrepreneurs figured they had a good chance of profit and of establishing a business that would provide jobs for years to come. Their faith in Mann was justified by initial reception for his seeders. Presumably, they had excellent balance (making it easier on the horses) and engineered precision which guaranteed maximum coverage with minimum wastage of precious seed. But like the farmers it served,

agricultural manufacturing was subject to economic and political factors over which it had little or no control. In the maelstrom of nation-building that followed the American civil war and Canada's confederation farmers sought 'reciprocity' with the United States, which, in their view, would offer a ready market for their products. Manufacturers, on the other hand, wanted high tariff protection and open access to the markets of Queen Victoria's Empire. Liberal leader Sir Wilfrid Laurier's “unrestricted reciprocity”, said Sir John A. Macdonald's Tories, would lead to annexation by the United States (which many contemporary Americans would have applauded). Instead, his party favoured a national policy of high tariff walls, popular with the regional manufacturing centres of Ontario and Quebec, but one which failed to bring prosperity north of the Great

Brockville Museum The Monitor August 2009 Volume 24 Issue #2 Lakes, according to later Canadian historians. As it happened, reciprocity was achieved gradually, without the loss of sovereignty, culminating in virtual free trade in agricultural implements in North America... by 1944! But by then, many of Brockville's pioneering industries had burned down, been acquired and moved, switched to other forms of manufacture or simply disappeared. And by which time, of course, the Mann Seeder/Cultivator had been retired to a barn at the Rocksprings farm where it had been since its purchase in 1890 by Briton Ellis and its use by himself, his son and grandson. In fact, had it not been for Clarence Cannon's attendance at the closing Ellis farm auction of 1985 the Monarch might have been lost forever, like so many of the cumbersome antiques that litter abandoned Ontario farms. But Mr. Cannon bid and paid $35 for the privilege of keeping it in his barn at Frankville for 13 years, where it was reconditioned and restored by him, his friend Aden Freeman and nephew Alan Kilborn. Touchingly, before his death in 2004, as a suitable memorial to pioneer farming, Mr. Cannon gave the seeder to the museum, where it continues to tell stories to imaginative viewers.

Director’s Message At the end of August we will be saying

goodbye to Hannah Cody. Hannah has been with us for a full year. Not only has Hannah worked on two major projects but she has also been involved in many of the day to day museum activities. How will I ever remember to change the charts on the thermo-hygrographs the first of every month? That is Hannah’s job! Hannah has been joining the volunteers on the collection committee, working with Alyssa on policy writing, helping Amy with children and adult programs and acting as a docent for bus tours. Hannah has learned first hand that all staff collect garbage and recycling, answer the telephone, be on the reception desk when the volunteer is ill, process the artifacts as they come through the door, assist visitors and clean the kitchen.

I know Hannah will enjoy her upcoming year in museum studies at Sir Sanford Fleming. The museum program there is a very interesting, busy and challenging one and I know Hannah will do very well. I am looking forward to hearing from Hannah as she pursues a career in the heritage field. On behalf of the Board of Management, staff and volunteers I thank Hannah for her contribution to the Brockville Museum and wish her well in her future endeavours.

Bonnie Burke

New Exhibit – Brockville Through the Camera Lens This exhibit includes black and white photographs taken in the 1950's and 60's by professional photographer George Eland. Also on display is a collection of coloured photographs by Dr. Dwight Mallory in the 1940's and 50's. The aerial views of Brockville (C1945) were taken by Murray and Son professional photographers.

Brockville Museum The Monitor August 2009 Volume 24 Issue #2

Hannah’s Farewell It has been a year and three months since

I first started working at the Brockville Museum, and it still feels like it was just yesterday that I first stepped in here for an interview with Bonnie.

I’d like to thank all of the staff and volunteers here for making this such a welcoming and comfortable environment to work in.

Anyone who might read my job description would think it to be a normal ‘desk-job’, but that was never true. The best part of this job was that there was something different to do, and learn, everyday. From assisting with children’s programs, guiding tours, digitizing artefacts, setting up for teas, attending different meetings and much more – there was something always on the go, and that dynamic was what made this job so fulfilling.

Being hired to compile Brockville Voices II was a true privilege. It was a great deal of work, and took a significant amount of time, but the end result is something that I am truly proud of, and it is my hope that it will be enjoyed by this community for years to come.

There is no place like the Brockville Museum. The people I have met here have taught me so much – on both a professional and personal level, and for that, I am grateful.

And a special thank you to Bonnie for ensuring that I am the most prepared student going into Sandford Fleming’s Museum Management and Curatorship programme!

Thank you everyone! Hannah Cody

Brockville

Voices II Released The people have been interviewed, the

photographs have been collected, the facts have been checked, and the content has been edited – over and over again. Yes, Brockville Voices II: Tales from the Twentieth Century is finally complete. The book features fifteen narratives from Hughena Cooke, Fred Gilbert, Peter Johnston, Harold Latham, Vera Lawson,

Griswoldene Lewis, Mildred Lorimer, Betty MacDowell, Frances MacOdrum, Margaret Ness, Herb Sheridan, Jack Shepherd, Everett Snider, Ben TeKamp and Wilmot Young. To celebrate the release of this second oral history compilation, the Brockville Museum hosted a book launch party on Thursday, June 25th. In attendance were many museum

members, eight of the featured storytellers (Fred Gilbert, Peter Johnston, Harold Lathem, Betty MacDowell, Jack Shepherd, Herb Sheridan, Captain Ev Snider, and Ben TeKamp) and their invited guests. The evening began at 7:00pm, with a few words from Bonnie Burke (Director/Curator), Brian Porter (Board of Management), Councillor Jane Fullerton (as Acting Mayor) and Hannah Cody (writer/managing editor). After the speeches, guests had the opportunity to socialize, enjoy wonderful refreshments, purchase the book, and have it autographed by all the present storytellers. Ms. Noreen Kelly-Storr, a former member of The Brockettes, travelled to Brockville from Toronto for this special event. She enjoyed her evening, meeting with the other guests, and looking at all the photographs of The Brockettes that are found in Brockville Voices II. Many thanks to all those who attended, and especially Paul Naylor, Brian Porter, Amy Whitehorne, Viktor Kaczkowski, Jean Ouellet, Roger Burke, Cathy and Brooke Bigalow, Barbara Pollard, and Harold and Barb Healy for helping make the night run as smoothly as it did. Brockville Voices II: Tales from the Twentieth Century is available at the museum gift shop for $24.95+GST.

Brockville Museum The Monitor August 2009 Volume 24 Issue #2

From the Brockville Recorder and Times, July 6, 1904

Obnoxious weeds about the streets have been taxing the patience of Street Inspector Menish during the past few months, who has done his utmost to keep the town presenting in a clean and neat appearance. One day recently Mr. Menish hit upon a happy idea and the weed nuisance will now be a thing of the past. He sufficiently interested the members of the board of works as to get their consent to purchase a one-horse mowing machine, which they did from the Cossitt Mfg. Co. The mower was given its first trial on some unsightly weeds on William Street yesterday afternoon and worked to perfection. This morning the machine was at work in Victoria Park.

Summer Programs at the Museum By Amy Whitehorne

This summer, the museum has been filled with the sounds of children. Our Summer Programs are proving to be quite popular, with many children returning session after session.

It all started with ‘Art Attack’ in July. Children had a chance to create art using paint made from Kool-Aid, making their own modeling clay and learning about some famous artists.

During ‘Mad Scientists’ week, children discovered chemical reactions, how to pop popcorn faster and make boomerangs. In August, ‘Super Soaker’ dove into the world of water. From fish to the water cycle and precipitation to water balloons, everyone had a splash!

Our final session began on August 18th. Children explored some of the strange stories of the area in ‘It Happened Here.’ They visited the fire station, heard some stories about our crimes and even read tea leaves to tell their fortunes. I would like to extend a special thank you to Hannah and Bonnie for putting this program together while I was ill.

The next big public event will be on Friday September 18th. This year has been designated as the International Year of Astronomy. To celebrate, local astronomer Frank Hitchens will be delivering a family program called ‘Are We Alone in the Universe?” Following the 45 minute presentation, those in attendance are invited to head outdoors to view the stars. Feel free to bring along a telescope to share with others. This is a program for everyone, no previous stargazing knowledge is required! It promises to shed some light on our solar system as we celebrate the International Year of Astronomy and the contributions of Galileo Galilei to the field.

As the summer draws to a close, we are looking forward to welcoming school groups back to the museum. We are always looking for small craft supplies to add to our craft cupboard. If you happen to have some things you are looking to clear out, especially small metal coffee cans (with lids), please contact Amy at the Museum.

Don’t forget to visit the What’s On section of the Museum website to keep up with the events and other programs here at the Brockville Museum.

Mark your Calendar November 13-14th, The Brockville Artists’ Studio Show and Sale

Brockville Museum The Monitor August 2009 Volume 24 Issue #2

Upcoming Fundraising Events Every fall there are two fundraisers. The first is our annual book and potted plant sale. Please bring in your donations of gently used books and potted plants. The sale will begin on September 1st and concludes on September 22nd.

The next fundraiser is the silent auction. We are collecting memorabilia, antiques, collectibles and novelties which will go up for auction on October 7th. Bidding will end on the 10th. Keep an eye out for some donations while you are cleaning, just make sure they are at the Museum by the week of September 28th. And don’t forget to drop by and place your bid.

For both these events, we need your

donations to make these fund raisers successful. For more information contact the Museum.

Volunteer Position Available The Board of Management requires a secretary to take minutes at the monthly board meeting and prepare minutes for distribution to board members. Anyone interested in this position please call Bonnie Burke at 613-342-4397.

New Display at the Brockville Public Library For the month of September, Volunteer Brenda Foss has designed another display for the Brockville Public Library on Advertising Trade Cards. The ‘silent salesman’ of the 19th century was the advertising trade card. They were given away free of charge by businesses to promote their products and services. At a time when coloured pictures were still relatively uncommon, trade cards were avidly collected and save in special albums. Enjoy this colourful collection of cards from the Brockville Museum’s archives.

Summer Weekend Students

Left to right: Rebecca Schauber and Oneida Crawford wearing their new museum polo shirts. Rebeccca, Oneida, Brianne, and Adam will be on duty until after Thanksgiving weekend.

Art In The City Tour June 20 + 21

Eric Deskin, Wood Worker, and Claudia Deskin, Artist.

Upcoming Events Leeds and Grenville Genealogical Society is holding their annual Basic Course in Genealogy beginning September 10th for six weeks. Cost $50. Call 613-342-7773 to register.

Brockville Museum The Monitor August 2009 Volume 24 Issue #2

Installing the new sign

Congratulations

Artist Claudia Deskin (above left) created the chalk pastel painting “A Stream In The Islands” which was raffled by the Friends of the Brockville Museum. The winner was Laura Male of Hamilton ON. Both Laura and her husband are Biologists and greatly enjoy the painting. Above are Claudia and Bonnie (right) drawing the winning ticket.

Local Artist Celia Kainz (standing) organized several ticket selling days. Celia and museum volunteer Irene Lyle sold tickets at the Scotia Bank. The Friends of the Brockville Museum

thank the artists and volunteers for raising $1294.00.

Thank You to our Good Friends and Neighbours

Thank you to Doug and Wilma Timleck for purchasing the new Brockville Museum sign which has been placed on the west wall.

Past Chairman of the Friends of the Brockville Museum, Bill Miller (above) dropped in to say goodbye to museum friends. Bill and his wife Peggy have moved to Woodstock to be closer to children and grandchildren.

The Friends of the Museum purchased the bench seen in the photo. A plaque on the bench pays tribute to Bill and recognizes the many contributions Bill made to the museum. Best wishes to Bill and Peggy.

Brockville Museum The Monitor August 2009 Volume 24 Issue #2

Storyteller Mary-Eileen McClear

In Her Own Words Coming to the Brockville Museum this

September as part of the 2009 Festival of Storytelling, is the enchanting and captivating performance of “In Her Own Words: The Loves and Adventures of an Irish Heroine” in which storyteller Mary-Eileen McClear uses the diaries of young Margaret Owen to recount her remarkable life.

Ireland in 1908 was a pleasant place to grow up if, like Maggie, you were of a privileged class. But privilege has no guarantee, and Maggie finds herself moving between Ireland, France and the United States as she seeks health and happiness.

Her journals not only gives us a glimpse of what Maggie looks like but they also paint a picture of a girl who is irrepressible, who needs laughter beyond food and drink, and who strives always to be noble.

The diaries, which start with her 12th birthday and move through the years, follow Maggie as she discovers love and as she meets some of the famous people of her time. She is forced to flee the villains in her life, encounters love, war, tragedy and redemption. In the end, Maggie sees that life is much like “The House That Jack Built,” for events build upon events, cause and effect to dictate the twists and turns of life.

Mary-Eileen McClear’s storytelling has taken her from New Brunswick to British Columbia, from schools to the Stratford Festival. Though folktales are her stock in trade, it is true-life stories that win her heart, and to that end she seeks out historical characters to write about. She is the founder of The Story Barn, a storytelling centre in Baden, Ontario which is now in its 21st year.

FOS 2009 is very excited to be bringing Mary-Eileen’s performance of “In Her Own Words” to the Brockville Museum following its successful tour which included a performance at

the National Arts Centre’s Fourth Stage. “In H er Own Words” takes place at the Brockville Museum on Friday September 25th at 2pm. Tickets are $8 and reservations may by made by calling 613-342-4397.

FOS List of Events September 24-26, 2009 On Friday evening from 7pm- 9pm, the

Brockville Museum will be the setting for a night of spooky stories and urban legends. Vampires have definitely catapulted their way up the popularity ladder recently and to pay homage to their success, FOS is hosting a youth night. Kiss of the Vampire and Other Bloody Tales will feature bone-chilling stories that may have you scrambling for the lights. Tickets are $8 at the door, or come dressed as a vampire or Goth and get in for $5.

For those wishing to expand their storytelling experiences FOS is offering two workshops at the museum on the Saturday morning. Mary-Eileen McClear introduces Once Upon the Truth – a workshop that shows how to bring history alive through storytelling. From 10:45 am until noon, Adwoa Badoe presents Rhythm of the Storylines – a workshop devoted to dance, movement and music for storytelling. The cost is $10 each or $15 for both.

Popular teller Adwoa Badoe has been writing and telling stories for years. She has published several children’s books and takes pride in entertaining audiences. A love of dance has led her to teach different forms of movement from her native Africa. Adwoa performs Pot of Wisdom – an afternoon of African folktales for the whole family at the museum starting at 2 pm. Tickets are $5 for a single and $15 for four.

Join our hosts that evening at 8 pm for Music, Myrth and Mischief at the Brockville Museum. Tickets are $15. Seating is limited.

Reservations are recommended for all events and can be made by calling the Brockville Museum at 613-342-4397.

Brockville Museum The Monitor August 2009 Volume 24 Issue #2

From the Archives These advertisements for the New Theatre remind us of those nights ‘out on the town’.

Gift Shop News New items can be found in the gift shop: Summer Time Fun • Butterfly kites, bouncing balls, gliders, hand

fans, beautiful pop up cards, kaleidoscopes, and hand butterfly houses.

Old Favourites • Wooden toys such as Jacobs Ladders,

Acrobat Man, Button Spinners, and Cup and Ball.

Books • A good supply of the children's Bobbie

Kalman series including 'Classroom Games', 'Home Crafts', and 'Old Time Toys'.

• For the adults 'Brockville Voices II' featuring

local residents Capt. Everett Snider, Betty MacDowell, Fred Gilbert, Harold Latham, Jack Shepherd, Peter Johnston, Ben TeKamp and Herb Sheridan.

• Local author Mary Mueller's book 'The Stone House' and new book from Dr. Alvyn Austin titled 'Elizabethtown – The Last of the Royal Townships'.

October 22, 1928 October 20, 1922

Hours of Operation Summer hours of operation are: Monday to Saturday 10:00AM – 5:00PM Sunday 1:00PM – 5:00PM