Online photo project aims to capture Mississauga’s heritage

A project to archive images of Mississauga’s heritage will culminate in an online exhibit this summer.

The Canadian Heritage Photography Foundation (CHPF) already has a large collection of heritage images from photographer George Hunter of subjects ranging from early highway photos to anglers trying their luck along the Credit River.

Hunter, a long-time resident of Mississauga and known for his many iconic images of Canada, started the CHPF in 2001. He is an inductee into Mississauga’s Legend’s Row. When he died in 2013 he bequeathed his collection of photos to the CHPF.

Now, the foundation wants to expand its collection of Mississauga photos and is seeking donated images from the community, says CHPF executive director Nicole Plaskett.

The project poses the questions: What does heritage in Mississauga mean to you? What images reflect your idea of the city of Mississauga? Historically, how have you experienced culture in Mississauga?

The photos can be from a grandparent’s collection or something more recent reflecting the culture of Mississauga, Plaskett says.

“The parameters are very open as to what the interpretation would be of heritage and culture in Mississauga,” she says.

The subject matter is also wide open.

“Whether it’s your family on a picnic, or welcoming new Canadians that came in and are reuniting, whatever it is, it’s very broad.”

The foundation started accepting photos on June 7 and will continue until July 7. Organizers hope to have the exhibit online in August.

Digital photos can be sent through online portal or the foundation will digitize up to 10 photos for those who can visit the office at 2227 South Millway.

Contact Nicole Plaskett at [email protected] for more information on how to donate photos or visit www.thechpf.com.