KAGAWONG—While it was selected to be on the short list of those nominated, the Old Mill Heritage Museum in Kagawong unfortunately did not win the Governor General’s Award for Excellence in Community Programming.
“Obviously, on behalf of the museum committee, the municipality and our community, I am disappointed ‘History Day in Kagawong’ did not win,” stated Rick Nelson, curator of the Old Mill Heritage Museum. “However, it was an honour just to be on the shortlist, and to be the only application from Ontario to make the finals. I offer congratulations to the winning application.”
As had been previously reported, History Day in Kagawong had originally been nominated by Gordon/Barrie Island resident Heather Jefkins for the award.
In a letter to Mr. Nelson dated October 2, Joanna Dawson, director of programs with Canada’s National History Society wrote, “Thank you for your application for the 2023 Governor General’s History Award for Excellence in Community Programming. We were honoured to review your submission and we appreciate the time and effort that went into your application. I am writing to advise that your project was not selected for this year’s award.”
“We know this is disappointing news but want to emphasize that we were impressed by the quality of your submission and the meaningful work that has been accomplished,” wrote Ms. Dawson. History Day in Kagawong faithfully paves the way for the sharing and honouring of important stories in the community, both near and far.”
“We were pleased to receive many innovative and engaging projects from throughout Canada this year and are grateful to all the individuals and organizations who steward our community history with such care,” continued Ms. Dawson. “On behalf of Canada’s History Society, thank you again for participating in the awards program. More importantly, thank you for your dedication, passion, and inspiring contribution to the promotion of community history.”
Mr. Nelson noted that History Day in Kagawong was one of nine selected for the awards’ shortlist.
