Caledon's 'senior statesman' Alex Raeburn honoured on his 95th birthday

Honouring "Caledon's Senior Statesman" Alex Raeburn on his 95th birthday were (l to r) MP David Tilson, Mayor Marolyn Morrison, Peel chair Emil Kolb and MPP Sylvia Jones.

Caledon's "heritage icon" Alex Raeburn was lauded for his contributions to the community on his 95th birthday, celebrated Sunday at The Millcroft Inn.

Raeburn drew praise from friends, colleagues and politicians who worked with him over the years.

Greetings and best wishes came from Peel chair Emil Kolb, Dufferin-Caledon MP David Tilson, Dufferin-Caledon MPP Sylvia Jones and Caledon Mayor Marolyn Morrison. Raeburn's achievements and contributions over more than 50 years was highlighted. The celebration was organized by Carol Seglins, Heather Broadbent, Margaret Foster and Fay McCrea.

Seldom stuck for words, Raeburn was overwhelmed by the display of kind words. He said he wasn't given much time to prepare, noting it takes two to three weeks for a good off-the-cuff-speech. He thanked the four women who put together such a tribute, noting he was humbled by the heartfelt thanks. He remarked that during his almost century of life, he's witnesses many great things and advances in transportation, communications, medicine and women's contributions in all aspects of society.

Alex Raeburn cut the first few pieces of his birthday cake for the crowd on hand for his 95th. He got some help from Marg Foster.

With the support of council, Raeburn was nominated for the Ontario Heritage Trust's Lieutenant Governor's Ontario Heritage Award.

Raeburn, known as "Caledon's Senior Statesman," with residences in Caledon Village, Alton, and Green Lake, has an ancestral pedigree that traces to an original settler of Caledon Township. His great-grandfather, Robert Reburn, arrived here in the spring of 1826 and "blazed the trail" up Centre Road, now Highway 10/Hurontario Street.

In keeping with a family tradition of contributing to the community, Raeburn's public involvement with the Town of Caledon and Province of Ontario spans 50 years. His career of public service began in 1957, when he first served on the executive of the Ontario Lacrosse Association. He became treasurer of the Caledon Ratepayers' Association in 1962, and a charter member of the Caledon Lions Club in 1971.

Raeburn extends a thank you to Peel chair Emil Kolb.

His first election to public office was in 1960 as chair of trustees of the former Police Village of Caledon. Alex's interest in municipal politics is reflected by his involvement as chair of the public school board, deputy reeve of the Township of Caledon, and regional councillor for Ward 1. Growing up beside the Credit River gave him a lifelong affection for this natural gift to our community and his appointment to the Credit Valley Conservation Authority in 1975 turned into a labour of love. To this day, he continues to educate others with his informative slideshow presentation of the Credit.

Alex was Peel's representative on the Niagara Escarpment Commission for 10 years and was commended by the NEC in 1986 for his valued contribution.

Raeburn's reputation as Caledon's historian evolves from his appointment as founding chair of Caledon's Local Architectural Conservation Advisory Committee (LACAC) in 1976 and he remains active in heritage issues, having just hosted its July meeting at his Green Lake residence. He is also sought after as a keynote speaker at many heritage events throughout the region.

Mayor Marolyn Morrison shares a story and laugh with Raeburn.

Raeburn considers his key contribution to heritage in the wider sphere to be his tenure with the Ontario Heritage Foundation. His appointment by the Lieutenant Governor to the board of directors of OHF was made in 1980 and he worked diligently for his six year term to secure properties throughout Ontario for preservation. In 1997, the OHF recognized Alex with a certificate of achievement.

Twenty years ago, Raeburn continued his mandate of informing residents of their community's heritage by writing a newspaper column entitled Raeburn's Corner for the Caledon Citizen; yet another contribution that reflects years of devoted service.

Raeburn's keen interest, incredible memory, and wide knowledge of local history and natural heritage of the Town of Caledon, the Region of Peel and the Province of Ontario make him an outstanding candidate for the Lieutenant Governor's Ontario Heritage Award.

There are few people in the community or indeed the entire province, who have given as much as Raeburn has over five productive decades.