The Bradford Witness decided to release a series of articles from local townspeople on the history of certain events in Bradford and West Gwillimbury's time. This week, the Fire of May 25, 1871, and the businesses which rebuilt on Holland Street after the fire, is the topic.

Description : These days, there are very few businesses that have been around for 100 years. The Bradford law firm of Evans and Evans is one of those few. Founded in 1894 by T.W.W. Evans, the firm was augmented by his sons, Charles and Brock in the 1920s. Today, "Evans and Evans' refers to grandsons Thomas and Robert. On Thursday, the law firm, which has been in the same building for more than 75 years, opened its doors to family, friends, clients and celebrated its first 100 years. There were photos on display that not only chronicled the history of the Evans family, but the history of Bradford and West Gwillimburry, from turn-of-the-century lacrosse teams, to Bradford's centennial celebrations in 1957, to the sod turning for the new library and West Gwillimbury Administration centre.

Bradford's Centennial Parade.

Gasoline Tank Wagon used by Imperial Oil is drawn by horses in Bradford's Centennial Parade in August 1957.

Photograph of the Centennial queen during the 1957 Bradford Centennial Parade.

Dignitaries' float in the Bradford Centennial Parade. Decorations on car appear to be gladioli and carrot tops.

Occupants of car (clockwise from driver): Gordon Compton, unknown, unknown, Art Evans, unknown, unknown.

The mural of Yonge Street's 200th anniversary restored for Bradford's Sesquicentennial (150th Anniversary).
"After: From left, sponsor Larry Timbers of Home Depot, Mayor Doug White, Councillor Peter Dykie Jr., Artist Bill Lewotchko, and assistant Rick Mackay (Home Depot) in front of restored mural."

Clowns, horse-drawn wagons and antique cars parade down Holland St. W. during Bradford's Centennial celebrations.

The Bradford Witness decided to release a series of articles from local townspeople on the history of certain events in Bradford and West Gwillimbury's time. This week, the Fire of May 25, 1871, and the businesses which rebuilt on Holland Street after the fire, is the topic.