Colonel John Butler. (Branching Out).

In the fall of 2001, with the cooperation of Brock University, a committee was formed to establish the "Friends of the Loyalist Collection at Brock University". The purpose of the organization is: "To establish and maintain at Brock University a collection of source material dealing with the United Empire Loyalists with a view to facilitate and encourage academic research and study". A constitution and bylaws have been established and the committee is awaiting the approval of a Charitable Organization Status from Canada Customs and Revenue Agency. The Officers and Directors include: Ed Scott, Chair; Beverly Craig, Secretary/Treasurer; and William Smy, Rodney Craig, and Noreen Stapley, Directors. Once established, the Collection will be available to all interested in researching and studying the Loyalists. Updates will be issued as progress is made.

Our programs featured a presentation of "Threads of Time: Clothing of the Loyalist Period", with members modelling their Loyalist outfits. Joe Misyk, President of the Chippawa Business Association, spoke in October on the historic Town of Chippawa. Wes Turner PhD., retired Associate Professor of History at Brock University, spoke on "Niagara's Forts--Keeping the Americans Out?" December's musical interlude with Celtic Fiddle and Country harmoniously closed our year. Four members of our Branch, Bev and Rod Craig, Margaret Romagnoli and Noreen Stapley, took part in the very successful True Millennium Mohawk Valley Trip organized by George Anderson, Edward Kipp, and Catherine Tanser.

At the December 2001 AGM, Branch member Allan Cosby wore the original 1884 Loyalist Centennial Ribbon. The Ribbon appeared in the Fall 2001 Gazette.

In 2001 we welcomed 35 new members and one Branch only member. In total for the year, 46 certificates were issued. We continue to promote our Branch and the UELAC by speaking to organizations such as the Women's Institute and University Women's Club, to Church groups and at Retirement Homes. We also attend local functions such as Heritage Day, Canada Day, Book Fairs, Reenactments and Loyalist related activities. Our Flag, costumes and clothing invariably draw attention and we are pleased to answer all questions.