Dufferin County Museum and Archives (DCMA) has once again become a part of the Community Exhibits program at Queen’s Park.

Every year, the Legislative Assembly of Ontario invites museums and cultural institutions from across the province to participate in their Community Exhibits program.

This is a great opportunity for Museums, historical sites, archives and cultural organizations to propose and then create exhibits that share their community’s history, while highlighting the history, heritage and culture of Ontario.

Located this year in the East Wing corridor of the Legislative Assembly Building, the Dufferin County Museum and Archives themed exhibit is entitled: “Take Note” and is on display at Queen’s Park for the Community Exhibits Program 2010 Series 1 until early September.

Ontario’s museums and archives hold rare glimpses into the past – objects or paper that represent a moment in a person’s life.

Often an unusual juxtaposition of items spurs memory. In wartime, for example, the valorous deeds and dog-hard slogging have been underscored by the popular music of the day.

Publishers of music in Tin Pan Alley in New York City were an important part of the war effort in World War I and World War II, as was the Canadian music publishing industry. The Saturday night dance was an important part of the war effort for soldiers and civilians alike.

Music created comfort and hope as well as a welcome means to raise money. The simple words and memorable tunes, captured by the titles and covers of popular sheet music, continue to evoke memories of the war time era.

The Museum’s “Take Note” display, which includes military medals, photographs and sheet music is sure to be seen by some of the 250,000 national and international guests that visit Queen’s Park annually. The Community Exhibits program offers these Visitors a range of exhibits while on tour that feature aspects of Ontario’s and Canada’s heritage and culture.

“Take Note” was assembled and installed at Queen’s Park with the assistance of Museum volunteers Carol Dunn and Carol Brown and was coordinated by Alison Hird, DCMA Collections Manager.

DCMA is a fun and fulfilling place to volunteer. Volunteers at the museum are involved in many different areas and projects such as this. A few hours, a few days, or a regular full or half day commitment are all welcomed. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please contact Curator, Wayne Townsend or General Manager Darrell Keenie at dufferinmuseum. com.