My Account

For Kids

For Youth

For Adults

NT Digital History

Welcome to the New Tecumseth Digital History Library

Map of New Tecumseth

Our Local History Site has moved to our new website. Data has been transferred with only minor changes from the original site. It was last updated during the summer of 2002 thanks to a LibraryNet grant from Industry Canada for student employment. 

The digitization of our local history archives was first funded in 2001 by a grant from Industry Canada under the Library Net Youth program. The site was developed and designed by two students hired through this program.

Searchable Digital Documents

Use this search field below to finddigital history archives.

  • All
  • Alliston
    • Articles, Documents & Newspaper Clippings
    • Artifacts
    • Establishments
    • Festivals
    • Fire
    • Maps
    • People
    • Pictures
    • Public Utilities
    • Railroad
    • Tweedsmuir History
  • Beeton
    • Artifacts
    • Establishments
    • Festivals
    • Fire
    • Maps
    • People
    • Pictures
    • Articles, Documents & Newspaper Clippings
    • Public Utilities
    • Railroad
    • Tweedsmuir History
  • New Tecumseth
    • Amalgamation
    • Community Information
  • Tecumseth Township
    • Articles, Documents & Newspaper Clippings
    • Artifacts
    • Ghost Towns
    • Maps
  • Tottenham
    • Articles, Documents & Newspaper Clippings
    • Artifacts
    • Festivals
    • Fire
    • Tottenham Remembered
    • Tweedsmuir History
  • Genealogy
    • Alliston Funeral Register
    • Simcoe County Militia
    • St. Paul's Cemetery
Alliston
Articles, Documents & Newspaper Clippings
Artifacts
  • 1991 Potato Festival Programme
    Official programme for the 1991 running of the Alliston Potato Festival.
  • A Map of Tecumseth Township and Its Villages
    A map of the former Township of Tecumseth, 1881. A lot of villages which are no longer in existence can be seen on this map, also shown is the location of the Hamilton and Northwest Railroad, most of which is no longer in existence.
  • A Map of the Village of Alliston, 1878
    A map of Downtown Allisotn, 1878.
  • A Photograph of the Alliston Memorial Arena
    A photograph of the Alliston Memorial Arena, presumably right after or prior to its official opening in 1950.
  • A Short History of Knox Presbyterian Church, Alliston
    An early history of the Knox Church to 1935.
  • About Potatoes
    Souvenir of the Alliston Potato Festival.
  • Alliston Centennial Celebrations 1847-1947
    Programme of events and history of the town from the founding of the first settlement by William Fletcher in 1847 until the Centennial year, 1947.
  • Alliston Historical Society Newsletter
    An Alliston Historical Society Newsletter which contains an early history of the Town of Alliston. The history leads up to the incorporation of the Town, covering the years from 1847-1890.
  • Alliston Memorial Library Campaign
    A Memorial Library campaign brochure. This booklet contains a detailed breakdown of the costs of building the new library, the costs of expanding the old library and a list of key features in the new facility. It also includes a floor plan of the new building.
  • Alliston Potato Festival Souvenir Programme
    A souvenir programme for the 1977 running of the Alliston Potato Festival. Cover page.
  • Alliston: A Study of an Ontario Town
    A study of Alliston, Ontario. Commissioned by the Toronto Teachers College, the document covers areas of interest such as history, local government, law enforcement, business, medical services, transportation, recreation, social life and youth.
  • Banting Cairn & Plaque
    The programme for the unveiling of the Banting Cairn and Plaque, located at the Banting Homestead in Essa Township.
  • Downtown Alliston Layout - 1920
    A blueprint of downtown Alliston in the 1920s. Area shown covers from Paris to Church Streets, and from the Boyne River to half a block between Victoria and Wellington Streets.
  • Hail! Alliston!
    A poem written by John C. Colgan, better known as "Fagan", some time during or before 1873. the community of Colgan located in Adjala-Tosorontio is named in his honour.
  • Hurst Family Photographs
    A photograph of Edith M. Hurst and infant son Allan. The house is located on the north west corner of Dufferin and Nelson streets in Alliston, Ontario. At one time, the house belonged to Eve Thompson.
  • Local History
    A local history project prepared for the Alliston Public Library by Louise Gallagher through the "Experience 77" programme.
  • Luncheon Menu & Programme
    A neby abd kust if toasts for a Luncheon given by the Alliston Women's Institute on the occasion of the visit to town of his honour Lieutenant-Governor Cockshutt.
  • Map of West-End Alliston
    A map of the Western end of Alliston. The map shows the old Hamilton and Northwestern railway station grounds, as well as the locations of some buildings which no longer exist.
  • Official Opening of the New Memorial Library
    Official opening programme for the new Memorial Library, opened on June 4th, 1982. Programme includes sketches of the old and new building, as well as a list of dignitaries.
  • Official Opening of the New Municipal Offices
    Official opening for the new municipal offices for the Town of Alliston.
  • Official Opening Programme for Banting Memorial High School
    Official opening programme for Banting Memorial High School, Alliston, Ontario. Programme includes a biography of Sir Frederick Banting, Chairman's Message, Board Member Listing, Principal's Message, School Staff Photograph. The booklet also includes photos of the inside of the new school.
  • Reminisce 1999: Looking Back, Reaching Forward
    A special supplement to the Alliston Herald, this booklet is comprised mainly of personal recollections and commercial/industrial history. However, it also contains useful historical information on Stevenson Memorial Hospital, The Royal Canadian Legion, Camp Borden, Cookstown, Alliston Public School, Alliston, the Boyne River, Alliston's centennial year, Alliston's opera house, Adjala and the great fire of 1891.
  • Residence of Mr. Robert Scott
    A photograph of the residence of Mr. Robert Scott. The house is or was located at the corner of Nelson and Orange streets in Alliston, ON. Mr. scott was the owner of the coal and wood yard. The house was constructed in approximately 1885.
  • St. John's United Church: 125 Years
    A booklet commemorating the 125th anniversary of St. John's United Church.
  • St. Paul's Centennial History 1876-1976
    A history of St. Paul's Church located in Alliston, Ontario. Pictured on the front page is a sketch of the old church formerly located on Wellington Street East.
  • The Enlarged Banting Memorial High School and Vocational Wing
    Official opening programme for the Vocational Wint (tech wing). Programme includes a greeting from the principal (Sidney Owens), a Board Chairman's Message (W. Harry Sawyers), a looking back and looking forward section, and a layout of the school with the new addition.
  • Variety on Ice
    Official opening program for the Alliston Memorial Arena.
Establishments
Festivals
Fire
  • Assorted Items on the Great Fire of Alliston 1891
    A cover page from a local Alliston paper shortly after the Alliston fire of 1891. A map of downtown Alliston. The Great Fire of 1891 started in the drive shed behind the Windsor House Hotel.
  • Local History
    A local history project prepared for the Alliston Public Library by Louise Gallagher through the "Experience 77" programme.
  • Reminisce 1999: Looking Back, Reaching Forward
    A special supplement to the Alliston Herald, this booklet is comprised mainly of personal recollections and commercial/industrial history. However, it also contains useful historical information on Stevenson Memorial Hospital, The Royal Canadian Legion, Camp Borden, Cookstown, Alliston Public School, Alliston, the Boyne River, Alliston's centennial year, Alliston's opera house, Adjala and the great fire of 1891.
Maps
  • A Map of Alliston, 1878
    A map of downtown Alliston, 1878.
  • A Map of Tecumseth Township and Its Villages
    A map of the former Township of Tecumseth, 1881. A lot of villages which are no longer in existence can be seen on this map, also shown is the location of the Hamilton and Northwest Railroad, most of which is no longer in existence.
  • Alliston May Be Outgrowing Itself
    A Star newspaper article about Alliston and its growth in the late 80s. this article begins with an industrial profile of Alliston, followed by a detailed section on housing and housing growth in the area. The article then goes on to discuss a number of different topices including education, amalgamation, and sewage.
  • Assorted Items on the Great Fire of Alliston, 1891
    A cover page from a local Alliston paper shortly after the Alliston fire of 1891. A map of downtown Alliston. The Great Fire of 1891 started in the drive shed behind the Windsor House Hotel.
  • Downtown Alliston Layout, 1920
    A blueprint of downtown Alliston in the 1920s. Area shown covers from Paris to Church Streets and from the Boyne River to half a block between Victoria and Wellington Streets.
  • Map of the Town of Alliston
    A recent map of the Town of Alliston. The map shows all roads, as well as major buildings ad recreational facilities.
  • Map of West-End Alliston
    A map of the Western end of Alliston. The map shows the old Hamilton and Northwestern railway station grounds, as well as the locations of some buildings which no longer exist.
People
Pictures
Public Utilities
  • Alliston Public Utilities Commission
    A history of Alliston and area with specific attention paid to public utilities such as hydro, water, electricity and lighting. Also includes a history of key citizens and influential events and dates for the town.
  • Alliston: A Study of an Ontario Town
    A study of Alliston, Ontario. Commissioned by the Toronto Teachers College, the document covers areas of interest such as history, local government, law enforcement, business, medical services, transportation, recreation, social life and youth.
Railroad
Tweedsmuir History
  • Alliston Tweedsmuir History Book: Volume I
    A complete and thorough guide to the history of Alliston compiled by the Women's Institute. The book is divided into the following sections: Introductory Pages; WI Branch History; Town History; Churches; Cemeteries; Schools; Century Farms; Library; Personalities; Miscellaneous; and Clubs & Organizations.
  • Alliston Tweedsmuir History Book: Volume II
    A complete and thorough guide to the history of Alliston which builds on the first Tweedsmuir History. The book is divided into the following categories: Women's Institute; W.I. Officers; W.I. Branch History; Town History; Churches; Schools; Industries; Clubs; Personalities; Special Events; and Alliston Homes.
Beeton
Artifacts
  • A Brief History of the Telephone in Beeton
    This document covers the history of the telephone in Beeton, telephone operators that have served in Beeton, locations of the switchboard, privately owned telephone companies, and a brief history of the telephone itself. The document also discusses the number of subscribers and the current state of the telephone (at time of publication).
  • A Map of Beeton, Ontario
    A map of the Village of Beeton, Ontario, now incorporated into the Town of New Tecumseth.
  • A Map of Tecumseth Township and Its Villages
    A map of the former Township of Tecumseth, 1881. A lot of villages which are no longer in existence can be seen on this map, also shown is the location of the Hamilton and Northwest Railroad, most of which is no longer in existence.
  • A Map of the Village of Beeton - 1983
    A map of the Village of Beeton, 1983. This map shows the locations of buildings and residences.
  • A Map of the Village of Beeton - 1990
    A map of the Village of Beeton, circa 1990. The map pre-dates the recent expansion in the central part of the village.
  • An Annotated Bibliography with Extensive Notes
    A useful listing of some local history publications. The bibliography focuses on, but is not limited to, Beeton and D.A. Jones.
  • Beeton Agency
    A phone directory for the Village of Beeton, 1885.
  • Beeton and Its Neighbourhoods
    Excerpt from A History of Simcoe County: The Pioneers written by Andrew F. Hunter. This document gives a very unique and rare look at the early settlers in Beeton and the surrounding area.
  • Beeton Climate Information
    Climate information for Beeton, Ontario. The table covers a wide range of weather-related records including temperature extremes, annual rainfall, annual snowfall, and daily temperatures.
  • Beeton Honey Festival 1973 Programme
    A programme for the Beeton Honey Festival. Includes useful information about bees in general. Also has a brief biography of D.A. Jones, and some honey recipes.
  • Beetown - Beeton Centennial Programme
    Front side of the Beeton Centennial Programme. On this side you will find events for Saturday, June 15, 1974 and Sunday, June 16, 1974. Also on this side is a member list for the Beeton Centennial Committee. Includes a map of the village circa 1974.
  • Centennial History of the Beeton Fair and the Pioneers
    Programme for the Centennial running of the Beeton Fall Fair. Booklet includes a history of the Agricultural Society, photographs of past presidents of the Agricultural Society, Village of Beeton History, Fall Fair History, and Pioneer History.
  • D.A. Jones Memorial Day Programme
    Programme for D.A. Jones Memorial Day, June 1, 1957. This booklet also contains a detailed biography of D.A. Jones.
  • David Allanson Jones 1835-1910 - A Chronology of His Life
    A chronology of the life of David Allanson(D.A.) Jones, with particular emphasis on his time in Beeton and his influence on the development of the Village. Includes an annotated bibliography with extensive notes.
  • Kate Scott Aitken 1891-1971
    These words can be found on a plaque located in Community Park, Beeton, Ontario.
  • Kate Scott Aitken Memorial Day
    This booklet was handed out at the unveiling of the Kate Aitken Memorial Plaque in Community Park, Beeton.
  • People's Home Library Membership Certificate
    A Membership certificate for the People's Home Library.
  • Practical Bee-Keeping
    A paper entitled Practical Bee-Keeping written by D.A. Jones. Paper gives detailed instructions for creating the Jones Deep Frame Hive, as well as operating specifications. The paper touches briefly on some of the research Jones did on bee hives.
  • RHI Entertainment, Inc.
    A letter detailing the closure of Main Street in Beeton for the filming of a movie. Beeton is a popular spot for film makers because of its turn of the century appearance.
  • Simcoe Manor Official Opening Programme
    Official opening programme for the Simcoe Manor, a retirement home located in Beeton, Ontario.
  • The Canadian Bee Journal
    Excerpts from the inaugural edition of D.A. Jones' Canadian Bee Journal. A lot of bee-related advertisements are included.
  • The Story of Honey
    This beautiful booklet presents an interesting and educational story for children and adults about the world's oldest and best sweet. It informs you of the unceasing toil by the bee which gives to man this delectable product honey and through pollination has added much to the production of man's daily food.
  • The Traders Bank of Canada Bank Note
    A Bank Note for the hardware store that was located at the corner of Centre and Main Streets in Beeton circa 1900. The Note was issued from the Traders Bank of Canada which was located at the corner of Centre and Queen Streets, Beeton.
Establishments
  • A Brief History of the Telephone in Beeton
    This document covers the history of the telephone in Beeton, telephone operators that have served in Beeton, locations of the switchboard, privately owned telephone companies, and a brief history of the telephone itself. The document also discusses the number of subscribers and the current state of the telephone (at time of publication).
  • A History of the Beeton Public Library
    A broad overview of the history of the Beeton Public Library up to and including 1977. Includes information on past buildings which have housed the library. Also contains a lengthy list of people who have played a vital role in the history of the Beeton Library.
  • A Map of the Village of Beeton - 1983
    A map of the Village of Beeton, 1983. This map shows the locations of buildings and residences.
  • Beeton Honey Festival 1973 Programme
    A programme for the Beeton Honey Festival. Includes useful information about bees in general. Also has a brief biography of D.A. Jones, and some honey recipes.
  • Early History of the Beeton Library: 1886-1914
    Early history of the Beeton Library: 1886-1914. A very thorough history of the first 28 years of the Beeton Library.
  • Exploring Beeton Now With its Historic Folk
    A news article profiling Beeton through the eyes of a visitor. Discusses in detail key features of the town including churches, buildings, people, parks, and events.
  • The Traders Bank of Canada Bank Note
    A Bank Note for the hardware store that was located at the corner of Centre and Main Streets in Beeton circa 1900. The Note was issued from the Traders Bank of Canada which was located at the corner of Centre and Queen Streets, Beeton.
  • Village of Beeton Finding Aid & Inventory
    Village of Beeton Finding Aid & Inventory including: Agriculture, Churches, County Home, Fall Fair, Miscellaneous, Municipal Records, News Clippings, Reference Texts, and Schools.
Festivals
  • Beeton Honey Festival 1973 Programme
    A programme for the Beeton Honey Festival. Includes useful information about bees in general. Also has a brief biography of D.A. Jones, and some honey recipes.
  • Beetown - Beeton Centennial Programme
    Front side of the Beeton Centennial Programme. On this side you will find events for Saturday, June 15, 1974 and Sunday, June 16, 1974. Also on this side is a member list for the Beeton Centennial Committee. Includes a map of the village circa 1974.
  • Centennial History of the Beeton Fair and the Pioneers
    Programme for the Centennial running of the Beeton Fall Fair. Booklet includes a history of the Agricultural Society, photographs of past presidents of the Agricultural Society, Village of Beeton History, Fall Fair History, and Pioneer History.
  • Village of Beeton Finding Aid & Inventory
    Village of Beeton Finding Aid & Inventory including: Agriculture, Churches, County Home, Fall Fair, Miscellaneous, Municipal Records, News Clippings, Reference Texts, and Schools.
Fire
  • A Look Back at the Great Fire of Beeton
    An excellent look back at the Great Fire of Beeton, 1892. Much of the business section of the town was destroyed in the fire.
  • Beeton's History Explored
    Article written by Helen Yielding describing a speech given by two men to the Tecumseth and West Gwillimbury Historical Society. The article also covers some biographical information about D.A. Jones, and his interaction with the community, as well as information about the Great Fire of Beeton.
Maps
  • A Look Back at the Great Fire of Beeton
    An excellent look back at the Great Fire of Beeton, 1892. Much of the business section of the town was destroyed in the fire.
  • A Map of Beeton, Ontario
    A map of the Village of Beeton, Ontario, now incorporated into the Town of New Tecumseth.
  • A Map of Tecumseth Township and Its Villages
    A map of the former Township of Tecumseth, 1881. A lot of villages which are no longer in existence can be seen on this map, also shown is the location of the Hamilton and Northwest Railroad, most of which is no longer in existence.
  • A Map of the Village of Beeton - 1983
    A map of the Village of Beeton, 1983. This map shows the locations of buildings and residences.
  • A Map of the Village of Beeton - 1990
    A map of the Village of Beeton, circa 1990. The map pre-dates the recent expansion in the central part of the village.
  • Beetown - Beeton Centennial Programme
    Front side of the Beeton Centennial Programme. On this side you will find events for Saturday, June 15, 1974 and Sunday, June 16, 1974. Also on this side is a member list for the Beeton Centennial Committee. Includes a map of the village circa 1974.
People
  • An Annotated Bibliography with Extensive Notes
    A useful listing of some local history publications. The bibliography focuses on, but is not limited to, Beeton and D.A. Jones.
  • Banting Cairn
    This cairn, on the grounds of Banting Memorial High School, was erected by the County of Simcoe and the Town of Alliston to celebrate the life of Sir Frederick Banting, co-discoverer of insulin, born in 1891.
  • Beeton and Its Neighbourhoods
    Excerpt from A History of Simcoe County: The Pioneers written by Andrew F. Hunter. This document gives a very unique and rare look at the early settlers in Beeton and the surrounding area.
  • Beeton Honey Festival 1973 Programme
    A programme for the Beeton Honey Festival. Includes useful information about bees in general. Also has a brief biography of D.A. Jones, and some honey recipes.
  • Beeton's History Explored
    Article written by Helen Yielding describing a speech given by two men to the Tecumseth and West Gwillimbury Historical Society. The article also covers some biographical information about D.A. Jones, and his interaction with the community, as well as information about the Great Fire of Beeton.
  • Beetown - Beeton Centennial Programme
    Front side of the Beeton Centennial Programme. On this side you will find events for Saturday, June 15, 1974 and Sunday, June 16, 1974. Also on this side is a member list for the Beeton Centennial Committee. Includes a map of the village circa 1974.
  • Centennial History of the Beeton Fair and the Pioneers
    Programme for the Centennial running of the Beeton Fall Fair. Booklet includes a history of the Agricultural Society, photographs of past presidents of the Agricultural Society, Village of Beeton History, Fall Fair History, and Pioneer History.
  • Certificate of Recognition
    A certificate of recognition describing a booklet available from the Ontario Agricultural Hall of Fame Association. The booklet contains portraits of people who have made an important contribution to Ontario Agriculture, including D.A. Jones. A reproduction of the page on which D.A. Jones appears is attached.
  • D.A. Jones Biography
    A biography of D.A. Jones, one of Beeton's most famous residents. The three-page biography covers, in detail, his life after his arrival in Beeton, right up to his death in 1910.
  • D.A. Jones Memorial Day Programme
    Programme for D.A. Jones Memorial Day, June 1, 1957. This booklet also contains a detailed biography of D.A. Jones.
  • D.A. Jones' Bee Yard
    A photograph of D.A. Jones' bee yard located on Centre St., Beeton, ON.
  • David Allanson Jones 1835-1910 - A Chronology of His Life
    A chronology of the life of David Allanson(D.A.) Jones, with particular emphasis on his time in Beeton and his influence on the development of the Village. Includes an annotated bibliography with extensive notes.
  • Exploring Beeton Now With its Historic Folk
    A news article profiling Beeton through the eyes of a visitor. Discusses in detail key features of the town including churches, buildings, people, parks, and events.
  • Historic Sites Plaques in Simcoe County
    A list of plaques with locations.
  • It's People Who Make Beeton A Good Place
    A newspaper article describing life in Beeton in the late 60's and early 70's. The article also gives a brief history of the village, as well as biographical information on D.A. Jones.
  • Itemized List for Donor Receipt
    Simcoe County Archives holdings pertaining to D.A. Jones.
  • Kate Scott Aitken 1891-1971
    These words can be found on a plaque located in Community Park, Beeton, Ontario.
  • Kate Scott Aitken Memorial Day
    This booklet was handed out at the unveiling of the Kate Aitken Memorial Plaque in Community Park, Beeton.
  • Old Friends Flock to See Plaque Unveiled in Beeton
    A newspaper article detailing the unveiling of a plaque honouring the late Kate Scott Aitken. This article also gives a detailed biography of this Beeton native.
  • Practical Bee-Keeping
    A paper entitled Practical Bee-Keeping written by D.A. Jones. Paper gives detailed instructions for creating the Jones Deep Frame Hive, as well as operating specifications. The paper touches briefly on some of the research Jones did on bee hives.
  • The Canadian Bee Journal
    Excerpts from the inaugural edition of D.A. Jones' Canadian Bee Journal. A lot of bee-related advertisements are included.
  • The Story of Honey
    This beautiful booklet presents an interesting and educational story for children and adults about the world's oldest and best sweet. It informs you of the unceasing toil by the bee which gives to man this delectable product honey and through pollination has added much to the production of man's daily food.
  • The Village that got Canada Buzzing
    A newspaper article describing the history of Beeton, and profiling the life of longtime Beeton resident Ernest Kettle.
  • Unveiling of memorial plaque honors late Kate Scott Aitken
    A newspaper article describing the unveiling of a memorial plaque in Community Park, Beeton, ON. The article also gives a brief biography of this Beeton native.
Pictures
  • A Brief History of the Telephone in Beeton
    This document covers the history of the telephone in Beeton, telephone operators that have served in Beeton, locations of the switchboard, privately owned telephone companies, and a brief history of the telephone itself. The document also discusses the number of subscribers and the current state of the telephone (at time of publication).
  • D.A. Jones Biography
    A biography of D.A. Jones, one of Beeton's most famous residents. The three-page biography covers, in detail, his life after his arrival in Beeton, right up to his death in 1910.
  • D.A. Jones' Bee Yard
    A photograph of D.A. Jones' bee yard located on Centre St., Beeton, ON.
Articles, Documents & Newspaper Clippings
  • 1991 Statistical Profile for New Tecumseth
    A statistical profile for The Town of New Tecumseth, compiled by the County of Simcoe.
  • A Brief History of the Telephone in Beeton
    This document covers the history of the telephone in Beeton, telephone operators that have served in Beeton, locations of the switchboard, privately owned telephone companies, and a brief history of the telephone itself. The document also discusses the number of subscribers and the current state of the telephone (at time of publication).
  • A History of the Beeton Public Library
    A broad overview of the history of the Beeton Public Library up to and including 1977. Includes information on past buildings which have housed the library. Also contains a lengthy list of people who have played a vital role in the history of the Beeton Library.
  • A Look Back at the Great Fire of Beeton
    An excellent look back at the Great Fire of Beeton, 1892. Much of the business section of the town was destroyed in the fire.
  • Beeton's History Explored
    Article written by Helen Yielding describing a speech given by two men to the Tecumseth and West Gwillimbury Historical Society. The article also covers some biographical information about D.A. Jones, and his interaction with the community, as well as information about the Great Fire of Beeton.
  • D.A. Jones Biography
    A biography of D.A. Jones, one of Beeton's most famous residents. The three-page biography covers, in detail, his life after his arrival in Beeton, right up to his death in 1910.
  • Early History of the Beeton Library: 1886-1914
    Early history of the Beeton Library: 1886-1914. A very thorough history of the first 28 years of the Beeton Library.
  • Eight Municipalities to be Three
    The cover page of the Beeton Record Sentinal several days after the news of amalgamation struck. The page includes articles entitled "Eight Municipalities to be Three", Milne to be Mayor", and "Tecumseth Ready to Get on with Future". It also includes a map illustrating the newly formed boundaries in South Simcoe.
  • Excerpts from "Never A Day So Bright"
    A series of non-referenced excerpts from author Kate Scott Aitken's book, Never a Day So Bright.
  • Exploring Beeton Now With its Historic Folk
    A news article profiling Beeton through the eyes of a visitor. Discusses in detail key features of the town including churches, buildings, people, parks, and events.
  • Historic Sites Plaques in Simcoe County
    A list of plaques with locations.
  • History of Beeton Electricity
    A series of letters and documents pertaining to the history of hydro electricity in the Village of Beeton. Letter written Mr. D. Arthur Evans, MPP Simcoe Centre, disclosing information in regards to Beeton's electrical history.
  • It's People Who Make Beeton A Good Place
    A newspaper article describing life in Beeton in the late 60's and early 70's. The article also gives a brief history of the village, as well as biographical information on D.A. Jones.
  • Itemized List for Donor Receipt
    Simcoe County Archives holdings pertaining to D.A. Jones.
  • New Tecumseth: "The New Town with a Long Past"
    A brief history of New Tecumseth (and the hamlets Bond Head, Newton Robinson, and Dunkerron, now part of Bradford West Gwillimbury) based on the Tecumseth and West Gwillimbury Historical Society video production, New Tecumseth: "The New Town with a Long Past".
  • Old Friends Flock to See Plaque Unveiled in Beeton
    A newspaper article detailing the unveiling of a plaque honouring the late Kate Scott Aitken. This article also gives a detailed biography of this Beeton native.
  • One New Municipality: Alliston, Beeton, Tecumseth, and Tottenham United
    An Alliston Herald article discussing the 1991 amalgamation.
  • Practical Bee-Keeping
    A paper entitled Practical Bee-Keeping written by D.A. Jones. Paper gives detailed instructions for creating the Jones Deep Frame Hive, as well as operating specifications. The paper touches briefly on some of the research Jones did on bee hives.
  • Telephones In Service
    A listing of the number of telephones in service in Beeton from 1906-1973.
  • The Beeton Methodist Church
    A history of the Beeton Methodist Church covering Methodist history in Beeton, church construction, Beeton history, cornerstone ceremony, children's essays, official opening of church, and financial records.
  • The Telephone in Our Past
    This article provides an in-depth look at the history of the telephone and a look at the telephone's role in Beeton.
  • The Town of New Tecumseth: Growing in the Heart of Ontario
    A brochure promoting various aspects of New Tecumseth.
  • The Village that got Canada Buzzing
    A newspaper article describing the history of Beeton, and profiling the life of longtime Beeton resident Ernest Kettle.
  • Unveiling of memorial plaque honors late Kate Scott Aitken
    A newspaper article describing the unveiling of a memorial plaque in Community Park, Beeton, ON. The article also gives a brief biography of this Beeton native.
  • Village of Beeton Finding Aid & Inventory
    Village of Beeton Finding Aid & Inventory including: Agriculture, Churches, County Home, Fall Fair, Miscellaneous, Municipal Records, News Clippings, Reference Texts, and Schools.
Public Utilities
  • A Brief History of the Telephone in Beeton
    This document covers the history of the telephone in Beeton, telephone operators that have served in Beeton, locations of the switchboard, privately owned telephone companies, and a brief history of the telephone itself. The document also discusses the number of subscribers and the current state of the telephone (at time of publication).
  • Beeton Agency
    A phone directory for the Village of Beeton, 1885.
  • History of Beeton Electricity
    A series of letters and documents pertaining to the history of hydro electricity in the Village of Beeton. Letter written Mr. D. Arthur Evans, MPP Simcoe Centre, disclosing information in regards to Beeton's electrical history.
  • Telephones In Service
    A listing of the number of telephones in service in Beeton from 1906-1973.
Railroad
  • Allandale Station
    This article describes a model of the Allandale Train Station in Barrie, built by Mr. Robert Scrunton.
  • Life at Beeton's Canadian National Station
    A newspaper article about the life at Beeton's CN station. The article gives a biography of longtime station master Howard Galbraith as well as an excellent account of what life was like when the train made its regular journey through Beeton.
Tweedsmuir History
  • Beeton Tweedsmuir History Book: Volume I
    A complete and thorough guide to the history of Beeton compiled by the Women's Institute. The Beeton Tweedsmuir Histories detail many different aspects of the village of Beeton through photographs and newspaper clippings.
  • Beeton Tweedsmuir History Book: Volume II
    A complete and thorough guide to the history of Beeton compiled by the Women's Institute. The Beeton Tweedsmuir Histories detail many different aspects of the village of Beeton through photographs and newspaper clippings.
  • Beeton Tweedsmuir History Book: Volume III
    A complete and thorough guide to the history of Beeton compiled by the Women's Institute. The Beeton Tweedsmuir Histories detail many different aspects of the village of Beeton through photographs and newspaper clippings.
New Tecumseth
Amalgamation
  • Amalgamation: The Town of New Tecumseth
    This essay looks at the process of amalgamation. It discusses the announcement, the role of the ministry as well as the town councils, and the new boundaries. Next, it discusses how three of the larger municipalities, Alliston, Beeton, and Tottenham, were affected and what their response was to the announcement. After this, the essay discusses how the town chose its new name. Problems of amalgamation are also discussed.
  • Eight Municipalities to be Three
    The cover page of the Beeton Record Sentinal several days after the news of amalgamation struck. The page includes articles entitled "Eight Municipalities to be Three", Milne to be Mayor", and "Tecumseth Ready to Get on with Future". It also includes a map illustrating the newly formed boundaries in South Simcoe.
  • One New Municipality: Alliston, Beeton, Tecumseth and Tottenham United
    An Alliston Herald article discussing the 1991 amalgamation.
Community Information
Tecumseth Township
Articles, Documents & Newspaper Clippings
  • 1991 Statistical Profile for New Tecumseth
    A statistical profile for The Town of New Tecumseth, compiled by the County of Simcoe.
  • A Map of Tecumseth Township and Its Villages
    A map of the former Township of Tecumseth, 1881. A lot of villages which are no longer in existence can be seen on this map, also shown is the location of the Hamilton and Northwest Railroad, most of which is no longer in existence.
  • Archeologists Pleased With Dig
    An article about an archeological dig which took place in the former Township of Tecumseth in 1977. During the dig, an archeologist from the University of Toronto uncovered a village that appeared to have had a population of nearly 1000 people.
  • Eight Municipalities to be Three
    The cover page of the Beeton Record Sentinal several days after the news of amalgamation struck. The page includes articles entitled "Eight Municipalities to be Three", Milne to be Mayor", and "Tecumseth Ready to Get on with Future". It also includes a map illustrating the newly formed boundaries in South Simcoe.
  • Gazetteer and Directory of the County of Simcoe for 1872/73
    Listings of early residents for the communities of Stanton and Tecumseth.
  • Rich Hill: The Church and Cemetery
    A detailed two page history of the Rich Hill United Church. Article contains information on the Sunday School, Cemetery, and notable church events. Please note that the original artifact is also nearly illegible. Please click on "enlarged version" for a more readable version.
  • Thompsonville: A History of the Church and Community
    A history of the community of Thompsonville and its United Church. Thompsonville was located on the 13th Line of New Tecumseth at the Nottawasaga River.
Artifacts
  • A Map of Tecumseth Township and Its Villages
    A map of the former Township of Tecumseth, 1881. A lot of villages which are no longer in existence can be seen on this map, also shown is the location of the Hamilton and Northwest Railroad, most of which is no longer in existence.
  • Township of Tecumseth Official Opening
    Official opening booklet and programme for the new Township of Tecumseth Municipal Building. Booklet includes photographs of past Reeves, as well as a detailed history of the Township.
Ghost Towns
Maps
  • A Map of Tecumseth Township and Its Villages
    A map of the former Township of Tecumseth, 1881. A lot of villages which are no longer in existence can be seen on this map, also shown is the location of the Hamilton and Northwest Railroad, most of which is no longer in existence.
Tottenham
Articles, Documents & Newspaper Clippings
Artifacts
Festivals
Fire
Tottenham Remembered
  • Tottenham Remembered
    (CD 1 & 2) - Tottenham Remembered records the recollections of early Tottenham life and personalities of a group of long time Tottenham residents. The original recordings were made in 1977 by Allan Anderson while preparing the "History of Tottenham" published by the Tottenham Women's Institute. Portions of the recordings were heard on the CBC national radio program "Between Ourselves" on December 31, 1977.
Tweedsmuir History
  • Tottenham Tweedsmuir History Book: Volume I
    A complete and thorough guide to the history of Tottenham complied by the Tottenham Women's Institute. The book is divided into the following sections: Tottenham WI History; Churches; Village History; The Great Fire; A History in Pictures; Post Office; Ghost Towns; The Railroad; Utilities & Services; Schools; The War Years; Medical History; The Tottenham Creamery; Clubs & Organizations
  • Tottenham Tweedsmuir History Book: Volume II
    A complete and thorough guide to the history of Tottenham compiled by the Tottenham Women's Institute. This volume covers the family histories of the following families: Abernethy, Bishop, Abrams, Angus and Stitson, Austin, Wesley-Bolton, Botham, Brandon, Bradley, Pierson, Breedon, Brown and Sproule, Butt, Carney-Keogh, Cenerini, Casserly, Chapman, Pettit, Childs, Coburn, Coleman, Dillane, Dickerson, Archibald, Belford, Doyle, Gordon, Hopper, Drury-Coley, Eagan, Emigh, and Davis.
  • Tottenham Tweedsmuir History Book: Volume III
    A complete and thorough guide to the history of Tottenham compiled by the Tottenham Women's Institute. This volume covers the histories of the following families: Elliot, Williamson, Ellison, Evans, Walker, Mallion, Feheley, Keena, Findlay, Fraser, Graham, Galbraith, Green, Hall, Knight, Hamilton, Train, Trainor, Hammell, Hammond, Hastings, Hayes, Heenan, Hitchman, Wice, Hurlbert, Hughes, Kant, Keogh, Lancaster, Leggett, Mollett, Atkinson, Line, Logan, and Elmer.
  • Tottenham Tweedsmuir History Book: Volume IV
    A complete and thorough guide to the history of Tottenham compiled by the Tottenham Women's Institute. This volume covers family histories, as well as various Tottenham events and institutions not covered in the first three volumes.
Genealogy
Alliston Funeral Register
  • Alliston Funeral Register 1885-1908
    This record is from the registers kept from 1885-1908, commencing in the same year as the Alliston Union Cemetery. In the first section of the register, the place of death or residence was recorded. Unfortunately, this method was not followed throughout.
Simcoe County Militia
St. Paul's Cemetery