Local history
Local History Landing Page
George & Helen Jackson Heritage Room
Preserving Bradford West Gwillimbury's Past for Future Generations
Explore Our Local History Collection
The George & Helen Jackson Heritage Room houses a rich collection dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of Bradford West Gwillimbury. Located on the second floor of the Library and Cultural Centre, our Heritage Room provides access to historical maps, newspapers, family histories, photographs, and artifacts that tell the story of our community.
Whether you're researching your family tree, exploring local history, or discovering stories from our past, our collection offers invaluable resources for historians, genealogists, students, and curious community members alike.
Physical Resources Available
📜 Records & Documents
- Cemetery Records
- Church Records
- Land Records & Directories
- Tweedsmuir Histories
📰 Historical Publications
- Local Newspapers
- School Yearbooks
- Microfilm Collection (dating back to 1854)
👨👩👧👦 Family & Personal Histories
- Family History Binders
- Oral History Recordings
- Photograph Collections
🗺️ Maps & Artifacts
- Historical Maps
- Heritage Artifacts
- Community Memorabilia
Our microfilm collection includes an incomplete record of local newspapers and census records dating as far back as 1854. A complete listing of our microfilm holdings may be found in the Microfilm Collection of the Digital Archive.
Digital Resources
🖥️ Digital Archive
The Library maintains a growing collection of digital materials including documents, records, artifacts, photographs, and much more.
Visit our digital resources:
- BWG Library's Digital Archive (AtoM)
- Online Exhibits on Omeka - Including the history of the Holland Marsh
- Digital Research Resources - Full list available to BWG Library cardholders
🔍 Research Tools for Cardholders
Newspapers & Articles:
- Newspapers.com
- Toronto Star Pages of the Past
- Ontario Community Papers Portal
- Newspaperarchive.com (In-library use only)
Family History:
- Ancestry.com (In-library use only)
- Familysearch.org
- Ontario's Cemetery Records (via Ontario Genealogical Society)
🗺️ Geographic & Land Information
📚 Additional Digital Archives
- Internet Archive - Archive of webpages, books, and other digital files
Visit & Contact Information
📅 Schedule an Appointment
The Heritage Room is accessible by appointment with 2-3 days of advanced notice. Items in our Local History Collection, Microfilm Collection, and Archive Room can be viewed by appointment with a staff member.
Contact us to book your visit:
📞 Phone: 905-775-3328 ext. 6123
📧 Email: LHistory@bradford.library.on.ca
🎁 Donate to the Collection
We welcome donations of local historical or genealogical interest, including:
- Old maps and photographs
- Books about the area
- Historical newspapers
- Community memorabilia
- Family history files
Contact us at LHistory@bradford.library.on.ca to learn more. All proposed donations are subject to our Gifts and Donations Policy and will be assessed for collection suitability.
Community Connections
🤝 Bradford West Gwillimbury Local History Association
The Local History Association meets regularly to explore and celebrate our community's heritage.
Membership: $10/year (individual) or $15/year (family)
For more information, contact LHistory@bradford.library.on.ca to be connected with the Association Chair.
🏛️ Local Museums & Archives
Simcoe County Museum and the Museum on the Boyne collect and preserve artifacts of local importance. Plan a visit to experience history firsthand.
The Simcoe County Archives also maintains an extensive collection and provides research assistance.
🏛️ Honoring George & Helen Jackson
The Local Heritage Room is dedicated to George and Helen Jackson, whose lifelong commitment to preserving Bradford's heritage has left an enduring legacy.
George Jackson was a passionate local historian who co-founded the BWG Local History Association and authored The Big Scheme: The Draining of the Holland Marsh, a definitive work on this significant chapter in our region's history.
Helen Jackson was a talented Simcoe Crafter, active member of the Tec-We-Gwill Homemaking Club, and skilled candle maker who shared her expertise with students from Georgian College.
The creation of the Heritage Room was made possible through George and Helen Jackson's generous donation, ensuring that future generations can continue to discover and celebrate our local heritage.
Ready to Explore Our Heritage?
Researching family history, exploring local heritage, or discovering community stories? We're here to help you connect with the past.
📧 Book Your Appointment 📞 Call Us Today