Douglas M. Willoughby - 2008 Recipient of The Jean Hibbert Memorial Award
Doug is receiving the Jean Hibbert Award for his long term and valuable service to both the Etobicoke Historical Society and the James Shaver Woodsworth Homestead Foundation "Applewood".
Doug's interest in history was prompted by his Grade 13 history teacher, who taught in a way that was truly interesting and exciting. It was not just about names, places and dates: it was about the people who created our history and their personalities!
Etobicoke Historical Society:
Encouraged by his wife, Beth, Doug joined the Etobicoke Historical Society (EHS) in 1979. A few years later, when John Michele became President, Doug joined the Board as Recording Secretary.
In 1983, when the Society was celebrating its 25th anniversary, Doug was appointed chairperson of the committee. Soon after he became Treasurer, a position he held for 5 years. He was then elected Vice-President, and subsequently President, a position he held until he retired in 1994. In total, he served on the Society's board with skill and good humour for over 13 years. Many subsequent Presidents have had occasion to find numerous examples of Doug's hard work and great insight in tackling problems in the Society's file and archives!
The James Shaver Woodsworth Homestead Foundation "Applewood":
Doug got involved with Applewood when he helped Norma Carrier organize their first Fall Fair in 1981. A furnishings committee was formed to decorate and furnish the Applewood. Doug served on this committee and saw the home completed furnished over a period of several years. He took over from Ruth Harper as Registrar of Acquisitions, a position he held until the year 2000. Doug continues to do a great deal of valuable volunteer work at Applewood, including hosting Doors Open Toronto, planning Concerts in the Park and leading Applewood house tours.
Doug exemplifies the heart and strength of the world of volunteerism. He has made, and continues to make, a significant contribution
to the preservation of heritage in Etobicoke.
Doug's interest in history was prompted by his Grade 13 history teacher, who taught in a way that was truly interesting and exciting. It was not just about names, places and dates: it was about the people who created our history and their personalities!
Etobicoke Historical Society:
Encouraged by his wife, Beth, Doug joined the Etobicoke Historical Society (EHS) in 1979. A few years later, when John Michele became President, Doug joined the Board as Recording Secretary.
In 1983, when the Society was celebrating its 25th anniversary, Doug was appointed chairperson of the committee. Soon after he became Treasurer, a position he held for 5 years. He was then elected Vice-President, and subsequently President, a position he held until he retired in 1994. In total, he served on the Society's board with skill and good humour for over 13 years. Many subsequent Presidents have had occasion to find numerous examples of Doug's hard work and great insight in tackling problems in the Society's file and archives!
The James Shaver Woodsworth Homestead Foundation "Applewood":
Doug got involved with Applewood when he helped Norma Carrier organize their first Fall Fair in 1981. A furnishings committee was formed to decorate and furnish the Applewood. Doug served on this committee and saw the home completed furnished over a period of several years. He took over from Ruth Harper as Registrar of Acquisitions, a position he held until the year 2000. Doug continues to do a great deal of valuable volunteer work at Applewood, including hosting Doors Open Toronto, planning Concerts in the Park and leading Applewood house tours.
Doug exemplifies the heart and strength of the world of volunteerism. He has made, and continues to make, a significant contribution
to the preservation of heritage in Etobicoke.