Theme: Aylmer in the 20th Century – microcosm of a country
Local history never takes place in isolation – it’s always part of the broader picture. Aylmer’s prominent place in the settlement of the region and its proximity to Ottawa attracted decision-makers in government, business and industry – a privileged elite whose lifestyle and stories emerge through personal documents and photographs. The Association’s unique archival collections are a valuable source of social history that can be interpreted in a regional, national and international context. In a series of animated and amply illustrated talks, Enid Page and Gabriela Sanchez will bring this history alive with rare photographs and letters, many of which are being presented publicly for the first time.
SUNDAY, April 12, 2026 (English)
SUNDAY, April 19, 2026 (français)
The 1900s – a century of unsurpassed historic societal change – as witnessed in the life and decline of the gentlemen’s private club: Ottawa’s prestigious Country Club (1908 -1999) on the Aylmer Road in West Québec.
The Country Club Collection spans the 20th century through to the computer age and the “global village” that Marshall McLuhan predicted for the technology which heralded the 21st century. Documents and photographs reflect the consequences of the automobile, the Depression, two world wars, the suburban building boom, emergence of a “Canadian” identity, a newly defined Québec, and a different status for women in all walks of life. The 20th century pendulum swung from an elite of powerful, privileged rich men to a broader and more inclusive society that would face new and different challenges. At the dawn of the 21st century, the era and influence of the gentlemen’s private club had ended. (AHA Archives Collection P.9 The Country Club.)
A presentation by Enid Page and Gabriela Sanchez.
1.15 pm arrival and sign-in
1.30 pm – 3.30 pm Presentation and Q&A
To reserve email: associationpatrimoineaylmer@gmail.com ; or phone: 819-684-6809
SUNDAY, May 3, 2026
Prominence & Privilege: The Graham Family
A bilingual presentation by Gabriela Sanchez and Enid Page.
Among the prominent people living on the Aylmer Road were the Graham family whose life and leisure activities at the time of the Great Depression are interpreted through their major hobbies – photography and aviation. (From AHA Archives Collection P.26 Arthur Graham – close to 1000 b&w negatives 1920s and 1930s.)
Situating Aylmer as a microcosm of the country in the 20th century, the wide range of photographs in this collection are the source for an intimate look at the lifestyle of an influential and well-liked family who lived on the prestigious Aylmer Road at a time of great wealth for some coupled with abject poverty for many; a society largely unaware of the massive social changes to come in the aftermath of World War II.
1.15 pm arrival and sign-in
1.30 pm – 3.30 pm Presentation and Q&A
To reserve email: associationpatrimoineaylmer@gmail.com ; or phone: 819-684-6809
Please reserve in advance to assist us in setting up our limited space. The talks are free of charge; goodwill donations are always appreciated. We look forward to welcoming you!
We gratefully acknowledge archives grant support from:
