Awards Presented

List of Awards

Honorary Life Membership: For outstanding and prolonged contributions to the Society by a member.
Award of Honour: For outstanding contributions to making know the history and heritage of the Gatineau Valley.
Certificate or Letter of Commendation: For assistance to the GVHS.
Arthur Davison Prize: See Arthur Davison Prize in the Up the Gatineau! section.
The Carol Martin Award: See The Carol Martin Award in the Up the Gatineau! section.

2021 Awards presented at the 2022 GVHS Diamond Jubilee Reception

Award of Honour:

Virginia Jakutavicius in recognition of her dedicated years of service and support for the Gatineau Valley Historical Society, in particular for her former role as secretary on the Society's Board of Directors.
Brian Doyle in recognition of his creative contributions as an author, poet, researcher and educator, in making known the history and heritage of the Gatineau Valley through his story-telling. Mostly centred in the community of Low, Quebec in the 1940s and 50s, Brian explores universal themes of coming-of-age, and entertains local and national readers of all generations.
Rick Henderson in recognition of his significant ongoing contribution to the history and heritage of the National Capital Region, through the enthusiastic sharing of his outstanding research and writings in original and entertaining ways.
Fairbairn House Heritage Centre on its 10th anniversary, in recognition of the vision of its board of directors in creating an extraordinary site, and for offering diverse programming which promotes a deeper community engagement with the living history of the Gatineau Valley.
Cantley 1889 in recognition of 10 years of excellence in leadership for making known the history and heritage of Cantley, Quebec, through dynamic public programming, publishing over one hundred local history articles, and for its important work in the recognition and preservation of local historical sites and artifacts.

Certificate of Commendation:

Betty Pavey for her outstanding contribution to local history in compiling the book, Cascades Club: 1920-2020, which celebrates the 100 years of this Chelsea-based recreation organization, by documenting its history with stories, anecdotes and historical images.
Alain Piché and Sandy Foote for their outstanding leadership with La Voie Verte Chelsea in rescuing the century-old former Cascades train station from demolition, and for advocating for its preservation to commemorate Chelsea's railway heritage.

Honorary Life Membership:

Louise Schwartz in recognition and appreciation of her long standing service to the Gatineau Valley Historical Society, and in particular for her outstanding volunteer work with the Society's Up the Gatineau!, archives, local outreach, and public programs. Her diligence and creativity continues to maintain and build on the Society's impressive legacy of excellence in telling the important stories of the Gatineau Valley.
Shirley Brown in recognition and appreciation of her many years of effort, commitment, and support for the Gatineau Valley Historical Society. In particular, for her expert financial management as Treasurer, and for her steadfast devotion to communicating through the GVHS Newsletter and social media to members and the broader heritage community.
Frances Curry in recognition of her many years of service and support for the Gatineau Valley Historical Society, in particular for her service on the Society's Board of Directors, the Society's Archives and Library, and for her expert contribution as an editor, indexer, and contributor to Up the Gatineau!.

2018 Awards presented at the 2019 Annual Awards Dinner and Ceremony

Award of Honour:

André Renaud in recognition and appreciation of his many years of support for the Gatineau Valley Historical Society, in particular for his guidance in establishing a new constitution in 2014, as a member of the Society's Board of Directors, and for leading the renovations and preservation of two of Chelsea's historic cemeteries, as a member of the Society’s Cemetery Committee. André has demonstrated commitment and dedication in everything he has taken on, for both the Society and the broader Gatineau Valley community.
Mike Bardell in appreciation for his efforts in providing ongoing information technology advice and technical assistance to the Gatineau Valley Historical Society. His contributions have greatly enhanced the Society's ability to preserve and highlight its growing digital resources, and to make them available to researchers via the GVHS website in many innovative and creative ways.
Bill McGee in appreciation of his diligent research of early settlement and other activity in pre-Gatineau Park, collected during his decades of wandering on its trails. His extensive archival collection includes historical maps, family genealogies, and related documentation. As a long-time member, Bill has generously shared his research with the Gatineau Valley Historical Society by writing for Up the Gatineau!, speaking to Society members at a 2019 monthly talk, and providing his collection for posting on the GVHS website.

Certificate of Commendation:

Melanie Hopkins and Chris Hopkins for their warm welcome and generous support to the Gatineau Valley Historical Society in its fund-raising goals by sponsoring a cruise down the Gatineau River in June 2018 aboard their historic and treasured paddle wheeler “Chrisalis II”.

2017 Awards presented at the 2018 Annual Awards Dinner and Ceremony

Honorary Life Membership:

Erik Rask in recognition of his many years of service and support for the Gatineau Valley Historical Society, in particular for his long-standing service on the Society's Board of Directors, his leadership in developing and maintaining the Society’s robust website, his tireless work as a member of the GVHS Cemeteries Committee, and for his overall dedication in making known the history and heritage of the Gatineau Valley.

Award of Honour:

Suzanne Gibeault in recognition of her sustained volunteer role as Secretary on the Board of Directors for the Gatineau Valley Historical Society, and for her skills in the coordination and communication of many of the Society’s program and activities. Her local knowledge and her provision of ongoing advice in matters relating to the GVHS are greatly appreciated by the Society.
Sheila Thomson in belated recognition of her thorough and painstaking work in documenting the memories of long-time residents in her Recollections of Early Days in the Gatineau Hills, and in making this detailed research available to the Gatineau Valley Historical Society and to local researchers.

Certificate of Commendation:

“Wakefield River Walk” Project Team Volunteers: Ken Bouchard, Anita Rutledge, Linda Bardell, Meredith Brown, Alison Scott and Stephen McGregor in recognition of their leadership in the development of eight interpretive panels highlighting the history of Wakefield Village and the early Algonquin presence on the Gatineau River, known as Tenàgàdin Zìbì.

2016 Awards presented at the 2017 Annual Awards Dinner and Ceremony

The Carol Martin Award:

Frances Curry Over the last few years, few of our local historians have shown such a profound dedication to unearthing the archival and human record of the Gatineau Valley as Frances Curry. In a series of wonderfully written, exhaustively researched, and lovingly told articles in Up the Gatineau!, Frances is building a rich legacy for future generations very much in the spirit of Carol Martin.

Honorary Life Membership:

Linda Payne Bardell in recognition of her many years of service and support for the Gatineau Valley Historical Society, in particular for her service on the Society’s Board of Directors, and the Pat Evans Archives, where she has been responsible for acquiring, preserving and making available numerous historical images, for expertly replying to inquiries, and for her dedication in assisting the wider heritage community to make known the history and heritage of the Gatineau Valley.

Award of Honour:

Dave Dunphy & Shirley McGlashan in recognition of their sustained volunteer work with the Society's publications as the managers of publication sales, distribution and inventory management. Their dedicated efforts and teamwork have helped to ensure GVHS publications reach Society members and the general public in a timely and efficient manner.
Paul Gessell in recognition of his sustained volunteer work with the Society's publication, Up the Gatineau!, as a valued member of the editorial team. His professional advice and counsel have significantly contributed to the quality of this local history journal.

Certificate of Commendation:

Claude Gervais pour souligner son leadership à titre de bénévole comme organisateur et coordonnateur de la célébration du centième anniversaire de la fondation de la paroisse St. Clément de Farm Point, en 2016. De plus, en faisant appel à ses nombreux contacts personnels de longue date parmi les aînés de la communauté, il a coopéré avec la Société à faire d'une randonnée dans l'histoire de Farm Point, un évènement mémorable pour tous les participants.
Ian Tamblyn in recognition of his outstanding research and creative talents in making known the history and heritage of the Gatineau Valley to a broad audience through his musical plays - Bridge to the Past, A River Runs Through Us and A Summer...A Fair.

2015 Awards presented at the 2016 Annual Awards Dinner and Ceremony

Award of Honour:

Stephen Adcock in recognition of his assistance and expertise to the GVHS 'Pat Evans' Archives, in particular for his on-going efforts to make available local historical records by scanning 'A Tale of Two Chelseas' and the 'Wright Papers'.
Beatrice O'Byrne in recognition for her support over many years of the GVHS 'Pat Evans' Archives and GVHS activities such as joint displays and meetings held at the Library during the time she was Chelsea's Municipal Librarian.

Certificate of Commendation:

David Wright in appreciation for sharing the contents of his historic 'Wright papers' with the GVHS 'Pat Evans' Archives.
Don Kealey and Lise St. Jean in recognition of their sustained and dedicated effort to publish their momentous book, 'Municipality of Low – Reflections of the Past'.

2014 Awards presented at the 2015 Annual Awards Dinner and Ceremony

Honorary Life Membership:

Margaret Phillips in recognition of her many years of service and support for the Gatineau Valley Historical Society, in particular for her service on the Society's Board of Directors, responsible for programs, as a member of the GVHS auction committee, for hosting the annual Remembrance Day reception, and as a contributor to Up the Gatineau!, and a founding member of Cantley 1889.

Award of Honour:

Frances Curry in recognition of her outstanding volunteer work with a number of the Society's publications. Her knowledge and expertise in areas such as researching, editing, indexing and layout have been invaluable to the Society and enhanced a variety of published products including Up the Gatineau! and Hurling Down the Pine.
Cantley 1889 - Mary-Anne Phillips Park Tugboat Project Team in appreciation for their efforts to restore and preserve the E. Champagne and for transforming it into the focal point of a magnificent and creative historical community space for the Cantley community.
A "Walk through History in Meech Creek Valley" Project team in appreciation for developing a historic interpretive trail telling its settlement history via information panels and linked to a GVHS website for further information.
(to: Marie Boulet (Director of Gatineau Park, NCC - directrice du parc de la Gatineau, CCN), Caryl Green, Mayor of Chelsea; François Leduc, Project Manager, NCC; Marie-Danielle Michaud, Acting Director, Department of Recreation and Culture, Municipality of Chelsea, and the GVHS project team: Linda Bardell, Mike Bardell, Carol Martin, Erik Rask, André Renaud.)

Certificate of Commendation:

Mary Holmes for her assistance in making known the history and heritage of Cantley and the Gatineau Valley through the sharing of her writings, images, research, and broad knowledge of the community.
Old Chelsea Protestant Burial Ground volunteers, Dave Dunphy, Dan Paré, John Udvarhelyi, and André Renaud for their assistance during 2013 and 2014 in helping maintain the historic cemetery so that it can remain an important monument to the founders of the community of Chelsea.

2013 Awards presented at the 2014 Annual Awards Dinner and Ceremony

Honorary Life Membership:

R.J. (Bob) Hughes in recognition of your many years of service and support for the Gatineau Valley Historical Society, in particular for your effort in organizing the Society Archives in its new location, and for your expertise and professionalism in directing the Society's Annual Auction.

Award of Honour:

Barbara Rielly in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the history and preservation of the Reilly Cemetery in Rupert. Her work in documenting burial records and headstones in this cemetery has provided an interesting and complete history of this cemetery which was a resting place Methodists and Presbyterians before the Rupert Union Cemetery was established in the early 1900s. Because of Barbara Rielly's leadership the Reilly Cemetery has gone from a plot with no future to a suitable burial ground with a list of confirmed burials.
Beth Macfie in recognition of her continued outstanding work for the Society's annual history journal Up the Gatineau!. Her professionalism and dedication as copy editor since 1997 has ensured the maintenance of a high quality publication that reaches a wide heritage community.
Bob McClelland in appreciation for his dedicated service to the Society Board of Directors, in particular for his ability to reach out and connect the Society with the wider heritage community. His local knowledge, experience and sound advice in all matters relating to the GVHS are greatly appreciated by the Society.
David Yuill in appreciation for his dedicated service to the Society Board of Directors, in particular for his sound judgment and advice on the Society's financial matters, and for his professionalism and dedication in assisting in all of the Society's programs and activities to make known the history and heritage of the Gatineau Valley.

Certificate of Commendation:

David Gibson in appreciation for guiding Society members on a revealing tour of Rupert in June 2013 and for your efforts to preserve and share the stories and records of this cherished and significant historic place with the wider heritage community.
La Fab - The Chelsea Arts, Culture and Heritage Centre / Le centre des arts, de la culture et du patrimoine de Chelsea in appreciation of their efforts to restore and preserve the St. Stephen's church rectory and for transforming the historic building into a magnificent and creative meeting place for all members of the Chelsea community.
en reconnaissance de leurs efforts pour restaurer et conserver l'ancien presbytère de l'Église Saint-Stephen, qui fait partie de notre patrimoine, en un magnifique lieu de création et de rencontre pour tous les membres de la communauté de Chelsea.

2012 Awards presented at the 2013 Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony (Newsletter 2012-03)

Honorary Life Membership:

Adrienne Herron in recognition of her long standing service to the Gatineau Valley Historical Society, and in particular for her creation, updating and maintenance of the Society's digital Image Bank. Adrienne has also used her photographic skills to edit material used in Up the Gatineau!, and contributed cover designs and cover photographs for several volumes of the publication. Her dedication and professionalism in preserving images of the Gatineau Valley has enabled the Society to evolve into the digital age to carry on its mission to make known the history and heritage of the Gatineau valley.
Marc Cockburn in recognition of his outstanding leadership and commitment to the Gatineau Valley Historical Society over many years. Marc first volunteered to edit the Society's Newsletter, went on to help plan programs and events, and is currently the GVHS President. His professional skill in cartography has provided several exciting presentations showing historic changes in parts of the Gatineau, and his knowledge of Archival procedures improved the Society's Archives. At every event, and in every aspect of the Society's mandate, Marc has provided longstanding, professional, enthusiastic and innovative leadership.

Award of Honour:

Shirley Brown in appreciation of her efforts, commitment, and support for the Gatineau Valley Historical Society. In particular, her innovations and graphic styling have allowed the Society to update and expand our communications to members, and to reach a broader audience.
R.J. (Colonel) Hughes in sincere appreciation for his ongoing volunteer leadership, commitment, and innovations to the GVHS Annual Auction and the Pat Evans Archives. His local knowledge, experience and sound advice in all matters relating to the GVHS are greatly appreciated by the Society.
Louise Schwartz in recognition of her outstanding volunteer work with the Society's publications, archives, and public programs. Her professionalism and dedication to making known the history and heritage of the Gatineau Valley are apparent in all the quality products and programs that she has produced for the Society to reach and connect with the wider heritage community.
Margaret Coleman in recognition of her assistance in producing the Society's annual journal Up the Gatineau!, and for her ongoing support and encouragement for all of the Society's activities.

Certificate of Commendation:

Cantley1889 in celebration of their successful launch as a new and dynamic volunteer organization dedicated to promoting local history and heritage in the Gatineau Valley.
Fairbairn House Heritage Centre in celebration for having opened its doors to the local heritage community and for creating a new resource for visitors to experience and learn about the history and heritage of the Gatineau valley.
David Maitland in recognition of his recent retirement from a career with the National Capital Commission, where he faithfully and good-naturedly served all Canadians with his efforts to maintain and bring attention to aspects of Gatineau Park's built heritage.

2011 Awards presented at the 2012 Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony

Marion Phelps Award awarded by the Quebec Anglophone Heritage Network (QAHN) to Carol Martin.

Certificate of Commendation:

Mike Bardell - Awarded in appreciation for his efforts in designing the software application for the GVHS Textual Records Bank and for providing general technical assistance to the GVHS Archives. His contributions have greatly assisted the Society's ability to preserve its growing digital collections and to make them available to researchers on the GVHS website.

Honorary Life Membership:

Duncan Marshall - Awarded in recognition for outstanding and prolonged contributions to the Society.
Mary Armitage - Awarded in recognition for having served the GVHS as Treasurer for over fifteen years, and in appreciation of her efforts in maintaining the Society's financial and membership records. Her dedication and professionalism towards the GVHS's financial matters has enabled the Society to continue its mission to make known the history and heritage of the Gatineau valley.
Margaret and Harold Reid - Awarded in recognition of their mutual dedication in marketing and distributing GVHS publications since 2003. Their efforts in managing the inventory of GVHS publications, supplying local outlets, and making them available at GVHS meetings and events, havesustained the GVHS publications program and allowed the Society to continue its mission to make known the history and heritage of the Gatineau valley.

Award of Honour:

Linda Bardell - Awarded in sincere appreciation for her ongoing volunteer efforts and commitment to the GVHS. Her invaluable contributions as Society Secretary and her enthusiasm in managing and adding to the Society's digital archives have permitted a wider audience to discover its digital resources about the history and heritage of the Gatineau Valley.
Robert Martin - Awarded in recognition for his ongoing support of the Society and for his many years of volunteer assistance at numerous GVHS events and activities. His contributions, especially in helping market publications at history and genealogy fairs and for assisting at the Society's Annual Auction for over 30 years, are greatly appreciated by the Society.
Erik Rask - Awarded in appreciation for creating and maintaining the GVHS website and for undertaking innovative updates to improve access to the Society's digital resources. His contributions have permitted the GVHS to reach a wider audience in which to make known the history and heritage of the Gatineau Valley.

2010 Awards presented et the 2011 Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony (Newsletter 2010-03)

Certificate of Commendation:

Louise Lebrun & Hector Leblanc - GVHS members, supporters, and especially good and vigilant neighbours of the Chelsea Pioneer Cemetery and Cenotaph. The GVHS Cemetery Committee greatly appreciates their assistance in watching over and maintaining the beautiful gardens at historic Chelsea cemetery and war memorial for the Society's Remembrance Day Service.
Brigid Phillips Janssen for your efforts to make the The Grange a community meeting place for Cantley and especially for continuing the Society's tradition of welcoming and honouring the troops of the Royal Canadian Regiment at the Society's Remembrance Day Service.
John Spears in appreciation for his efforts welcoming and honouring the troops of the Royal Canadian Regiment to The Grange at the Society's Remembrance Day Service.
Peter Jessen in appreciation for his care and concern for the Chelsea Pioneer Cemetery this past year and in previous years. The GVHS Cemetery Committee greatly appreciates the assistance he provided by helping repair the Thompson grave enclosure and for providing the Society with the means to conduct the GVHS Remembrance Day Service.

Honorary Life Membership:

Annette Brand in recognition of over twenty years of outstanding volunteer work with the Society archives, mainly with her help in starting up the GVHS Image Bank with the Pat Evans image collections, and for continuing to help build the archives digital collection to over 7000 images. Loved by all her fellow archives volunteers as she is always so pleasant and willing to help.
Michael Cooper in recognition of his many years of service and support for the Gatineau Valley Historical Society. His knowledge of the history of the community, his leadership, loyalty, and enthusiastic approach in all matters have been an inspiration to all who have the good fortune to work with him.

Award of Honour:

Low Down and Mantell family - in remembrance of journalist Ernie Mahoney - for their on-going support and promotion of the Society's mission and for contributing to preserve an important historical record of Gatineau Valley society and its significant stories.
West Quebec Post and Ryan family - in remembrance of journalist Ernie Mahoney - for their on-going support and promotion of the Society's mission and for contributing to preserve an important historical record of Gatineau Valley society and its significant stories.
Margaret Phillips - for an outstanding contribution to making known the history and heritage of the Gatineau Valley - in appreciation for her contributions to the Society while serving on the Executive Committee. Her leadership has contributed to inventive program and activities which continue to reach an increasingly broader audience, and which also continue to maintain the Society's roots and traditions.

2009 Awards presented at the 2010 Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony (Newsletter 2009-03)

Certificate of Commendation:

Don Kenny in appreciation for hosting Society members on a revealing tour of Stormont County in July 2008. The GVHS is grateful for the opportunity to have experienced the efforts of the wider heritage community beyond the Gatineau Valley.

Honorary Life Membership:

Theresa Winfield in appreciation for her many years of tireless effort in making the GVHS Auction a success and for her dedication to the Society's efforts.

Award of Honour:

Peggy Atherton in appreciation of her efforts and assistance as GVHS Librarian and for her long time commitment and support for the Gatineau Valley Historical Society.
Phil Cohen in appreciation of his dedicated support of GVHS activities, for attending all our meetings, and for his passion for making known the history and heritage of the Gatineau Valley.

GVHS Archivist Emeritus

Jay Atherton in recognition of his leadership in establishing the professional reputation of the GVHS, for his expertise in managing Society volunteers, and for instituting archival practices and secure accommodations to enable the Society to acquire and preserve the documentary heritage of the Gatineau Valley.
He was presented with a key to the GVHS Archives by R.J. Hughes and shall be accorded the following privileges:
- He will be listed with the designation of Archivist Emeritus, where applicable.
- The Society Archives will be open to him on the same basis as that of all Society archive volunteers, and he will receive free services and products.

2008 Awards presented at the 2009 Annual General Meeting (Newsletter 2008-02)

Certificate of Commendation:

Erik Rask in appreciation for his efforts in renovating the GVHS website.
Shirley Brown in appreciation for her efforts in innovating the delivery of the Society Newsletter.
Both the website and newsletter greatly enhance the Society's means to make known the history of the Gatineau Valley; to communicate with its members; and toassist the wider heritage community.
Richard Hofer for his leadership and assistance to the Gatineau Valley Historical Society's efforts to restore the meaning and essence of the Chelsea Pioneer Cemetery after it was vandalized in December 2006.
Paul Fydenchuk for his leadership and assistance to the Gatineau Valley Historical Society's efforts to restore the meaning and essence of the Chelsea Pioneer Cemetery after it was vandalized in December 2006.
The Society has been tremendously heartened by the response it received from members of the local and wider community and it is pleased to know that this community continues to recognize and cherish its significant historic places.

Award of Honour:

Fergus Maclaren in appreciation for his dedicated service to the Society Executive. As a member of the GVHS Executive Committee, Fergus has contributed sound judgment and advice to all the Society's activities and has an ever increasing audience of GVHS supporters.
Harold and Margaret Reid for distribution and sales of our publications. Their presence at Society meetings, as well as representing us at genealogy and history events in the Ottawa-Gatineau area, is much appreciated. Thanks to their dedication and interest, our publications are also distributed for sale to 17 stores and boutiques. We are very grateful for their enthusiasm and work on behalf of the Gatineau Valley Historical Society.

2007 Awards presented at the 2008 Annual General Meeting (Newsletter 2007-03)

Honorary Life Membership:

Vincent Hendrick for his support of the Society over many years. In particular the citation recognized Mr. Hendrick's generous contribution of land in Wakefield for the Fairbairn Museum. President Marc Cockburn stated that the property in question would add materially to the Museum and increase the attractiveness of the building to visitors.

Letters of Commendation:

Krista Cooke, Tamara Tarasoff, and John Kingsley for their participation in the Musée Fairbairn Museum Project Steering Committee. Their efforts contributed significantly to the completion of a sustainable business plan for completion of this project.
Louise Lebrun, Caryl Green, and Peter Jessen for their help in dealing with the vandalism at the Chelsea Pioneer Cemetery in December. Their assistance was seen as a fine example of civic collaboration at its best
Bob Hughes for his work in connection with the fiftieth anniversary of Chelsea School. It was as a result of his initiative and follow-through that the community and the school were made aware of this significant anniversary, and the various related events took place successfully
Preston Wilson for his initiative in having his article on the "Meech Creek Valley Girl," which originally appeared in Up the Gatineau!, volume 31, serialized in The Low Down to Hull and Back News. Preston also generously donated his fee from The Low Down to the Historical Society.

2006 Awards presented at the 2007 Annual General Meeting (Newsletter 2006-02)

Award of Honour

Jean Perras, Mayor of Chelsea, for his effort in ensuring that the Municipality of Chelsea would enjoy the benefits of a cultural policy suitable for all its citizens, and for his support for the work of the Historical Society.
Robert Bussière, Mayor of LaPêche, for his leadership in saving from the wrecker's ball the Fairbairn House, the most historic building in Wakefield, and moving it to Hendrick's Park for development as a museum.
Mary Armitage for dedication in her duties as Treasurer of the Historical Society. Her efficiency and effectiveness contribute significantly to the activities of the Society.
Bent Nielsen for his contributions to the smooth running of the Historical Society over the years. His ongoing assistance, with activity in many areas, has helped substantially in the smooth running of the Society.
William (Bill) Gonzales for his long-time interest in the heritage of LaPêche through his leadership of the municipal Heritage Committee. His efforts have assisted us greatly in achieving our mission "to promote matters of historical or heritage significance in the Gatineau Valley."

Letter of Commendation:

Marcel Marchildon, Director of Planning for the Municipality of La Pèche, for his technical assistance and valuable advice on the relocation of the Fairbairn House.
Pascale Barrette, Municipal Archivist of Chelsea, for her assistance and support, especially in the development and implementation of the programs for the 130th Anniversary Celebration, as well as her positive cooperation with the Society's Archives.
Charles Cardinal, Director of Public Relations, Municipality of Chelsea, for his valued assistance and cooperation in the successful programs promoted and developed by the Society, especially.during Chelsea's 130th anniversary.
Bruce Devine, Director of Recreation and Cultural, Municipality of Chelsea, for his untiring effort in the establishment of a Cultural Policy for the Municipality

2005 Awards presented at the 2006 Annual General Meeting (Newsletter 2005-02)

Award of Honour:

Michael Francis for his ongoing support of the Society and, in particular, his assistance in establishing a presence in the MRC de la Vallée de la Gatineau through a permanent exhibit at the Low Reception Centre.

Certificate of Commendation:

Joanne Hendrick who, acting on behalf of the estate of the late Leo Hendrick, helped the Gatineau Valley Historical Society save the lintel of the 1876 West Hull Township Hall, thus preserving an important element of the Township's heritage.
Linda Payne Bardell for her efforts to ensure the transfer to the Archives of the collection of photographs acquired by her mother, Gladys Cross Payne, over her lifetime. Linda has also collaborated with a team of enthusiastic volunteers to select and describe the photographs, which document the history of the Cross family in the Meech Creek Valley and the Village of Cascades.

Certificate of Appreciation

David and Eileen Castleman who, for three years and more, have tirelessly laboured to enter the data on the Archives' holdings of photographs into its Image Bank. Without their work, we would know not what we see!

2004 Awards presented at the 2005 Annual General Meeting (Newsletter 2004-02)

Certificate of Commendation:

Wakefield Mill Inn: Robert Milling & Lynn Berthiaume, Innkeepers.
In appreciation for their effort in maintaining and incorporating heritage value in the design and rehabilitation of the Wakefield Grist Mill and MacLaren House.
By conserving the fundamental character of the original buildings, by making additions visually compatible, and by illustrating Wakefield's local history through the use of photographs drawn from the GVHS Image Bank, the Wakefield Mill continues to serve as an essential historic place in the community.
Les Trois Érables (Wakefield): Jim Fitzgibbons and Joanne Hunter, Hosts
In appreciation for their dedication in conserving and incorporating heritage value in the operation of "The Maples" as a Bed and Breakfast.
Through their effort to maintain architectural integrity in recent renovations, by displaying the building's social meaning through the use of photographs drawn from the GVHS Image Bank, and by marketing Society publications, Les Trois Érables continues to tell the significant stories of the community.
Wakefield General Store: The Nesbitt Family
In appreciation for their effort in incorporating heritage value in the reconstruction of the Wakefield General Store.
By including some of the original building's character-defining materials, forms, and elements in the design of the new store, by recalling the store's historic associations and meanings through the use of photographs drawn from the GVHS Image Bank, and my marketing of Society publications, the new Wakefield General Store has maintained its function as one of the community's historic meeting places.
Dépanneur M & R (Old Chelsea):
In appreciation for the effort made in marketing the Society's publications, and especially for the outstanding display of the complete works of the Society. The initiatives undertaken have contributed to the fact that M & R was the leading dealer of the seventeen retailers of GVHS publications.
Alexa Pritchard:
In appreciation for her support for the Society, in particular, her recent donation to the Archives of anextensive published genealogy of the Maxwell family, Anselm Maxwell & his Celtic Connections 1822.
This book was researched and written by Alexa Pritchard and Mary Gail Wilson. These two authors also provided the GVHS Archives with a copy of an earlier work, The Wilsons of Denholm. Both books contain valuable genealogical information, forming a marked addition to the sources available for family history research in the Gatineau Valley.

Award of Honour:

Douglas Cowden: for his many contributions to the work of the Historical Society since its founding in 1962. Mr. Cowden has been instrumental in the identification and improvement of what is now the Chelsea Pioneer Cemetery in Chelsea, containing the graves of members of the Alexander family-in particular Bertha Alexander and her husband, Private Richard Rowland Thompson, recipient of The Queen's Scarf of Honour for valour during the South African War.

Honorary Life Membership:

Ernie Mahoney: in recognition of his many years of service and support for the work of the Historical Society.
His knowledge of the history of the community, his leadership, loyalty, and positive approach in all matters have been an inspiration to all who have the good fortune to work with him.

2004 Awards presented at the 2005 Annual Dinner (Newsletter 2004-03)

Honorary Life Membership:

Wayne Rostad for his work in preserving history in the areathrough his songs and for his outstanding work in supporting communities across Canada

2003 Awards presented at the Annual General Meeting (Newsletter 2003-02)

Honorary Life Membership:

Rae Moore and Rene Nielsen, whose contributions over the years to their community (especially Chelsea) have been marked by their professionalism and dedication. They have significantly assisted the Historical Society in its activities aimed at promoting interest in the history and heritage of the Gatineau Valley.

Award of Honour:

Lorne Shouldice for his initiative in spearheading the establishment of a new cenotaph in Wakefield recording the names of the fallen in the First and Second World Wars.
Duncan and Gudula Marshall For their mutual dedication in marketing the publications of the Historical Society in a timely and efficient manner, assisting us greatly in achieving our mission 'to promote matters of historical or heritage significance in the Gatineau Valley'.
Royal Canadian Regiment, Petawawa for the Regiment's dedication in attending the annual Remembrance Day ceremony at the grave of Private Richard Rowland Thompson, QS, in the Chelsea Pioneer Cemetery.

Letter of Commendation

Janeth McKinley for her interest and enthusiasm in support of the work of the Archives.
Charis Palmer for her assistance over the years to the Chelsea Library and the Historical Society in the distribution of our newsletter. (Ernie declared her to be our "Number 1 Administrative Assistant!".

2003 Awards presented at the 2004 Annual Dinner (Newsletter 2003-03)

Award of Honour:

Major John Vass, Commanding Officer, Para Company, Royal Canadian Regiment, Petawawa, with Major Warrant Officer Wayne Bartlette is presented with an Award of Honour by Ernie Mahoney, President of the Gatineau Valley Historical Society.
The award was made "in appreciation of the Regiment's dedication in attending for nearly 20 years, the Remembrance Day Ceremony at the grave of private Richard Rowland Thompson, Queen's Scarf, in the Chelsea Pioneer Cemetery".

2002 Awards presented at the 2003 Annual General Meeting (Newsletter 2002-02)

Honorary Life Membership:

Anita Rutledge, whose contributions over the years to her community (especially Wakefield) have been marked by her professionalism and dedication. She has significantly assisted the Historical Society and the Municipality of LaPêche in promoting interest in the history and heritage of the Gatineau Valley.

Award of Honour:

Archie Pennie, for his contributions to Up the Gatineau! - eleven articles over the course of seven years, on a wide range of topics (with more to appear in the upcoming volume 28). Archie's research skills, natural curiosity, and analytical prowess have contributed a solid body of knowledge to the pages of our journal.

Letter of Commendation:

Robert J. Hughes, for his interest and enthusiasm in searching out documents (especially photographs) recording the history of the Village of Cascades and the Cascades Club, and arranging for their deposit in the Archives of the Historical Society.

Letter of Commendation:

Del Trudeau, for his assistance to the Society over the past year, in particular for his role in ensuring the replacement of the Trudeau family tombstone, and his work with Allan Richens in identifying the names of veterans for the memorial unveiled at the Chelsea Pioneer Cemetery on November 11, 2001.
Rae Moore and Marjorie Evis for their faithful support over the years in ensuring the distribution of our bimonthly newsletter. Their assistance in facilitating effective communication with our members is appreciated by the entire Society.

2001 Awards presented at the 2002 Annual General Meeting (Newsletter 2001-02)

Honorary Life Membership:

Judith Grant

Award of Honour:

Adrienne Herron
Beatrice O'Byrne
William Gonzalez

Letter of Commendation:

Charles Cardinal

2000 Awards presented at the 2001 Annual General Meeting (Newsletter 2000-02)

Honorary Life Membership:

Allan Richens, for many years of valuable service to the Society.

Award of Honour:

David Nobbs and Louise Mailloux for their work in setting up the HSG website on the Internet.
Michael Cooper for his work on the Wakefield trail and interpretive plaques.

Letter of Commendation:

Gordon Graham, history and geography teacher at St. Michael's School in Low, for inspiring his students to research the HSG archives and produce computer slide presentations of archival records.

1999 Awards

Honorary Life Membership:

David and Eileen Castleman

Award of Honour:

Anne Goodeve
Anette Brand
Klaus Decker
Terry Winfield

1998 Awards presented at the Annual General Meeting (Newsletter 1998-02)

Award of Honour:

Ann Chudleigh for her work with the Wakefield Covered Bridge Committee
Dr. David Geggie recognizing his many years of wise counsel.
Irene and Bent Nielsen for services to the Society and the community over many years.
Joan Gherson for her contribution to the success of the publication program.

Letter of Commendation:

Phil and Glennis Cohen for their contributions to the community of Wakefield
Winnifred Johnston who recently retired as first chair of the Lapêche Heritage Committee<

1997 Awards presented at the Annual General Meeting (Newsletter 1997-03)

Award of Honour:

Allan Richens recognizing his many contributions to the Society over the years
Neil Faulkner for his invaluable work in seeing to the engineering details of the Wakefield Bridge construction
George Gould in recognition of his devotion to the development of the two protestant cemeteries in Chelsea

Honorary Life Membership:

Norma Walmsley in particular for her leadership role in connection with the reconstruction of the Wakefield Covered Bridge
Jay Atherton in recognition of his services as President over the past five years

Letter of Commendation:

Robin MacLeod and Mario Breton for their work on the Wakefield Covered bridge project
Vincent Hendrick who contributed a parcel of land fora park near the Bridge
Annette Brand for her work with the Archives over the past few years
Diane Ross who provided urgently needed storage space for the holdings of the Wakefield Mill and Maclaren House museums when they were forced out of those buildings by the NCC
Alain Piché recognizing his outstanding contributions to the Friends of the Gatineau River

1996 Awards presented at the Annual General Meeting (Newsletter March 1996)

Letter of Commendation:

James Strate retiring Director of the Annual Auction
Theresa Winfield long time supporter of the annual auction and flea market

Award of Honour:

Malak Karsh landscape photographer of the Gatineau
Anita Rutledge leader in historical and heritage movement in Wakefield
Judith Grant Mayor of Chelsea, strong supporter of the Historical Society

1995 Awards presented at the Annual General Meeting (Newsletter March 1995)

Letter of Commendation:

Joan Gherson for her sterling services in connection with the planning and distribution of the society's publications
Michael Reford in appreciation of his research on the Hetherington family and its farm, and the presentation of the Hetherington genealogy to the Archives
Anne Goodeve for her services with the Archives over the past five years
Bill Place as recognition of his services in reconstructing the operations of the Wakefield Mill

Award of Honour:

Janet Benedict for her devotion and skills as the Benedict family historian, including the conducting of interesting and valuable research, editing her mother's reminiscences, and presenting valuable documents and photographs to the Archives
Enid Page of our sister organization, the Aylmer Heritage Association, also received an Award of Merit, in commemoration of her role In the battle to preserve the British and Symmes Hotels In Aylmer

Honorary Life Membership:

Gunda Lambton in appreciation of her long and varied services to the Society - "a true lady of the arts"

1994 Awards presented at the Annual General Meeting (Newsletter March 1994)

Letter of Commendation:

Ann Chudleigh and Charles Landon for their valuable leadership as co-presidents in 1988 and as president (Ann) and vice president (Charles) in 1989
Malcolm (Mike) Nelles for his service to the Society's Archives over a period of some years

Award of Honour:

David Castleman for his long and faithful association with the Society, including his work latterly as chair of the Finance Committee
Chelsea Elementary School where the idea had birth of procuring a tug boat which had previously been used to control the floating logs on the river, which practice had recently been brought to an end, after almost 150 years.
A double purpose, it is hoped, is to provide a new play structure at the school and to remind today's pupils and students in the future, of the reason why the vessel had been built originally.
The activities of the tugboat, and others like it, had been in our grandfathers' and great grandfathers' time the means of putting food on the family table and clothes on the backs of the family, through the wages earned in the lumbering business.

Honorary Life Membership:

Carol Martin in appreciation of her long and varied service to the Society. Mrs. Martin is the current editor of Up the Gatineau!

1993 Awards presented at the Annual General Meeting (Newsletter March 1993)

Award of Honour:

Gilles Lachance
Gunda Lambton
Beth Macfie and Paul Fydenchuck
Colin Chrisholm posthumously

Honorary Life Membership:

Ray Daly for his work in support of the Maclaren House and the Wakefield Mill

1992 Awards presented at the Annual General Meeting (Newsletter February 1992)

Award of Honour:

Andy Tommy for his dedication in preserving the Fairburn/McNally House in Wakefield
Ernie Mahonie in recognition of his long standing support for the Society, especially through the pages of the West Quebec Post
Commander Tony German for his many written contributions to increased history among young people as well as "oldsters"
Rae Moore and Marjorie Evis whose hard work over a number of years has contributed significantly to the communications among members of the Society

Honorary Life Membership:

Rolf Latté for his years of service to the Society, particularly his work with the Search for History Committee

1991 Awards

Award of Honour:

Ed and Lid Ryan
Diane Aldred

1990 Awards presented at the Annual General Meeting (Newsletter February 1990)

Honorary Life Membership:

Stuart and Norma Geggie for their initiatives in research and publicationd on the history of the Gatineau

Award of Achievement:

Carol Martin for her substantial contributions to the work of the Society over a number of years

Award of Outstanding Achievement:

Lise and Bill Jack for their renovation of the historic Dunn's Hotel (now Dawn House) in Old Chelsea

1989 Awards presented at the Awards Banquet and Annual Meeting (Newsletter March 1989)

Honorary Life Membership:

P.M.O. (Pat) Evans who has been a member of the Society for 26 years and currently serves as its Archivist
R.A.J. (Bob) Phillips a leader in the heritage movement in Canada, a founding director of Heritage Canada, and a former President of our Society

Award of Outstanding Achievement:

Diane Aldred for her history of Aylmer and excellent work with the Aylmer Historical Association
Jacques and Madeleine Mercier for their devoted work in preserving the Stevenson House in Wakefield

Award of Recognition:

Pierre-Louis Lapointe of the Archives nationales du Québec, founding President of the Institut d'histoire et de récherche sur l'Outaouais

1988 Awards presented at the Annual General Meeting (Newsletter February 1988)

Honorary Life Membership:

Sheila Strang who was a mainstay of the Society as Secretary and Treasurer through many years

Award of Honour:

St. Stephens Church, Father Gauvreau for beautifully preserving and illuminating the exterior for the pleasure for all passers-by
Place 1870, Jon Purcell for saving and preserving this historic corner of Wakefield

1985 Awards presented at the Annual General Meeting (Newsletter February 1985)

Arthur Davison Prize:

Patrick M.O. Evans for substantial contributions to Up the Gatineau! In the first ten annual editions he has had articles in six of them and for all ten he has given invaluable advice and assistance to the editor.