Bradford Lions Club President Lawrence Sturdy presents Bradford Public Library Librarian Adrienne Price with a plaque to be hung at the library in recognition of the Lions Club's donation to the Library Local History Room. Presented at the official opening event for the new Bradford Public Library on November 6, 1988.

The plaque reads:

"This Local History Room was furnished by the Lions Club of Bradford to Commemorate the visit of Judge Brian Stevenson of Calgary President of the International Association of Lions Clubs on the occasion of their 50th anniversary October 9. 1987."

Description : Pub. Library Officially Opened by Director of Library Services

An inspiring address by Mr. Angus Mowat, Provincial Director of Library Services for Ontario, was the highlight of the official opening of Bradford Public Library last evening.

Mr. Mowat complimented the Library Board, Council and librarian upon the very attractive library which they have created from a room which looked impossible and from materials almost equally in disrepair. The Bradford Public Library is the successful product of local effort and of local leadership, Mr. Mowat stated, adding that this effort has created a charming little library.

During his address Mr. Mowat's reference to the library was as a book service for the people, and he reminded that when books desired are not available in the small home library they can usually be borrowed from the county library. A provincial library for this purpose is a hope for the future.

In reference to Provincial library grants Mr. Mowat informed that in 1945 such grants total $50,000 and this year they total $865,000. Bradford's grant this year will cover 65% of the municipality's expense for the library.

At the close of his address, on behalf of the Ontario Minister of Education, Mr. Mowat declared Bradford Public Library officially opened.

The guests at the meeting were welcomed by Reeve Arthur Evans.

Chairman of the Library Board, Mr. Cecil Brittain, briefly reviewed the conditions leading to the establishing of the library and the services rendered by members of Board, naming particularly the work of the secretary-treasurer, Mr. Dan Blake, and the building committee members, Messrs. Glenn Boyd and F.C. Cook; The Council, particularly the chairman of the town hall committee, Mr. H. Taylor; the librarian, Miss B. Webb; and Mr. Mowat.

Mr. Brittain urged that residents avail themselves of the opportunity to make use of the library which is free to all residing within the municipality of Bradford. To those outside this municipality the charge is one dollar for a library card.

Mr. Mowat was introduced by Mr. Glenn Boyd, who referred to Mr. Mowat's service in two wars as well as his valuable help as director of public libraries. Mr. F.C. Cook, the other member of the building committee, expressed the appreciation for Mr. Mowat's address as well as his wonderful assistance in preparing the library. The history of Ontario Libraries and of Mr. Angus Mowat are one, Mr. Cook declared.

Rev. F.G. MacTavish and Rev. W.S. Johnson added congratulatory words.

Following the singing of the National Anthem refreshments were served by the ladies of Bradford Women's Institute.

Tec-We-Gwil Hall, home of the Women's Institute of Tecumseth and West Gwillimbury Townships, and the Centennial Lodge.

"The Walking Parade left the old St. Mary's school yard at noon, led by the Bradford West GWillimbury Police, Fire Department, and St. John's Ambulance, as crowds holding red and white balloons lined Simcoe Street.
To the stirring sound of the Innisfil Pipes and Drums, marchers - including the IODE, members of the Portuguese Community, a contingent from the Base Camp Borden and the Colour Guard of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 521 - paraded down Simcoe to the Arena, where they marshalled on the soccer pitch. In the reviewing stand, representing the community, were Nick Chreptiuk, Renee Desjardins, Helen and George Jackson, Pat and Ron Kneeshaw, Jamie Snow, Marianne and Trevor Wilson, and Mayor Pat Storey, who read a special Canada Day message.
Then the birthday party began, and what a party it was, with 50 cent hot dogs sold by the Lions, 50 cent drinks sold by the Rotary Club, free watermelon from Bak's Market, and an enormous Canada 125 cake, courtesy of former Deputy Reeve Frances Reid.
There were games for the kids (and their parents), soccer and baseball exhibition games, a bike decorating contest, talent show, a dance out in the open air, and as the finale, the largest display of fireworks ever put on by the Chamber of Commerce, which organized the day's celebrations.
"It's really nice to see so many out, when I understand a lot of people have to work today," said Mayor Storey. "People really are interested in a community event that they can take in - it's like an old-fashioned picnic." "

"Plans for Bradford's 150th Anniversary are well underway.
The deadline for groups and organizations to register their special Sesquicentennial events for inclusion in the Official calendar is April 1st, and the launch of over a year of celebration takes place May 27th at 3 p.m., with greetings from the Province, a declaration by the Mayor, Birthday cake, raising of the Sesquicentennial Flag, and a tongue-in-cheek skit bu the BDHS Drama Club, re-enacting the incorporation of the Town.
And organizers are already looking for participants for a Sesquicentennial parade, to take place on the afternoon of August 19th, following the same route as the Santa Claus Parade. The theme: 'Bradford Through the Ages.'
Anyone with antique farm equipment, classic or antique cars; representatives of Minor League sports, and hockey alumni of Bradford's historic teams (The Blues, Vasey Jrs., etc); choirs and bands - in fact, any community group, business or organization is invited to participate in this historic event.
The Town is looking for nominations for Parade Marshal. Residents nominate anyone - a local celebrity, sports volunteer, Minister, educator, or former Mayor - for the honorary position. There will also be a contest for Junior Marshal, details to be announced.
Parade application forms are now in the works, and should be available shortly. For more information, to get involved as a Sesquicentennial volunteer or committee member, or to register an official event, contact Joe Lotto at the Recreation Dept."

Article about the success of the 2002 Carrotfest. It outlines the food, entertainment and events that made up Carrotfest for that year.

1982 Santa Claus Parade Women's Institute Float on John Hodgson's wagon pulled by his team of Belgians.

"On September 14th, Simcoe South District Women's Institute celebrated its 100th Anniversary, at an Open House and Tea held in Cookstown.
The district received its charter on May 5th, 1902, in Thornton. At one time, the District had 11 branches, including Beeton, Gilford and Bradford, Now, there are only 6 remaining - Bond Head, Churchill, Cookstown, Fishers Corners, Tec-We-Gwill (Newton Robinson) and Tottenham.
At the Anniversary Open House, there was a focus on past achievements, which have included the establishment of a library in Alliston, installation of traffic lights in Bond Head, and work on health and safety issues - but there was also a focus on the future, and the continuing relevance of W.I.
Member of Parliament Aileen Carroll noted that Women's Institutes were founded in the early years of this century, "to work against the isolation (in rural Ontario), to countermand that isolation by bringing together the women... to build cohesion in the community."
Carroll pointed out that the areas of interest of Women's Institute - education and culture, citizenship, international affairs, industry - coincide with the interests of parliamentary committees, and urged W.I. members to stay involved, and to provide their views and input, to "seize the day, continue with these very important initiatives." "

South Simcoe District of the Womens Institute sponsored a pumpkin growing contest amongst school children to promote gardening activities. The Bradford Womens Institute participated and seen here is President, Ada Watson (right) with their display at the 1986 Beeton Fair.

If you have any additional information about this photo please contact the library at 905-775-3328.