Here is a full run-down of the speakers/virtual tours at the BCHF virtual conference.
ADVENTURES IN DIGITAL HISTORY, Kyle Jackson // June 3, 9 a.m.
How can historians use new digital tools to enliven and deepen our study of the past? In this talk, Dr. Kyle Jackson will introduce the field of digital history on a global scale, as well as several local experiments underway at Kwantlen Polytechnic University and the City of Surrey Archives. Students Emily Deasy, Lucas Akai and David Piraquive will share their experiences as authors of a smartphone app tour comparing the Spanish Flu and COVID-19 pandemics in the Lower Mainland.
MEET Poet Renée Sarojini Saklikar // June 3, 11 a.m.
As a poet and a writer she’s explored history (Children of Air India, un/authorized exhibit and interjections); science and poetry (Listening to the Bees); and forthcoming this spring, Book One of her epic fantasy in verse, Bramah and the Beggar Boy, that deals with history, science, bees, among other subjects. Renée, who was Surrey’s Poet Laureate 2015-18, will speak to her work in these areas.
HISTORY OF SURREY’S FRANCOPHONE COMMUNITY with Maurice Guibord // June 4, 9 a.m.
Maurice will engage you with his presentation which incorporates his research on the Francophone heritage of Surrey.
TRADITIONAL BOAT BUILDING with Patrick Calihou // June 4, 7 p.m.
MĂ©tis artisan Pat Calihou introduces you to his heritage by way of a 40 foot traditional bateau he built last year at Fort Langley National Historic Site.
RCMP HISTORY with Baltej Dhillon // June 4, 11 a.m.
Hear Baltej Dhillon’s story from his first assignment in a small rural community to a long association with the RCMP and most recently the province’s task force on gang violence.
SURREY CEMETERY TOURÂ with Sue Bryant // June 3, 7 p.m.
Surrey Centre Cemetery sits on the top of the hill above Mud Bay, overlooking farm land and the surrounding area as it has done for the last 135 years. Join us to hear its stories.
PEACE ARCH TOUR with Barb Hynek // June 3, 2 p.m.
As the Peace Arch celebrates its 100th anniversary, this tour will also highlight its history and many events and celebrations that have happened here.
ELECTRIC RAILWAY TOUR with the Fraser Valley Heritage Railway Society // June 4, 2 p.m.
Ride the rails… virtually! The Fraser Valley Heritage Railway takes you on a ride back in time.
For more details, see https://www.bchistory.ca/conference/
