Norfolk’s heritage and cultural Dogwood Awards

Brenda Moser

Advocate Correspondent

Norfolk County is home to some very dedicated people who contribute so much to Norfolk County. They don’t do it to gain recognition or accolades, but rather because of their commitment to the community. It is because of them that the Dogwood Awards were established in 2007, named after Norfolk County’s official flower, to give credit where credit is due.

The awards are described as “a way to acknowledge the tireless efforts of dedicated individuals and groups who have built Norfolk’s lively and successful heritage and cultural community.” There are four categories: Individual, Group, Youth and Lifetime Achievement. The nominations are reviewed by a panel of representatives of the Norfolk County Heritage and Cultural sites and the winners are then chosen. Not an easy task, as there are so many outstanding individuals and volunteer organizations that contribute to heritage and culture in Norfolk.

Once the Selection Committee members make their decisions and winners are notified, it’s time to give them their proper recognition. A reception was recently held at Waterford Heritage and Agricultural Museum to hand out two Lifetime Achievement Awards and two Group Awards - and it was standing room only! Guests and recipients were welcomed by Heritage and Culture staff. Ward 7 Councillor Kim Huffman also welcomed everyone and extended congratulations to recipients on behalf of Norfolk County.

The first award went to the ‘Friends of the Educational Archives’ and was presented by Josh Klar, Norfolk Archivist. In 1988 Bob Stevenson, long time Waterford resident and former teacher at WDHS, created the Educational Archives. In 2004 they were located to WDHS, expanded in 2005, and in 2010 they were moved to the GEDSB offices in Brantford. The group has experienced some setbacks over the years but they have remained resilient. Stevenson was able to attend and was delighted to accept the award. He has given so much of his time over the years and his dedication has always been appreciated.

The second group award, presented by James Christison, Curator, Waterford Heritage and Agricultural Museum, went to the Walsingham Women’s Institute. There is nearly a 90-year history for this branch of the Women’s Institute. They meet at the Walsingham Hall, and they also run the hall and handle bookings, cleaning and purchasing of supplies. They have a 99-year lease on the building and, with the future of the hall a bit uncertain, they are fighting to keep the hall open. 

The community built the hall over 157 years ago and it is considered a heritage building. Major upgrades have been done including new windows and a wheelchair accessible ramp… all paid for by the community. The Institute recognizes that the hall is a valued part of the community and for the Walsingham Women’s Institute they will continue to fight to keep the hall open and an integral part of Norfolk County.

Two Lifetime Achievement Awards were presented – one to Betty Chanyi and the other to Ron Anderson.

Katie Graham, Curator, presented Chanyi’s award posthumously to her daughter Lisa (Chanyi). Betty was a teacher, mentor and advocate who played an important role in indigenous research and teaching.

“Mom would be humbled by this honour. She was proud of her county and especially Ward 1. She worked quietly in the background and had a passion for this area that was second to none,” said Lisa.

The second recipient, Ron Anderson, was on hand to accept his award. At almost 95 years old, Anderson is still able to get out and you could see the enthusiasm and pride when presented the award.

“It’s been a blast and very rewarding!” said Anderson.

James Christison presented Anderson his award and stated, “Ron has always shown such profound dedication and it’s an honour for me to present this one.” 

Congratulations to all of this year’s winners!