Fall Lecture Series - The Meaford Tank Range Story *Virtual Talk - Online Only*

View the Meaford Tank Range Story below, or on our YouTube page.

In the darkest days of World War II, when the Allies suffered loss after loss, the Canadian government hatched a desperate plan to turn the tide. Realizing that our troops needed better training to face the battles ahead on the European continent, they turned their hopes to a small corner of St. Vincent Township. Faced with the very real possibility that the Allies could lose the war, the government was determined to acquire the land as quickly and inexpensively as possible. This was not empty terrain though. Farmers, sawyers and fishermen had settled there a hundred years before and their descendants continued to ply their trades on the high plains, the lakes and shoreline and the deep forests of the area. The families were patriotic but expected the government to treat them fairly and with respect. The brewing conflict brought home the war’s urgency, fear and patriotism to Grey County, and formed a legacy not only in St. Vincent Township but in other communities throughout the region.

This talk is presented by Grey Roots' own Stephanie McMullen. Stephanie has enjoyed a varied career at the museum, beginning back in 1999. After earning an MA in history from the University of Calgary, Stephanie worked at the Centre d’Interprétation de la Côte de Beaupré, the Mackenzie King Estate and the Canadian Museum of Civilization before arriving at the County of Grey-Owen Sound Museum.

Over the years, Stephanie has worked in historic site interpretation, education programs, program development, exhibit writing and development, promotions, memberships and grant writing. Currently, Stephanie acts as Grey Roots’ Community Historian, providing research and support for exhibits and programs. An exciting part of her work involves supporting under-represented communities and facilitating their inclusion at every level of development and presentation.

This presentation is part of our 2023 Fall Lecture Series taking place on Tuesday afternoons in November. Tuesday, November 7 and Tuesday, November 14 talks take place at 1:00 p.m. in the Grey Roots Theatre. Complimentary refreshments following these talks. Free with admission. Members free as always.

Tuesday, November 21 and Tuesday, November 28 talks are virtual (online only). These talks are free, but if they are something you enjoy, please consider becoming a Grey Roots member. Your interest and support is sincerely appreciated.

Pictured: Open Sunday at Tank Range, 1943 PF212S1F2I27