Celebrate Archives Awareness Week (April 7–11) with a fascinating look at Bruce County’s maritime past!
Join guest speaker Patrick Folkes, marine historian and author, for an insightful talk on the myths and realities surrounding local shipwrecks.
Patrick will share stories from his decades of research, including:
- Tobermory’s legendary “Griffon”
- The mysterious “murders” linked to the schooner “Explorer”
- The ghost of Cove Island and other enduring tales
Patrick will also provide insights on his own use of unique archival resources to separate fact from fiction and uncover the truth behind these captivating stories and more
Following the presentation and intermission:
- Join Archives staff for a behind-the-scenes tour of the archival storage area and an opportunity to view a selection of archival items not often on display, and/or
- Visit BCM&CC’s exhibits, with an interpreter present in the marine gallery to share more stories about Bruce County’s marine history.
FREE Admission to the Event on April 11, and to the Archives & Research Room during Ontario’s Archives Awareness Week, April 7-11 (Please note: The BCM&CC is closed Easter Monday, April 6).
Pre-registration required due to limited seating.
This event is sponsored by the Bruce County Historical Society
About Patrick Folkes
Patrick Folkes has devoted over sixty years to researching the marine history of the Great Lakes, with a focus on the ships, shipwrecks, and sailors of Bruce County. He holds an MA in History from York University, where his research examined the Seamen’s Benevolent Union (1878–1885). Patrick is the author of Shipwrecks of the Saugeen, 1828–1938, The Saddest Calamity: The Wreck of the Steamer J.H. Jones, a history of the Cabot Head lighthouse, and a study on women employed on the Lakes in the nineteenth century.
His expertise has supported historical research for Parks Canada, the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, the Historic Naval & Military Establishments at Penetanguishene, the North Grey & Sauble Valley Conservation Authority, and the Geological Survey of Canada. Patrick has contributed research and field assistance to numerous archaeological projects, including the excavation of the War of 1812 wreck General Hunter at Southampton. He also served as historian for the Fathom Five Provincial Park project in Tobermory.
Currently, Patrick is working on a comprehensive marine history of the Bruce Peninsula, continuing his lifelong commitment to preserving and sharing the stories of the Great Lakes.
In advance of the event, check out these articles by Patrick on our Stories & Artifacts blog:
