Halton Heritage springs to life with first annual conference

On Saturday April 2, 2011, the Halton Heritage Network will hold its first annual conference at the Halton Region Museum. The Halton Heritage Network is a voluntary, non-profit coalition of heritage organizations throughout Halton that supplements and promotes the work of local agencies. The focus of the conference is to generate excitement and interest in Halton’s rich cultural heritage.

“Knowing our history and understanding our origins is a key component in our community’s future success,” said Gary Carr, Halton Regional Chair.

The Network’s first conference promises to engage and inform. Ken Weber, Professor Emeritus, at the University of Toronto is the keynote speaker for the morning session. His address, War of 1812 – Why Canada is Not a U.S. State, will set the stage for the discussions to follow.

“Most Canadians know very little about the War of 1812, yet this conflict was an important step in becoming a distinct nation, different from our neighbour to the south, not just by a border but by a unique value system and a view of life,” said Nancy Field, Manager, Heritage Services, Halton Region.

The keynote address for the afternoon will be delivered by noted local historian and author John McDonald. His presentation, In Search of William Halton, will explore the life and times of William Halton. Secretary to Francis Gore, William Halton served intermittently as Lieutenant Governor of Upper Canada from 1806 to 1816 and gave the original Halton County its name.

Four breakout sessions will offer a variety of topics such as: History and our schools, with John Mark Rowe, teacher and author; How to undertake an oral history project, with Rob Leverty from the Ontario Historical Society; The importance of knowing copyright legislation, with Diane Wales, Burlington Historical Society archivist, and How to write local and family history, with Linda Layton, author.

The conference is open to anyone who has an interest in learning more about local history. The $40 registration fee includes lunch and this early bird rate has been extended until March 25. The fee after March 25 is $50.
For more information on the Heritage Network Conference or to register, please contact the Museum at 905-875-2200, ext. 21, toll free 1-866-442-5866 or visit www.halton.ca/HHNConference. The Halton Region Museum is located inside Kelso Conservation Area in Milton at the base of the Glen Eden Ski Hills.

Support Our Sponsors