Dear Editor:
I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to work at the Whitewater Historical Society Ross Museum this summer.
At the Ross Museum I had the pleasure of learning many different things, such as my role as the interpretative guide, organizing events, and caring for the five museum buildings. In order to take people on a tour I learned about the historic artifacts in each of the buildings and the heritage of each building. I enjoyed learning about the history on Whitewater township, the community I now live in. I had the opportunity to organize events such as a Teddy bear Picnic and Kids Hour activities each week. I planned a fundraiser for the museum that included local talent who entertained the community with a Celtic themed Concert. Organizing events was something new for me, with the help from the museum committee members the events were successful. I am very thankful for their help. I was amazed with the community spirit for the support shown towards the museum. Other duties included, documenting in the computer system maps, genealogies and photographs. While documenting the genealogies, I came across some of my own family history. It was exciting to learn more on my own family ancestry. I didn’t know much about my ancestors and I was able to learn more about them. I even found a newspaper clipping of my great grandparents Clarence and Grace Orr, in one of the books. I experienced many new opportunities and rich learning experience during my two months working at the museum. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity.
The highlight of my job was meeting new people. It was great to have met people from far and near and getting to know the visitors interest and heritage connections to the museum made me happy to show off our local Foresters Falls gem. Also, I made new friends who guided and supported my journey this summer. Thank you for all you have done for me. These individuals are welcoming, kind and proud to share their knowledge. The people who I am writing about are the people who have positively impacted my time at the Ross Museum. These people have shared their love of local history with me and their passion for this community. I am truly blessed to have developed friendships with each of them.
Lawrie Barton is a very welcoming and generous person. She helped and encouraged me to organize the different events held at the Ross Museum this summer. Lawrie always portrayed a positive and energetic outlook when I saw her.
Joanne Pratt has created amazing heritage gardens at the museum. Her dedication and creativity certainly is displayed on the grounds of the museum. She knows everything there is to know about plants and has taught me all about horticulture.
Evelyn St. Amour has taught me all about health and safety at the museum. Each time I saw Evelyn, she was upbeat and personable.
Mac Coughlin often stopped in to chat with me. He has taught me about the antique farm equipment in the Drive Shed. Every time that I got to see him, he always had a story to tell me.
Fay Bennett is very knowledgeable on the archives and genealogy. She is a fantastic person to work with. She gave me new and interesting projects to work on that furthered my learning.
Clare Stoppa has taught me about the artifacts in each building. She is always very willing to assist with anything anyone needs help with and she was welcoming every time she volunteered.
Connie Tabbert has helped me promote and advertise the Ross Museum through the Whitewater News, she has been a huge help to me. With her expertise she has assisted me with revisions of advertisements of the events.
I cannot forget to mention the librarian at the Foresters Falls Library, Debbie Byce. She made me feel welcomed and included in the workspace we shared. Your knowledge of the books is inspiring.
I have really enjoyed my time working at the Ross Museum in Foresters Falls this summer, and I am going to really miss everyone. Thank you so much for this enriching employment opportunity.
After August 24th, 2018 the museum will be only open by appointment. Please call Clare Stoppa at (613)-646-2500
I highly encourage everyone to visit the Ross Museum to learn about our local heritage.
Sincerely
Ella Burger
Summer Student
Whitewater Historical Society
