The Bradford Model School pictured was constructed in 1878 to replace a previous building destroyed by fire. Mr. Frank Wood was the first principal in 1878. It was established by Simcoe County Council for the training of teachers, and by 1907, 496 teachers were trained there. Upon the discontinuance of Model training in Ontario, the building continued to be Bradford Public School until the new Bradford Public School was erected in 1951. The Model School was located east of the present school. It consisted of three rooms downstairs, and two large ones upstairs. It was made of brick, and was heated by two coal furnaces.
A book plate with black calligraphy style writing, one of many done by Ian Reid.
"Ian Reid was a resident of West Gwillimbury before Bradford amalgamated in 1991. He live on the 11th line of WG. He was a very popular citizen, always dressed in his Scottish kilt and accessories for anything festive or celebrative. In town, he recited 'Ode to a Haggis' on Robbie Burns Day in one of the local pubs at the time, which I attended. He was known in the library as the Patron who did all the calligraphy for our book plates. If any family made a donation to the library in the form of a memorial, or just purchasing books for the library, Ian Reid graciously on his own time made these book plates which are prominently displayed in the books..." (See sources)
Photograph of the ribbon cutting for the opening of Bradford Public Library on Holland Court, the location prior to the current library on Holland Street. In doorway, left to right: William DePeuter (Mayor), Hon. Charles T.S. Evans (Chairman of Fundraising), Adrienne Price (Librarian)
