London and Middlesex Branch – “How Genealogy informs Local History – and Vice Versa”

A bit about our Speaker:

Lorraine Tinsley is a London historian and writer. Growing up in nearby Petersville and attending Empress Public School in the 1960s, she shares many fond reminiscences with Oxford Park residents who were school children at the same time. Lorraine holds a Masters in Public History from Western University, an MPA from Carleton University, and a Certificate in Sustainable Business Management from Seneca College. She is the author of The Uncrowned King & the Desert Queen: T.E. Lawrence and Gertrude Bell—A Friendship (2023). Her most recent book is titled, Here Before Us: A Neighbourhood History of Oxford Park (Oxford Park Community Association and Aylmer Express Ltd – July 2024)

Synopsis:

Lorraine will be discussing her most recent book, titled, Here Before Us: A Neighbourhood History of Oxford Park (Oxford Park Community Association and Aylmer Express Ltd – July 2024)

The book details the vibrant history of West London and London Township at the Forks of the Thames, from early Indigenous settlement through European immigration and Black settlers, to the post-WWII Baby Boom. The neighbourhoods and residents of Oxford Park, Kensington, Blackfriars and Petersville featured in this new history tell the vivid story of one of our city’s oldest areas.

Highlights include stories and photos of the colourful and resourceful early families, like that of the Cundick/Curnoe family and their fascinating home “The Maples”; as well as H.R.K.(Harry) Tozer, who established roots in the area in the 1880s and built many of its houses; Black freedom seekers like John Holmes—Oxford Park’s first settler in 1844; land and real estate wheelers and dealers in the late 19th century who laid out adjoining subdivisions of Kensington Heights (1884) and Oxford Park (1901); a little-known summer tent revival church camp in the roaring ’20s, on whose site London Muslim Mosque now offers cultural and social services; wartime service and sacrifice at home and abroad; as well as the catastrophic gas explosions in 1973 that rallied community resilience.

Drawn from a wide range of valuable historical resources and the recollections of many long-time and former residents, this engaging new book will appeal to Londoners new and old. 

This is a hybrid meeting, so you may attend in person, or virtually – your choice. Registration is required for those planning to attend virtually. Attendance is free and open to all.

Link to register (virtual): https://bit.ly/LMOA-Sep2025

Once registered, a confirmation email will be sent with the meeting details.