HomeMy WebLinkAbout129Black leather cover, string bound scrapbook, 30 x 36 cm. compiled in 1959 for the occasion of
the Brougham School 100th anniversary.
BROUGHAM SCHOOL
1859 – 1959
Villagers counted their shillings and pence,
Purchased a site; erected a fence;
Steadily toiled with primite tool,
'Till sturdy and strong stood Brougham's School.
Little boys came with their copper toes,
Girls in their pinafores and bows,
Teachers taught them their A. B.C.'s,
At recess they shouted beneath the trees.
Years passed by; the school still stood,
Strong red bricks and frame of wood.
Grandparents told the girls and boys
Of past remembered woes and joys.
One hundred years the school has stood,
Sheltering both the bad and good,
Out from the doors great men have come,
Girls became women creating a home.
And now in nineteen fifty-nine,
A new school's built across the line,
With modern walls and shining glass,
With room for more than one small class.
Let us never forget the old red school
That was built long ago to overrule
Darkness and ignorance; to bring the light
Through the hundred years yet in our sight.
This Is Your Invitation To Attend BROUGHAM PUBLIC SCHOOL
CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION
ON SATURDAY, JUNE 20, 1959
Trustees
Mr. Austin Pearce
Mr. George Duncan
Mr. Ross Knox, Chairman
Mrs. Olive Pearce, Treasurer
R.S.V.P. Mr. Robert Masters, Secretary
Centennial Committee, Brougham, Ont.
PROGRAM
2.00 p.m. Gala Old Tyme Parade of Cars and Floats led by Highland Creek West Hill
Legion Pipe Band
2.30 p.m. Opening Address—Dr. N. F. Tomlinson (former teacher)
Address—Mr. A. Archibald, Inspector of Public Schools
Introduction of Past and Present Teachers-George Duncan
Presentation to oldest Lady and Gentlemen ex-pupils—Murray Phillips
Chorus by present pupils
Antique Display in school—in charge of Robert Miller
SALE OF MEMENTOS AND SOUVENIRS
5.00 p.m. Buffet Supper
Selections by Band
7.45 p.m. Musical Selections—Walter Pascoe Family Barber Shop Quartette Kinovan
Rebekah Lodge, Brooklin, Kitchen Band
9.00 p.m. Pickering Township Hall
Dance—Old Tyme and Modern
Barrett's Orchestra $2.00 per couple
RAIN OR SHINE
BROUGHAM PUBLIC SCHOOL
One hundred years ago, in 1859, a schoolhouse was built beside what is now known as
Highway No. 7 in the Hamlet of Brougham. The site was bought, for $20.00, from Thomas
Hubbard, one of the first settlers, who in 1792 purchased 200 acres which stretched from
the Fifth to the Sixth Concessions. Records show that careful study was given to the finances
of the community when the schoolhouse was built, at a cost of $580.51. To this price was
later added the cost of blackboard, and other equipment, and it included the receipt of
$101.75 for the sale of the "Block Schoolhouse" which was used prior to 1859. The school
trustees, who as late as 1858, were still counting their money in pounds, shillings and pence,
engaged local workmen to build the schoolhouse, which has withstood the wind, sun and
rain, and hundreds of children, for a century. In January of 1859 trustees were elected in the
persons of S. H. Stevenson, Chairman, Dr. Freel, and William Hubbard, Secretary-Treasurer.
In 1860 Thomas Peacock wrote, "Received at different times the full amount of three hundred
and fifteen dollars being the full sum of construction on new school house from trustees of
Section No. 10."
In 1861 the proud trustees of the new school resolved that "we raise the sum of three
hundred dollars by assessment" and "that we authorize our township collector to collect the
same." On August 16 of that year a Mr. Burdon was paid $7.50 for collecting the school tax.
This fee was increased in 1862 to $9.00. The school bell was purchased in 1861, and for it
Mr. L. Pike received $20.00.
Brougham School is still in good condition, but the village has outgrown it. A new school is in
the process of erection, with two classrooms, at a cost of $40,000.00. Prices have changed
in 100 years.
Mr. B. T. Jackson was the first schoolmaster of Brougham School, and he taught there until
1867, at an annual salary of $400.00. He was succeeded by forty-seven schoolmasters and
schoolmistresses, and two assistants. Dr. N. F. Tomlinson, of Claremont, taught in the little
schoolhouse in the early twentieth century. In 1934 he became the Medical Officer of Health,
and administered vaccinations and inoculations to the pupils until the Health Unit was formed
in 1957. The present teachers are Mr. E. B. Lange and Miss Isabel Greig.
Through the doors of Brougham's schoolhouse prominent men and women have come,
established homes, and many of the descendents of the first pupils and teachers are still
settled in the community. It is with nostalgic thoughts of years gone by that Brougham
commemorates, in 1959, the one hundred years the little schoolhouse has administered
learning and taught comradeship and leadership to many children, who have created fine
standards of living for the generations to come. — Elsa Storry.
Annual Memorial Service, Union Cemetery, June 21, 1959
In this hallowed place, one hundred years ago, our pioneers gathered for their first service of
Thanksgiving to God, in their new church, and we, of the second, third and fourth generations,
and others now living in this historic township, whose hearts are united in this memorial service,
with reverent and tender memories, gather here today to pay our tribute.
Our forefathers builts schools churches, and taught their children the Christian standards of life.
Even before churches could be organized, there was worship, family worship in homes. They
feared God, but they knew not the fear of men. We are compassed about by a great cloud of
witnesses.
They have left us—and we know they are with Him whom they loved and served. They
bequeathed to us a great heritage — they laid the foundation and on this rock we are called to
build—to be true to the principles they handed down.
To Invite Former Teachers, Pupils to School Centennial
A meeting regarding Brougham School Centennial was held on Friday night, January 9th, at
the school, and committees were formed to commence work on a celebration of the school's
100th anniversary in June.
Mrs. Howard Malcolm was appointed to head an open committee, whose work will be to
compile a list of former teachers and pupils, who will be contacted regarding the celebration
in due time. School records were located dating back to 1859, and the gathering examined
them with a great deal of interest, as they outlined in general their suggestions for the
forthcoming Centennial observance. Ross Knox, who is Chairman of the school Board,
was appointed by the meeting as Chairman of the Centennial Committee, and Bob Masters
the Secretary.
One of the plans for the celebration was an antique display, and Robert Miller was appointed
to be in charge of this venture, and it was agreed that he would need the co-operation of the
community to carry it through successfully. The display will include ancient objects used in the
homes and shops during the past hundred years—household utensils and articles, tools,
works of art, old implements or their accessories, old reports and local papers pertaining
to this district's activities. The feeling of the meeting was that some of these articles were
preserved in many of the households of the district and that residents would be willing
to include them in the display. Under the guidance of Mr. Miller, there can be no doubt that
they will receive infinite care and attention.
The work involved in planning such a celebration is endless and will require the efforts of the
whole community. Older residents are asked to supply the Secretary with addresses of
former school pupils and teachers if they can, and everyone is asked to attend the next
meeting, on Thursday, January 22, at the schoolhouse, at 8 o'clock.
The celebration will be held for two days, June 20 and June 21, on the Saturday, to observe
the school's birthday, and on Sunday to remember the old Christian Church, now gone, but
which was built in 1859. The Cemetery Board will be day programme.
Old Records of School Located
On Friday night, with winter gales swirling powdered snow across the highway, choosing
lanes and driveways to build big drifts, a meeting was held at the old brick schoolhouse to
discuss a Centennial celebration to honour the school's 100 years of existence. Ancient
records, yellowed with the years, and the howling wind outside, envisioned a similar
night a century ago, when a group of serious men, probably decorated with handsome
whiskers, met in this same building to do the business of one of the early school boards.
The Secretary-Treasurer tortuously wrote in his book an ill spelled — and brief — account
of the meeting, and recorded the receipts and disbursements in fine, sturdy, but fancy,
penmanship. The earliest accounts were described in British sterling,' but after a few
meetings, the pounds, shillings and pence turned to dollars and cents. There was a wood
fire in the old stove. The wood was bought from a local farmer. For cutting a cord of wood
a man received the sum of Three Dollars. And so, in a schoolhouse haunted by hundreds of
boys and girls and teachers and trustees of the past, a group of residents gathered and
discussed ways and means of planning an occasion to celebrate the life of a school, 1859—
1959.
Ross Knox, Chairman of the current School Board, was appointed Chairman of the
Centennial Committee, and Robert Masters was appointed Secretary. The meeting agreed
that the first thing to be done was to compile lists of teachers and students, who are scattered,
so that as many as could be reached could be notified of the celebration, which is scheduled
to be held in June. Mrs. Howard Malcolm was appointed to head an open committee to do
this work, and the assistance of the whole community is required to help locate these people.
The meeting decided that a display of antiques used in years gone by in the homes and
shops of this district, would be part of the Centennial, and Robert Miller was appointed to
take charge of this venture. He will be asking for old household gadgets, farm equipment,
tools, papers, books, used or similar to those used in the homes and farms during the last
century.
It was decided that the Centennial would be held for two days, Saturday, June 20th, and
Sunday, June 21. The Sunday event would commemorate the old Christian Church, now
gone, which was built in 1859. The Cemetery Board will be asked to arrange a special
programme for that day, which will include the Decoration Service at the Cemetery.
The next meeting of the Centennial Committee, which includes every resident of this School
Section, will be on Thursday, January 22.
Thursday, January 22. The second meeting of the Centennial Committee will be held. It is an
open meeting and every one of the public spirited residents of this School Section are urged to
attend. There is much to plan and much work to do to make this special event a big success,
and it cannot be done well without the whole hearted support of everyone in the community.
Monday, January 26. The regular meeting of Joy Rebekah Lodge, at eight o'clock p.m. Every
officer and member is urged to attend this Monday night, and each second and fourth Monday
night in the months to come.
In the Beginning
Who was Lord Brougham? What was he like? What did he do? Why did our early settlers
name their little settlement after him? All we know from old records is that he was a titled
English gentlemen, and that in 1836 it was mentioned that this village had been named for
him. Long before Lord Brougham appeared on the scene, one Thomas Matthews purchased
land here, away back in 1799, but did not move to this vicinity until 1805. His neighbours were
Thomas Hubbard and John Major, and they cleared the land and farmed it. Less than fifty
years later, the community had grown and a Post Office was erected in Howell's Hollow. A
few posts and timbers on Mrs. Edythe Soden's farm mark the spot where the Post Office
stood. In 1835 William Bentley built a store and established an industry, Bentley & Co's
Patent Medicine Factory. The Post Office was moved to Bentley's Corners, where
Brougham now stands. The years went quietly by, a few homes were built around the store,
until in 1854 our Township Hall was built and there the Pickering Township fathers gathered
to attend their Council meetings.
Little girls in pinafores and little boys in long black stockings and copper toed boots went to
school in a log building. Then came the year 1859, when the sturdy brick schoolhouse that is
still in use was built for the youngsters. The school board and the residents and the taxpayers
began to discuss and plan for a school building in 1858, and when the projected was finally
completed the Treasurer carefully toted his accounts and announced that cost of this new
edifice was $851.00. In the same year the Christian Church was built. The readiness for lists
to be made, many years.
And now comes 1959, when we observe the school's 100th birthday. Plans are now under
way for a Centennial Celebration. One meeting has been held; another is scheduled for next
Thursday night, January 22, when everyone interested in the history of this community, is
invited to attend. The meeting will take place in the school house at 8 o'clock. It has been
found that many of the residents have expressed their willingness to assist in planning this
celebration, including the present school teacher, Mr. Lange, who has carefully put records
of pupils and teachers in order in readiness for litsts to be made, and instructed his boys
and girls on the importance of this venture.
Calling all Ratepayers
If you are a ratepayer you will be interested in attending a meeting of all such of School
Section No. 10 in Pickering Township. This meeting, scheduled for Wednesday, February
18th, at Brougham School, is a special one called to determine what funds may be used
from the Section to stage a Centennial celebration for the 100th birthday of the School.
When the question of money has" been determined, discussion of the Centennial observance
to be held in June will take place, and suggestions and plans will be heard to make this a
birthday to be remembered.
Name Committee for Brougham School Centenary Celebration
There are more than 350 ratepayeers in School Section 10 of Pickering Township.
At. a meeting at Brougham School on Wednesday, February 18th, less than 10% of those
ratepayers were present, although each and every one had been invited through paid
advertisement in the local papers. The contribution of ideas and offers of assistance of
many can make a great celebration of the 100th birthday of a school which has meant so
much to residents throughout the years. It is reasonable to calculate that the efforts
of an overworked minority cannot, no matter how they try, stage as brilliant an occasion as
can the whole-hearted effort of every ratepayer. The Centennial celebration is scheduled for
Saturday and Sunday, June 20 and 21.
A letter was read from A. A. Archibald, Public School Inspector, who wished the Committee
every success in their undertaking, and said that it was in order to use a small amount of the
school funds to finance it. A resolution was passed that $300.00 be set aside to provide for
expenses. At the moment these do not appear to be too heavy, for the lunch committee have
ascertained that several business firms have agreed to contribute almost all of the
refreshments at no cost. They are pleased to have a part in such a community enterprise.
A discussion of the nature of the programme took place, and a Programme Committee was
named: Mrs. R. Masters, Mr. H. Phillips, Mrs. L. T. Johnston, Mr. A. Pearce, Mrs. Ross Knox,
Mrs. H. Phillips, and to include Ross Knox, Chairman of the School Board and of the
Centennial Committee. There was talk of a band, of a parade, perhaps a baseball or
football game, fireworks, and of a short programme. Souvenirs for the children now
attending the school, background setting for picture taking, a poleroid camera to be on
hand for taking photographs of this re-union, a loud speaker — all were discussed. Mr.
Robert Miller is still seeking show cases in which to place his antique display, and will
appreciate hearing from anyone who can provide any on loan.
The next meeting of the Committee, and all ratepayers who are interested, will be held at
Brougham School on Thursday evening, March 12th.
More Enthusiasm, Please
At an advertised meeting of the ratepayers of Brougham School Section 10 of Pickering
Township, less than 10% of the residents of the section attended. In June the 100th
anniversary of the school's existence will be observed, and all the people of the school
section, the present school pupils, and all the former teachers and students that can be
reached, will be there to see the fun. Some may say, "I wonder why they didn't do this, or
that? It would have been a good idea to..." Now is the time to lend your suggestions and
offer your assistance. Great things can be achieved by many. For the busy few who do all
the work, the results cannot possibly be as brilliant or effective. Let us have a great
celebration, and every person interested in Brougham School attend the meetings and give
his time and his effort to make it great. The next meeting will take place on Thursday, March
12 at Brougham School, at 8 o'clock in the evening.
At the meeting on Wednesday, February 18, a letter was read from Mr. A. Archibald, Public
School Inspector, who wished the committee every success in their undertaking, and said
that it was in order to use a small amount of the school funds to finance it. A resolution was
passed that $300 be set aside to provide for expenses. At the moment these do not
appear to be too heavy, for the lunch committee have ascertained that several business
firms have agreed to contribute almost all of the refreshments at no cost. They are pleased
to have a part in such a community enterprise.
A programme Committee was named at the meeting — an open committee which will be
happy to receive new members. Included are Mrs. R. Masters, Mr. H. Phillips, Mrs. L. T.
Johnston, Mr. A. Pearce, Mrs. Ross Knox, Mrs. H. Phillips, and R. Knox, Chairman of the
School Board and of the Centennial Committee. Discussion revolved around a parade, a
band perhaps a baseball or football game, fireworks, and a short programme. Souvenirs for
the children now attending the school, a background setting for camera fans, a poleroid
camera on hand for taking photographs of this event, a loud speaker — all these were
discussed, but nothing yet is confirmed or definite. An antique display, in charge of Robert
Miller, promises to be a most interesting collection. Mr. Miller is still seeking show cases in
which his display can be safely housed, and will be grateful for the loan of any for the
occasion. The Township Hall has been engaged in case of bad weather.
Centennial Meeting:
Please do not forget to come to Brougham school on Thursday night, where the Centennial
Committee will plan further for the Centennial celebration of Brougham School to be held in
June. Your suggestions and offers of assistance are required.
Thursday
Brougham School was the scene of activity on Thursday night when members of the
Centennial Committee met to plan further on the school's 100th birthday, to be celebrated in
June. Mr. W. C. Willson has kindly furnished us with a report of the rpoceedings:
The President, Ross Knox, spoke of the progress being made by the various committees.
Lunch Committee reported that Markham Bakery had generously agreed to make a large
birthday cake, also a big, low, cake, to be served.
It was suggested that Brougham School Board be responsible for a booth on the grounds.
W. C. Willson reported progress in the matter of securing addresses of former pupils, stating
that all available records had been looked through.
Secretary Bob Masters reported having communication with two Bands, but neither one
would state a set price for their services. He also had interviewed Mr. Murkar regarding the
printing of programmes — a four page leaflet — and Mr. Murkar agreed to take a
photograph of the school at no extra cost to be placed on the front page of the programme.
The President displayed a pictorial plate, which was sent from the Canada Art China
Company, Collingwood, and it was suggested that such a plate, with a picture of the school
etched upon it, and the dates covering the span of years, 1859—1959, be ordered for the
celebration. A motion was made to place an order of ten dozen.
The Programme Committee outlined a suggested one-hour programme for the afternoon,
which would include a special opening, and speeches. Following a buffet supper, another
programme of a varied nature would take place, and this would be followed by a dance in
the Township Hall at night.
Dr. N. F. Tomlinson, of Claremont, who taught in Brougham School many years ago, has
been interviewed with regard to opening the afternoon session, and expressed his
willingness to do so. Mr. A. Archibald, Public School Inspector, has also expressed his
pleasure at being invited to deliver a short address.
The next meeting of the Centennial Committee will be held on Wednesday, April 1st, at the
Schoolhouse, at 8:00 p.m. Everyone is invited to attend.
Do You Know These Addresses?
The list of teachers and pupils who attended Brougham School in the past is now completed
by the Centennial Committee, but there are many for whom they have no addresses. Most of
the little girls changed their names when they grew up, and many of the pupils moved away
and settled elsewhere. The Committee felt that residents scattered over the Markham,
Stouffville, Pickering area would be able to furnish many of the addresses, and asked the
forbearance of the weekly papers to publish the names for all to see. If anyone knows the
whereabouts of any of the following, kindly get in touch, by mail or phone, with Mr. W. C.
Willson, Brougham, Telephone Pickering 413J1. The addresses are required so that
invitations to the Centennial Celebrations on June 20th' can be mailed to all past teachers
and pupils.
Teachers
Miss Estelle Welch, 1909—1910; Miss O'Connor, 1914—1915; Miss McPherson, 1915—
1916; Miss Young, 1915—1916; Miss Moore, 1916; Miss Scott, 1916—1918; Miss
McPhaddin, 1918—1919; Miss McKechnie, 1919—1921; Miss Anna Ferguson, 1924—
1925; Miss Hazel Mclntosh, 1925; Miss Delza Lakey, 1944; Mr. John Mahaffy, 1948.
Pupils
Alice Armstrong; Eva Blandin; Kenneth Brown; Hugh Bell; William Bryant; Betty Buckingham;
Barry Browes; Carol, Kenneth, Edith and Ross Brown; Shirley Carr; Raymond Coombs;
Margaret Connaghan; Lorne, Dick and Albert Burk; Florence Badgero; Wanda Brown;
Penny Biglow; Marie Devitt; Dickie Delbert; Stephen and Annie Deckert; Elva Denny; Verna
and Percy Devitt; Earl Edwards; Howard and Raymond Elson; Mae and Velma Fraser;
Gertrude Gleeson; Joyce Goodfellow; Susie George; Audrey, Joan and Lorraine Greenley;
Janet and Diane Hobbs; Edna Hunter; Audrey, Wm. and George Judd; Vernon Johnson;
Ethel and Clifton Hynes; Phyllis Hughes; Milton and Eunice Hanter; Wayne Larry and
Kathleen Kennard; Eleanor Love; Letty and Billy Leslie; Freddie Koelner; Gerard and Harry
Kuspre; Tommy, Molly Sally and Annie Luke; Curtis Lafontaine, Ramon Lafontaine; Donald
Miller; James Middleton; Victor Montague; Edna Mullen; Edith Moore; Walter Nicholls;
Shirley, Joyce and Kathleen Middlebrook; Margaret, Hugh and Isabel McMaster; Ivan and
Erwin Purdy; Winnifred Pitts; Roy Rattan; Verna and Hazel Studholme; Kenneth, Lillian and
Ethel Smith; Frank Sisson; John Stratton; Shirley Tripp; Fred and Annie
Committed Seeks Former Students And Teachers
The long list of teachers and pupils who attended Brougham School in the past is being
prepared by the Centennial Committee, who plan a celebration in Brougham on June 20th
to commemorate the school's 100th birthday. For many of the names addresses have not
been found, and through the continued co-operation of the weekly newspapers on community
projects, it is hoped that community residents will recognize the names and be able to
furnish the Committee with some of the addresses. If anyone knows the whereabouts of any
of the persons listed below, please relate it to Mr. W. C. Willson, Brougham, by telephone or
mail —Phone Pickering 413J1. The Committee wishes to send invitations to the festivities
to everyone who attended the school.
(TEACHERS)
Miss Estelle Welch, 1909-1910
Miss O'Connor, 1914-1915 Miss McPherson, 1915-1916
Miss Young, 1915-1916
Miss Moore, 1916
Miss Scott, 1916-1918
Miss McPhaddin, 1918-1919
Miss McKechnie, 1919-1921
Miss Anna Ferguson, 1924-1925
Miss Hazel Mclntosh, 1925
Miss Delza Lakey, 1944
Mr. John Mahaffy, 1948
(PUPILS)
Alice Armstrong
Eva Blandin
Kenneth Brown
Hugh Bell
William Bryant
Betty Buckingham
Barry Browes
Carol, Kenneth, Edith and Ross Brown
Shirley Carr
Raymond Coombs
Margaret Connaghan Lorne, Dick and Albert Burk
Florence Badgero
Wanda Brown
Penny Biglow
Marie Devitt
Dickie Delbert
Stephen and Annie Deckert
Elva Denny
Verna and Percy Devitt
Earl Edwards
Howard and Raymond Elson
Mae and Velma Fraser
Gertrude Gleeson
Joyce Goodfellow
Susie George
Audrey, Joan and Lorraine Greenley
Janet and Diane Hobbs
Edna Hunter
Audrey, Wm. and George Judd
Vernon Johnson
Ethel and Clifton Hynes
Phyllis Hughes
Milton and Eunice Hanter
Wayne, Larry and Kathleen Kennard
Eleanor Love
Letty and Billy Leslie
Freddie Koellner
Gerard and Harry Kuspre
Tommy, Molly, Sally and Annie Luke
Curtis Lafontaine, Ramon Lafontaine
Donald Miller
James Middleton
Victor Montague
Edna Mullen
Edith Moore
Walter Nicholls
Shirley, Joyce and Kathleen Middlebrook
Margaret, Hugh and Isabel McMaster
Ivan and Erwin Purdy
Winnifred Pitts
Roy Rattan
Verna & Hazel Studholme
Kenneth, Lillian and Ethel Smith
Frank Sisson
John Stratton
Shirley Tripp
Fred and Annie Turner
Marjorie and Gordon Thornton
Charlie, Ben, Andrew, Annie and Alfred Titus
Agnes and Mabel Walker
Catherine Woodbine
Gertrude and Margarite Wilkins.
Judy, Carol and Harold Wilson
Viola Wilson
Lee Wilkinson
Walter Taylor
Uriah and Marshall Young
Brougham School Centennial
Stories of the good old days are aired these days, as preparations are under way for the
Centenary celebration of Brougham's 100 year old schoolhouse. Old school companions
are recalled, and the teachers who taught in the years gone by. There are many anecdotes
of episodes that happened in the past. There is the tale of a man who came all the way from
Bowmanville every Saturday night, for Brougham was the merriest place there was in these
parts of a Saturday night. One of these times he brought his son with him, who was Gerald
Henning's father, deceased three years ago. The young boy had his first sip of beer from the
building on Brougham's corner now the Township Office. He and his companions bought a
honey pail full of the beverage, at a cost of 3c, and slipped out to the horse stables to taste it!
Then there are the stories of courting in the buggies and cutters; of horses which knew where
to go without guidance; of fur robes, and loose reins. There is the story of Sweetlips, a huge
Percheron, which was hitched to a buggy for courting excursions. Sweetlips was cunning
and a matchmaker.
On Wed. night, Feb. 18, all the ratepayers of School Section 10, are asked to attend a
meeting at the schoolhouse to discuss funds for the Centennial. It is hoped that a large
representation of the section will be present.
April 18/59
One Hundred Years Ago
In 1859, when Brougham School was built, there were about 150 souls in this community
— solid, sensible and enterprising. One hundred years later, one finds the population
not too much greater, but in the intervening years, especially towards the end of the
nineteenth century, there were more people, the village flourished with businesses and
hotels from here to the port at Whitby where the farmers took their grain, were in
abundance. There are still landmarks of where they stood, housed the farmers on
their long trip by team, and stabled the horses.
The trustees of Brougham School — in 1859 S. H. Stevenson was elected (Chairman), Dr.
Freel, and William Hubbard, Secretary-Treasurer — kept careful accounts of their dollars
and cents', but did not take many minutes off their long hours of work for Minutes of their
meetings. They bought about two acres of land from Thomas Hubbard, one of the first
settlers, for $20.00, and on it built a school, the materials and labour of which totaled up in
their books to $580.81. It seems that the equipment, such as desks and blackboards, were
not included in this sum, but were purchased later. They negotiated sales for the old log
schoolhouse, and received for it $101.75, and for a small frame schoolhouse, also used,
they received 12 Pounds 10 Shillings.
Some of the penmanship in the yellowed school records is beautiful, and carefully penned
items appear, such as these :
July 1, 1859. Paid for Broom, Schoolhouse, 25c; Paid for Copy slips for School, 50c; Paid
cash for Brick 4 hundred, $1.60; Paid Steem Mill Co. 160 ft. lumber, $1.20.
The Brougham School Centennial celebration is to be held on June 20th of this year. All
former teachers and pupils, and all residents of School Section 10 will be invited.
April 23/59
Another night to mark down in our little books is Wednesday April 29, when the
Centennial Committee meets to continue with their arrangement for Centennial festivities
on June 20. Time is slipping by and there is still much to be done to make this a
successful celebration. Anyone interested in Brougham School and its one hundred year old
history is invited to the meeting, and any contribution of his knowledge of people and
events related to the school will be greatly appreciated Mr. W. C. Willson reports that the
list of names of former pupils and teachers, for whom he is seeking addresses, and
published in this and other local papers, has met with response, and he has secured
number of addresses which were unknown to the Committee. Mr. Robert Miller, who is in
charge of an antique display, is grateful for the offer of several show cases, and wishes to
extend his thanks for publication of these requirements.
Let's Away To the Past
Brougham School Centennial is still very much in the minds and hearts of Brougham.
Searching into the past is the occupation of many, and a dreamy, wondering, occupation it
is, as we picture the little school, its forty-eight teachers and hundreds of pupils, operate
through the years. An essay has come to light, written by Mr. George Philip, now deceased.
He wanted to record on paper what he remembered about his village long, long ago: It is
titled simply, "Essay. Brougham as I remember it in 1876."
At that time Brougham could boast of having three licensed hotels, three general stores, two
blacksmith shops, two carriage factories, with the usual jobbing and paint shops in
connection, three carpet or blanket factories, one tannery, two cooper shops, one pill or
medicine factory, one bakery, one butcher shop, two harness shops, three boot and shoe
shops, two tailor shops, two dressmaking shops, one millinery shop, one planing and turning
factory, one implement shop, one livery stable, one agricultural hall, two churches, one
temperance hall, one town hall, one school-house and fifty-eight dwelling houses.
There were at that time two Medical Doctors, one Veterinary Surgeon and two resident
Ministers, one Post Office, One Telegraph Office.
The hotels were situated, one in the building owned by J. M. Gerow and was conducted by
Thos. Bennett, another in the building occupied by Thos. Poucher, and was conducted by
Samuel Webb. The third was in the building occupied by Hugh Mechin, and was conducted
by Thos. Major. The general stores were as follows: One in the building occupied by Thos.
Brown with Wm. Abblot proprieter, another was in the building just east of this Hall
(Temperance Hall), Moses Linton proprieter, the third was where Wm. Cowie's house now
stands and was kept by a Mr. Knowles. The blacksmith shops were one where Wm.
Mosgrove now does business, and the other was on the lot, just east of Thos. Poucher's
stable. The carriage factories were, one connected to each blacksmith shop. The one at
Mosgrove's shop was run by Robert Brown, the other was run by Samuel Webb, who also
ran the East Blacksmith Shop.
The weaving factories were; one run by Jas. Howett on the lot where Jos. Barks' berry patch
is. Anothers one, proprieted by a Mr. Williams, was in the house now occupied by J.
Littlejohn. One Cooper shop was just south of Wm. Mosgrove's shop. The other was on the
lot now owned by Mrs. Mary Matthews.
The Medicine factory was on the lot owned by St. John's Presbyterian Church. The Bakery
was on the property just opposite Nathaniel Burks and was run by Wm. Hamilton. The
Butcher Shop was on Mrs. M. Matthew's property and was run by George Philip, Sr.
One harness shop was where Gleeson's store now stands and was run by Wm. Morris; the
other was on lot just east of St. John's Church, and was proprieted by Mr. Chrochert. One
Shoe Shop was in a part of the building now occupied by Thos. Brown, another where L.
Matthews Tonsorial Parlours now is; the third was in the east end of the Mechin Block: Mr.
Underbill. Wm. Bodell, and James Murdock were the proprietors respectively.
At that time we had no Presbyterian Church in the Village, but, "The Guid Auld Scotch"
could be seen ilka saabith Aifter-noon wending their ways to The Auld Stane Kirk i' the
Seventh Concession.
Note: We do not know what date Mr. Philip wrote this Essay, But Mrs. George Philip copied
it in 1954.
May 14, 1959
News From Brougham
BROUGHAM SCHOOL 1859 — 1959 By W. J. Brown
A great Centennial Celebration
At the old Brougham School,
Some went there for learning,
Others went there to fool.
Many were the students
Who passed along this way,
A few went far afield,
Others deemed here to stay.
There will be many stories told
Of days now long since past
Of friends and associations,
How fresh these memories last.
Teachers we have known
Who tried to do their share
By imparting valued knowledge
To the young Souls in their care.
The little happy incidents
That we remember best
Could we but go back
To be with all the rest,
Who attended this old school
'Twould bring so many joys
To live again the days we spent
As studious girls and boys.
There have been many changes
With the people we have known
Some have been quite successful
From the seeds of knowledge sown.
We should then be thankful
For the knowledge we possess,
By attending this old school
Has assisted this success.
William J. Brown, the author of these verses, attended Brougham School many years ago.
He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. T. C. Brown, who have both passed on. Mr. Brown now lives
in Toronto, and is looking forward to the Centennial celebrations in Brougham on Saturday,
June 20.
May 7
Centennial Time Draws Nigh
At a Centennial Committee meeting on Wednesday, April 29, the completed
programmes were viewed by the members, who decided that very soon they would be sent
out — especially those whose destination were many miles away. The meeting felt that
perhaps some of the former pupils would want to plan their vacation to coincide with
Brougham School Centennial on June 20. The list of those to receive invitations includes
all the former teachers and pupils for whom addresses have been found, and all residents in
School Section 10. There are still addresses lacking, although, through the courtesy of the
weekly papers in publishing the list, many have been received by Mr. W. C. Willson, who is
looking after this part of the programme.
Plans for the parade, led by Highland Creek West Hill Legion Pipe Band, are under way,
the afternoon and evening programmes are set up, and Robert Miller has his antique display
well in hand. The day will culminate in a Dance at the Township Hall. The programme
includes a photograph of the old Christian Church, built one hundred years ago, and now
gone. A special folder will invite visitors to the Memorial Service on Sunday, June 21.
June 4/59
News From
Centennial Pusuits
A final meeting of the Centennial Committee will wind up the planning for the 100 year
anniversary of Brougham School on Wednesday, June 10. The Committee met last
Wednesday evening at the old schoolhouse, and reports showed that sub committees were
at work on their various projects and everything was running smoothly for the June 20th event:
Secretary Robert Masters agreed to go to Collingwood to pick up the shipment of
Centennial plates which had been ordered. There were hints of interesting Floats which
would appear in the parade, and some former pupils have announced their intention of
attending from as far away as British Columbia. The Lunch Committee is as yet, of course,
unsettled as to how many guests they will serve the Centennial supper to, and would be most
grateful to have the invitations replied to as soon as possible.
More Showcases Needed
Robert Miller has had a response for his request for the loan of showcases to display the
interesting old articles he has collected, but he needs more. If anyone can assist him in this
matter, he will be greatly obliged. The display will be in the schoolhouse.
Receptionists, representing the various age groups, will be asked to greet the former
teachers and pupils who attend, and direct them to the Centennial Register, to sign their
names, and have their name pinned on their lapels so that their friends will recognize them,
even if they have changed with the passing of the years.
A police officer will be on hand for the day for the direction of parking, and any episode with
which he will be able to assist. Highway traffic will be regulated by traffic officers.
The First Schools
The old "Historical Atlas of the County of Ontario", published in 1877, which will be on
display in the schoolhouse, reveals in its yellowed pages the story of education in this area.
It says that "the beginning was entirely insignificant, but the issue has been, except to eye-
witnesses, amazing beyond credibility. The oak has indeed sprung from the acorn, and its
boughs cover all the land." In 1877, the old book relates, there were people still living whose
memory carried them back to the time when there was not a school house in the County of
Ontario. The highest ambition of parents was that their children could learn to read and to
write. Then memory took them to a later day when their were a few schools built, mostly from
unhewn logs. Teachers were engaged, principally from their own appraisal of themselves,
and "an itinerant system of boarding supplemented their scanty wages." The prime requisite
for a teacher then seemed to be, not so much the ability to impart knowledge as to inflict
innumerable punishments of the most fantastic complextion for the most trifling offences.
The early schoolhouses were heated by an immense fireplace, where huge logs from the
adjacent woods blazed. It is told in this book that the first stove in any schoolhouse in the
county was made from an old potash kettle, "two accidental holes — one in the bottom and
the other in the side — suggesting to some ingenious patron of learning the stoking hole and
the flue. It was turned bottom up, and furnished with a chimney. As for fresh air, there was
plenty for the old buildings had many holes and crevices through which wind or rain found an
easy entrance, "and through which the youngsters, tired with their unaccustomed toil, might
espy the progress of the world without."
In the early schools, County Council appointed resident Clergymen to be school inspectors,
and the Atlas attributes great educational strides made by the energy and effort of these men.
In 1871 all the public schools were made free, and trustees were compelled to provide
adequate school accommodation. Gone were the fireplaces and blazing hearths, gone were
the rough walls, with nothing but an occasional cutting of the "Master" on it. Gone are the
wooden beams attached to the walls by wooden pins, which served as desks, with uneven
legs. Perhaps we, too, should say with the historian: "Lest our young people, judging from
the scenes of prosperity, may be led to believe that the present state of things has been
continual, or may through sheer inability to believe, regard the tales of the hardships in the
pursuit of knowledge that fell to the lot of our pioneers as the dreams of distempered
imaginations worthy to be reckoned with the adventures of Sinbad or the exploits of
Munchaussen, it may be well to put upon record some authentic facts of these olden times,
as described by the few ancient that still connect us with the primeval forest, and to revive
those memories which are fast becoming lost in the multiplied experiences and ever shifting
panorama of these modern days."
Getting Ready For Brougham Centennial
The Bunting's Out
"Welcome Visitors" banners are up in the village to greet the former teachers and pupils of
Brougham School, which celebrates its 100th birthday June 20. Pickering Township Council
agreed that the Municipal Building be decorated, and Brougham businessmen followed suit. Knox Grocery Store, Mair's Hardware, Miller's Mendit Shop, Burrow's Garage, The Elm's, are wearing their Welcome signs. Over the gate of the Cemetery, where the Christian Church, built 100 years ago, Stood, flutters centennial bunting.
Please Forgive
Everyone knows what a difficult task it is to locate pupils who attended a school in the past.
A good job has been done, chiefly through the efforts of Mr. W. C. Willson, and through the
cooperation of those who read the names in the papers and furnished many addresses.
There are still a number of addresses unknown, and those pupils and teachers who have
not received an invitation and who know of the celebration are invited, and will receive their
programme at the school. The Committee has word that visitors will be coming form as far
as British Columbia, and from points in Western Canada.
There will undoubtedly be those who do not received invitations. Some may be
duplicated There are no doubt mistakes in names; it is possible that many are directed to
persons who are deceased. One young fellow, not yet in his teens, had an invitation directed
to him and his wife! For any such discrepancies, please forgive, and plan to come.
The Story of Peter Matthews
Far from Brougham, across the prairies, in a town called Vanscoy in Saskatchewan, lives the
great grandson of one of the early Brougham settlers, Peter Matthews, named M. D. Worden
Sixty years ago Mr. Worden taught Brock Road School, boarding with Mr. and Mrs. Thomas
Knox, parents of Brougham's Postmaster, William Knox. Mr. Worden says that he believes
he can remember every pupil he taught all those years away -their faces are as clear to him
as ever. Although many miles from this district, Mr. Worden has not lost touch. He reads the
Markham Economist and Sun regularly, and has paid several visit He plans to attend the
Centennial.
Mr. Worden has furnished short biography of his great grandfather, whom we read of here
and there in the early day before his colourful connection with the political situation in Upper
and Lower Canada, as Council officer in Pickering Township. His grave is remembered, half
a century ago, in a field on the old Matthew property, but it has long since been plowed over
season after season.
A Martyr to His Cause
Peter Matthew, a farmer of the Brougham district over one hundred and twenty years ago,
belonged to a family of United Empire Loyalists from Pennsylvania, who, following the
American Revolution, emigrated to Upper Canada. As a young man he took military training
as a volunteer. When war broke out in 1812 between the Motherland and the United States,
with Canada as a natural objective for the U.S. to attack, young Matthews enlisted as a
volunteer under General Sir Isaac Brock and fought under him all through that war, emerging
as a captain.
Following the war, interest in both Upper and Lower Canada centred on the political
situation. In the former, it became a struggle for responsible government against what was
then known as the Family Compact, a clique of government officials, headed by the
Governor, who kept all government jobs among themselves and ran things in general as
they liked. Heading the opposition in the House was William Lyon Mackenzie. When they
could not get satisfaction by peaceable means, they decided on armed rebellion. Among
the rebels were Col. Samuel Lount and Captain Peter Matthews. The rebellion in Upper
Canada broke out in 1837 and centred around York (Toronto), and was crushed by
government forces. Mackenzie fled to the States, but Lount and Matthew were arrested, tried
and condemned to death, the execution being carried out on April 12, 1838, in the old jail
which stood just to the rear of the present site of the head office of Imperial Oil on King
Street East. The Matthews farm was confiscated by the government, the widow and all the
sons emigrating to Mich.
A beautiful monument was erected by friends and sympathizers in 1892 in the Necropolis
Cemetery in Toronto in memory of the Martyrs.
Our thanks to Mr. Worden for this most interesting sketch of one of our fine pioneers!
The Hidden Graveyard
Beyond the Dominion Mush-room Company farm near Brougham there are lovely
woods — tall pines, spruce, maple, growing in quiet and natural splendour. Almost hidden
by young maples, and by layers of rotting leaves, are a few old gravestones carved in
another century. There they lie, with the wind whispering in the trees, wild birds singing,
bees humming among the wildflowers. This is the burying place of some of the earliest
settlers in this area, known to few, and forgotten by many.
No doctor's skill or friend's good will
On earth my life could save
God said I must be laid in dust
All in the silent grave.
This is what it says on the stone commemorating Richard Evins, who departed this life on
January 12, 1851, at the age of 70. The other inscriptions are almost indiscernable, the
letters rubbed away by time and the elements. The stones are flaked into powder, and
covered by vegetation.
The early settlers lived long, as indicated by the grave of James Lamoreaux, who was
inscribed as living to the age of 111 years. Death came in 1867, but his wife predeceased
him in 1828.
Sophia Brigg, 5 years old, passed away on April 4, 1853, and Danny Brigg, aged 2,
followed his siter six days later, on April 10, 1853. One wonders as he looks at the aged
stone if an epidemic took the lives of the little children, whose names were inscribed on a
stone dedicated to Margaret, the wife of William Simpson, who died in 1846.
After scraping away leaves and earth, an old chipped stone revealed that Mary, the
second wife of Ben Milliken, lay buried there. Then there were the familiar names, which
appear in the early history of this locality: Thomas Major, who died in 1831 at the age of 36. John Major was one of the first settlers who bought land here.
Angeline, wife of G. W. Hubbard, was buried on January 14, 1859, the year Brougham
School was built. Thomas Hubbard is the first settler of whom there is record of the
purchase of land near Brougham, and that was in 1792.
How wonderful it is for these folk who lived and worked at clearing the land for us to
lie buried in a woodland, among trees that were there during their lifetime, in the
loveliness and silence of the woods as yet not touched by man. No velvet lawns, no fancy
epitaphs, no clipped bushes or orderly terraces — the wild, free woods as they were when
they arrived from another land.
June 4,1954
Expect 1000 People at Brougham School Centennial on June 20
The influx of an expected one thousand visitors will transform the hamlet of Brougham into a
village on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the Brougham Public School and
Cemetery on June 20 and 21. Five hundred invitations have been sent out.
The hamlet will be gaily decorated for the event. The Municipal Office, stores and garages
will be dressed up in coloured streamers and banners for the occasion. Pickering Twp.
Council agreed to spend $100 for this purpose.
The afternoon programme will open at the school at two o'clock, A parade of cars and floats
will be headed by the Highland Creek West Hill Legion Pipe Band. Dr. N. F. Tomlinson, of
Claremont, a former teacher, will deliver the opening address at 2.30 p.m. He will be
followed by Mr. A. Archibald Inspector of Public Schools. Past and present teachers will be
introduced by Mr. Geo. Dunman. A presentation will be made to the eldest lady and
gentleman, ex-pupils of the school. Mr. Robt. Miller will be in charge of the antique display.
A buffet supper will be provided at five o'clock. At 7:45 p.m. a number of musical selections
will be provided by the Walter Pascoe family; a barber shop quartet and a band. An old-time
and modern dance in the Township Hall at nine o'clock will conclude the day's activities. The
admission charge to the dance will be $2.00 per couple.
The special Cemetery Service will be conducted on Sunday, June 21st at 2.30 p.m. The
guest Pastor will be Rev. C. E. Fockler. Special music will be provided by the Whitevale
Male Quartet. Rev. A. E. Cresswell, Pastor of the St. John's United Church, will assist in the
service. Rev. Fockler is the last living Minister of the Christian Church in Canada. He
conducted the first decoration service in 1932.
Brougham School Centennial was a success. Folk in this village will talk about it for a long
time. Renewal of acquaintances was the theme of the reunion, and tongues must have
ached from over work.
A well qualified Master of Ceremonies, Ross Knox, tried to thank the people who worked for
so long and so steadily on the preparation of the Saturday and Sunday, June 20 and 21
celebration, but it would take many words and much time to commend the many who
contributed.
Kenneth Pascoe, Gordon Hugh-son and others, worked on a fine parade, and did
innumerable carpenter jobs that were required. Warren Willson worked tirelessly trying to
secure addresses of former pupils and teachers, whose whereabouts were unknown. Robert
Masters, Secretary of the Centennial Committee, faithfully took complete minutes of the
meetings, besides journeying to Collingwood to pick up the souvenir plates, and many other
tasks. E. B. Lange, teacher, made a fine banner for the school, which the severe winds
insisted on tearing down. He persistently trained his boys and girls until they performed their
choruses perfectly. The lunch committee worked many long hours, at first planning, then
preparing and serving a wonderful buffet supper. Firms donated provisions. A dance
committee planned, decorated, and were responsible for making the dance a success.
Robert Miller talked, collected, gathered, hauled, rose and retired, with antiques for his
splendid display. Old model cars were loaned, and horses, floats and conveyances supplied
for the parade. There are many others who had a part in the celebration. For them their
reward is —-a successful project completed. Some were even heard. to remark, "I am glad
it only happens every 100 years."
Proceeds from Dance Substantial
Some of the expense of the Centennial will be covered by the Saturday night Dance, when
the Township Hall was crowded to capacity. The Dance Committee realized a net profit of
$180.00, which exceeds the clear amounts heretofore earned by organizations who
sponsor a Dance. Howard Malcolm donated prizes for a square dance competition, and
although the floor was crowded, the dancers claimed they had a wonderful time.
Visitors from Many Places
Many cities, towns and farms in Canada were represented by former pupils of Brougham
School. From as far away as British Columbia and Montreal, friends and relatives
gathered in Brougham for the big event. Some of the homes were full of guests, who
observed the two day celebship. The pupils attribute much of their success to their teacher,
Mr. E. B. Lange, who consistently practiced and trained them until they excelled in their
endeavours. The reward was a picnic at Graham's Park at the Rouge, provided by their
music teacher.
WMS Meeting
The ladies of the community are reminded of a WMS Meeting, postponed from last week
because of the Centennial, to be held on Thursday afternoon, June 25th, at the home of Mr.
and Mrs. S. Reaman. They are asked to remember that the Roll Call is "Spirit", and not to
forget the Travelling Basket.
And Not So Good
Mr. Frank Carter was again ration.
The great grandson of Peter Matthews, who died a martyr in the 1838 rebellion of Upper
and Lower Canada, came from Saskatchewan to attend the Centennial. His train was three
hours late, and he had a most exasperating trip, but he felt that it was worth the experience.
Sixty years ago he was a teacher in the Brock Road School, boarding with Thomas Knox,
the father of Brougham's William Knox. He recognized many friends and pupils, and visited
places of historical interest, staying with Mr. and Mrs. Knox. Mr. Worden is now retired in the
Village of Vanscoy in the prairie province. He likes the West, and enjoys a very happy
retirement. Rev. A. E. Cresswell of Brougham and Claremont Churches was student pastor
in Mr. Worden's part of the world, and the two men enjoyed a pleasant reunion.
Brougham School First in Music
Under the direction of Mr. J. Bush, the senior class of Brougham School won a music
contest over 15 other schools in the Town-taken to hospital last week, where he is reported
to be regaining a little strength. Mr. Carter has been ill for a long time. It is most regrettable
that he was unable to attend the Centennial, which he would have enjoyed. His hearty
laughter and great community spirit was especially missed on this occasion.
Mrs. Ross Knox was ordered by her doctor to bed for a brie period. She is suffering from the
flu combined with fatigue from Centennial efforts and grief over the death of her father, Mr. J.
McGuckin, of Goodwood, who passed away on Tuesday morning after a serious illness in
hospital.
Mrs. J. O. Spang is in hospital seriously ill. Mrs. Spang seem still to be suffering from shock
after the death of her husband some months ago, besides enduring internal disorders.
A New Baby
Father's Day, Sunday June 21th was a special day for Milton Campbell, who lived formerly
at the home of Mrs. Edythe Soden. He and Mrs. Campbell became the parents of a
daughter, Janis Edythe, born at Ajax Hospital A wonderful gift for father.
Brougham Baseball
Brougham Midgets played a fine game at Brougham Park on Monday night starting out well
but slipping a bit toward the end of the game. The result was Pickering 18, Brougham 13.
Home games for the Midgets will be played on Monday nights, and baseball fans are urged
to attend and support their Midget team, who might this year — who knows? — make
baseball history in the Township.
June 25, 1959
News From Brougham
BROUGHAM SCHOOL
1859 - 1959
Villagers counted their shillings and pence,
Purchased a site; erected a fence;
Steadily toiled with primite tool,
'Till sturdy and strong stood Brougham's School.
Little boys came with their copper toes,
Girls in their pinafores and bows,
Teachers taught them their A. B. C.'s,
At recess they shouted beneath the trees.
Years passed by; the school still stood,
Strong red bricks and frame of wood.
Grandparents told the girls and boys
Of past remembered woes and joys.
One hundred years the school has stood,
Sheltering both the bad and good,
Out from the doors great men have come,
Girls became women creating a home.
And now in nineteen fifty-nine,
A new school's built across the line,
With modern walls and shining glass,
With room for more than one small class.
Let us never forget the old red school
That was built long ago to overrule
Darkness and ignorance; to bring the light
Through the hundred years yet in our sight.
June 18
News From Brougham
The Day is Upon Us
Will there be many? Will there be few? Will there be sufficient to serve the many? Will it rain,
or will it shine? Will it be 90 degrees, or 60 degrees, both of which temperatures were
evident last week. These are the questions, with many more, which arise now as Centennial
days loom close, and final preparations are made. All of the sub committees of the
Centennial Committee are anxious for June 20 and 21, the days of the celebration of the
100th anniversary of Brougham School and the Christian Church. In a few days the answers
will be known.
Some guests have arrived from British Columbia already. There are indications that there
will be a good crowd. Visitors will notice the "Welcome" signs, and they will notice, too, that
no "Welcome" was not indicated over the cemetery! It is tastefully, but quietly, decorated.
Invitation Finals
The Committee is anxious about those who have been omitted from the invitation list, not
intentionally, but because no address has been found, or from some other cause. They
would like to assure all the pupils and teachers, all residents in the School Section, and any
who have had some special interest in the school in the past, that they will be cordially
welcomed whether or not they have received an invitation. They would also like it to be
known that their families are invited. The Parade starts at 2:00 p.m. Saturday afternoon.
Festivities follow until 9:00 p.m. when a Dance will be held in the Township Hall to finish off
the day. On Sunday the Centennial Service in the Church will commence at 2:30 p.m.
Square Dance Competition
The Township Hall is gaily decorated within with red, white and blue, for those who will
dance the hours away on Saturday night of June 20. The Dance Committee worked hard
and long to make it beautiful.
Mr. Howard Malcolm is sponsoring a square dance competition and will donate prizes for
the champions. So all the experts, and those not so expert, will have a wonderful time, and
may take home a prize to commemorate the great day.
Those Names on the Gravestones
In last week's issue of the Economist and Sun, the story was told of a forgotten burying
ground in the woods near Brougham. where time-worn stones marked the graves of some
of the earliest settlers. The descendants of these pioneers, many of them, will attend the
Centennial on Saturday Many of them attended the old school during the last century some
were members of the Christian Church built here 100 years ago, and commemorated
Sunday June 21. In a century not forgot ten, and made colourful by a celebration, the folk
who broke the land and lie buried among the trees, are remembered.
In a book called "Past Years in Pickering" written by Rev. William R. Wood, a Presbyterian
Minister of Claremont, and published by William Briggs in 1911, a history unfolds of early
days in Pickering Township. Some of the names on the old Brougham tomb stones appear
therein.
A long remembered name, mentioned last week as appearing on one of the stones, was
that of Thomas Major, who died in 1831 at the age of 36. Through the above named book, it
is learned that Thomas was one of the sons of John Major, who was the early settler who
bought land in these parts. Thomas left to mourn his early death, his wife Hannah Smith, and
three daughters, who became Mrs. Alfred Turner, Mrs. Charles Churchill and Mrs. Barnum.
His father, John, is a colorful figure in the history of the Township. He and his two brothers,
Uriah and Thomas, set out from Ireland as young men and settled in Vermont. There John
married Margaret Reynolds. He and his wife betook themselves to Nova Scotia, and
afterwards to this vicinity soon after the outbreak of the Revolutionary War. For many years
the village which sprung up on their lands was known as Majorville, but later became
Whitevale. Three of the Major sons took unto themselves as wives three Smith sisters. A
daughter, Hannah, married Peter Matthews, of whom a biographical sketch was published
last week.
Of "Angeline, wife of C. W. Hubbard" which was inscribed on the gravestone, we can find
nothing, but it is known that Thomas Hubbard purchased land from the Crown in 1792 and
settled next to John Major. Married three times, he had ten children, and died at the age of
94. Andrew, the one son of the second marriage, and Content Webb, were the parents of
George, who went to the United States, and Thomas. One of the daughters of the latter,
Elizabeth, married Casper Willson, and they have many descendants in this area. A son,
William, married Mary Bentley; Louisa married John Percy. James lived near Brougham
with his wife, Mary Cassie. Thomas Hubbard, grandson of the original Thomas, was hotel
keeper in Brougham.
James Lamoreaux, whose tombstone inscription says he died at the age of 111, was of
Huguenot descent, and lived in the United States, bearing arms in the War of Independence.
When he came to Brougham, he is recorded to have made several trips to Kingston with a
grist in a boat which had been built on the Rouge River. The voyage took three weeks.
These little sketches seem to cause the folk who lie in the hidden cemetery to live again. It is
with gratitude that we read Mr. Wood's book, which preserves names and history of the first
settlers in Pickering Township for us. The one regret is that there are few copies around, and
no more to be purchased. Brougham Library is desirous of having a copy on its shelves, and
the Library Board would be interested in purchasing one, if any are available.
THE OSHAWA TIMES, Saturday, May 30, 1959
THE ANCIENT SCHOOLHOUSE-AND ITS SUCCESSOR
The old schoolhouse at Brougham, in picture at left, has been a landmark for 100 years on
Highway No. 7. The old elms which surround it were probably mere saplings when it
was first erected at a total cost of a little more than $500. It has turned out some notable
people and there will be regret at its passing. On the right is the $40,000 two-room school
which will be completed shortly. It will house many more students, but according to the old
timers, it cannot do a better job of producing scholars.
Pictures by John Mills.
Old Schoolhouse Will Celebrate Centennial
BROUGHAM (Staff) - Exactly 100 years ago, in the hamlet of Brougham, a little group of
men met, not without some trepidation, to plan the building of a new school. There was an
old school, the "Blockhouse." which they contemplated selling in pounds, shillings and pence
for the equivalent of $101.75. Possibly the sum at the going rate of sterling exchange would
amount to about 20 pounds.
They had a site, near what is now known as Highway No. 7, which they had bought from one
Thomas Hubbard, an early settler in the district, for $20, or its equivalent. He owned 200
acres which he had bought in 1792. The land stretced between te Fifth and Sixth
concessions.
The expenditure for a new schoolhouse needed careful consideration by the thrifty
community, and it was with a sense of great responsibility that it told the three appointed
trustees to go ahead with the project. Chairman S. H. Stevenson, trustee Dr. Freel and
secretary - treasurer William Hubbard, probably a relative of the man who sold the site,
estimated that the building would cost all of $581.51.
DEBT PAID OFF
By 1800, the new schoolhouse had been in operation a full year and according to the
records of Thomas Peacock, was debt-free. He wrote in his records: "Received at different
times, the full amount of three hundred and fifteen dollars being the full sum of construction
on new schoolhouse from trustees of Section 10."
Thomas, apparently, was the contractor. The difference between that sum and the estimated
cost possibly took care of such things as a stove and various furnishings.
Very little is known of the stipend paid the schoolmaster before he took over his duties in
the new building. However, he was paid $400 per annum until he retired in 1867. Where he
was paid from is not certain, because the trustees raised the sum of $300 per annum by
assessment, collected by a Mr. Burdon for the princely salary of $7.50. Undoubtedly he felt
this was a little low, for in 1862 the trustees paid him $9.00 for the job. Probably parents
paid some sort of a fee.
Mr. Jackson was the forerunner of 47 schoolmasters and mistresses in the 100 years which
have elapsed since he first took over in 1959.
It is recorded that Dr. F. N. Tomlinson, of Claremont, medical officer of health from 1934
until the health unit took over such duties in 1957, was the teacher for some years.
Many other prominent men and women have passed through the old schoolhouse. It is
impossible to say how many pupils were taught over the 100 years. Many have left the
district, but many others established homes and businesses in or around the community.
Many former teachers and pupils are being sought by the committee set up to plan the
centennial celebrations which take place June 20.
Chairman Ross Knox and trustees Austin Pearce, George Duncan, and Mrs. Olive Pearce
are anxious to contact as many of them as possible. The secretary, Robert Masters, would
be pleased to hear from any of them as early as possible.
A list of those not heard from to date, because their addresses are unknown, has been
issued. Anyone knowing addresses for these names can communicate with W. C. Willson,
Brougham, Ontario. Telephone Pickering 413J1.
TEACHERS
Miss Estelle Welsh, Miss McPherson, Miss Young, Miss Moore, Miss Scott, Miss
McPhaddin, Miss McKechnie, Miss Anna Ferguson, John Mahaffy.
PUPILS
Armstrong, Alice; Browes, Barry; Brown, Kenneth, Edith. Ross, Carol; Bryant, William:
Brown, Wanda; Badgero, Florence; Biglow, Penny; Burk, Lorne, Dick and Albert;
Connaghan, Margaret; Coombs, Raymond; Deckert, Stephen and Annie; Delbert, Dickie;
Denny, Elva; Devitt, Verna and Percy.
Edwards. Earl; Fraser, Mae and Velma; George. Susie: Goodfellow, Joyce; Greenley,
Audrey, Joan, Lorraine: Hobbs. Janet and Diane; Hunter, Edna; Johnson, Vernon; Hanter,
Milton and Eunice.
Kennard, Wayne, Larry and Kathleen; Koellner, Freddie: Leslie. Letty and Billy: Kuspre,
Harry and Gerard; Lafontain, Curtis and Ramon; Middleton. James
Miller Donald; Montague, Victor: Moore, Edith: Mullen, Edna Middlebrook, Shirley. Joyce
and Kathleen; McMaster, Margaret, Hugh and Isabel.
Nicholls, Walter: Pitts, Winnifred: Purdy, Ivan and Erwin; Rattan, Roy: Smith, Kenneth, Lillian
and Ethel; Stratton, John; Tripp, Shirley: Titus, Charlie, Ben, Andrew, Annie and Alfred;
Wilkins, Gertrude and Margarite; Wilkinson, Lee; Young, Uriah and Marshall.
ALONG THE SIDEROAD
100- Year-Old School Still Active
By DEAN HUGHES
Today, June 20, the public school in Brougham celebrates its 100th birthday.
This may not mean so very much to the citizens of Toronto or to the dwellers in any other
place one might mention, but a vital segment of Canadian history has been fitted together in
this little red brick schoolhouse on the western outskirts of Brougham, 30 miles northeast of
Toronto—and in the village of Brougham itself, which is well over a hundred years old. I
visited the town and the schoolhouse the other day to get a preview of the birthday
centennial celebrations and let me tell you everybody has been working towards and looking
forward to this day for many months. They are taking their centennial that seriously.
Total Cost: $600
It was in the year 1859 that an acre and a quarter was acquired as a school site for the sum
of $20. The school was erected shortly after at a cost of $580 for material and labor. The
blackboards and some inside fixtures were then installed for an extra $20. Today
schoolrooms cost anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000 per room so the com-parison is a little
startling. The only concession made to progress through the past hundred years is the inside
toilet facilities which were installed a few years ago. Otherwise the school is the same. And
'to attest to the quality of the workmanship I was told that very little repair work has been
necessary in all that time.
Today the first dictionary used in the school in 1859 is on display. It is a large Webster's,"
with a foreword by Noah Webster himself in which he practically apologizes for putting out a
book of definitions but justifies himself on the grounds that he wishes to do something to
counteract the "vicious language" which seems to be prevalent in his day and age. Other
schoolbooks of the mid-nineteenth century are on display today, too, and concern themselves,
as you might expect, with "readin', writin' and 'rithmetlc."
Muscular Teachers
On display, too, is the old "Historical Atlas of the County of Ontario." It was published in 1877
and it tells of how the early schools were made of unhewn logs and the main requisite for a
teacher seemed to be the capability to inflict punishment in a dozen different forms on
wayward pupils instead of the ability to impart knowledge.
The first schoolhouses were heated by am immense fireplace where huge logs from the
adjacent woods burned throughout the school hours. The first stove in any schoolhouse in the
country (according to the atlas) was made from an old potash kettle in which were cut two
holes—one for the flue and the other for stoking purposes. Plenty of fresh air was available
because of the chinks in the logs or siding and the youngsters could gratify their curiosity as
to what was going on in the outside world by peering through the openings.
The earliest desks were made of wooden beams attached to the wall by wooden pins. As
for the schoolteacher, he or she was boarded around at various houses in the vicinity and
board and lodging seems to have been the main part of her salary. If a teacher were lucky
she also got a few dollars at the end of the term.
48 Teachers, 100 Years
In the hundred years that Brougham school has been standing, 48 teachers have guided the
education of its pupils. And of pupils there have been hundreds. They are scattered all over
Canada now and have come back to the centennial from as far away as British Columbia.
Now they are being welcomed home. The "Welcome Visitors" banners are flying and the
centennial bunting is in place on the municipal building and on the Knox general store,
Mair's hardware, Miller's Mendit shop, Burrows' Garage, The Elms and many other places
of business. And you can imagine the stories and reminiscences that will be exchanged all
day today and far into the night.
Brougham public school is a small one-room school. It seats about fifty pupils. And it doesn't
begin to compare with your modern, well-lighted classrooms as far as decor and fixtures are
concerned. The only swimming pool is a nearby creek. There is no library, auditorium or
gymnasium. But the former pupils who are in Brougham for the centennial will sit in the old
seats where they once sat years ago and look through the old schoolbooks of bygone days.
And you will understand why Brougham school means more to them than the most costly
school in the land. And so it should.
Brougham Centennial This Week-end
Illustrations:
- Built in 1859. Land cost $20. School cost $580.50. In 1861 the trustees decided to raise
$300 by assessment and the township collector was authorized to collect the same, for
which he was paid $7.50. The bell was bought from Mr. S. Pike in 1861 for $20. Mr. B. T.
Jackson was the first schoolmaster in this school, at a salary of $400 in 1867. Attendance
has made the school too small, and it has been operated in shifts this year by Mr. E. B.
Lange and Miss Isabel Greig.
- The new Brougham School which will be in use next September is as typical of the modern
design as the old school is typical of its era. The Cost? Only $40,000.
CEMETERY DECORATION DAY
Rev. C. E. Fockler will be the guest preacher at the Annual Memorial and Decoration
Service at Brougham Union Cemetery on Sunday, June 21, a 2:30 p.m. Mr. Fockler was a
minister of the one time Christian Church in Brougham, preaching there during the early
days of his ministry.
Brougham School Centennial Interesting Event for Present Scholars and Old-timers Alike
Brougham Public School Centennial celebration last weekend proved to be a feature event
for both present scholars and "old-timers" alike. The celebration was headed up by a parade
of old-time automobiles led by the West Hill Legion Pipe Band.
Dr. N. F. Tomlinson, of Claremont, and a former teacher, gave the opening address, and a
number of past and present teachers were introduced during the ceremony.
Of the hundreds who attended, Frank Brown, 83 years of age, from Toronto, was the oldest
pupil. Mrs. Rachel Davis of Brougham and Miss Nellie Hubbard of Simcoe, both 78, were
next in line of elder pupils. Mrs. George Hamilton of Keswick was the oldest lady on the
grounds, having passed her 80th birthday. Coming perhaps the farthest distance, were Mrs.
Aldridge and Mr. Frank Harvey from British Columbia.
In the school was an antique display, the work of Robert Miller, and the evening concluded
with a dance in the community hall. It was estimated that 600 persons enjoyed the buffet
luncheon.
The school was built on land owned by Miss Hubbard's forefathers and the cost was said to
have been $500. A new two-room building is now being erected at a cost of $40,000. Both
structures will be used this fall.
While the school history goes back for a century, the history of the village of Brougham dates
back even farther. Settlers were said to have built log cabins here as early as 1822. In 1835
the first store was opened by William Bentley and the place was known for a time as
Bentley's Corners. In 1850 Brougham blossomed forth with a fair grounds, lodge
organizations were formed, sawmills and feed mills flourished.
Brougham School 100 Years Old
Students and former students, more than 500 of them, mingled Saturday to celebrate the
100th anniversary of Brougham public school in Pickering township.
Built for $580.51, the brick structure on Highway 7 will be replaced in September by a
$40,000 building on the other side of the highway. The larger structure is needed because
of population growth in the area. Plans are afoot to convert the old school, still in sound
condition, into a local museum.
Oldest former students present were Frank Brown, 83, of Toronto. Miss Nelly Hubbard, 78,
descendant of the farmer on whose land the school was built, also attended. Other visitors
included Mrs. Lilliam Wilson Arlidge, 76, of Victoria, B.C., Frank Harvey, 71, of Vancouver
and Dick Wannup of Young, Sask.
Dr. N. F. Tomlinson of Claremont, who taught at the school in the early 1900's and later
became a physician, delivered the opening address.
Former Student Returned From B.C. To Attend Brougham Centennial
BROUGHAM: A bright warm June day greeted hundreds of students and former students as
they returned to the old Brougham School to celebrate its 100th birthday last Saturday.
Among the students who graduated from the old red brick school house were Mrs. Lillian
Willson Arlidge, 76, of Victoria, B.C. Frank Harvey, 71, of Vancouver, W. D. Worden of
Saskatoon, a former teacher in the old Brock Road School, Pickering Twp and Dick Wannup
of Young Saskatchewan and Clare Scott, 14, of Montreal.
The oldest former student present at the school centennial was Frank Brown, 83, of Toronto,
while the two second oldest were girls, Mrs. Rachel Davis of Brougham and Miss Nellie
Hubbard of Simcoe, both 78 years old. The school was built on the land owned by Miss
Hubbard's forefathers. Thomas Hubbard settled in Pickering Twp on 200 acres of land
situated between the 5th and 6th Cons. He was one of the first settlers in the Twp.
Mrs. Arlidge of Victoria visited with her cousin, Warren Willson, 71, of Brougham, who was
one of the first pupils to attend the old school. He has since returned to the old school as a
caretaker and he 'could not think of a better place to be', he said. "There has been four
generations of Willsons taught in this old school. If the children of today were taught to
respect their parents and God there would be less juvenile delinquency. It is up to the
parents to set a good example for the young people then everyone would be better off and
in less trouble."
The land on which the old Brougham school stands was bought over a 100 years ago for
$20, while the school was built at a cost of $500 as compared to the new $40, 000 two-
room school that is under construction. The 100-year-old one-room school still will be in
use when the term starts in September, along with the new two-room school which already
has a registration of 68 pupils. There has been as many as 90 pupils attending classes in
the old school, said Robert Masters, secretary of the Centennial Committee. It was a little
crowded at times.
June 25/59
Church Crowded for Centennial Service
On Sunday, June 21st, extra seating had to be arranged to accommodate the many visitors
who came to worship in St. John's United Church in Brougham. It was the occasion of the
100th anniversary of the Christian Church, which stood on the site of Brougham Cemetery,
on a lot purchased from Thomas Hubbard, who settled on the land in 1792. The Church is
now gone, and the village worships in the present Church, which was formerly Methodist, but
changed to United at the time of Union in 1925.
Rev. C. E. Fockler, of Markham, who was reported to be the last living Minister of The
Christian Church in Canada was the officiating clergyman. He announced, however, that
there was one other Minister older than he still living. Mr. Fockler was speaker at first
Decoration Service in 1932.
Preceding the service, the Cemetery was decorated with flowers, as is the custom each
year at this time, in an annual Memorial and Decoration ceremony.
The large congregation listened intently to an inspired message, and music furnished by the
Whitevale Mixed Quartet, renowned in these parts for their excellent vocal numbers.
At the close of the service, W. C. Wilson asked the congregation to offer special prayer for a
Centennial visitor who came to grief on her trip. Mrs. Duncan McPhail, formerly Myra Willson,
set out from her home in British Columbia to attend the Brougham School Centennial
celebrations on Saturday & Sunday. Prior to festivities, she visited with a nephew in Ottawa,
and there suffered a severe heart attack. She was rushed to hospital, where she will be
confined for at least four weeks.
The Goblet and Utensils used for the performance of Communion, used long ago in the
Christian Church, and the silver trowel which laid the corner stone, were on disply in the
Church. Many of the visitors, who represented several parts of the Dominion, and the local
area, viewed these items with a great deal of interest, for some of the congregation
remembered them as they were used in the last century.
The offering received by the Cemetery Board for the continued maintenance of the Cemetery
amounted to $274.00, and was most gratefully accepted.
Following the Church Service, the annual reunion of the Willson family was held at the old
homestead, now occupied by Mr. and Mrs. Donald Willson. The house is 98 years old.
There were 42 members of the family present, not counting the dozen or so children.
Work Under Way At Crosby Arena
Work is now in full swing on the improvement at Crosby Arena, which will cost around
$40,000. The whole front will be modernized and enlarged, and will include a hall. The ice
surface will be lengthened about 10 feet, but it was not considered feasible to widen it at the
present time. The provincial government grant will be $5,000.
Now that work has started, it may be a race to have it completed in time for opening of the
next season.
Former Member Of Christian Church Attended Centennial Services Here
BROUGHAM: The overflow congregation gathered in the Brougham United Church last
Sunday to mark the Centennial Services of Worship in the Brougham Village. One of the
earliest churches in Brougham the Christian Church of Canada was sold shortly after
churches united to form the United Church of Canada. If the old Christian Church building
had been permitted to remain standing, it would have been 100 years old this year. It was
located on the Thomas Hubbard property just about south of where the Old Brougham
School is located. The church and the cemetery faced out on to the Brock Road.
Seen coming from the church and renewing girlhood friendships was Mrs. Frederick Rodd
of Port Bolster. Mrs. Rodd attended the Old Brougham School and 'was a member of the
old Christian Church when it was down the road. I can remember it well and what it looked
like, " she said. Mrs. Rodd was accompanied by her daighter, Annie, and her son-in-law,
George Currie.
June 25, 1959
AJAX ADVERTISER
Antique Display In Old School House
Attracted Numerous Visitors To Brougham School Centennial
BROUGHAM: During the Centennial celebrations of the old Brougham School, there was a
crowded antique display in the old school house. Former students returned to the classroom
of their younger days to learn what their forefathers used as they went about their daily tasks
of developing a pioneer country from the wooded countryside of Canada. Among the
antiques on display was a brass kettle brought over 'from Ireland in the 17th century by the
great grandmother of Mrs. Jack Morgan, who was a former pupil of the school. Included in
the display loaned by Mrs. Morgan was a pewter teapot and a gold headed cane. The cane
was presented to B. M. Morgan in 1915 by the Ontario County council. Mr. Morgan was a
former reeve of Pickering Twp and a former Warden of Ontario County. Included in the
antique display were many items of interest donated by Mrs. Hugh Miller and loaned by
Robert Miller of Brougham. Among the items seen was an old wooden cradle which was
itemized as being 150 years old. This cradle rocked many generations of the Miller family to
sleep while they were infants.
On loan for the occasion was a number of relics that formerly belonged in the Brougham and
Pickering Twp which are now in the possession of an Agincourt archaeologist.
Included in this display were some brass water taps that had been brought over to Canada
by the French. The taps were forced into the barrel which contained water and whenever
anyone wanted some water, these old time water taps were used. One of the taps
mounted and surrounded by military buttons was 'picked up at Louis-burg during
some excavation work that was being done there," he said.
"If something is not done to restore and preserve these items of everyday living of Canada
and America of a 100 years and more the young people in 15 years' time won't know what
their forefathers worked with or what the country was like when it was being settled,” said
the Agincourt archaeologist who is of Spanish-American ancestry. He is interested in
seeing a historical community formed to preserve the old buildings and the historical
items that go to form early Canadiana.
During the conversation the United States historical community of Williamsburg was
mentioned. This is a community of old homes some are historical while others are
preserved to commemorate the year that they were built in. This community has become a
tourists’ Mecca where old Americana can be seen in a well-preserved condition. At least
four times a year the residents dress in the costumes of the earlier times and Christmas
time is a special treat for tourists as the residents celebrate Christmas as it used to be
celebrated in the earlier times. It is hoped by archaelogists and historians in this district that
a similar type of historical community can be formed with the available old homes and other
historical items.
Centennial "Old Things"
In his search for antiques to display at the Brougham School Centennial celebration on June
20 Robert Miller has received from Mr. and Mrs. T. Norton of Markham, a Webster's
dictionary which was used in the school more than fifty-five years ago. Unfortunately the
Preface is missing and so the date of publication is not present, but the Author's Foward
was written in 1847. The old yellowed volume has a biography of Noah Webster, who said
that in 1783 "I published an elementary book for facilitating the acquisition of our vernacular
tongue, and for correcting a vicious pronunciation which prevailed extensively among the
common people of this country." Mr. Norton, who was a trustee of the Board, purchased the
old book around 1900.
The nicest thing about this book to our thinking, was a pressed dog tooth violet and a yellow
violet, still retaining their colour after we know not now many years. Knowledge with nature,
and nature with knowledge!
Mr. Miller also has a more than 50 year old Brownie camera which belonged to his mother. It
is the projecting kind, made by Kodak, which no doubt take excellent snapshots yet, but films
to fit it are no longer made.
Centennial Antiques
Robert Miller, who was appointed by the Centennial Committee to collect and display
antiques at the Brougham School Centennial on June 20, has become so interested in the
articles he has so far received, that he is bound to turn a permanent "Collector". He now has
on hand an Historical Atlas of the County of Ontario "compiled, drawn and published from
Personal Examinations and Surveys" by J. H. Beers & Co., Toronto, in 1877.
The big volume, yellowed with age, contains historical sketches of the Towns, Villages and
Townships, detailed maps with the names of the owners of farms and businesses, and neat,
stilted drawings of commercial buildings, farm houses, people and livestock that existed in
the last century.
The Pickering Township Fathers were far more orderly with their barns and their livestock
than with their spelling grammar, and records. It is a delight to read excerpts from these —
the early laws of our community, the result of their Council meetings in Andrew Thompson's
tavern.
"Our Town ofisors ware Put in By the Qarter Sesons for the year A.D. 1813 By Reason of
the wor that was Declearede against us By the States in the year: 1812." Then "By the Same
Reason our townd metin war omited in the year A.D. 1814 and our Town officors war put in
the same manner.”
In 1816 a by-law was passed: "Hogs is not to run as free commoners nor Horses. Then in
1818: "Hogs is not allowed to run on the commons without a yoak that is six inches above
the Neck and four Below."
In 1820 it was voted: "That our fences is to be Nabourly and Law full," and "That Horses
Shal not be commoners."
In 1821, "And that the next meeting is to be holden at John Major's in 1822."
Most of the by-laws were rules for livestock and fences. In 1824 a by-law was passed "that
hogs are to Run at large till they Do damage and then the owner of the hogs is to pay the
same and yoke them with a Croch yoke six inches above the Neck and four Inches below
the neck and Let the Run." At the same meeting another by-law said "that any unruly
Creature of any Description either horse or ox or Cow or Bull Muly or young Creature of any
sort or size shall Not be a free Commoner but shall be liable to be taken up and put in the
Pound By any person Either Man woman or Boy and the owner shall pay all Damages,
poundagees and Costs whether said Creature was found Doing Damage or Not."
Robert Miller's forebears settled in the Township in the early 1800's. A paragraph in the old
Atlas says, "John Miller settled in Pickering in 1835. He came out in 1832 from Scotland,
bringing sheep and pigs to his uncle George
Brougham
in Markham. In '39 his father Wm. Miller and family followed, locating on the old homestead,
lot 25, 7th con. The Millers afterwards commenced the importation of thoroughbred stock,
for which they have become so famous, and for which so many stock-breeders of Pickering
have since made the township famous. It then took three days to go to Toronto and return
from Mr. Miller's."
Years ago, a lonely grave could be seen in a field in the Matthew's farm. It had a little fence
around it. In time it disappeared, and the ground was ploughed and sown and harvested. It
was said to be the burying place of Peter Matthews, whose name appears in the annals of
Pickering Township history over and over again. His ending was violent, for it reads in the
old history, "He was hanged with Lount for taking part in the Rebellion."
"The Historical Atlas of Ontario County" is only one of the many treasures that Mr. Miller has
collected for display at the Centennial. Many old photographs of former pupils of the schools
are coming to light, and they will be displayed along with other old articles.
500 ex-Pupils at School Party
By LEX SCHRAG
Brougham, June 21 (Staff)— A century ago, local artisans built a sturdy brick schoolhouse in
this Pickering Township hamlet. The site was purchased from Thomas Hubbard (who had
settled on 200 acres of land in 1792) for just $20. The building cost $580.51 — and there
were a few incidental expenses for blackboards and the like.
On Saturday, 500 former pupils made merry in a pleasant, old-fashioned way to celebrate
the school's centennial.
About 1,000 youngsters learned their three Rs within its walls. Many of them left Brougham
and prospered elsewhere. Those who stayed on the Pickering Township farms (and
prospered, too) perused the old accounts of the school section with deep feeling.
Across No. 7 Highway is a new school. It cost $40,000. True, it has two rooms to
accommodate the growing population of schoolchildren. And it is, to be sure, much more
modern, though the old schoolhouse was made comfortable for the youngsters as the years
went by and better heating and plumbing fixtures were devised.
In a brief history of the school, Elsa Storry recounted that the school trustees resolved
to raise $300 by assessment. They paid $7.50 to have the tax collected. The first master of
the school was B. T. Jackson. He received the princely salary of $400, and held the position
until 1867.
Forty-nine teachers succeeded him. Saturday, the opening address of the celebration was
delivered by Dr. N. F. Tomlinson of Claremont. He taught at the school in the early 1900's,
then became a physician and a medical officer of health.
The present trustees haven't made up their minds what to do with the old schoolhouse. Over
the weekend, it was filled with antique implements, weapons and household goods
assembled by Robert Miller. He would like to see the building turned into a museum to
commemorate the pioneers — among them his grandfather, John Miller, who came to
Pickering Township before it was incorporated in 1811.
In those days, only 180 persons lived on the 74,660 acres in the township.
In the old days Brougham, with its tavern, was a welcome stopping place on the Brock Road
for the farmers who teamed their barley down to Frenchman's Bay, and shipped it in
schooners to breweries across Lake Ontario.
Now, one of the most, important crops is green peas for the canneries.
Over the weekend, though, the celebration was based on the pioneer days. There was a
parade to the school on Saturday afternoon, a few speeches and singing.
In the evening there was a concert and dance in the Pickering Township Hall. Most of the
organizing was done by Warren Wilson and Cecil Phillips.
Today, the annual memorial service was held in Union Cemetery. The brick Christian Church
which was built in the same period as the school has since disappeared, and its worshippers
have been added to the United Church. But today, Rev. C. E. Fockler of Markham, oldest
living minister of the congregation, preached the memorial service.
June 25
Crowds, Cables and Conversations at Brougham School Celebrations
A warm shone graciously from a blue sky over Brougham on Saturday and Sunday, June 20
and 21, while crowds from near and far gathered to celebrate the 100th birthday of the old
brick schoolhouse. Accurate figures are not known, but it was calculated that about 1000
people attended at the school on Saturday. Visitors came from as far away as British
Columbia, Saskatchewan, California, Florida, and Manitoba.
The parade, led by Highland Creek-West Hill Legion Pipe Band, delighted the bystanders
with floats, old model cars, teams, old farm equipment, and children on their gaily decorated
tricycles. It held up traffic on the busy highway for a great distance, in the short time it
passed through the Village. Show horses in a team owned by Ed. Timbers drew forth
exclamations, as did Brougham's ancient fire reels, followed by the modern vehicle now in
use. The children of the village were especially attractive, as they proudly made their way on
their decorated "trike's and bike's". A miniature covered wagon bumped up the road with a
small pioneer in it, and two more of the same drawing it. The school bus, of the Rural Bus
Lines, had the faces of children painted on the windows, and many engaging messages in
rhyme and otherwise lettered upon it — one such, "Don't lady of the past century riding her
steed, and her small sister Marilyn followed on her pony.
The floats were original in their design, and told the story of days that are long since past.
Teachers Take a Bow
Visitors found it difficult to stop renewing acquaintances, some of them after sixty, and even
seventy years of separation, to take in the excellent programme which had been arranged
for the afternoon. Ross Knox the capable Master of Ceremonies, stood on a polished
tractor trailer supplied by Clifford Barrett, and introduced the speakers and performers.
Dr. N.. F. Tomlinson told of the day, some 50 years ago, when he, a shy young man, drove
to Brougham School via horse and buggy, and became the teacher, with a salary, after
much deliberation, of $375.00 a year. He taught for two years. Mr. A. A. Archibald, Public
School Inspector, spoke of the valuable contribution Dr. Tomlinson made to the school, and
of some of the experiences of the early inspectors — one where an inspector found the
teacher fast asleep, and the class up to shenan-carve your initials on the bus driver". Gail
White was a lovely igans. Perhaps this could be forgiven, for teachers had to augment their
small stipends by engaging in other work. Besides, courting was the same then as it is now,
and perhaps took a little longer in a horse and buggy. The moon and the stars were as
beautiful then, and the hour could grow late.
Fourteen of the former teachers were in attendance, and were presented with Centennial
plates on which a. photograph of the school was etched, by George Duncan, on the present
Board of Trustees. They were all excellent speakers, and said a few words to the interested
assembly. They were: Dr. Tomlinson, Mrs. May Brown, L. R. Pipher, Dorothy Scanlon, Mrs.
Ethel MacWhirter, Roy MacWhirter, Mrs. Fairservice, Mrs. Jean Knox, Mrs. Crozier, Mrs.
Isabel Annis, Mrs. Jane Car-
(Continued on Page 2)
CROWDS, CABLES
(Continued from Page 1)
son, Miss Isobel Greig, Mrs. Harry Jermyn, on behalf of her husband and J. Bush, Music
Teacher.
Messages of Congratulation
M. C. Ross Knox read a letter of congratulations from Dr. Dymond, Minister of Health for the
Province of Ontario. He then read a telegram from Hon. Michael Starr, Minister of Labour in
the Federal House, extending his best wishes and congratulations for this occasion.
Too late for public announcement was a cable from the Hon. Byrdie Amery of England,
reading "Best wishes and God's richest blessing rest upon you in your Centennial
Celebration." Hon. Amery is sister to Lord Hamer Greenwood, member of the British
Parliament.
Oldest Ex-Pupils Honoured
Souvenir plates were awarded Frank Brown, 83, and Mrs. Nellie Hubbard, 78, oldest pupils
present. It was later discovered that Mrs. R. Davis was older than Mrs. Hubbard by a few
months, when she was presented with a plate, too. These presentations were made by
Murray Phillips.
The Children's Chorus
The present student body of Brougham School enchanted the audience with several choral
numbers. Girls in their pretty frocks, and boys in their white shirts were a delight to gaze
upon, and their songs were extremely well done, under the able guidance of their music
teacher, J. Bush, and the faithful practice with their teacher E. B. Lange, who was
unfortunately unable to be present. Each of the children received a souvenir plate as a
memento of this occasion, which will not soon fade from their memories.
Antique Display-Almost taking the whole area of the schoolhouse was a display of priceless
old objects, which Robert Miller has been collecting for months for this occasion. From a very
old cutter molded into graceful lines, to coloured spreads and carpets woven by the looms
which once were in. the homes in this district, to baby shoes, kitchen utensils, books, coins,
dishes, to a ram's horn snuff box about 150 years old, the collection was viewed with vital
interest, and praises were voiced for the collector who accummulated such a display. Mrs.
M. Birrell, who with her late husband, Squire Birrell, have a splendid collection in their own
right, asked that a Pickering Township museum be inaugurated in the old school and offered
her support. Reeve J. S. Scott, impressed by the display, expressed his keen interest, and
said that many in the Township would like to have such a museum to house mementoes of
the past and preserve its history. It was remarked by several whose hobby was the collection
of antiques that it was one of the best displays they had seen.
Township Officials Present
J. Sherman Scott, Reeve of Pickering Township, and Councillors Edgar James and Violet
Swan honoured the Saturday festivities by their presence.
Evening Entertainment
Seated on planks supported by bales of sweet smelling newly cut hay, the gathering hungrily
partook of a buffet supper, while reminiscing of former years, tracing families back to the
earliest settlers, and comparing photographs with the individuals whom time and life had
changed. Much of the supper was provided by firms who generously donated bread and
butter, tea, drinks, milk, and other products. The Centennial Committee is grateful for this
assistance, and especially thank the Markham, Stouffville, Sunbeam, Weston's and Canada
Bread Bakeries, Adair Foods, Agincourt, Canada Packers, National Grocers, Thomas
Wilkins Smallwares, Hayden McDonald, Hampton Creamery, Rutherford's Dairy, Hayhoe
Tea Company and Binn's Meats, for their generosity. Walter Pascoe and his family
rendered several fine musical numbers on the evening programme, as did the Barber Shop
Quartette, composed of local men, Austin Pearse, Bill Brown, Robert Miller and Lloyd
McGregor, and accompanied on the piano by Mrs. L. T. Johnston. Kinovan Rebekah Lodge,
Brooklin, Kitchen Band was received with delight. The ladies in their quaint costumes
rendered number after number on their improviseed kitchen utensil orchestra, which made
quite nice music, and added sprightly solos and duets.
Police Officer had Big Task
An off-duty officer of the O.P.P. was engaged by the Centennial Committee to direct traffic
and look after the growds, and he remained at the scene throughout the day. Visitors
remarked on the courteous manner of the officer, and the expert way he handled the traffic.
Township Hall Crowded with Dancers
Pickering Township Hall was filled to the doors with Centennial dancers, who round-danced
and square-danced to the rhythm of Barrett's Orchestra. Howard Malcolm provided prizes
for the best square dance sets. The Dance was the finale of a wonderful day which will never
be forgotten in the annals of Brougham history.
THE OSHAWA TIMES, Monday, June 22, 1959
CELEBRATE BROUGHAM SCHOOL 100TH BIRTHDAY
Illustrations:
- OLDEST EX-PUPILS F. BROWN, 83, MRS. N. HUBBARD 78
- ANTIQUE DISPLAY IN SCHOOL
- LEGION PIPE BAND HEADS PARADE
—Photos by John Mills
Celebrate Centenary Of Brougham School
By JOHN MILLS
BROUGHAM — Warm breezes and sunny skies helped make the Brougham public school
centennial a complete success Saturday when hundreds of residents of Pickering and
adjoining townships turned out to visit old friends and renew acquaintance. Many former
residents from as far away as California, British Columbia, Florida and Manitoba were
among the visitors.
The celebrations began with a parade through the village, to the consternation and possible
discomfort of many motorists headed north for a weekend at the cottage. Traffic was brought
to a standstill until the parade had wended its way into the school grounds.
Dr. F. N. Tomlinson, a former teacher, was the chief speaker. He said, "I am probably the
oldest teacher physically able to drag himself to the platform today."
He recalled applying for the teaching job. "I drove here with a horse and cutter in some
trepidation. I approached the school board with a suggested salary of $400, we
compromised at $375. That was in January, 1908. I stayed here two and a half years. I
never had any trouble with the school board or the children, despite dire predictions."
Dr. Tomlinson said few of the farms in the district are in the same hands today, and few
people are left in the village who were here then. He recalled that there were three churches,
two stores, a harness shop, a blacksmith a hotel and the Sons of Temperance Hall.
"I belonged to the Sons of Temperance," said Dr. Tomlinson. "It was very much of a
matrimonial bureau, I got caught in the net myself."
Dr. Tomlinson said the school has produced its quota of doctors, engineers, school
teachers and even one poet. He recalled that the school had been served by three
inspectors since the turn of the century, Dr. Wall, Mr. Hutchison and in recent years by A. A.
Archibald, who was retiring this year.
During the past 100 years the school has been served by 47 teachers. It is noteworthy, said
Dr. Tomlinson, that up to 1903 all the teachers were male. Perhaps it was because during
the winter the older boys came back to get some education and were too big for a woman
teacher to handle. Since 1903 the teachers have been predominantly female. Mr.
MacWhirter served the longest term of 17 years.
FORMER PUPIL HANGED
Going back to 1837, Dr. Tomlinson said old records list the name of one Peter Matthews.
He was an officer in the township. Then his name disappeared from the list. He had been
hanged with Lount for taking part in the Mackenzie rebellion. It is said his remains were
buried on the Newman farm.
School inspector A. A. Archibald paid tribute to Dr. Tomlinson who, he said, has made a
great contribution to the community as teacher and a physician.
Mr. Archibald said that all teachers of the school now living had been invited to the
celebrations to share in the program.
He spoke of the work of the school trustees over the years who had played an important part,
with little recognition.
"We know," said Mr. Archibald, "that trustees today have financial problems but they can't be
compared with those of years ago, when great sacrifices had to be made to provide the
children; with an education.
"There were no provincial grants in those days," he added.
Fourteen of the former teachers able to be present were called to the platform and presented
with souvenir plates. They were: Dr. Tomlinson, Mrs. May Brown, L. R. Pipher, Dorothy
Scanlon, Mrs. Ethel MacWhirter, Roy MacWhirter, Mrs. Fairservice, Mrs. Jean Knox,
Mrs. Crozier, Mrs. Isabel Annis, Mrs. Carson, Mrs. Isobel Greig, J. Bush, music teacher,
and Mrs. Harry Jermyn, for her husband.
The ceremonies closed with selections sung by the students.
ANTIQUE DISPLAY
In the school was a display of antiques under the care of Robert Miller. The items just about
covered the whole gamut of kitchen utensils in use many years ago. There was a coin
collection, photos, old documents, farm implements, lanterns, books, guns, broad axes,
blacksmith tools, wooden barrel churns, and even a wicker cradle that was in use in the
Miller home and was used to rock John Miller, Robert's father. Robert was also rocked in it
when a baby.
The day ended with dancing in the town hall.
ALONG THE SIDEROAD
Let's Move Fort York 30 Miles!
By DEAN HUGHES
I hereby submit that old Fort York should be moved to the village of Brougham— 30 miles
northeast of Metropolitan Toronto!
I maintain the reasons for such a move are more fundamental than the reasons for moving it
to the proposed site along the waterfront. It came from Brougham in the first place—at least
the timbers did, and what is a fort without timbers? I have the proof they came from
Brougham — from the great forest which covered Pickering township over 150 years ago. I
have it straight from Walter Percy, who lives in Markham. He is in his 98th year — born
December 10, 1861. And it was his great-great grandfather on his mother's side—Thomas
Hubbard, first clerk of Pickering township who sold the timbers ,from his farm at Brougham
for old Fort York.
Thomas Hubbard was born in 1760 and died on April 30, 1854, at the age of 94. He was
buried in the little cemetery just south of Brougham on the Brock Road. The inscription on
his gravestone may still be clearly read. Beside him is the grave of his wife, Elizabeth, who
died at the age of 77. And around him are the graves of his sons and daughters, grandsons
and daughters-in-law — Harriet, Andrew, Content. Margaret and others.
Bought Farm In 1806
Apparently Thomas Hubbard bought his farm, immediately adjacent to Brougham, in 1806 or
1807. He was then about 46 years old. And it was ten years later, in 1816, that he sold the
timbers which went into the rebuilding of Fort York after the British had partially destroyed it
to save it from being of any use to the Americans.
When I talked to the descendant of Thomas Hubbard the other day he told me of the
immense trees on his great-great-grandfather's farm mostly stands of oak and pine. Some
of them were 150 feet tall and over eight feet in circumference. Obviously these trees were
chosen because they were far better than the trees which grew along the lake front — most
of which had been cut anyway. Although he is nearly 100 years old, Mr. Percy's eyes are
bright and his voice steady.
Sold At $50 A Tree
He told me how his ancestor sold oak trees for masts for the British royal navy. The selling
price was $50 a tree. From the forest at Brougham they were hauled by teams ten miles or
so to Frenchman's Bay. There they were dumped into Lake Ontario and floated to Montreal
where they were loaded onto trans-ocean ships and taken to Britain to be made into masts.
Standard for masts were high in those days. Scouts went through the townships around
Toronto and specified certain areas as containing potential timber for this purpose. Then
these areas were scouted again—and individual trees were marked. In many areas only
one tree per acre was considered good enough. In fact there is a notation made by one of
these scouts or surveyors, after tramping the country and noting many fine stands of oak,
"There is no oak fit for the Royal Navy in the aforementioned concessions."
The demand for pine timber was great, too—for building log houses. In the earliest days the
timbers were squared on all sides to a, fine "proud edge" but after the best timber had been
cut they were squared with a rounded shoulder or "wane" and known as "waney timber."
Only Best Timbers
We may be sure that only the best timbers went into the building of old Fort York. And
Thomas Hubbard 143 years ago must have been a proud man as the great trees were
felled in his forest — then transported down the Brock road to Lake Ontario and floated
westward to the site of the fort. Little did he know that the historical societies and the public
officials of Metro Toronto of 1959 would be fighting about what to do with his fine timbers.
And if he were alive he would probably be very glad to take them back again for the price he
was paid. In fact Mr. Bayless, who now lives on the old Thomas Hubbard farm, might be
willing to do this, too.
Thus I submit this suggestion as to what should be done with old Fort York—in the event that
it is moved. Since there seem to be two warring factions, maybe my suggestion might break
the deadlock. Appoint a committee to interview the Pickering municipal council at Brougham.
It meets in an old brick store built in 1835. Ask them for their permission to move old Fort
York — lock, stock, barrel and squared timber—to Brougham. After all, rebuilding sites are
cheaper in Brougham than they are on the Toronto waterfront.
Wind Up the Centennial
Last Wednesday evening the Centennial Committee had a "wind up" meeting at the old
schoolhouse. The secretary was put to work to send written thanks to many kind people who
helped in many different ways, but were he to write for several weeks, he could not thank all
for the hundreds of little services that were done. Secy'. Bob Masters was commended for
his careful and complete record of the meetings, which will be added to the school's
historical books, and perhaps thumbed over by Broughamites 100 years from now.
Chairman Ross Knox reported that although the Committee were permitted by the School
Board to use $300.00 of school funds, that not one cent of it had to be touched. With the
refreshment booth, the sale of Centennial plates, and donations from interested ex-pupils,
over $600.00 was turned in. After all expenses were paid, there was cleared about $140.00,
which the meeting resolved would be handed to the School Board for or towards the
purchase of a flag pole for the new school, with, if possible, an inscription on it to remind
posterity of the Centennial celebration.
The Committee felt that the January to June preparations had been worth while, for the
occasion was a success, made many people happy, and brought people to Brougham from
many corners of Canada and the U.S.
DO YOU KNOW WHERE THEY LIVE?
The long list of teachers and pupils who attended Brougham School in the past is being
prepared by the Centennial Committee, who plan a Celebration in Brougham on
June 20th, to commemorate the school's 100th birthday. For many of the names,
addresses have not, been found, and through the continued co-operation of the weekly
newspapers on community projects, it is hoped that community resident will recognize the
names, and be able to furnish the Committee with some of the addresses. If anyone knows
the whereabouts of any of the persons listed below, please relate it to Mr. W. C. Willson,
Brougham, Ont., by phone or mail. The phone number is - Pickering 413J-. The Committee
wishes to send invitations to the festivities to everyone who attended the school.
—TEACHERS —
Miss Estelle Welch, 1909-1910; Miss O'Connor, 1914-1915; Miss McPherson, 1915-1916;
Miss Young. 1915-1916; Miss Moore, 1916; Miss Scott, 1916-1918; Miss McPhaddin,
1918- 1919; Miss McKechnie, 1919-1921; Miss Anna Ferguson, 1924-1925:
Miss Hazel Mclntosh, 1925; Miss Delza Lakey, 1944; Mr. John Mahaffy. 1948.
- PUPILS —
Alice Armstrong, Eva Blandin, Kenneth Brown, Hugh Bell, William Bryant, Betty Buckingham,
Barry Browes, Carol, Kenneth, Edith and Ross Brown, Shirley Carr, Raymond Coombs,
Margaret Connaghan, Dick, Lorns and Albert Burk, Florence Badgero, Wanda Brown,
Penny Biglow, Marie Devitt, Dickie Delbert, Stephen and Annie Deckert, Elva Denny,
Verra and Percy Devitt. Earl Edwards, Howard and Raymond Elson, Mae and
Velma Fraser, Gertrude Geeson, Joyce Goodfellow, Susie George, Audrey, Joan
and Lorraine Greenley, Janet and Diane Hobbs, Edna Hunter, Audrey, Wm. and
George Judd, Vernon Johnson. Ethel and Clinton Hyness, Phyllis Hughes, Milton and
Eunice Hanter, Wayne, Larry and . Kathleen Kennord, Eleanor Love, Betty and
Billy Leslie, Freddie Koelner, Gerard and Harry Kuspre, Tommy, Molly, Sally and
Annie Luke. Curtis and Ramon Lafontaine, Donald Miller, James Middleton, Victor
Montague, Edna Mullen, Edith Moore, Walter Nicholls. Shirley, Joyce and Kathleen
Middlebrook, Margaret, Hugh and Isabel McMaster, Ivan and Erwin Purdy, Winnifred Pitts.
Roy Rattan, Verna and Hazel Studholme, Kenneth, Lillian and Ethel Smith, Frank
Sisson, John Stratton, Shirley Tripp, Fred and Annie Turner, Marjorie and Gordon
Thornton, Charlie, Ben, Andrew, Annie and Alfred Titus. Anges and Mabel Walker,
Catharine Woodbine, Gertrude and Margarita Wilkens, Judy, Carol and Harold Wilson.
Viola Wilson, Lee Wilkson, Walter Taylor, Uriah and Marshall
• • •
To our Readers: If any of our readers have any knowledge of the present whereabouts of
the above, we sincerely believe that, that former teacher or pupil will appreciate your
notifying Mr. Willson. Ed. Young.
Illustrations:
- Brougham School – 1969
- Staff of Brougham School – 1969
Milton Mowbray Appointed President of Historical Society
Pickering Township residents will be called upon to volunteer their assistance and ideas, as
well as become members of the Township Historical Society, the executive of which met
recently to appoint officers and plan activities.
The Society is now a group separate from the Museum Committee. Since its inception,
activities have been confined to the building and furnishing of the Pickering Township
Museum at Brougham. Work will commence now on accumulating township history — the
particulars about pioneer families and buildings, and the securing of photographs of
everything of historical interest. Members will prepare papers on such matters, read them at
future meetings, and file them with other data which is deemed wise to preserve. The co-
operation of residents having knowledge of historical material is sought.
Milton J. Mowbray, of Brooklin a solicitor and former Pickering Township Council, was
appointed President by the executive.. First Vice President is Dr. N. F. Tomlinson ,of
Claremont, and Second Vice President, John Grosart, R.R. 1, Pickering. Mrs. D. Moss also
R.R. 1, Pickering, was appointed Secretary. Mrs. E. Storry and Mrs. Lloyd Johnston, both of
Brougham, were appointed Assistant Secretary and Treasurer respectively.
To initiate the activities of the Society, chairmen of several committees were appointed, and
these will each select his own committee members. Robert Miller is chairman of a Museum
Assistance Committee, the function of which is to provide liaison between the Mesum
Committee and the Society, and provide access to members of the Society for help with the
Museum.
Harry Spang, of Brougham, is chairman of the Program Commitee; Mrs. L. Johnston,
chairman of the Membership Committee; Mrs. W. A. McKay, chairman Of the Historical
Research Committee; John Groshart, chairman of the Publicity Committee, and Mrs. K.
Fallis chairman of the Social Committee.
Plan History Action Day
Mr. Miller, who originated the successful events of the past three years, "History in Action"
day, stated that to have a more effective celebration this year than ever before, plans for it
must commence immediately. Since this is a museum project, a resolution was passed that
the museum committee be approached with a view to History in Action Day being handled
jointly by the Society and the Museum Committee. Subject to the Committee's approval, a
special History in Action committee will be formed with, members from each group.
John Kingston, of Greenwood, was present as a guest of the Society, and he displayed
rustic souvenirs made by himself from pieces of old fence rails, with objects of Canadian
wild-life carved upon them. The matter of selling such articles with the addition of carved
objects of a pioneer nature, on History in Action Day will be considered.
Special Meeting
The date of May 28 has been tentatively set for a special meeting at which a speaker with a
knowledge of the history of post offices will address a public gathering. This date will be
confirmed later. The subject will include the early Pickering Township Post Offices, and an
interesting program will be arranged.
PICKERING TOWNSHIP MUSEUM BOARD BROUGHAM. ONTARIO
February 1, 1968.
Mrs. Elsa Storry,
Brougham, Ontario.
Dear Elsa:
I trust you found the recent Museum Board minutes of interest and would like to draw your
attention to item 7. Bob suggested that you were working on something along these lines and
has possibly shown you a copy of the booklet in question. The Board hopes that you can
indeed broaden your scope to include such a project. By the way, I believe they will be looking
for a parade marshal shortly - do you suppose Mr. Storry would be interested?
With kindest regards,
Noel O. Marshall,
secretary.
NCM/jh
PICKERING TOWNSHIP
MUSEUM
BROUGHAM, ONTARIO
operated by the
Pickering Township Historical Society
LOG BARN and LOG CABIN, circa 1830
The Museum interior exhibits are housed in the century old Brougham Public School building.
Interior display of spinning wheel, corner cupboard with old hand woven bedspread and
household articles.
Museum opened July 1, 1961
on the occasion of the Township's 150th Anniversary
This Museum was established by the Pickering Township Historical Society to preserve, for
this and future generations of its citizens, the physical reminders of its pioneer past.
The arrow heads and stone axes of the Indians are here along side the guns and saws of the
pioneers. A pioneer formerly lived in the log cabin, horses and cows in the barn. The cradle
which you see here was the proud possession of an early township family. The broad axe and
the adze were used to build the log houses and the barns. The ice saw cut ice on Frenchmans
Bay in the days before electric refrigerators.
The Museum was opened in 1961 on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the
establishment of municipal government in Pickering Township. It was made possible by
contributions from residents and friends of the Township, Ontario County Council and the
Pickering Township Council. It now receives annual grants from the Ontario Department of
Travel and Publicity. The progress of the museum depends upon the interest of the members
of the Society and the contributions of the museum visitors and friends.
Amid display of ancient firearms, visitors peruse an early edition of Eaton's mail order
catalogue.
Below — an actual demonstration of the hand hewing of barn timbers on "History in Action"
day 1962.
Above is shown the interior of the log cabin, typical of the early homes of pioneer families in the
1830's.
Log barn being rebuilt on Museum site in 1962. It is now complete and representative of its
appearance circa 1830.
PICKERING TOWNSHIP MUSEUM
MAP OF THE VILLAGE OF BROUGHAM
BROCK ROAD; 7; LIVERPOOL; CHURCH STREET; PICKERING VILLAGE; 2; 401