I have always been interested in history, possibly because my parents always visited museums and galleries when I was young. When we purchased an old house in 1970, I began to research and was hooked. I have been involved with the heritage movement since 1976 when I joined the Hallmark Society. For several years, I worked as a volunteer, then was hired as a part-time Administrative Director. I am now retired from the paid job but am still volunteering. I am proud of the work that I have done with this organization and was pleased when the name was changed to Hallmark Heritage Society, a name that better reflects the work of the group.
In 1995, I returned to the University of Victoria to continue studies begun over 30 years before. I changed my focus to Art History and Cultural Resource Management to better reflect my interest. In 2001, I graduated with a BA (with distinction) and began to work as a heritage professional.
For three summers I worked as a Heritage Information Officer at the Victoria Civic Heritage Trust Information Kiosk, The following summer, I developed a training program for heritage information staff. I now offer guided walking tours of historic Victoria, including Downtown, Chinatown, James Bay, and Fairfield, by appointment. Tours can be customized to fit your requirements. I am also available as a step-on guide for bus tours. My rates begin at $10.00 per person. If you are interested, please heritagelady@gmail.com.
Does your group need a guest speaker on heritage preservation, historic architecture, or any related field? I can provide a number of lectures on different topics, or can develop a customized slide show to suit your needs. I have lectured at ElderHostel and at a variety of conferences.
In 1996, I was elected to the Board of Heritage BC and served for nine years, including two years as President. When that term expired, I was the founding president of the Heritage Legacy Found of BC Society. I completed five years on that board. In 2010, I was elected as Governor for British Columbia for the Heritage Canada Foundation. I served two full terms and was thrilled when the name was changed to the National Trust for Canada—a name that brings the organization into line with National Trusts from around the world.