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 history of the Bradford newspapers are the topic.

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 history of the Canadian Bank of Commerce, which also marks its centennial year, is the topic.

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.

"Friday, June 30th, Midnight, the Centennial of Canada's birthday was welcomed bu the ringing of all the church bells and fireworks. There was quite a crowd of people on the street in Centennial costumes. This proves the point that we are proud to be Canadians. Many thanks to Rev. Saunders for looking after the preparations for the event. The United Church was a very interesting sight on Sunday." ...

A commemorative coin for Bradford's centennial, given out at the celebrations in 1957.

Newspaper photo of two women, Joan and Mary Holancin, crouched in front of a sign reading "Bradford: The Heart of Canada's Vegetable Industry" with a second sign below it reading "Centennial - Celebrating 100 Years of Progress 1857 - 1957." Part of the centennial festivities was the opening of the district community centre for which residents contributed close to $100,000. The most popular sport in village community at the time was hockey, and the village acquired a new team that year.

"The home-coming for the Bradford Centennial Reunion has brought sons and daughters from the length and breadth of the continent, and even guests from Bradford, England.
Bradford churches were filled to capacity on Sunday, when old boys and girls added to the regular congregations, and friendships were renewed following these services." ...

Photograph of Norman McKinstry from the Bradford Centennial edition of the Bradford Witness. He was one of many who returned home to Bradford for the celebrations.

The following set of photographs were taken from the Bradford Witness August 21, 1957 edition, highlighting the Bradford Centennial parade and celebrations.
The third prize float of the Centennial Parade was Bradford's Women's Institute float.