July 2026 – Richmond Hill Historical Society

Colour image of Doris Leno and Cheryl Butler during Village Day at the Mill Pond in 1989. — Doris Leno and Cheryl Butler during Village Day at the Mill Pond in 1989.

Each year the Richmond Hill Historical society gives a community member or organization the Bert Hunt Award.

The Bert Hunt Heritage Certificate Award acknowledges outstanding contributions to the preservation of Richmond Hill’s past and efforts to raise awareness about the value of that past to the community and its citizens. Bert Hunt was recognized as community volunteer and Citizen of the Year by both the City of Richmond Hill and the Province of Ontario as he tirelessly advocated for preserving Richmond Hill’s history. The award attempts to acknowledge the legacy Bert Hunt gifted to the City.

The Richmond Hill Historical Society wishes to honour one of our dedicated members — Cheryl Butler. An advocate in the preservation of history and heritage in her personal and professional life, Cheryl has exhibited
the many qualities for this award.

Colour image of Cheryl Butler and other Richmond Hill Historical Society members at the Founders Day celebration at the Richmond Hill Presbyterian Church Cemetery in June 1988. — Cheryl Butler and other Richmond Hill Historical Society members at the Founders Day celebration at the Richmond Hill Presbyterian Church Cemetery in June 1988.

As a member of the previous Richmond Hill Local Architectural Conservation Advisory Committee (LACAC), Richmond Hill Historical Society and affiliate member of the Ontario Historical Society, Cheryl continues to support the culture of our forefathers in all aspects of her community work.

An earlier endeavor was the restoration of the Burr House located on Carrville Avenue which helped lead to the creation of the Richmond Hill Historical Society. The Local Architectural Conservation advisory Committee later became the Heritage Committee of the City of Richmond Hill advocating for the recognition and potential designation of Heritage buildings and sites in Richmond Hill.

The Heritage Centre on Church Street, the artifact collection along with RHHS can be contributed to her tireless efforts. Speaking of RHHS, Cheryl has not only
been an active member but past President for several years as well as serving on the Executive. Her contributions at meetings and newsletter submissions continue to enrich our group.

When necessary, Cheryl has spoken at community meetings when heritage buildings are in peril. As a retired College professor, her students benefitted from her knowledge of Ontario and local history.

Community advocate, writer, historian, teacher, and resident, Cheryl is a worthy recipient of this award.

Congratulations Cheryl!

For a complete list of past recipients, please visit our Bert Hunt Heritage Award page.