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25 · OAKVILLE BEAVER Friday, September 11, 2009 History leaves impression on student By Kevin Liu APPLEBY COLLEGE, SENIOR 1 ith all the fervor caused by the new hit movie Time Traveler's Wife, it is understandable that time travel would be the newest infatuation on the ever-evolving minds of the average Oakville citizen. Time travel has forever been measured as impossible and simply a mere component of unlikely science fiction novels. However, I am writing to let you in on Oakville's best kept secret, an opportunity to travel through time. I am referring to the Thomas House Museum, where I work each Sunday as a tour guide for the Oakville Historical Society. As a history enthusiast, this opportunity is one I will never forget. Each time I step through the wood-planked doors of the breathtaking 19th century farmhouse, I am transported back in time to the Canadian pioneer period. The Thomas House is a small, white house with an unremarkable composition. The thing that separates it from other houses is that it is the exact diminutive white house that stood 180 years ago. Merrick Thomas built this farmhouse in 1829. He was a prominent businessman, William Chisholm's (the founder of Oakville) brother-inlaw and an important planner for the Village of Oakville. W The cabin is furnished with stunning antique artifacts, implementing the exact lifestyle brought to the area by Oakville's earliest settlers. Everything ranging from the grand stone fireplace to the old rope bed gives a wonderfully intricate insight into pioneer life. When I was 10, I sat down in my first history class as a completely uninterested 10 year old. However, as I listened to my teacher, I felt a sense of wonder not possibly applicable to any other academic area. History gives the mind endless possibilities to imagine, dream and marvel. As a member of the Oakville Historical Society, those possibilities are boundless. Each person I have worked with has an unparalleled passion for historical studies and what seems like all the time in the world to discuss it with an interested teenager. With the support and guidance of mentors at the society, I will have the opportunity to publish my first book (a historical non-fiction on pioneer history, of course) this fall. Furthermore, with my historical background at the Oakville Historical Society, I was able to found the first international historical organization for teens, known as History Now. Most people are exhilarated by glittery jewels and shiny objects while, admittedly, I am the exact opposite. I am most eager when explaining the usage of an old and rusted 1850s apple peeler or the correct way to grind grain with a flour sifter. The Oakville Historical Society has been a wonderful resource that has made those opportunities possible. Whether it is the brilliant people or awe-inspiring relics, I am able credit Oakville Historical Society with one of the most memorable aspects of high school life. More information about the Thomas House Museum can be viewed at www.oakvillehistory.org. You can also visit www.historynow.ca. Volunteer drivers sought The Canadian Cancer Society, Oakville needs volunteer drivers. The CCS needs drivers from Oakville to take patients to Hamilton's Juravinski Cancer Centre, Princess Margaret and other Toronto hospitals, and Credit Valley Hospital for treatment. A typical shift is about four hours a week, and it is looking for drivers to drive during the week (Monday to Friday). Anyone with a car and some spare time, could help provide transportation to those who need it. For information, contact 905-845-5231, ext. 3136 or email sbass@ontario.cancer.ca. BERTIN STABLES Fall and Winter Lessons and Christmas Camps Now Booking · Weekday Lessons 4/$120 or $35/Lesson · Saturday at Farm 10am-2pm - $40 (Children 5-12 yrs.) www.bertinstables.com (905) 827-4678 www.bertinstables.com