Please join the Ontario Historical Society on September 29, 2025 for a talk by the editors of a new book titled, Behind the Bricks: The Life and Times of the Mohawk Institute, about the history of Canada’s oldest and longest running residential school located in Brantford. The school was a model for the larger residential school system in Canada, and learning about its history helps us work towards reconciliation. September 30th is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, so join them to learn more about this important part of Canada’s history. Co-editors Rick Hill and Alison Norman will discuss the unique project which brought together community and academic historians and resulted in an important new book.
The launch will be held at the OHS headquarters, the historic John McKenzie House. 34 Parkview Avenue, Willowdale, M2N 3Y2
7:00 PM, Doors Open
7:30 PM, Presentation and Q&A by two of the book’s editors, Rick Hill and Alison Norman. For those not able to join in person, you will be able to sign up and listen to the presentation on Zoom by clicking here.
8:15 PM, Light Refreshments, and a chance to buy a signed copy of Behind the Bricks. Proceeds from the sale will go towards supporting the Woodland Cultural Centre.
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Rick Hill is a Tuscarora of the Beaver Clan, and is a community-based historian at the Six Nations of Grand River. He is also an artist, writer, and curator. Rick has worked for many years on exhibits for the Woodland Cultural Centre. He is the founder of the Mohawk Institute Research Group.
Alison Norman is a historian working for the federal government, at Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada. She is also a graduate faculty member at Trent University. She is a founding member of the Mohawk Institute Research Group. Alison is a former board member of the Ontario Historical Society, and the current book review editor for Ontario History.
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While an RSVP is not required to attend this event, please let OHS know if you do plan to join in-person or on Zoom by emailing their office at ohs@ontariohistoricalsociety.ca
