Goulbourn Township Historical Society

The Goulbourn Township Historical Society (GTHS) is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the history and heritage of the former Goulbourn Township, now part of the City of Ottawa, Ontario. Established in 1977, the Society serves the communities that once comprised Goulbourn Township, including Stittsville, Hazeldean, Richmond, Munster Hamlet, Ashton, Stanley’s Corners, Stapledon, Mansfield, and the surrounding rural areas[3][2].

Mission and Activities

GTHS is committed to maintaining and sharing the local history through various activities and programs. The organization collects and archives family histories, photographs, documents, and other historical materials related to the former township. It also engages the community by organizing monthly speaker series, special events, and educational programs aimed at raising awareness of local heritage[3].

The Society operates the Goulbourn Township History & Family Research Centre, located at the Stittsville Public Library, which offers public access to a diverse range of archival and research resources. Engagement with the community extends to participation in public events such as Stittsville’s Art in the Park, Ottawa Heritage Day, and the Richmond Fair parade. To support education, GTHS annually awards a scholarship recognizing outstanding achievement in Canadian history by a local Grade 10 student[3].

Governance and Membership

As a volunteer-driven organization, GTHS relies on community involvement for the creation and staffing of exhibits, recording local stories, documenting the township’s history through photographs and drawings, and producing publications such as brochures and books. The Society holds annual general meetings to elect its executive members. In 2024, the executive included positions such as President, Vice-President, Treasurer, Secretary, and Directors[3].

Goulbourn Museum

In 1990, members of the Society established the Goulbourn Museum to further preserve and interpret the township’s history. The Museum operates under the direction of GTHS and provides additional avenues for public engagement with local heritage[4].

Community Events

The Society hosts and organizes historical presentations and events. For instance, in March 2025, GTHS presented a well-received program on Irish settlers of Goulbourn Township, focusing on the Talbot family and other early Protestant immigrants who arrived in the early 19th century. This event highlighted their migration experiences and role in the region’s development, reflecting the British Crown’s strategic settlement policies[5].

Status

The Goulbourn Township Historical Society is a registered charity with the Canada Revenue Agency, recognized under Business Registration Number 123728024RR0001. It conducts its activities in compliance with CRA regulations and relies on donations to support its mission of historical preservation and education[2].

This organization plays a vital role in preserving the cultural and historical identity of the communities formerly within Goulbourn Township, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for local heritage among residents and visitors alike.