Saving Our History One Photo At A Time

Our history defines who we are. It provides us with a glimpse into the past, allowing us to understand the present and shape the future. From ancient civilizations to significant events that have shaped nations, preserving history is of utmost importance.

One often overlooked medium for capturing history is photography. Photos freeze a moment in time, preserving the essence of that moment for future generations. They serve as a visual time capsule, reminding us of our roots and the stories of those who came before us. However, without proper preservation efforts, these valuable artifacts are at risk of being lost forever.

Port Elgin Ontario Book 2 and Area in Colour Photos: Saving Our History One Photo at a Time

by Barbara Raue (Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4153 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	74 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	70 pages
Item Weight	:	5.1 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.17 x 9 inches

FREE

Why Saving Our History Matters

History is not just a series of dates and events. It's the fabric of our existence, the stories of triumphs and failures, and the roots of our cultural identity. Preserving history is crucial for several reasons:

1. Learning from the Past

Studying history allows us to learn from our mistakes, understand the consequences of certain actions, and make informed decisions for the future. It helps us avoid repeating the same errors and fosters a sense of progress and growth as a society.

2. Cultural Identity

Our history shapes our cultural identity. It influences our traditions, customs, and beliefs. Preserving historical photos helps us retain our cultural heritage and pass it down to future generations.

3. Inspiring Future Generations

Historical photographs have the power to inspire and evoke emotions. They tell stories of bravery, resilience, and creativity. By preserving these images, we inspire future generations to learn from the past and strive for a better future.

The Importance of Preserving Historical Photographs

Photographs capture the essence of historical moments in a way that words alone cannot. They provide visual proof of events, making them invaluable for historians and researchers. Preserving historical photographs ensures their accessibility and longevity for generations to come.

Preservation Techniques for Historical Photos

Preserving historical photographs requires appropriate techniques and materials to ensure the photos remain intact and usable. Here are some essential preservation techniques:

1. Storage

Store photographs in acid-free, archival-quality materials such as acid-free enclosures and photo sleeves. Keep them in a cool, dry, and dark environment to prevent deterioration.

2. Digitization

Digitize historical photographs to create digital backups. This allows easy sharing, viewing, and printing while keeping the originals safe from frequent handling.

3. Handling

Handle photographs with clean hands and wear gloves if necessary. Avoid touching the surface of the photos directly to prevent damage from oils and dirt.

4. Preservation Professionals

If you have valuable or delicate historical photographs, consider seeking assistance from preservation professionals. They can provide expert advice and services for long-lasting preservation.

Preserving History for Future Generations

Each one of us can contribute to saving our history one photo at a time. Here are a few ways you can help:

1. Family Archiving

Start by preserving photos within your own family. Sort through old albums, digitize them, and create backups. Share the stories behind the photos with younger family members to pass down the knowledge.

2. Community Efforts

Engage with local historical societies, archives, or museums to see if they have programs or initiatives for preserving historical photos. Volunteering or donating can make a significant impact.

3. Sharing and Educating

Share historical photographs on social media platforms and educational websites to raise awareness and educate others about the importance of preserving history. You never know who might stumble upon a forgotten piece of their own past.

The Time to Act is Now

Preserving history is a responsibility we all share. By saving our history one photo at a time, we can ensure that future generations have access to the rich tapestry of stories that have shaped our world.

Let us come together and make a difference. Start preserving your own photographs and spread the word. Together, we can safeguard our past and pave the way for a brighter future.

Port Elgin Ontario Book 2 and Area in Colour Photos: Saving Our History One Photo at a Time

by Barbara Raue (Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4153 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	74 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	70 pages
Item Weight	:	5.1 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.17 x 9 inches

FREE

Port Elgin

In 1854, Benjamin Shantz acquired a sawmill on Mill Creek from George Butchart. Nearby he built a gristmill and within three years a community of 250 people developed around these mills. Stores, hotels and tanneries were built and a village plot for Port Elgin was laid out in 1857. Businessmen Henry Hilker, Samuel Bricker, and John Stafford contributed to the development of the settlement. The original economic development of Port Elgin during the 19th century was based on its harbour facilities on Lake Huron constructed in 1857–1858 making the village a distribution centre for the surrounding agricultural region. The arrival of the Wellington, Grey and Bruce Railway in 1872 further stimulated the growth of the community.

Chatsworth

Chatsworth is located on the Toronto-Sydenham Road, Highway 10, south of Owen Sound (formerly called Sydenham).

The northern terminus of the early colonization road, The Toronto-Sydenham Road, was located near here at its junction with the Garafraxa Road. Free grants of fifty acre lots were given to persons fulfilling the settlement duties, and by 1851 about four hundred families had moved here.

Dornoch

The village of Dornoch is located about 11 kilometers north of the Town of Durham on Highway 6 in Grey County. It is part of Chatsworth Township. Dornoch is 11 kilometers south of Williamsford and 33 kilometers south of Owen Sound.
Dornoch was settled by Bartholomew Griffin in 1841. The area was originally called "Griffin's Corners". Griffin started the first general store. The village is primarily a small farming community, but has a convenience store that is known for its photography and ice cream, a community hall, as well as the recently rebuilt Dawg House Inn.

Creek Bank and Goldstone

Mapleton is a township in Wellington County; the township was formed by the amalgamation of the townships of Maryborough and Peel, and the village of Drayton on January 1, 1999. The township also contains the smaller communities of Creek Bank, and Goldstone, to name just two of them.