Park Dedicated to Life and Legacy of Henry Thomas Shepherd MBE

Second image from left: Jackie Wootton, granddaughter of Henry Thomas Shepherd; Kathy Brooks, granddaughter of Henry Thomas Shepherd; Mayor Rick Bonnette.

HALTON HILLS, ON – The life and legacy of former resident Henry Thomas Shepherd MBE is being honoured by the Town through the official dedication of the Henry Thomas Shepherd MBE Park, located at 45 Dayfoot Drive, in Georgetown. This outdoor public space will serve as a place to gather and celebrate this important part of the Town’s cultural heritage.

Henry Thomas Shepherd was a veteran of both WWI and WWII, the first Black Chief of the Georgetown Fire Department, and a well-respected member of our town. His legacy remains strong among the residents of Halton Hills and the surrounding communities. 

“We had 2,000 page views and almost 400 comments from residents when we engaged the public on dedicating a neighbourhood park in memory of Henry Thomas Shepherd. This demonstrates the important role he played in the history of Georgetown,” said Mayor Rick Bonnette.  “His accomplishments will continue to inspire for generations to come and for those who have not seen it, take a look at the online exhibition that the Library put on last February for Black History Month.”

On June 3, 2019, Council approved the renaming of Dayfoot Drive Park to Henry Thomas Shepherd MBE Park in principle.  On September 3, 2019, after strong local support, Council officially approved the name change.

The inclusion of the initials ‘MBE’ signifying ‘Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire’ is an important element of the park renaming, given the significance of the designation.

Residents are encouraged to drop by and enjoy the park, where a bench and interpretive sign honouring Mr. Shepherd will be installed later this fall.

Watch the video of the park renaming event

About the Town of Halton Hills

The Town of Halton Hills, with a population of approximately 60,000, consists of two urban centres, Georgetown and Acton, the Halton Hills Premier Gateway employment area, three hamlets – Glen Williams, Stewarttown and Norval and several smaller settlements. Halton Hills has long been recognized for its natural beauty, active agricultural community, high quality of life and proximity to major centres, including Brampton, Mississauga and Toronto. The Town is ranked as one of the top small communities in Canada by a national magazine.

Visit the Town's website 

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