I was delighted to read a recent article celebrating the work of the West Toronto Junction Historical Society (WTJHS).

The society recently received two Toronto Heritage awards.

The article, Lisa Rainford in the Bloor West Villager for October 26, 2012, concludes with the following information about the society:

“WTJHS meetings take place on the first Thursday of every month at Annette Street Library in its downstairs community room. The society was formed in 1980 by a group of local residents with support from the City of Toronto planning and development department and then-councillor David White.

“A year later, it was incorporated as an affiliate of the Ontario Historical Society. Some of its projects include two books, an historical talk show and a four-part graphic novel series.

“On Nov. 1, the WTJHS presents Monarchy in Canada: the Junction Debate. “Should we abolish the Monarchy in Canada and declare a Canadian Republic? Debaters Tom Freda, national director of the Citizens for a Canadian Republic and Ross will bring a “hilarious, but informed approach to their respective positions. This takes place at Annette Library, 145 Annette St. The 8:30 p.m. debate follows the society’s monthly business meeting at 7:30 p.m. Visit www.wtjhs.ca or call 416-763-3161 for details.

Members’ Choice Award

The Heritage Toronto announcement noted that:

“The Members’ Choice Award, which is chosen by Heritage Toronto members, went to the West Toronto Junction Historical Society for its many preservation activities and unique partnerships with the Mountview Alternative and Annette Schools that facilitate the integration of local history into the schools’ curriculum.”

Community Heritage Category

The Toronto Heritage announcement also highlighted the second award, with the following text:

“West Toronto Junction Historical Society

“Etobicoke-York Community Council Area

“Founded in 1980, the West Toronto Junction Historical Society describes itself as a heritage preservation advocate. WTJHS activities include neighbourhood walking tours, monthly talks, theatrical presentations, photo exhibits and a quarterly newsletter, “The Leader & Recorder”, which has been in continuous production since 1985. In addition, the WTJHS maintains an archive, located at the Annette Branch of the Toronto Public Library, which is used by experienced researchers and the general public alike. In the spring of 2012, the society partnered with Mountview Alternative School and Annette School to integrate local history with other curriculum.

“The Jury noted the West Toronto Junction Historical Society’s impressive, diligent, and rigourous documenting of the built and cultural history of its neighbourhood in a sustained way over many years. The  jury commended the Society’s approach to leveraging and sharing resources as a model for others to emulate.”