30 photographs -- 25 at 3.5" x 8" (color and b/w); 5 at 8"x10" (b/w); 3 magnates; 1 plaque (8 x 3 cm)
History / Biographical
The chancellor is the titular head of the university and confers all degrees. Where possible the Chancellor also attends official functions on behalf of the University and may take on special projects keeping with the goals of the University. According to "The Brandon University Act 1998," there is to be a chancellor of the university elected by the senate for a term of three years; the chancellor continues to hold office after his or her term expires until re-elected or until a successor is elected; the chancellor is eligible for re-election; and if a vacancy occurs in the office of chancellor before the end of the term, the successor elected to replace the incumbent chancellor is to hold office for the remainder of the incumbent's term.
BRANDON UNIVERSITY CHANCELLORS:
MAITLAND B. STEINKOPF (1967-1970)
Maitland B. Steinkopf (September 10, 1912 - 1970) was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba. He was educated at the University of Manitoba, and was called to the Manitoba Bar in December 1936. He served in the Canadian armed forces in World War Two, as a Private in the Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders and a Lieutenant Colonel with the R.C.O.C. He later founded the Canada West Shoe Manufacturing Company, and was a president of several companies including Bonded Investments Ltd., L.H. Packard Co. Ltd., Dayton Shoe Mfg. Col. Ltd., and the Tel Aviv Hilton Hotel. Steinkopf was a member of the Canada Israel Development Corporation, and served as chairman of State of Israel bonds in Manitoba. He was also an honorary counsel with the government of Czechoslovakia until 1948. Prior to his election, he assisted the Roblin government in land-development for cultural projects.
Steinkopf was elected to the Manitoba legislature in the 1962 provincial election as a member of Dufferin Roblin's Progressive Conservative government and was appointed to cabinet on June 12, 1963, as Provincial Secretary and Minister of Public Utilities. He later resigned his position and his seat in the legislature as a result of being implicated in a controversial land assembly payment. He was re-elected and re-appointed to the Cabinet in 1964. Steinkopf did not run for re-election in 1966. He later served as chair of the Manitoba Centennial Centre Corporation, which established a Maitland Steinkopf Youth Fund in 1972 for students in the arts.
Steinkopf married Helen Katz of Chicago and they had six children. He died suddenly in 1970 of a heart attack.
THE HONOURABLE STANLEY HOWARD KNOWLES (November 1970 - November 1990)
Stanley Knowles (June 18, 1908 - June 9, 1997) graduated from Brandon College in 1930, received his B.Div. from the University of Winnipeg in 1933, and was ordained by the United Church of Canada. Until 1940, he was a minister in Winnipeg churches. He organized public forums and created radio programs on social themes. He spoke for the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation (CCP), becoming its chairman, then provincial secretary, for Manitoba.
In 1942, Knowles was elected to the House of Commons as MP for Winnipeg North Centre. He was an MP from 1942 until 1958, was re-elected in 1962 and served until 1984. Throughout his political career, he struggled for a decent life and income for older people. He was instrumental in amending the industrial relations bill so that legal strikes did not interfere with employee pension rights, eliminating the "means test" from the Old Age Security Act and indexing the Canadian Pension Plan and Civil Security Pensions. He played a major role in creating the New Democratic Party in 1961, presiding over the founding convention. He was the Deputy Leader of that party from 1962-84.
In 1970, Knowles became Chancellor of Brandon University and in 1990, was designated Chancellor emeritus. He became an honorary member of Canada's Privy Council in 1979, and was awarded the Order of Canada in 1984.
THE HONOURABLE JUDGE RONALD D. BELL (1990 - October 1996)
Ronald Dean Bell was born in Deloraine, Manitoba and graduated from Brandon College in 1951. He received his law degree from the University of Manitoba in 1955. Bell worked for several years as a solicotor for the Department of National Revenue, Taxation Division and as a partner in the Calgary law firm Fenerty & Co. He was appointed Queen's Counsel in 1976, and in 1978, he formed Bell Felesky Flynn, a law practice focusing on taxation. In 1991, Bell was appointed Judge of the Tax Court of Canada.
Throughout his distinguised career, Bell has continued to support Brandon University. In addition to his duties as Chancellor, he has also served on various BU boards and worked tirelessly to promote the institution. He also made siginificant financial contributions to improve physical structures, programs and student scholarships, including the establishment of the R.D. Bell Schoalrship and the R.D. Bell String Scholarships. The R.D. Bell Hall in the Queen Elizabeth II music building was named in his honour, as was the Bell Tower atop the orginal Brandon College building, which is now part of Clark Hall. Justice Bell recieved an Honorary Degree from Brandon University at the spring 2006 convocation and is presently Chancellor emeritus.
DR. KEVIN KAVANAGH (November 1996 - October 2002)
Born and raised in Brandon, Kevin Kavanagh graduated from Brandon Collegiate Institute in 1950, and completed his commerce degree at the University of Manitoba in 1953. That same year he joined the Group Insurance Division of the Great-West Life Assurance Company. From 1978-1992, he served as president and CEO of that organization. During his career, Kavanagh has also served on various provincial and national boards, including the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, National Leasing Group, Winnipeg Airports authority, the Conference Board of Canada, the Crown Corporations Council and the Canadian Life and Health Insurance Association Inc. Kavanagh was also a member of the Roblin Commission. In 1996, he was named the fourth Chancellor of Brandon University, and in addition to his duties as Chancellor, he has been involved with the university as a member of the Brandon University Foundation and as a member of the Corporate Challenge Campaign. In September 2006, the courtyard between Clark Hall and the George T. Richardson building was renamed The Kavanagh Courtyard in honour of Kavanagh and his wife in recognition of their vision and leadership with Brandon University and their dedication to the advancement of post-secondary education.
In 1963, Kavanagh married his wife Els, and together they had two children: Jennifer and Sean. At present, (July 2007), Kevin Kavanagh is Chancellor Emeritus of Brandon University.
THE RIGHT HONOURABLE EDWARD R. SCHREYER (November 1, 2002 - present)
Edward Schreyer was born on December 21, 1935 in Beausejour, Manitoba. He studied at United College, St. John's College and the University of Manitoba, receiving a Bachelor of Pedagogy in 1959, a Bachelor of Education in 1962, a Master of Arts in International Relations and a second Master of Arts in Economics in 1963. From 1962 to 1965, Schreyer taught International Relations at St. Paul's College. On June 30, 1960, Schreyer married Lily Schulz. The couple had two daughters, Lisa and Karmel, and two sons, Jason and Tobin.
Schreyer was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba in 1958, as a member of the Manitoba Co-operative Communwealth Federation, representing the rural consituency of Brokenhead. In 1965 he resigned to run successfully for the House of Commons. In 1969, Schreyer returned to provincial politics as leader of the New Democratic Party of Manitoba. He led his party to victory in the 1969 provincial election, and served as Premier of Manitoba from 1969 until 1977.
Schreyer was appointed Governor General in 1979 by Pierre Trudeau. That same year, he was made a Companion of the Order of Canada along with his wife Lily Schreyer. As Governor General, Schreyer championed women's issues, the environment, and official bilingualism. He established the Governor General's Award in Commemoration of the "Persons Case," instituted the Governor General's Conservation Awards (1981), and presided over the first Governor General's Canadian Study Conference. Schreyer retired as Governor General in 1984.
Later in 1984, Schreyer was sworn into the Privy Council and was subsequently appointed Canadian High Commissioner to Australia, Papua New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands, and as ambassador to Vanuatu. He held those positions until 1988. Returning to Manitoba, Schreyer worked as a national representative of Habitat for Humanity. In 2006, he was acclaimed as the NDP candidate in Selkirk-Interlake for the 2006 federal election.
Edward Schreyer became Chancellor of Brandon University in November 2002, and his term was extended in 2005 until October 31, 2008.
HENRY CHAMP (November 1, 2008 - October 31, 2011)
Henry Champ was born in Brandon, Manitoba in 1939. He attended Brandon College in 1957 and 1958.
Scope and Content
At present (July 2007), the series consists of the Stanley Knowles collection (accession 61-1997).
Notes
Administrative information in the History/Bio field was taken from "The Brandon University Act (1998)" at: http://web2.gov.mb.ca/laws/statutes/1998/c04898e.php (December 2005) and from: http://alumni.brandonu.ca/alumniNews/images/BU_Alumni_News05.pdf. Biographical information for Maitland Steinkopf was taken from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maitland_Steinkopf (December 2005). Biographical information for Stanley Knowles was taken from: http://www.mcmaster.ca/ua/alumni/gallery/G129664.htm (December 2005) and from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stanley_Knowles (December 2005). Biographical information for Bell was taken from Brandon University calendars and the spring/summer 2006 issue of Alumni News. Biograpical information for Kavanaugh was taken from Brandon University calendars. Biographical information for Edward Schreyer was taken from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edward_Schreyer (December 2005).
The Board of Governors of Brandon University is a body established by the Brandon University Act (1998), a statute of the Province of Manitoba. The Act vests in the Board the authority for governing Brandon University. The members of the Board of Governors, as trustees, hold the University in trust for the people of the Province of Manitoba. Responsibilities for maintaining this trust include: selection of a president, monitoring his/her performance, providing guidance to the University via its policies, and often delegating authority to the administration.
The Board of Governors is a collective representing the entire community (both internal and external of the University). As a collective, the Board of Governors is responsible for ensuring the financial stability of the institution and for seeing that the overall plans of the institution are consistent with the institution’s philosophy, goals, and financial resources.
Scope and Content
Fonds consists of records generated and collected by the Brandon University Board of Governors in the course of perfoming its functions. The fonds is divided into six sub-series, incuding: (1) Documents; (2) Board Executive; (3) General Board agendas, minutes and packages; (4) Correspondence and subject files; (5) Board of Governors' committees; and (6) Board projects.
Notes
The information in the History/Bio field was taken from the Brandon University webpage (http://www.brandonu.ca/Administration/Governors/) on December 2, 2005.
Access Restriction
All files in the series are restricted. Researchers are required to contact the Executive Secretary to the Board of Governors to obtain written permission to access the records. Contact:
204-727-9714
board@brandonu.ca
The Executive Committee is a standing committee of the Brandon University Board of Governors that meets regularly two weeks prior to the regular Board meeting. Its membership consists of: Chair of the Board of Governors; Vice-Chair of the Board of Governors; President of the University; Secretary of the Board of Governors; Treasurer of the Board of Governors; Student Representative from the Board of Governors; and Senate Representative from the Board of Governors. The Vice-President (Academic and Research) and the Vice-President (Administration and Finace) act as resource persons. Elections for the Executive Committee take place at the Board of Governors' August meeting each year.
Specific responsibilities of the Executive Committee include: setting the agenda for each regular and special meeting of the Board of Governors; reviewing relevant matters coming before the Board of Governors; acting as a consultative body to the President of the University; dealing with matters delegated by the Board of Governors; referring items to appropriate standing committees of the Board of Governors; acting with the full authority of the Board in situations requiring immediate action prior to the next regular meeting of the Board. The Executive Committee also reviews and recommends policies governing university finance and long-range planning. The Executive of the Board reports to the Board of Governors.
Scope and Content
Sub-series consists of records created by the Executive of the Brandon University Board of Governors. It has been divided into three sub sub series: (1) Board Executive Minutes; (2) Board Executive Correspondence; and (3) Board Executive Agendas.
Notes
History/Bio information taken from Board of Governors By-law No. 11 - Committees of the Board of Governors, Section III - Executive Committee (revised November 23, 2006).
Storage Location
RG 6 Brandon University fonds
Series 2: Board of Governors
2.2 Board Executive
For administrative history see RG 6 (Brandon University fonds), series 2 (Board of Governors).
Scope and Content
Sub-series consists of correspondence and various other documents, including: financial information, legal documents, agendas, reference materials, minutes, blueprints, drawings, reports, briefs, recommendations, proposals and newsclippings.
Storage Location
RG 6 Brandon University fonds
Series 2: Board of Governors
2.4 Correspondence and subject files
See RG 6, sub-series 4.1 Vice-President (Academic and Research) and 4.2 Vice-President (Administration and Finance) for history/bio information.
Scope and Content
Series consists of records generated and collected by the Office of the Vice-President in the course of performing its functions. The fonds has been divided into two sub-series, including: (1) Vice-President (Academic and Research); and (2) Vice-President (Administration and Finance).
Notes
A portion (2.3 m) of the records in this series are unprocessed.
VICE-PRESIDENTS (ADMINISTRATION & FINANCE):
D.R. MACKAY (Brandon College 1947-1967; Brandon University 1967-1972)
Donald Ross MacKay was born in Weyburn, Saskatchewan. He came to Brandon College in 1936, and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1939 or 1940. From 1940-1947, MacKay served in the Canadian Army Canada and overseas. In September 1947 he was appointed Registrar-Bursar at Brandon College. During his career he also served as University Comptroller, Public Relations Officer, Director of Development, Secretary to the Board of Governors, Secretary of the Board of Directors, Secretary to Senate and Assistant to the President. He also served on the Brandon College Expansion Committee, the Hales Museum Committee and was the Chairman of the Athletic Directorate. MacKay retired from the University in 1984. After his retirement he served on the Brandon University Foundation Board of Directors. In recognition of his service to the University MaKay was presented with the Alumni Award in 1974 and with the Distinguished Service Award in 1981 for his contributions to society. MacKay's additional community involvement included the Centennial Auditorium Committee, the Brandon Schools Orchestral Band Association, the Planning Committee for First United Church - St. Paul's Church (what became Central United Church), the Manitoba Heart Foundation, the Kiwanis Club, the Wally Byam Caravan Club, Nitecappers and Northview Pools Inc.
MacKay's career at Brandon College and Brandon University was unprecedented in the breadth of administrative responsibility. As a result, records created during his tenure as Comptroller almost certainly also reflect his responsibilites beyond the Comptroller's Office.
Don MacKay died on April 2, 1990. He was predeceased by his first wife Gwen Dobie, with whom he had four children: Joan, Holly, Ross and Jane. He left behind a second wife, Mona.
CARMAN RUST (1973-1976)
Carman Frederick Rust was born in Brandon, Manitoba on August 27, 1935. He graduated from Brandon College in 1949 with an Arts degree. Rust completed his C.A. in Winnipeg in 1964, and from 1964-1969 he worked as an accountant with Donovan, Stone & Co. in Brandon. In 1969 he was hired as Assistant Comptroller under D.R. MacKay at Brandon University. He became Comptroller in 1973 and retired in 1976. Rust served as a Lieutenant in the Canadian Forces Supplementary Reserve and was a past President of both the Kinsmen Club of Brandon and the Brandon Golf & Country Club. He was married and had 3 children. Carman Rust died in Brandon on February 7, 2001.
ROSS EASTLEY (1976-1987)
Ross Eastley graduated from Brandon University in 1969 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. He then articled as a C.A. student with Donovan, Stone and Company, receiving his Chartered Accountant's degree in 1972. Eastley was hired as an Associate Accountant at Brandon University in 1973. He later became Accountant and was Acting Comptroller in 1976; in 1977 he became Comptroller, responsible for the accounting offices and ancillary enterprises. In the years following, Eastley became responsible for other areas such as the computer centre, the physical lant and personnel. After his job expanded in terms of responsibilities his title was changed ffrom Comptroller to Vice-President. Eastley also taught introductory accounting to students participating in Brandon Univeristy's Continuing Education program. He resigned from his position as Vice-President (Administration and Finance) in August 1987 to enter into private practise as a chartered accountant.
During his time at Brandon University, Easltey, along with Terry Mitchell, created TKM Software Limited, a venture that developed library software. In addition to his accounting practice, Eastley continued his work in this area following his departure from Brandon University. Since June 2005, he has held the position of Secretary-Treasurer of the Western School Division in Mordon, MB.
LARRY DAWSON (1987-1996)
Larry Dawson received his B.Sc. and his M.B.A. from the University of Alberta. He obtained a Registered Industrial Accountant certificate from the Society of Management Accountants in Manitoba.
Dawson was appointed Vice-President (Administration and Finance) of Brandon University on November 1, 1987. Prior to that appointment he held the post of Chief Financial Officer for East Kottenay Community College in Cranbrook, B.C. He had also been an instructor at the University of Alberta, Simon Fraser University and the University of Nairobi, Kenya.
He left Brandon University in 1996 to accept the position of Vice-President (Administration and Finance) at Mount Royal College in Calgary. After a brief period in the United Arab Emirates, Larry Dawson returned to Calgary, and at present (January 2006) he and his wife Barb continue to live there.
SCOTT LAMONT (1996-present)
No biographical information yet.
Scope and Content
Sub-series consists of records created and collected by the Office of the Bursar/Comptroller/Vice-President (Administration and Finance). It includes correspondence, financial information, reports, newsclippings, photographs, reference materials, lists, memos, blueprints, newsletters
Notes
A partial inventory for the sub-series exists as a Word document. In the years initally following the change from "Bursar" to "Comptroller" the terms were sometimes used interchangably. All files marked "Personal - D.R. MacKay" have been removed and placed in MG 1 Brandon University Teaching and Administration at 1.7 D.R. MacKay. Biographical information in the History/Bio field was taken from Brandon University calendars (1967-2006) and biographical files located in the McKee Archives. Partial biographical information for Larry Dawson was taken from an article in "The Quill" (September 24, 1987).
RG 6 Brandon University fonds
Series 4: Office of the Vice-President
Arrangement
Where there was no obvious arrangement, the files in the sub-series have been arranged chronologically. Original order was maintained in all other instances.
Series has been divided into five sub-series, including: (1) Faculty of Arts; (2) Faculty of Science; (3) Faculty of Education; (4) School of Music; and (5) School of Health Studies.
Series has been divided into five sub-series, including: (1) Dean of Science; (2) Science Faculty Council; (3) Faculty of Science publications; (4) Department of Psychology; and (5) Department of Biology.
Storage Location
RG 6 Brandon University fonds
Series 7: Faculties and Schools
When the Department of Music was founded in 1906, it offered only conservatory-type instruction under the direction of Abbie Helmer Vining (1906-07). W.L. Wright, after four years' study in Berlin with Leopold Godowsky, took over in 1907 and remained director until 1947. During the 1920s and 1930s, the department attracted students from across Canada to work with Wright, Esther Magdalene Moore, Kathleen Moffat Fairbairn (piano), and Ruth Morgan (voice) towards graduate and post-graduate diplomas. During the Depression and the Second World War, music education at Brandon College declined as a result of financial woes facing the College and the departure of students to the war.
Under directors Peggy A. Sharpe (acting director 1947-48), and Lorne Watson (1948-1981), most instruction was given to elementary and high school students from Brandon. Through the encouragement and support of successive university presidents, the music faculty and university music credit courses were expanded to make possible a music minor within a B.A. or B.Sc. degree. By 1963, the college offered the first B.Mus. program (music education and applied) in Manitoba. In the same year, the Department of Music became the School of Music with two areas of activity: one continuing the conservatory tradition, the other leading to university degrees. Watson continued as director while Sharpe assumed the new position of supervisor of the conservatory. She was succeeded by Watson in 1981.
When Brandon attained university status, the School of Music became a member of the Western Board of Music (WBM), now Conservatory Canada. Later a B.Mus. (general) was added and, in 1980, the M.Mus. (music education and applied). In 1981, Watson was succeeded as director by Gordon Macpherson (1981-87), during whose tenure the position was re-named dean. In 1987 Lawrence Jones became dean. Jones was followed by Patrick Carrabre and Glen Carruthers.
Originally housed in Clark Hall, in 1963 the School of Music moved into a new building, officially opened by Sir Ernest MacMillan, on 28 October 1963. It housed a music library, electronic music studio, classrooms, rehearsal hall and studios. Increased enrolment in the 1970s necessitated the acquisition of three adjacent houses. On 5 October 1984, Queen Elizabeth II opened the present music building, which is named after her.
The school's reputation as a centre of string pedagogy dates from Albert Pratz' appointment to the faculty in 1964 and the engagement of the Halifax Trio (Brandon University Trio) as artists-in-residence in 1966. The Wawanesa Insurance Co. in 1964 established a string scholarship program, which has since been carried on through the Carl and Lyle Sanders Grant and the R.D. Bell String Scholarships. A Suzuki string program was set up in 1977, directed by Alison Ryles (B.Mus. Brandon, 1978) who was followed in 1981 by Gerhard Ginader.
Besides the Brandon University Trio, school ensembles have included the Brandon University Orchestra, Concert Band, Chorale, Jazz Bands and Guitar Ensemble. The Collegium Musicum, formed in 1973 by James Mendenhall, has a collection of replicas of early instruments. The school frequently produces an opera (or musical theatre work) directed by Sylvia Richardson.
Student pursuing a major in music education have founded an active organization known as the Brandon University Student Music Educators' Association (BUSMEA), which is, in effect, a student branch of Manitoba Music Educators Association (MMEA). Annual summer schools enhance the program. In the 1960s, under the direction of Peggy A. Sharpe, recitals and workshops were given by visiting artists. In the 1980s, the emphasis was on graduate courses, including the offering of a Kodaly specialist diploma.
In the conservatory, music for children classes, the Suzuki string program, and classes in the Alexander technique are offered. The conservatory offers courses for gifted students. It also sponsored annual workshops for teachers. Clinicians have included Lawrence Jones, Lorne Watson, Gordon Macpherson, Sydney Young McInnis, Shirley Yip, Elizabeth Grant and Irma Toews.
The School of Music acts as a musical focus for southwestern Manitoba. Beginning in the 1960s, it co-sponsored (with the MMEA) an annual choral/orchestral workshop in January attracting up to 300 music educators and students from Manitoba and beyond. Rehearsals of the Brandon Community Chorus and Community Orchestra take place at the school, as do most events of the Brandon Festival of the Arts. It is also the home of the annual S.C. Eckhardt-Gramatte competition for the Performance of Canadian Music and the annual Brandon Jazz Festival. One reason for such constant activitiy is the excellence of the Queen Elizabeth II Music Building, which includes an advanced electronic studio, rehearsal halls for orchestras, bands and choirs and a 200-seat hall with recording facilities and ideal acoustics. On the occasion of Lorne Watson's 40th anniversary at Brandon that hall was named the Lorne Watson Recital Hall in his honour.
The music school's first graduate (1966) was Jack Spalding. Honourary doctorates in music have been awarded to W.L. Wright (1969), S.C. Eckhardt-Gramatte (1970), Murray Adaskin (1972), Jon Vickers (1976), Kenneth Winters (1989), the Guess Who and Tom Cochrane.
Scope and Content
Series has been divided into three sub-series, including: (1) Dean of Music; (2) Music Faculty Council; and (3) School of Music publications.
Notes
The history/bio note was taken from the Encyclopedia of Music in Canada at http://www.collectionscanada.ca/emc/m17-119.01-e.php?uid=415&uidc=ID (January 2006). The entry was written by Lorne Watson. Peggy A. Sharpe died in 2005.
RG 6 Brandon University fonds
Series 7: Faculties and Schools
Related Material
A file of miscellaneous newspaper clippings etc. assembled by Eileen McFadden for the period 1979-1985, is located in the Institutional Files in the Reading Room.
Sub-series has been divided into four sub sub series, including: (1) Dean of Health Studies; (2) Health Studies Faculty Council; (3) School of Health Studies publications; and (4) School of Psychiatric Nursing (BMHC).
Storage Location
RG 6 Brandon University fonds
Series 7: Faculties and Schools
In 1975, Brandon University in cooperation with the Manitoba Pool Elevators, founded the Rural Resources Centre. The Centre was designed to provide rural Manitoba with resource materials for use in the discussion and analysis of problems related to rural social development. It was given a mandate to collect publications and archival materials related to the history of the Manitoba Pool Elevators, cooperative societies, churches, exhibitions, school districts, and Women’s Institutes.
In September 1978, the University transformed the Rural Resources Centre into the Brandon University Archives. Originally housed in a trailer, from October 1981 to September 1998 the University Archives operated out of the Archives Centre located in the basement of the Jeff Umphrey Building at 20th Street and Victoria Avenue.
In 1990 the University Board of Governor’s renamed the University Archives the S. J. McKee Archives. The S. J. McKee Archives was so established on Saturday, November 19, 1990, to mark the anniversary of the opening of the Brandon Academy by S. J. McKee and his wife Laura McKee one hundred years earlier. In 1899, the Brandon Academy founded by Samuel and Laura McKee became Brandon College.
The S. J. McKee Archives moved to its current location on the mezzanine floor of the John E. Robbins Library in the summer of 1998.
The McKee Archives is the principal repository for records of archival value created by the University or which relate to the history and mandate of Brandon College and Brandon University. The Archives collects records of selected Brandon College and Brandon University faculty and alumni.
The McKee Archives also acquires manuscript collections, which support the research and teaching programs offered at Brandon University. These include archival records related to rural development, education, agriculture, heath studies, First Nations, and the city of Brandon.
UNIVERSITY ARCHIVISTS:
SALLY CUNNINGHAM (1975 - ?)
No biographical information yet.
EILEEN MCFADDEN (1981 - 1997)
See RG 6, series 8, sub-series 1 (University Librarian) for biographical information on Eileen McFadden.
TOM MITCHELL (1997 - present)
See RG 6, series 5 (Registrar's Office) for biographical information on Tom Mitchell.
Scope and Content
The sub-series has been divided into four sub sub series, including: (1) Archives - general files; (2) Archives - budget files; (3) Archives - correspondence files; and (4) Archives - exhibits and displays.
Notes
History/Bio information taken from articles in "The Quill" (September 24, 1981 and November 20, 1990) and the S.J. McKee Archives hompage at http://www.brandonu.ca/library/archives/ (September 2006).
Storage Location
RG 6 Brandon University fonds
Series 8: Library Services
In 1970, the Department of Extension was divided into the Department of Extension (Non-Credit) and the Department of Extension (Credit). In 1974, the two departments were amalgamated into the Department of Extension (Credit and Non-Credit). The department's name was changed again in 1977, when it became the Department of Continuing Education (Credit and Non-Credit).
In 1986, the Office of Continuing Education and Summer Session was renamed the Office of Extension with responsibility for non-credit offerings, distance eduation and off-campus credit courses. From 1999 to the 2001-2003 calendar, Kathleen Matheos, the last Director of Extension, is listed as the Director of the Education Technology Unit. After the 2001-2003 calendar, the Department of Extension became part of Campus Manitoba.
DIRECTORS OF EXTENSION:
R.B. INCH - Extension (1967-1969) and Extension (Non-Credit) (1970-1971)
George Robert Boyer Inch, more commonly known as R.B. Inch, was born in 1903 in Oak Point, New Brunswick. His father, James Nathaniel Inch, was a local shopkeeper and served as town postmaster. James Inch married Phoebe Elizabeth Inch (nee Boyer), a native of Hartland, New Brunswick. While working in Ontario between 1939 and 1939, R.B. Inch met and married Elizabeth Gowling of Ottawa. The couple had two children; a son named George and a daughter named Jeanne. Elizabeth Inch (nee Gowling) passed away in 1956.
R.B. Inch was educated first at Mount Allison Academy in Sackville, New Brunswick. He later went on to study at Mount Allison University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1924. After graduating, Inch traveled to western Canada looking for employment in his chosen field of journalism. From 1924-1926 Inch was unable to find a job in the newspapers so he subsisted by teaching classes at Mount Royal College in Calgary and attending lessons at the Calgary Normal School. In June 1926, the Calgary Herald, then known as the Calgary Albertan, hired Inch as a regular journalist. He stayed in that position in Calgary for two years. Inch later accepted a job with the Winnipeg Free Press, where he worked from 1928-1929.
In 1929, Inch accepted a position with the National Research Council in Ottawa as Secretary to the President and information officer. Between 1929 and 1933 he also volunteered as editor of the magazine "Interdependence," the official publication of the League of Nations Society in Canada. In 1935, Inch resigned his post at the National Research Council to become the National Secretary of the League of Nations Society in Canada. There he served until the collapse of the League at the outbreak of World War II in 1939.
In 1942, Inch was commissioned by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) to prepare a series of programs entitled "Of Things to Come - Inquiry on the Post-War World." In 1943, Inch joined the Royal Canadian Army Service Corps, but never saw action in Europe. After the war, Inch was hired by his alma mater, Mount Allison University, to serve as Director of Alumni and Public Relations. He remained in Sackville from July 1945 through to 1967. In July 1967, Inch was hired by Brandon University as the Director of Extension and as a political science lecturer.
After retiring in 1972, Inch was active in the formation of the Canadian branch of Amnesty International. He would later become National Director Emeritus of the organization.
R.B. Inch died in Brandon, Manitoba on January 7, 1983.
H.S. PERDUE - Extension (Credit) (1970-1971)
Dr. Henry Stewart Perdue was born in 1904 near Souris, Manitoba. He graduated from Souris Collegiate in 1920. After working several odd jobs, Perdue entered Brandon College in 1924. He graduated with his B.A. in 1928. After graduation, Perdue was hired as a teacher in the Academic Department. He received his M.A. in 1930, and went on to receive his Ph.D. in Geology from the University of Chicago. In 1930, Perdue became the Director of the Matriculation Department, as well as an Instructor in Geology. In 1931, he took over the position of Resident Master. In 1937, he married Ella May Higgens, who was the Resident Nurse. From 1938 until 1948, Perdue acted as Registrar of Brandon College.
In 1947, Perdue accepted the position on College Dean. This position ran until 1952, when it was changed to the position of Dean of Arts and Science. Perdue also held this position until 1962, when the office separated into the Dean of Arts and the Dean of Science. Perdue continued in the position of Dean of Science until 1967. After Dr. Evans' death in July of 1959, Perdue became acting President. He held this position from August 1959 until August 1960, when Dr. Robbins was appointed President. Perdue held the position of Director of Extension (Credit) from 1970-1971. He retired from teaching Geology in 1973. Dr. Perdue died on December 22, 1979 at the age of 75.
EVAN H. PEPPER - Extension (Credit) (1972-1974)
Evan H. Pepper was born in Windsor, Ontario. He received his BSc in Biology and Chemistry from the University of Detroit and his MSc and PhD from Michigan State University in the same fields. Pepper also attended the Henry Ford Trade School, the United States Brewer's Academy (Brewing Technology) and the Ryerson Institute (Instrictional Technology). In 1945-1946 he served in the U.S. Merchant Marine, and from 1954-1956, in the U.S. Army.
From 1960-1962, Pepper was a technical coordinator for Ladish Malting Co. He began his academic career in 1962 as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Plant Pathology at North Dakota State University, leaving that position in 1967. From 1967-1988, he was an Associate Professor, and later a Professor (1971-1988) in the Department of Botany at Brandon University.
While at Brandon University, Pepper served on the Brandon University Senate, the Senate Executive Committee, the Extension Committee, the University Act Committee and the Senate By-Laws Revision Committee. He was also assigned as a liaison to Inter-Universities North (IUN) and helped to design the RN/RPN program (1970). Pepper's administrative duties included Director of Credit Extension, Director and designer of the FOCUS program and Chair of the Botany Department. In addition, he also taught, designed and developed several courses for the Biology and Botany Departments at Brandon University.
Evan Pepper retired in 1988. He died on March 27, 2013.
R. BRUCE MCFARLANE - Extension (Non-Credit) (1972-1973); Extension (Credit and Non-Credit) (1974-1976); Continuing Education (Credit and Non-Credit) (1977-1986); and Extension - acting (1990)
No biographical information yet.
B. WESTFALL - Extension (1987-1989)
Beth Westfall was born in Birmingham, England. Her undergraduate degree in European Studies was obtained from the University of Sussex; she recieved her Master's Degree in German from the University of British Columbia and her Ed.D. in adult education from Nova University.
Westfall came to Brandon University in January 1987, as the Director of Extension. Prior to that time she a director on a regional campus on the College of New Caledonia in British Columbia. She also had extensive experience in teaching basic adult education and English as a second language, and in facilitating women's support groups and communication skills workshops.
In September 1989, Westfall became Brandon University's Dean of Student Services. See RG 6, series 12 (Student Services) for additional biographical information.
K. MATHEOS (1990 - 1997/1998)
Kathleen Matheos was appointed Director of the Office of Extension for a five year term effective September 1, 1990. Prior to coming to Brandon University, she was the Agricultural Distance Education Coordinator/Community Programs Division at Assiniboine Community College. In 1999, Matheos' title was changed to Director of the Education Technology Unit and ca. 2003 the Office of Extension was absorbed into Campus Manitoba. Matheos left Brandon University some time thereafter, and currently (January 2006) works for the Department of Extension at the University of Saskatchewan.
Scope and Content
The series is divided into four sub series, including: (1) General files; (2) FOCUS; (3) Brandon University Art Exhibition Committee; and (4) Publications.
Notes
History/Bio information was taken from Brandon University calendars and an article in "The Quill" (January 9, 1986). Biographical information on R.B. Inch was taken from the finding aid for the R.B. Inch collection written by Matthew Palmer (2003). Biographical information on H.S. Perdue was taken from the "Brandon College finding aid" prepared by Karyn Riedel for McKee Archives in 1998. Biographical information for Evan H. Pepper was taken from his resume (given to the Archives in 2006). History/Bio information for Kathleen Matheos was taken from Campus News - July/August 1990.
Storage Location
RG 6 Brandon University fonds
Related Material
Additional material on R.B. Inch is located in MG 3 1.8 R.B. Inch collection.
Pierian Spring was intended to be a literary quarterly publishing poetry, short stories, creative prose and art work. Submissions were accepted from anyone anywhere on any theme and in any style. The name Pierian Spring was originally suggested by Mr. John Moyle, a former English teacher at Harrison High School, Brandon. The Pierian spring in Thrace was the home of the Muses, daughters of Zeus and Titaness Mnemosyne (Memory). The quarterly was published by Brandon University Press.
Scope and Content
Pierian Spring (Winter 1976) Volume One, Number One contains poetry, short stories, creative prose and art work by various contributors.
The high biodiversity and evidence of pre-Europeon contact prompted the decision to test the Crepeele locale. The survey was named in recognition of the Casselman family, the original landowners.
Archaeological testing began in the Crepeele locale in May 2003 on property now owned by the Crepeele family. The locale covers over 6 sections or approximately 3,800 acres of land in an area of stabilized sand dunes and wetlands covered with mixed forest and prairie grass. Given the terrain, the size of the crew and time constrains, an area of approximately 60 acres was chosen for the survey. The survey used the established archaeological methodology of walking the selected area and using a shovel test surveyed grid. The use of GIS technology to locate the exact test spot and record the information into a GIS database was a significant advance and was one of the advantages of the integration of multi-disciplinary techniques encouraged by the SCAPE project. Over one half of the test pits resulted in the recovery of cultural materials. The results of the Casselman survey indicated several areas for further examination including areas that became the Crepeele, Sarah and Graham sites.
Scope and Content
Sub sub series has been divided into five sub sub sub series including: (1) Summary information; (2) Field journals; (3) Site records; (4) Artifact catalogues; and (5) Photographs.
Robert (Bob) Troy Blair was born on March 11, 1930 in Brandon, MB. His first six years were spent in Alexander, MB, where his father and uncle operated a grocery store. In 1936, his family moved to Souris, MB, where his father ran a grocery store. Blair received his primary and high school education, with the exception of Grade 12, in Souris.
Blair remembers his school years in Souris as mainly happy years. He was involved with both piano and organ music lessons. he was never interested in physical sports with the exception of golf. World War II broke out in September of 1939. Souris became the site of #17 SFTS and home base for the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan. Many of the service men came from England, Australia and New Zealand. Blair's mother always entertained at least two for dinner every Sunday. Rationing of sugar, tea and coffee, butter and meat became a way of life. Blair had the job every Saturday of pasting the ration coupons into booklets. It was also when he was in Grade 6, that Blair realized he was more attracted to boys than to girls. Perhaps it was because so many attractive airmen surrounded him!
In November of 1947, the Blair family relocated to Alexander where Bob Blair finished his Grade 11. This was not a good year due to bullying. In September of 1948, Blair moved to Winnipeg to attend United College for his Grade 12. Upon completion of Grade 12, Blair remained in Winnipeg until June 1950. he worked at a number of businesses - Gestetner, Eaton's Mail Order shoe department, Maple Leaf Milling, and the drug store in the Medical Arts Building. In September 1950, he entered Brandon College. Blair was very active in extra-curricular affairs while at Brandon College; particularly drama. Following his B.A. he enrolled in the Education Faculty, having decided to become a teacher.
Blair's teaching career spanned 34 years. All but one year was spent in the Brandon School Division. On his first day of teaching in the Division he met the man with whom he would spend the next 46 years. He was primarily a teacher of English and Music. A highlight of his career was exchange teaching in Sacramento, California in 1961. Orientation for exchange took place in August in Washington, D.C., where Blair had the opportunity to meet President J.F. Kennedy. He vividly recals the morning that JFK was assassinated on November 22, 1963. In September 1965, Blair assumed the principalship of Park School and in September of 1969, the same position at George Fitton School where re remained until his retirement in 1989. He was a member of the Brandon Picnipals' Association, the National Association of Elementary School Principals, and servedas President of the Brandon Teachers' Association. Among his major accomplishments during his time as principal were the introduction of a centralized school library in both Park and George Fitton Schools and the integration of special needs students into regular classroom situations wherever possible. He was made a Life Member of the Manitoba Teachers' Society (Brandon) in June 1990. Following his retirement Blair worked as a Library Automation Consultant (1989-1993).
Blair also had numerous community involvements during his time in Brandon. he was active in the Brandon Little Theatre (Best Actor Award, Manitoba Drama Festival for One Act Plays in 1963), the Brandon Festival of the Arts, the Eckhardt-Gramatte National Music Competition, and Arm Industries to name a few.
Following the death of his partner in 2001, Blair moved to Saskatoon to live with a younger gay couple. He has been active in volunteerism: as an Ambassador for the Saskatoon Airport Authority, assistant with the Saskatoon Health Region's Immunization Clinics, information clerk for the Festival of Trees, data entry clerk for the Saskatoon Music Festival, on the Board of the Saskatoon Jazz Society, and Hospitality Coordinator for the Saskatoon Jazz Festival.
Robert Troy Blair died on July 2, 2024 in Saskatoon, SK. He is buried in Brandon, MB.
Custodial History
Records were in Blair's possession until he donated them to the Mckee Archives on Homecoming weekend October 2013.
Scope and Content
Fonds consists of two scrapbooks containing 145 photographs and ephemera (play and graduation programs, tickets, pins, newspaper clippings) documenting Bob Blair's days at Brandon College. Social events and extra-curricular activities are heavily featured in the two scrapbooks. Also included are graduation portraits for the Classes of 1951, 1952 and 1953. Of the 145 photographs all are black and white except for two photos of the Class of '53 reconvocation (May 1993), and one from the Class of '53 reunion (2003).
Block C was situated in sparse oak forest with an understory of saskatoon, hazelnut and a thick ground cover of poison ivy and sarsaparilla. The block measured 3m and 3m and contained nine excavation units. All units were excavated to 35cm below surface. The soil horizons were much like the other blocks, except for a rusty brown stain in the first level, giving the upper black loam a mottled appearance. The brown patches were clay mixed with loam and were harder than the surrounding matrix. No definitive interpretation of these phenomena was attempted but this effect may be the result of natural brush or forest fires. Under the 5cm so d/humus (Ah) layer, the loam horizon extended approximately 5cm – 25 cm below surface, and averaged 20 cm thick. Bone was concentrated within this horizon between 10 cm – 20 cm below surface.
Block C was notable for its concentrations of articulated bison bone. Most noteworthy was an articulated unit composed of lumbar vertebrae, pelvis, and sacrum. Several thoracic vertebra/proximal rib end concentrations were also recovered. There were more vertebrae and rib sections recovered in the units in proportion to other bones. A few sherds, some debitage and a single Prairie Side-Notched point fragment were among the recoveries. Based on the quantity of bone, the density of the bone layer, and the articulated butchering units the area has been interpreted as a bone midden.
Faunal material was analysed by Jessica MacKenzie for her Honours Thesis: "A reconstruction of butchering processes in Block C from the Lovstrom site DjLx-1 in Southwestern Manitoba."
Radiocarbon date: 850/115BP XU 79.
Scope and Content
Sub-sub-sub series contains: Summary information of field methology, number and co-ordinates of excavations, personnel and their staff position; Field journals are daily records of recoveries, features and activities at the site; Site records include excavation level and unit summaries, feature sheets, profiles; sample records and maps; Artifact catalogues are lists and identifications of all artifacts recovered; Photographs are of excavation units, features, the landscape and personnel.
Block D was wooded with oak and an understory of saskatoon and hazelnut with a thick ground cover of poison ivy and sarsaparilla. Root and rodent disturbance was extensive.
Based on the recoveries from Test Unit 22 during the survey, further excavations were carried out. Two units 87 and 93 were excavated in 1987. A further four units were excavated in 1988. There appears to be a pre contact occupation and a protohistoric feature within the block.
Diagnostic lithics included a chert Plains Side-notch projectile point, and a large Woodland side-notched point. The lithic materials from Block D are primarily local cherts followed in abundance by Knife River Flint and Tongue River Silicified Sediment – both of which are exotics imported from the southwest. Faunal remains were primarily bison.
Thin-walled obliterated fabric impressed pottery with grit temper was recovered in all units. Diagnostic ceramics included two rims, one with a fabric impressed exterior and the lip notched with dowel impressions, and a second thick walled rim was fabric impressed to the lip. The ceramic wares appear to be essentially a Woodland complex with overtones of Plains influence.
RC date: 230/90 BP.
Scope and Content
Sub-series has been divided into sub sub series including: Lovstrom Block D 1987 and Lovstrom Block D 1988.
Flintstone Hill is located on the north bank of the Souris River. It is a deeply stratified lacustrine, fluvial and aeolian soil profile that has been exposed by the river through stream-bank erosion. This section is thought to be the most complete middle to late Holocene exposure on the northeastern plains. While the value of the site is primarily for paleo-environmental research and reconstruction, cultural deposits have been identified at the site. Local collectors have picked up lithic materials as they eroded out of the bank for the past several decades and it was they who had named the site. Mr. Bruce Timms from Lauder first drew the Flintstone Hill site to the attention of Dr. Nicholson of Brandon University.
During the mid 1990’s to the early 2000’s archaeological testing took place on Flintstone Hill. In 1998, an archaeological field crew dug a series of overlapping trenches down the slope of the profile and produced a schematic drawing. A peat layer at the bottom of this profile, dated from the top at 9,400 RCY and at the bottom to 10,400 RCY, has provided details of marsh plant and insect communities at this time.
Subsequent archaeological investigations at the site recovered several cultural deposits including: a hearth dating to 3250+/-70 R.C.Y. (BETA 109529); a butchered atlas bone 4090+/-70 R.C.Y. (BETA 109990); and bone fragments accompanied by Swan River Chert and Knife River Flint lithic flakes 5350+/-50 (BETA 109530). While no diagnostic tools were recovered, these dates suggest that this occupation, which is contemporary with the Atkinson site, may be a Gowen occupation.
Extensive paleo-environmental research has been conducted at the site. Dr. Running, a geomorphologist from the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire, participated in the Study of Cultural Adaptations in the Prairie Ecozone (SCAPE) Project and he and his students tested the site for several years. He was joined in this effort by Dr. Havholm, Dr. Boyd, Dr. Wiseman, Dr. Beaudoin, and other SCAPE researchers in the interpretation of the paleo-environment of the Glacial Lake Hind basin. The following article is recommended reading.
Running, Garry L., Karen G. Havholm, Matt Boyd and Dion J. Wiseman
2002 Holocene Stratigraphy and Geomorphology of Flintstone Hill, Lauder Sandhills, Glacial Lake Hind Basin, Southwestern Manitoba. Geographie Physique et Quaternaire
56(2-3):291-303.
Scope and Content
Sub series has been divided into two sub sub series including: (1) Flintstone Hill 1997 (2) Flintstone Hill 1998-2000
The Lovstrom locale first came to the attention of Dr. Nicholson through conversations with landowners Mr. and Mrs. Herb Lovstrom in 1985. Lovstrom is a multi-component archaeological locale located 25km south of Brandon overlooking the Souris River channel. The landowner’s surface collection and the presence of bone and artifacts in a cultivated field indicated the presence of one or more sites.
Limited testing was conducted in 1985 and 1986, followed by major excavations in 1987, 1988 and 1991. Eight sites of block excavations with a total of 132 1m2 excavation units were completed. The locale area extends approximately 500m north from the edge of the Souris Valley escarpment and over 200m east from the Jock’s Creek escarpment.
Physical and biological environment As has been noted above, the locale is bounded on the south by the Souris channel and on the west by the incised channel of Jock’s Creek and a till plain extends to the north and the east. This plain is characterized by buff colored glacial till with numerous rocks embedded in the surface. Surrounding these rocky knolls are dark-soil hollows where the various cultural occupations are found. The depth of the topsoil layer suggests a long term grassland cover with the present oak forest likely developing in historic times due to the elimination of bison grazing and the controlling of prairie fires in late historic times. A small cleared patch of farmland is found within the boundaries of the locale area. This area has provided a substantial surface collection of artifacts.
Present vegetation in the area is a mosaic of aspen/oak forest groves and mesic grass prairie that includes introduced species such as brome grass. In poorly drained areas, willow and red osier dogwood are present. The Lovstrom locale is found in a forested area dominated by oak with an under story of saskatoon, chokecherry, pin cherry, and hazelnut brush. Poison ivy is abundant as well as sarsaparilla.
The major faunal resources in Precontact times would have been bison, with elk and mule deer playing a minor role. Antelope may have been present also. Small animals included snowshoe hare, cottontails, porcupines and beaver. Canids, including wolf, coyote, fox and domesticated dog were present, as well as mustelids such as badger, mink, and weasel. Fragments from a fisher were also recovered in the excavations.
Summation.
The Lovstrom locale has eight sites. The sites were designated and excavated as Blocks A, B, C, D, E, F, G and H. Many of the sites are multi-occupations.
The Vickers materials are primarily confined to Blocks D, E, F, G and H. Vickers Focus materials overlie Blackduck/Duck Bay materials. Blackduck and Duck Bay materials are found in the lower levels of all excavation blocks and in most test units. The Vickers occupations at the Lovstrom locale, based upon ceramic wares and an overlapping of C14 dates, appear to have been contemporary with the Lowton type site to the east, near Belmont. A small protohistoric occupation was identified overlying part of Block D. Faunal remains are abundant with bison clearly dominating the assemblages. Lesser amounts of canid are present as well as small mammals including beaver, hare and mustelids. Small amounts of avian species are also present.
Publications
Nicholson, B.A.
2011 The Role of Pocket Gophers (Thomomys talpoides) in Restructuring Stratigraphic Relationships at the Lovstrom Site. Canadian Journal of Archaeology 35:323-331.
Nicholson, Bev, Scott Hamilton, Matthew Boyd and Sylvia Nicholson
2008 A Late Plains Woodland Adaptive Strategy in the Northern Parklands: the Vickers Focus Forager-Horticulturists. Invited Paper for Papers in Northeastern Plains Prehistory, eds. Michael G. Michlovic and Dennis L. Toom, North Dakota Journal of Archaeology Vol. 8:19-34.
Nicholson, Bev and Scott Hamilton
2001 Cultural Continuity and Changing Subsistence Strategies During the Late Precontact Period in Southwestern Manitoba. Canadian Journal of Archaeology 25:53-73.
Nicholson, Bev
1996 Plains Woodland Influx and the Blackduck Exodus in South-Western Manitoba During the Late Precontact Period. Manitoba Archaeological Journal 6(1):69-85.
Nicholson, Bev and Mary Malainey
1991 Report on the 1991 Field School Excavations at the Lovstrom Site (DjLx-1), Southwestern Manitoba. Manitoba Archaeological Journal 1(2): 51-93.
Nicholson, Bev and Jane Gibson
1990-91 Lovstrom Site Field Report, 1987 Excavations. Saskatchewan Archaeology 11&12:46-68.
Nicholson, Bev and Ian Kuiijt
1990 Field Report and Interpretations of the 1988 Archaeological Excavations at the Lovstrom Site (DjLx-1) in Southwestern Manitoba. North Dakota Journal of Archaeology 4:166-205.
Nicholson, Bev
1990 Ceramic Affiliations and the Case for Incipient Horticulture in Southwestern Manitoba. Canadian Journal of Archaeology 14:33-60.
Nicholson, Bev
1986 The Lovstrom Site: Culture Contact in Prehistory. Manitoba Archaeological Quarterly 10(1):35-71.
Scope and Content
The Series has been divided into nine sub-series, including (1) Survey (2) Block A; (3) Block B (4) Block C; (5) Block D; (6) Block E; (7) Block F; (8) Block G; (9) Block H