Research Blogs
Each month, the staff from our Research Department write a blog, highlighting a particular story from Thunder Bay's past. Heading back to Fort William and Port Arthur, these blog posts take our patrons back to a time they may or may not remember. They offer a glimpse into our city's history that you might never have heard about!
If you ever want more information about any of the stories you read in the blogs, email the team at research@tbpl.ca
Lady Lumberjack | TBPL Research Blog
Learn about the life of Dorothea Mitchell, affectionally known as Lady Lumberjack, a local entrepreneur, amateur film maker and much more.
A History of the Mechanics' Institute | TBPL Research Blog
A brief history of the predecessor to the Port Arthur Public Library. Part of our Waverley Library 75th anniversary celebrations.
County Park Library Celebrates 30 Years | TBPL Research Blog
Travel back 30 years as we explore how a community rallied together to make the County Park Library a reality.
Escape from Rennbahn | TBPL Research Blog
Caught, captured, and cunning. Learn about Port Arthur Local, Gerrie Burk’s 1916 escape from a German WWI POW camp.
Lady Lumberjack | TBPL Research Blog
Learn about the life of Dorothea Mitchell, affectionally known as Lady Lumberjack, a local entrepreneur, amateur film maker and much more.
A History of the Mechanics' Institute | TBPL Research Blog
A brief history of the predecessor to the Port Arthur Public Library. Part of our Waverley Library 75th anniversary celebrations.
County Park Library Celebrates 30 Years | TBPL Research Blog
Travel back 30 years as we explore how a community rallied together to make the County Park Library a reality.
Escape from Rennbahn | TBPL Research Blog
Caught, captured, and cunning. Learn about Port Arthur Local, Gerrie Burk’s 1916 escape from a German WWI POW camp.
If you want even more local history stories, be sure to check out our video series on YouTube!
Professor Derek is here to educate us on all things local history!
Local History Research Assistance
Need help researching local history, genealogy, or any part of our collection? Our knowledgeable staff are happy to help!
Ancestry Library Edition
Ancestry Library Edition is your source for genealogical resources and researching your family history. Only available for in-branch use.
Gateway to Northwestern Ontario History
A virtual gallery of historic photographs, books, & drawings and so much more. Your portal to our region's history.
Local History Research Assistance
Need help researching local history, genealogy, or any part of our collection? Our knowledgeable staff are happy to help!
Ancestry Library Edition
Ancestry Library Edition is your source for genealogical resources and researching your family history. Only available for in-branch use.
Gateway to Northwestern Ontario History
A virtual gallery of historic photographs, books, & drawings and so much more. Your portal to our region's history.
