Simcoe County Historical Association

The Simcoe County Historical Association (SCHA) is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation, appreciation, and dissemination of the history and heritage of Simcoe County, Ontario. Established as a volunteer-driven entity, the SCHA works actively to promote local history through education, events, and community partnerships.

Mission and Activities

SCHA’s primary mission is to safeguard and celebrate the rich historical narrative of Simcoe County by engaging historians, community members, and partner organizations. It achieves this through a variety of programs and initiatives:

• Speaker Series: Regular presentations by historians and experts focusing on diverse aspects of Simcoe County’s past. These events are held virtually or in-person, providing opportunities for public education and social engagement around regional history.

• Educational Awards: The organization supports secondary school history students through the Andrew Hunter Award, fostering interest in local history among younger generations.

• Heritage Business Awards: This award recognizes businesses that have contributed significantly to Simcoe County’s development through longstanding entrepreneurial innovation and community involvement.

• History Conference: The Association organizes history conferences, such as the inaugural event held in 2022 themed "Where History Lives Again," which includes keynote speeches, historical vignettes, and museum tours.

• Annual General Meeting: Featuring guest speakers and presentations on relevant historical topics, such as Indigenous history and treaty relationships, to deepen understanding of regional heritage.

Community Engagement and Partnerships

SCHA collaborates with numerous organizations across Simcoe County to broaden awareness of shared history and heritage. It provides resources and support for individuals and groups researching local history, including an inventory of local history resources and a planned Speakers Bureau, aimed at enhancing educational outreach.

Membership and Access

Membership to the Association is open to individuals and groups interested in the history of Simcoe County, with an annual fee to support its activities. Meetings and events are generally open to the public, promoting inclusive access to historical knowledge and community participation.

Legal Status and Location

The Simcoe County Historical Association is registered as a nonprofit organization under the Canadian business registration number 875683963RR0001. It operates primarily out of Barrie, Ontario, serving the greater Simcoe County region.

The SCHA remains a central institution for preserving and sharing the cultural heritage of Simcoe County, playing a vital role in both community education and historical preservation efforts in the area.[1][2][3][4]