Lambton County Archives will be in a celebratory mood throughout April, as the month marks the Archives Association of Ontario’s annual Archives Awareness Month.
An observance aimed at increasing awareness of archival services, local history buffs and fans of the county’s fascinating past will have ample opportunity to take advantage of the archives’ numerous services.
In addition, Lambton County Archives will mark the month by joining other archives across the province participating in the #ArchivesAtoZ initiative on social media, featuring daily themes relevant to the archival world as well as behind-the-scenes tour of the vault, stories and pieces from the collection and an introductory lesson on how donation items are processed.
On Thursday, April 7 from 7 to 8 pm, the archives will host a virtual talk regarding the Baldoon Mystery, the well-known story of one of Canada’s oldest and most widely-reported poltergeists which took place in early Sombra Township.
Presenters Rick Fehr and Christopher Laursen will discuss a range of compelling oddities hidden in the archival record as they piece together a more comprehensive understanding of the Baldoon mystery, which captivated popular imagination during the 19th Century and beyond.
Pre-registration is required for the free virtual talk, and registration takes places online at https://forms.lambtonmuseums.ca/Lambton-County-Archives/2022-Virtual-Talks/The-Baldoon-Mystery.
Lambton County Archives’ Archivist/Supervisor Nicole Aszalos said that staff are looking forward to helping members of the public understand the archives’ many functions.
“There are so many ways using your local archives can help you research your own family or local history,” Aszalos said. “We have a great collection with amazing photographs and records, and staff and resources that can help you direct your research. Whether you are researched before or are a beginner, we can help.”
Follow along with Archives Awareness Week at lambtonarchives.ca, @LambtonCountyArchives on Facebook or @HeritageLambton on Twitter.