Bonnie Durtnall is known as a passionate storyteller, educator and historian. Her dedication to uncovering and sharing the often overlooked stories of local workers and their struggles has earned her deep respect in the community.
Durtnall has spent years researching and writing about Guelph’s past. Through her articles in Historic Guelph, her public talks and her books, she brings history to life in a way that’s meaningful and easy to understand. What makes her work stand out is her focus on the working-class and labour history, which is something many history books don’t often highlight.
Durtnall generously shares her research with the community. At events like the Labour Day picnic, the Ward Night Market and the Guelph Farmers’ Market, she sets up displays of industrial artifacts and is always ready to explain their meaning.
Her passion is clear and her efforts help everyone connect more deeply with local history.
For these reasons and more, she is a truly deserving recipient of this year's GuelphToday Community Builders Award for Arts.
“I appreciate this because it means that my work is being recognized,” Durtnall said after she was told about her award win. “Every writer likes to know that.”
“I feel very strongly about what I write because it’s a field that hardly anybody touches on. If it is touched on, it’s usually focused on the business or who owns the business, rather than the workers and what they contribute to the community,” she shared. “It’s celebrating different aspects of Guelph’s history.”
Durtnall’s recent book, Labouring All Our Lives: Guelph’s Working Class History, 1827–1950, is a major contribution to our city’s history. She shares eye-opening stories about child labour, women’s work and the experiences of immigrants and minority groups. These voices are often left out of traditional histories, but Durtnall makes sure they are heard.
“It’s always a great feeling when one of my books gets published or when I find out that a teacher or a professor has referenced my work or used it in their courses,” she said.
Durtnall has made a lasting impact on the Guelph community by bringing important stories to light. Through her research, writing and community involvement, she has helped us understand where we come from and why it matters.
The Arts award recognizes an individual or group that has significantly strengthened the artistic community. Their work has amplified the arts and contributed to the community’s growth and vitality.
Congratulations, Bonnie!
This award is proudly sponsored by Palmer Audio.
