10 Friday, December 6, 2024brooklintowncrier.com Who was the bank manager responsible for helping to shape much of the financial life of Brooklin? His name was Charles Samuel (C.S.) Thompson, bank manager of the CIBC in the building at the northeast corner of Roebuck and Baldwin Streets. His legacy continues to resonate with longtime residents. Thompson began his banking career in August, 1905, with the Western Bank in Sunderland. After serving in Toronto and relieving managers in rural branches, he was appointed manager of the Standard Bank in Brooklin in November of 1921. The bank experienced a run on its Oshawa branch in 1924, sparked by rumours about its financial stability. As many Brooklin residents worked in Oshawa or banked with the Standard Bank, the panic quickly spread to the local branch, prompting residents to withdraw their savings. This contributed to the merger of the Standard Bank with the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce in 1928, ensuring greater security for its customers. The new brick building In the year of amalgamation, the Standard Bank initiated the construction of a new brick building at 45 Baldwin Street to replace the old structure. However, before the project was completed, the Canadian Bank of Commerce had taken over and assumed responsibility for finishing the work. During this transition, the bank temporarily relocated its operations to a building two doors to the east on Roebuck Street, ensuring uninterrupted service to the community. Thompson's management carried on in this new space, where his signature remains etched inside the vault door. Today, the building houses Baldwin Bistro, a popular local restaurant. Thompson retired from banking in 1942 after 37 years, with a reputation for steady and reliable service. During their years in Brooklin, his family lived at 69 Bagot Street, where Thompson and his wife Pearl raised their three children: Clarence Ernest ( born in 1917), Mary Gwendolyn (1921), and A.E. John (1927). In 1946, they purchased the lot next door at 71 Bagot Street and built a new home. Thompson's commitment to Brooklin extended beyond banking. During World War II, he transitioned to municipal service, taking on the role of Whitby Township Clerk where he worked until 1963. Over the years he added responsibilities such as Tax Collector, Treasurer, and Bookkeeper, becoming a well known figure in the township's administration. His calm and meticulous leadership earned him widespread respect until his retirement in 1966. Musician He was also a passionate musician, known for his bass solos in choirs, quartets, and church services. He performed across Brooklin and Toronto as well as for the openings of new churches in Greenwood and Kinsale. He credited his wife for her patient support and piano accompaniment during rehearsals. Thompson passed away on December 9, 1972, at Oshawa General Hospital. A longtime member and past master of the Masonic Lodge, he was honoured with two funeral services, the first conducted by the lodge. He rests with his wife at Groveside Cemetery. Thompson's story serves as a reminder that there may be times when community strength depends on quiet dedication and enduring commitment. The Community's Financial Pillar By Jennifer Hudgins Shop in Durham Week takes place from December 1 to 7, and there's no better time to get a head start on all your gift- giving needs. During the holiday season and beyond, there are big reasons to shop small. When you shop local, you help to build community, bring uniqueness to your neighbourhood, encourage entrepreneurship, and keep money in the local economy. Whether it's up the street or across town, you don't need to go far in Durham Region to find standout shopping destinations. With 14 distinct downtowns--each offering a charming shopping experience--shoppers can be sure to uncover hidden gems, from one-of-a-kind boutiques to artisan shops to makers' markets and everything in between. Follow Durham Tourism on Facebook and Instagramfor locally-sourced gift-giving ideas and visit ShopInDurham.ca for a handy guide of places to shop. Shop local during #ShopInDurham week