Bessie Dawson Simmons (nee Madill) was born on June 18, 1907 in Minto, MB. Bessie taught at Lakelet School from 1926-1929. She married Ernest Simmons (1903-1976) in 1929. The couple had three sons: Bill, Jim and Don. In the early years of their marriage the family lived in Minnedosa, before the Depression prompted a move to Bethany, NW 2-16-17. Bessie was recognized for her musical talent. She played the church organ for 28 years and played the piano for many concerts and gatherings. She was active in the ACW, was a lifetime member of the Ladies Orange Benevolent Association and worked tirelessly for her community. She was also recognized a a resident historian on local history affairs for Bethany and district. Bessie Simmons died on January 31, 1995. She is buried at Boyd Cemetery.
Custodial History
As part of the Westman Oral History Collection, this collection was accessioned by the McKee Archives in 1998. The original tapes from the Westman Oral History project were deposited in the Brandon Public Library. Copies of these originals were made by Margaret Pollex of the Brandon University Language Lab at the request of Eileen McFadden, University Archivist in the early 1990s. These copies compose the collection held in the McKee Archives.
Scope and Content
Item is an audiocassette tape containing an interview with Bessie Simmons about pioneer settlement in the Murchison district. Interviewer is Mae Johnson.
Notes
History/bio information from the records, the Bethany and District local history "Our story a legacy" and Simmons' obituary. Description by Christy Henry.
Language Note
English
Audio Tracks
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