Volunteer of the Year: Helen Blackburn, keeper of Creemore’s history

Helen Blackburn is a cherished resource, the keeper of local lore and the go-to for all things historical.

Where there is history being shared, it is very likely Helen has had some input.

Whether it’s a display about Creemore’s train station, a second round of historical plaques, a book of remembrance about fallen First World War soldiers, or a display of school memorabilia for the elementary school’s 50th anniversary, Helen was a part of it. And that’s just this year’s projects.

Anyone who wants to know anything about why things are or how they came to be, is referred to Helen.

She is the author of several books about local history and Creemore Echo readers know her from her monthly columns, which she submits faithfully and has done so from the beginning. She shares stories about everything from personal family history to the village’s commerce of yesteryear.

A proud Websterville resident and descendent of its founders – the Websters – for which the old mill town was named, Helen has been an important community member.

In addition to being a history buff, Helen is an avid gardener, hiker and skater. She is involved with the adult skating club, Purple Hills Arts and Heritage Society, is a member of the Retired Teachers of Ontario, she is a current Clearview Public library board member and hikes and snowshoes with the local hiking group.

As a teacher and a young single mother, raising two sons, Helen was very dedicated to advancing her studies, eventually doing a master’s degree.

Helen is also the impetus for the founding of My Friend’s House shelter for women and children in Collingwood. She saw the need for a local shelter after her best friend was physically abused by her husband. Helen wrote to the editor of the Collingwood newspaper and drummed up support for a local women’s shelter. She was a member of that founding board for several years.