The Story of Tyrconnell Heritage
Society
Celebrating 25 years
Written by Delany Leitch
Foreward by Angela Foreman-Bobier
In 2019, the Tyrconnell Heritage Society reached their golden anniversary, 25 years. Like many worthwhile things, it was formed out of controversy. This little account, chock full of photos, influencing parties and interesting historical details, outlines the THS story from 1993 to 2019.
Extensive research into society documentation is captured in a cohesive and logical manner and reveals just what those who sought to preserve and promote the Backus-Page House as well as the area’s historical value.
It is a little book, and like many small packages, is full of ‘good things.’ For one, the dedication and tenacity of a handful of people is clearly denoted, giving us courage and inspiration that perhaps we, too, can make a positive difference in our world. For another, the many and creative ideas listed of activities of the society and in the programs for area adults and children get our own creative juices flowing. I found myself saying, “That’s a great idea!” More than once. A historical account may promise only dry chronology, but this book manages to hold one’s interest with its inclusion of personalities, squabbles and photos and captions where we might see ourselves and understand just how things were and how things are today. It is amazing how much happens -and has happened- over the years at a site such as the Backus-Page House Museum.
The impact of the THS lives on, not only in the apple trees which bring forth their bounty each year or the museum tours which boast artifacts rarely encountered these days, but in the spirit of community shared by the host of volunteers and supporters of the society. The society has gone modern with websites, Facebook notifications and blogs but if you are like me, I also appreciate having something in my hand which I can return to again and again. Why not order a copy for yourself, come out to a museum picnic table, pour yourself some iced tea and have a good read?
Available $13.00 for pick up by calling 519-762-3072 or email info@backuspagehouse.ca
Review by Nancy Carey on behalf of Tyrconnell Heritage Society
Review by Nancy Carey on behalf of Tyrconnell Heritage Society
Leslie Harold Johnston Sapper - No. A104804 crossed to France on D-Day. He was reported missing on July 8, 1944 while serving with the 18th Field Company, Royal Canadian Engineers, and presumed dead in the vicinity of Villans Les Buissons, France. Leslie was the son of George C. and Grace M. Johnston of West Lorne
Raymond H. Adlington Lance Sgt. - No A44111 went to the continent on D-Day and participated in the battle of Falaise. Son of Mr. and Mrs. Adlington of Wallacetown. 
Raymond G. Anderson Cpl. - No. A58823 and with the First Hussars on D-Day. His tank was knocked out and he was reported missing, but was later picked up wounded, and went to the hospital for two months. 
Charles Edward Beecroft Cpl. - A 56074 son of Mr. and Mrs. John E. Beecroft and went to the army into France on D-Day. He was wounded on active service. 
Clarence McPhail Campbell Gnr. - A103616 son of Mr. and Mrs. A.M. Campbell of Cowal, he went to France on D-Day and was then attached to the Elgin Regiment with B Squadron, 25th Canadian Armoured Delivery Regiment. 
Albert Edward Cook Corporal - A353 invaded France and was wounded on D-Day. 
Robert Alexander McAlpine Able Seaman - V52814 son of Mr. and Mrs. M.A. McAlpine participated in D-Day operations while on board the H.M.C.S. Prescott a Canadian Frigate.
Fraser A. Sinclair Sgt. - R91132 went into Normandy on D-Day with the R.C.A.F.
Walter James Smith Lieutenant (S.B.) son of Mr. and Mrs. Bertram Smith. While on loan to the Royal Navy, Walter served aboard the headquarters ship during D-Day operations, H.M.S. Hillary. 
