Glengarry County has a wealth of Celtic heritage. One thing lacking, however, has been a form of recognition for those talented individuals who make up Glengarry’s rich Celtic culture. This void has been filled by the Glengarry Celtic Music Hall of Fame in Williamstown. The organization was founded on June 10th, 2003 in Alexandria, Ontario.
After its initial formation, the public was asked to nominate performers, promoters, groups and/or individuals who ought to be inducted into the Glengarry Celtic Music Hall of Fame (GCMHF). Over forty nominees were received by the deadline, and after many meetings and consultations, the list was reduced to a more workable twenty-eight.
At a general meeting, the GCMHF selected the first Inductees: The Glengarry Old Time Fiddlers, Rae MacCulloch, Sylvester MacDonald, John T. MacKenzie, Rev. John McPhail, Donald Joseph MacPhee, Mary Frances MacPhee, Rob Taylor, Kelli Trottier, and Rene & Sherrill Trottier.
On Friday, May 28th, 2004, the GCMHF held its first formal Induction Dinner at the Bonnie Glen Pavilion in Alexandria to honour these Inductees. The evening was a great success, and has become an annual affair that recognizes the talented performers and promoters inducted each year.
In addition to the recognition of the inductees, the Hall of Fame is also collecting memorabilia relevant to the music and culture of the area. This archival material is located at the old town hall in Williamstown, Ontario.
