BNAPS - Golden Horseshoe

2008 GHRG Schedule:
Sunday May 25: Judith Edwards - The Stamps of Newfoundland
September 28: Leigh Hogg - subject to be announced.
November 30: Larry Cherns - Social aspects of Canadian Postal History Part II
January 25: Jim Watt - The Flower Coils

Unless otherwise noted, all meetings will be held at the Rousseau House Restaurant in Ancaster

SPECIAL REQUEST: In order to help the Rousseau House Restaurant defray their cost of looking after us in this terrific location, it is important that as many Golden Horseshoe group members as possible purchase a meal during the meeting. A special GHRG menu will be available. To assist with planning, please email Mike Street as soon as possible to confirm that you will be having lunch. Your cooperation will be greatly appreciated.
Directions: From the east take Hwy. 403 to the Lincoln Alexander Parkway/Rousseaux St. exit, follow Rousseaux St. to Wilson St., turn left and drive into the village. From the west take the Wilson St./Hwy. 2 exit, turn left and follow Wilson St. past the shopping centre area. Look for Tim Horton's - the Rousseau House Restaurant is across the street.
VOLUNTEERS are needed to assist with group meetings and publicity. People willing and able to help with car pooling from the Toronto area are also needed. For more information or to offer your help please email Peter McCarthy, Secretary, Golden Horseshoe Regional Group.
More General Information is found at the bottom of this web page.

Golden Horseshoe Regional Group
Meeting March 30, 2008
photos with captions: one, two, three, four
Winter just didn't seem to want to loosen her grip but the warm atmosphere created by the forty-five members and guests who attended the March 30th gathering of the Golden Horseshoe Regional Group at the Rousseau House Restaurant in Ancaster more than made up for the gusty March winds outside.
The informal gathering began at 10:00 AM with good philatelic conversation, browsing through dealer stocks and re-acquaintance over coffee. Six dealers were on hand to quench our philatelic thirst. As usual, at noon we broke to enjoy a great lunch from the restaurant's excellent cuisine. The staff of this fine establishment looks after us very well.
The more formal afternoon began with announcements and a very good fun auction. Thanks to all who donated items. It was all good quality material and the dollars made go a long way to looking after expenses. Show and tell was devoted entirely to Jim Watt's presentation on the ten cent Prince Consort black and brown stamps of 1859. Many major varieties were shown.
Jim Watt and David Hobden introduced a very special mystery guest, Marnie Infanti. We then played 'What's My Line'. It turns out that Marnie is the great-great-grand-niece of Sir Rowland Hill, the designer of the world's first postage stamp, who was also credited with originating the basic concepts of modern postal service. We had fun guessing that one but guess it we did. Marnie, her husband Steve and their family live in Vineland, Ontario.
Our speaker for the afternoon was David Hobden, who presented the second part of his 'Early Canadian Military Mail'. This segment covered the period from 1815 to 1885, that being the year of the Riel Rebellion and the last military conflict fought on Canadian Soil. Although the presentation ran a little longer than normal, it was wonderfully put together with some great postal and military history facts explained. Hopefully this work will be published in book form some day. Thanks David for a most informative afternoon. Thanks again also to Simon and Victoria Claughton for supplying their computer and projector. It more than makes a difference to the presentations
Our next gathering will be Sunday, May 25th, when we will have a special guest speaker from Wales - Judith Edwards will speaking to us on and show examples from her superb Newfoundland collection. Mark the date on your calendar and be sure and come early to take advantage of the dealers' offerings. If there is anything special you would like to have them bring, let us know and we'll pass the information on. We also accept donations for the auction. If you have any ideas on how we can improve these gatherings send us your suggestions; after all this is your group.
Have a good early spring and we'll see you in May.

Golden Horseshoe Regional Group
Report for January 27, 2008
photos with captions: one, two, three, four
New Year's greetings were offered around the room as thirty-three members of the GHRG gathered at the Rousseau House Restaurant for the first meeting of the New Year. We were very happy to welcome several first timers. Activities began at 10:00 AM with coffee, conversation, browsing through dealer's stock and trading. The gang seemed to be a little quieter than usual and we'll put that down to Kathy, our hostess, passing out the menu early. The anticipation of what was to come from this fine establishment's cuisine was enough to dull senses. Allow me to elaborate with just one example; Breakfast Quesadilla consisting of two fried eggs, sliced onion, tomato, four year old cheddar with bacon added between floured tortillas served with sour cream and garden greens. Isn't that enough to make you want to get out of your easy chairs for the next get together?
After lunch, in a very relaxed atmosphere, things got underway again with BNAPS announcements by Mike Street. It was also brought to the members' attention that BNAPS sponsorship provided to the Brantford Stamp Club's youth program helped result in fourteen youngsters between the ages of six and thirteen exhibiting for the first time in that club's show in early January. Congratulations to George Speers, a BNAPS and GHRG member, and his team at the Brantford Stamp Club for the great work they have done with the children of the area.
Thanks to all those who contributed items for the auction. All items sold and we always have a pretty good laugh while bringing in a few cents to help out with expanses.
Dave Hobden was the speaker for the afternoon and his topic was Early Canadian Military Mail Part I 1629 - 1815. Dave started out by showing publicly for the first time a 1667 letter; the writer was closely involved in the events surrounding the first surrender of Quebec in 1629, so it went with all the other material shown. Other highlights were a 1746 letter resulting for the capture of Louisbourg in Cape Breton, one relating to the capture of a Fort on Lake Champlain during the American Revolution and several covers from the War of 1812. What a fantastic presentation! The research that went into it was exceptional. If Doug Sayles hasn't already been in touch with Dave to publish his works, I'm sure he will be. Thank you, Dave, for a most interesting afternoon. We are certainly looking forward to Part II on March 30. I would encourage all of the membership from Southern Ontario to be present.
Once again a big thanks to Simon and Victoria Claughton for providing the technological assistance.
The afternoon ended with show and tell. It's amazing what comes out of this phase of the program and the varied interests within the group.
This is a very enthusiastic group, so much so that we now have speakers tentatively lined up for all meetings until May 2009. Please take note of the following planned program for future gatherings. March 30, 2008 - Dave Hobden with Part II of Early Canadian Military Mail; May 25, 2008 Judith Edwards - The Stamps of Newfoundland; September 28, 2008 Leigh Hogg - subject to be announced. November 30, 2008 - Larry Cherns - Social aspects of Canadian Postal History Part II; January 25, 2009 Jim Watt - The Flower Coils.

The Golden Horseshoe Regional Group
November 2007 Report
photos with captions: one, two, three, four, five, six
November 25, 2007 was a great day at the Rousseau House Restaurant in Ancaster as thirty-seven of us, including four spouses and three visitors, gathered for interesting philately. It was wonderful to see quite a number of BNAPSers who came for the first time. We certainly hope it won't be the last. Some of our regular attendees were missing and we hope it was nothing more than the Grey Cup that kept them away.
It was good to be back at our old haunt once again. It was relaxing and certainly different from holding a meeting in conjunction with a major philatelic event such as the ROYAL in a huge exhibition hall. One day we will go fully into the history of our meeting place but let me tell you a little bit about it. Rousseau House is a beautiful two story stone structure built in 1836 that has been completely restored almost to its original state. It was once the residence of the Ancaster postmaster (How fitting!) and is now a very fine restaurant.
The day started about ten o'clock with coffee, browsing through dealers' stocks and a good deal of philatelic conversation. In fact there were really only two quiet times - in the middle of lunch, where the food served by our very pleasant and efficient hostess Laura was far too good to waste on conversation, and during Bill Longley's presentation.
The slightly more orderly afternoon session got under way with announcements followed by the auction. Thanks to all who donated items. It was probably the best auction yet. We even had a 1989 Letter Carrier's bag. If there is anyone out there who collects such memorabilia, we just might be able to pry it away from the successful bidder, for a price of course.
Bill Longley's two short presentations; 'Postal History of the Postcard' and 'Charge Box Mail 1830s - 1880s', were very interesting, especially the Charge Box Mail section. Who says philately is boring? One learns something new everyday. Thanks Bill. It was much appreciated.
A special thanks once again to Simon and Victoria Claughton for supplying the needed electronics that help make our presentations so enjoyable.
The afternoon ended with show and tell. Amazing what people come up with. In the absence of Mike Street, who normally does the announcements of book publications, Ken Kershaw spoke to us about his new book on the plating of the Five Cent Beaver issue of 1859. Look for details in BNA Topics or BNAPortraitS. Many people lingered at the close of the meeting, seemingly not wanting it to end.
For those unable to attend, you were missed. That's a fact. For those who have never attended one of our gatherings, you missed. So come on out on January 27, 2008 to enjoy the company of fellow philatelists, eat good food and be entertained as David Hobden talks to us about 'Early Canadian Military Postal History.' Leigh Hogg is our tentative speaker for March 30, and on May 25 we are hoping that Judith Edwards from Wales will be present to speak to us about part of her Newfoundland collection. Mark your calendars.
Merry Christmas and may the new year bring you health and philatelic prosperity.

The BNAPS Golden Horseshoe Regional Group
Report of the October 2007 Meeting
GHRG at the ROYAL [ photos ]:
Jim Watt at the BNAPS table at the Royal
Simon Claughton
The bourse
The bourse
Mike Street presents Peter McCarthy with the Jack Levine Fellowship Award, announced at BNAPEX in Calgary
Betty Lum and Mike Street with new book
Jim Watt
Peter McCarthy at Show and Tell
Bob Thorne waving - Bob was made a Fellow of the RPSC along with Doug Lingard.

The BNAPS Golden Horseshoe Regional Group held its first gathering of the season on Saturday, October 13, 2007 at the Royal Philatelic Society of Canada's annual convention in the Queen Elizabeth Building at the Exhibition Grounds in Toronto. Although the meeting was somewhat abbreviated compared to what we are used to, it was none the less very interesting.
Mike Street opened things up by presenting Peter McCarthy with the Jack Levine Fellowship Award. This is the second year in a row the GHRG has been presented with this award. I guess we must be doing something right.
Next on the agenda was the launching of a new BNAPS book by Stan Lum and Elsie Drury titled "Postage Due Stamps of Canada 1906 - 1928". Stan was ill and in hospital but was well represented by his charming wife, Betty, son Arthur and Susan So, who prepared the printing and scan files for the book. The late Elsie Drury was a long-time member who exhibited her Postage Dues at several BNAPEX shows and also served as the BNAPS Sales Circuit Manager from 1993-1996.
Jim Watt then took the floor and spoke a little about the GHRG, the great group that it is, and the way we meet to discuss philately in an absolutely relaxed manner at a great venue. That all led into his presentation on "Varieties on Modern Booklets." A most interesting topic, stressing most convincingly that modern material is very worthwhile studying. You may be seeing this very topic published in the philatelic press in the near future. The gathering ended with a very short version of Show and Tell.
Although the meeting was briefer than normal, the GHRG was very prominent at ROYAL 2007 ROYALE. We manned the BNAPS table at the show, which made for quite an interesting weekend. Thanks to all who manned the table during the three day event. Be sure to see the photos accompanying this report. The GHRG logo was unveiled in its full colour banner format. Simon Claughton was responsible for design and production of the banner. It certainly was nice to see so many BNAPSers, especially those from out of town. In order not to get into trouble for possibly forgetting someone, please check the Royal 2007 palmares for medal standings. Congratulations to all BNAPSers and especially Golden Horseshoers on their awards and for showing of some fabulous material. You may be sure you will be called upon for presentations in the future.
Special congratulations to those who participated in the GHRG one page club frame display sponsored by the Greater Toronto Area Philatelic Association. You rose to the challenge, and did well. Hopefully we can participate again next year.
Our next gathering will be held at the friendly and laid back confines of the Rousseau House Restaurant in downtown Ancaster on Sunday, November 25, beginning at 10:00 AM where you will once again have the opportunity of browsing through some of the dealers stocks and enjoying each other's company. The speaker will be Bill Longley. If you have any philatelic material for show and tell or to donate to the group for the auction, please bring it along. We look forward to seeing you. Bring a friend.

BNAPS Golden Horseshoe Regional Group Report of the June 3, 2007 Meeting
June Photo 1, June Photo 2, June Photo 3, June Photo 4
The Golden Horseshoe group gathered for the last time before the summer break; what a great ending to the season! Thirty-two members including five dealers and four guests enjoyed a great day of philately, good conversation and of course scrumptious food from the kitchen of our favourite gathering place, the Rousseau House Restaurant. Each gathering brings out new members; if everyone who has attended any of our meetings came to the same one it would be quite a large gathering.
Things got rolling about ten o'clock as dealers and members got together over coffee. Some serious stock browsing took place until the lunch hour when we were well looked after by one of our favourite hostesses, Kathy.
After lunch Garfield Portch invited us to ROYAL 2007 ROYALE, which will be held October 12-14 in the Queen Elizabeth Building on the Canadian National Exhibition site in Toronto. BNAPS will have a table there, operated by the Golden Horseshoe Regional Group members. In addition the GHRG will present a seminar and hold our first meeting of the fall season.
Garfield also talked about one page exhibits. The GHRG plans to exhibit in this fun class and we are asking all to consider sending in a page. Interested parties please send a photocopy of your page to Peter McCarthy at 573 Griffith Street, London, Ontario, N6K 2S5 or email a scan to . The requirements for a one page exhibit are; a title with a story or intent and at least three elements, i.e.; a stamp, coil, souvenir sheet, cover, plate block etc. etc�.. We need to know your intentions by July 15th at the latest so we can get our application in. This is a fun thing and a chance for the group to work as a team. Remember, it is a one page exhibit and we need fifteen individual pages to fill a frame. (See the one page exhibit page on this web site - HERE.
Mike Street reminded us of the BNAPS convention taking place in Calgary on Labour Day weekend and announced the publication of four new books which you can read about in BNA Topics or on the BNAPS web site. Then came the donation auction. Our members have been very generous with items for our regular auctions and this meeting was no different. It was a robust auction with a few laughs thrown in. All the lots were good.
Larry Cherns was our speaker on this day. His topic was Social History of the 19th Century in Covers and Postcards of Canada. The contents of the cards and letters were quite interesting and we thank Larry for a job well done. We have some excellent philatelists in our area and the caliber of presentations bears this out.
Show and tell rounded out the day with more interesting philately. Everyone went home seemingly very happy. Have a great summer people and we look forward to seeing you all at the ROYAL in October. Remember, everyone is welcome at a GHRG gathering. On October 13 our speaker will be Jim Watt, whose topic will be 'Varieties on Modern Coils'. Rest assured it will be interesting.

Golden Horseshoe Regional Group, March 2007 Meeting
March Photo 1, March Photo 2, March Photo 3, March Photo 4, March Photo 5, March Photo 6

The BNAPS Golden Horseshoe Group had another fabulous day at the Rousseau House Restaurant in Ancaster (a place we have now come to consider as home) on March 25, 2007. The gathering started at 10:00 AM with members greeting one another over coffee and preparing to spend time going through dealers' stock, trading and generally enjoying good philatelic conversation. It was very encouraging to see new faces added to the gathering. Judging by the smiles, some pretty good treasures were found and deals made.
The Rousseau House makes up a special brunch/lunch menu for the group. Come noon it wasn't difficult to have the dealers put their wares away. More than thirty of us enjoyed a scrumptious meal from a fine cuisine.
After lunch the meeting got under way with announcements of two new BNAPS books (see the reviews on page nine of the April - June edition of BNAPortraitS) and information on this year's BNAPEX convention in Calgary. Several philatelic items were auctioned off, adding a few more dollars to the kitty.
The floor was then handed over to Derek Smith who gave us a fine and interesting presentation on Transatlantic mails to Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. Derek is following in the footsteps of Dr. Jack Arnell and his knowledge of the subject is quite extensive. Judging by the questions he fielded during his talk, Derek's presentation was well received. Again we must thank Simon and Victoria Claughton for making the hi-tech projection equipment available.
The day came to a close with show and tell. The variety of items passed around was varied and interesting. We sure do have some great philatelists in the area.
Our next gathering on June 3, the last before the summer break, will again be held at the Rousseau House Restaurant. Our speaker, Larry Cherns, will speak on the 'Social History of the 19th Century in the Covers and Postcards of Canada'. That should be quite interesting.
To date we have had some really good presentations, but the list of speakers for the next year is a long way from being filled. We would like members to step forward and offer their time and knowledge. The November 2007 meeting is covered but we are looking for someone to start the new season in October when our meeting will be held at ROYAL 2007 in Toronto. Speakers are needed for January, March and June 2008. If you would like to help, please contact Peter McCarthy.
Volunteers from the Golden Horseshoe Group will look after the BNAPS table at ROYAL 2007 ROYALE, which is being held at the Queen Elizabeth building of Exhibition Place in Toronto on October 12-14. In addition to the regional group meeting we plan to present a seminar of interest to all collectors of BNA. Details should be settled and in place by our June meeting, so stay tuned. Any BNAPSers coming in from out of town for this show should be sure to look for us and join in our activities.
Mark your calendars for June 3 and we'll see you in Ancaster.

Golden Horseshoe Regional Group
January 28, 2007 meeting report
The BNAPS Golden Horseshoe regional group held its first gathering of the new year on January 28 at our usual spot, the warm and friendly Rousseau Restaurant in picturesque downtown Ancaster. Thirty three members enjoyed a full day of philatelic camaraderie. We tried something new for the group - five member dealers were asked to bring a small amount of stock (because of space) for a 10:00AM meeting start. We also encouraged other members to bring items to either trade or sell. Dealing and trading went on until lunch was served. This proved to be so successful that it will no doubt be an ongoing feature of our meetings. The lunch menu was absolutely scrumptious as usual. Our hostesses, Cathy and Ashley, saw to it that we were well looked after by keeping coffee cups and water glasses filled on request and lunch served on time.
After lunch we continued with announcements and a very lively auction. Fourteen articles were sold, with all proceeds going to the group's activity fund. Thanks to all the donors - it couldn't have been done without you. If members have philatelic material they wish to donate, we will gladly accept and auction it off at the next meeting.
Our speaker for the afternoon was Steve Baker, whose subject was the plating of the 1865 two cent green "Newfoundland Codfish". We were taken through the complete process from design to actual printing, and then identification of nine of the ten positions of the first column, all except position 51. Steve, we thank you very much for a most interesting presentation. Everyone went away with more knowledge than before. Thanks again to Simon and Victoria Claughton for the technical support they so graciously provide.
The afternoon came to a close with a show and tell. The amount and variety of subjects and material presented was quite amazing. It really was a great day and the members present need to give yourselves a round of applause for making it such.
The next get together will be March 25, 2007 at the same location. Starting time will be 10:00 AM. Derek Smith will speak on his favourite subject - Transatlantic Mail. Come on out and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, the dealers and the pleasure of exchanging philatelic knowledge.

click to see photos from this meeting

BNAPS Golden Horseshoe Regional Group - November 2006
After the Queen Elizabeth building of the C.N.E. for the October meeting it was wonderful being back at our familiar venue, the Rousseau Restaurant in downtown Ancaster. It felt like a comfortable old pair of slippers slipping themselves on to tired feet. You know that feeling. Ahhhhhh! Twenty-four of us gathered to enjoy a good meal, good conversation and a great presentation in a relaxed atmosphere. Here's a thought. If you're in the area drop in and sample the cuisine. Tell them who you are and mention BNAPS. Better still, come to the next meeting in January. The address is 375 Wilson Ave, Ancaster. About six minutes off the 403
First on the agenda was to unveil our new logo which will now be our masthead. The design is of the western portion of Ontario, from around Peterborough to the western border or the L, M, N and O postal codes. The stars represents the larger centers. Thanks Simon and a special thanks to the artist Taral Wayne who did the actual design. It really adds dimension to the group.
Mike Street introduced some new book titles that can be viewed on the publications page of the BNAPS website, on Ian Kimmerly's web site, or in a coming BNA TOPICS.
The BNAPS youth program is offering scholarships to deserving young collectors who have shown a high degree of competence in the hobby. If you know of such young stamp collectors, why not submit their names. The scholarship consists of a three year membership to BNAPS with all the privileges attached. It would be nice to see some youth from the Golden Horseshoe area nominated. For applications and further information please contact Bob Lane bob@wep.ab.ca.
BNAPS has produced a CD with the idea of promoting the society at shows or club meetings. You will need a computer or television with CD player. It plays itself over and over so you don't need to be in attendance. If any member wishes a copy you can borrow one from yours truly Peter McCarthy or Mike Street or you can request one from Jerry Jarnick.
Our guest speaker for the afternoon was Doug Irwin who gave a wonderful presentation on the 1967 - 1973 Centennials. Doug, as you know, wrote the book on the subject in 1984. Much has been added to the subject since by several people but the ground work was well done. Doug's exhibits have won many prestigious awards. Thanks for a most interesting and informative afternoon Doug.
Once again we say thanks to Simon and Victoria Claughton for providing the technical support for the presentation.
Bob Lane reminds us it is time to start thinking of a recipient for the Jack Levine award. The award, presented annually, is given to the most deserving member of a regional group. Last year, the winner was from the Golden Horseshoe Group - Mike Street.
The afternoon culminated with a show and tell. Some pretty interesting pieces made their way around the room.
Our next meeting was scheduled to take place January 28, 2007 but because of the U.S. football championships being held on that day we have decided to move the meeting up one week to January 21. Please mark your calendar. In addition we are going to gather at 10:00 AM for coffee and we are asking dealers and members to bring a couple of boxes of material each to sell and or to trade. We also expect to auction some donated material that will add a little to the coffers. We will break for lunch somewhere around 11:30 and begin the regular meeting at 1:00 PM We think that will add a little more depth to the gathering. Our speaker will be Steve Baker who will give us a presentation on the plating of the Newfoundland Codfish. We sincerely hope you will attend.
May you all have a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year !!

[Pictures from the November meeting: speaker Doug Irwin; Doug Sayles (Topics editor), Lew Tauber, Eric Cogswell; luncheon]

[Pictures from STAMPEX: speaker Jim Watt.; the audience; speaker David McLaughlin]
SPECIAL REQUEST: In order to help the Rousseau House Restaurant defray their cost of looking after us in this terrific location, it is important that as many Golden Horseshoe group members as possible purchase a meal before the meeting. Please try to come for lunch at 11:30. A special GHRG menu will be available. Your cooperation will be greatly appreciated.
Directions: From the east take Hwy. 403 to Lincoln Alexander Parkway/Rousseaux St. exit, follow Rousseaux St. to Wilson St., turn left and drive into the village. From the west take Wilson St./Hwy. 2 exit, turn left and follow Wilson St. past shopping centre area. Look for Tim Horton's - the Rousseau House Restaurant is across the street.
Encourage friends to attend, especially BNAPS members in your area who may not be on email. There's lots of philately in the Golden Horseshoe.
VOLUNTEERS are needed to assist with group meetings and publicity. For more information or to offer your help please email Peter McCarthy, Secretary, Golden Horseshoe Regional Group at:

BNAPS Golden Horseshoe Regional Group, October 2006 Report
The Golden Horseshoe regional group held its first meeting after the summer break on October 14 at STAMPEX, in the Queen Elizabeth Building of the Exhibition grounds in Toronto. Because there were two shows relatively close together, some people opted for STAMPEX on Friday and went on to Guelph Saturday. However nineteen members attended the meeting, along with three out of region guests, and we had a good get-together. Mind you, we didn't have the great menu available at the Rousseau House Restaurant but��.
Mike Street talked of new BNAPS publications and you can check them out in the book department section of the society website (www.bnaps.org). Congratulations were extended to Mike as the recipient of the BNAPS Jack Levine Fellowship award. As you know, the award is given to a person of a regional group who is considered to have provided inspiration for the group.
Simon Claughton unveiled a draft of the group's new logo that was unanimously accepted. As soon as the finished product is available you will see it on the website and we can proudly display it. We will now have an identity.
Our speaker for the afternoon was David McLaughlin whose subject was "Canadian Postal Rates and Regulations 1897 - 1906." It was an interesting and very informative talk. Thanks for the effort David. Much appreciated
Show and tell gave us a sneak preview of what we can expect at the January meeting when Stephen (Steve) Baker, our newest member, introduced his subject "Plating the 1870 Newfoundland Codfish". That should be very interesting and we hope to have good attendance if the weather cooperates.
GHRG Chairman Jim Watt noted that our speakers to date have really been excellent and the line-up for the future should prove to be as good.

GHRG June 4 Meeting Report
The Golden Horseshoe Regional Group held its scheduled June 4 meeting once again at the lovely Rousseau Restaurant in the historic downtown area of Ancaster. Prior to the meeting many gathered to partake of the establishment's fine cuisine and to enjoy some good philatelic fellowship.
Mike Street got the meeting underway with a few short announcements, particularly from the book department. Highlighted was GHRG member Ken Kershaw's new spiral bound book entitled "Plating The More Distinctive Reentries In The Half Cent Maple Leaf Stamp II. Plating Criteria And Detailed Descriptions Of The Third And Fourth Printings" For more information please go to the BNAPS or Ian Kimmerly web sites.
Group Chairman Jim Watt then introduced the guest speaker, Jorge Peral, Vice President - Design and Portrait Engraver for Canadian Bank Note Co. Well known for his work on the $1.00 Loon, the $1.00 Deer, the $8.00 Grizzly and Millennium stamps, he also designed and engraved the $5.00 and $10.00 bank notes. Jorge explained the process of having the Queen approve a new portrait and told us how pleased he was when Queen Elizabeth readily accepted the portrait design that appears on those bank notes.
While waiting for the projection equipment to warm up, gift presentations were made. Canadian Bank Note presented the Golden Horseshoe Regional Group with an early Canadian engraving of log rolling and another of the Confederation Train. Canada Post presented us with a coin and stamp set of the horse and the deer stamps engraved by Mr. Peral. In turn Mr. and Mrs. Peral were presented with a cheese platter, a wrapped basket and a fine bottle of Chilean wine.
We would also like to thank Simon and Victoria Claughton for providing and operating the computerized projection equipment necessary for Jorge's presentation.
Jorge Peral was born in 1955 in Mexico City, Mexico and attended school there. He studied design and engraving under master engravers in Italy and then worked for a short time for de la Rue in Switzerland where he met and married his wife Imelda, also a designer, who was also at the meeting. Jorge spoke of his work designing and engraving bank notes in Mexico prior to coming here to Canada. After he decided to accept a position with Canadian Bank Note Company and move here, the family fell in love with the serene beauty of this country - following adjusting to the snow and cold of winter. The whole family applied for and became citizens of Canada.
We learned a few things that afternoon. For instance, the presses used by the bank note companies are security presses and are not available to commercial printers. Maybe some of you knew that, but many of us didn't. Jorge also described how engraving is done. The graver is held steady in the right hand while the plate is moved with the left. Pressure is applied by the right hand to get the proper depth needed as the left guides the plate into the graver. It was interesting to watch an automatic hand motion demonstration from a master engraver. When we see the various stages of design and engraving, it's hard to imagine the intricacies of the profession. Because of a late afternoon flight we had just a brief opportunity of spending time with him and view other examples of his work and some of his tools.
This writer can not in any way properly describe in this small amount of space the enjoyment of the afternoon spent in the presence of this master engraver who spoke of his family, his work and his life with a great deal of warmth and affection. I believe Glen Archer summed it up wonderfully in a congratulatory email sent to Jim Watt and Mike Street, when he said: "Mr. Peral was an engaging speaker and I thoroughly enjoyed the talk, also the peripherals he brought were fascinating and I only wish we had had more time with him. When the subject matter is so interesting and in-depth, it seems the hours pass like minutes." That seems to speak for everyone present. We believe this to be the first time a person from any bank note company has spoken to a BNAPS group. It would be quite fair to say this was a real coup and for those of you who missed it, well, what can we say. It was a loss on your part.
If you're wondering how all this came about, we have none other to thank than Jim Watt, who put a great deal of effort into the project over quite a period of time. You may now stand at center stage Jim and take a well deserved bow for ending our season with an astounding bang. THANKS again!
And now for a little test. Some of the above mentioned stamps bear Mr. Peral's name engraved within the design. Try finding it and report back.
This being the end of our fiscal season it is time to thank those who, during this fledgling period of our existence, came forward and offered their services in one form or another, either by the work they have done, the presentations, donations or simply by being in attendance and showing support. It is all much appreciated.
PHOTOS

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top left: Jim Watt introduces guest Jorge Peral; top right: Mr Peral , the guest speaker
bottom: Jim Watt presenting gifts to Jorge and Imelda Peral

FALL MEETING: please take note that we will meet next on Saturday October 14 at 1:00 PM at STAMPEX, which will be held at the Queen Elizabeth Building of the C.N.E. in Toronto October 13 - 15. Our speaker will be David McLaughlin, whose subject will be "Canadian Postal Rates and Regulations 1897-1903". The subject is interesting and we look forward to David's presentation. Taking into consideration the venue, we are expecting a good attendance. Plan to attend. We are also hoping to have our group logo to show members at this meeting.
The Golden Horseshoe Regional Group is always looking for speakers to volunteer to help out. We would like someone from each era of BNA philately. Ideally a presentation should not go beyond forty-five minutes with a fifteen minute question period. With approximately 225 BNAPS members in the region, there should really be no problem acquiring speakers. You can contact me, Peter McCarthy by email (see the link on this page) or phone 519 - 473 - 6019. Thank you
On March 26, 2006 fourteen members of the Golden Horseshoe Regional Group met at the very lovely Rousseau House Restaurant in historic downtown Ancaster, Ontario. Many took advantage of the excellent luncheon menu before the afternoon got underway.
Bill Coates advised that he can obtain Gene Hessler's book, 'The International engraver's Line', at cost for members. The Calgary Regional Group's book, 'Letters from the Far West', was shown. BNAPS announcements (new books, BNAPEX 2006 in Sudbury, BNAPS conventions being arranged for Calgary in 2007 and Halifax in 2008) and an auction of catalogues of auctions of major BNA collections followed. A logo is being developed for the Golden Horseshoe group.
Guest speaker John Hillmer of Toronto displayed and told members about his award winning exhibit 'The Caricature Issue, 1973-1977'. Using an around-the-table method so everyone could see the exhibit pages close up, John explained the myriad inking, perforation and printing varieties known for the sheet stamps and booklets of this issue, many of which he found in post office stock, and presented many interesting covers. The Caricature issue, showing seven former Prime Ministers and the Queen, was designed by David Annesley, who died at a young age in an accident while the stamp set was still in use.
During 'Show and Tell' we continued to find out how varied the British North America philately pursuits of GHRG members are. Items included: an 1887 Niagara Falls Philatelist article announcing an effort to organize the Canadian Philatelic Society; a document with a Canadian Consul's visa stamp; the earliest WWI Navy censor known, which also happened to be on a cover mailed the first day that War Tax was required; St. Catharines, Ontario cancellations; a WWII cover mailed at an Australian FPO used exclusively for two years by a Canadian Signals Unit stationed in Australia; a seemingly ordinary postcard mailed in Halifax in 1917 that turned out to be from a soldier about to board a ship for Europe, accompanied by a copy of the soldier's enlistment form located through Collections Canada's 'ArchiviaNet' website.
In closing the meeting Chairman Jim Watt was pleased to announce that Jorge Peral, Vice-President, Design and Portrait Engraver for the Canadian Banknote Company, will be the guest speaker at the June 4 meeting in Ancaster.
On Sunday, January 29th, 2006 the Golden Horseshoe Regional Group gathered together at the Rousseau Restaurant in downtown Ancaster. Nineteen people were present, some of which chose to partake of the restaurant's scrumptious brunch menu with some very lively philatelic discussions taking place. I think it's the aura of the old stone building with an abundance of rich aged pine that creates the relaxing atmosphere.
We finally became orderly after lunch with Mike Street running the meeting in place of Dr. Jim Watt who was off on a well deserved vacation with his family. Mike talked about the book department and GHRG member Ken Kershaw's new book on the plating of the Half Cent Maple Leaf Issue published by BNAPS and available through Ian Kimmerly. The second volume will be out shortly. A mini auction of three philatelic books and six philatelic periodicals added a few dollars to the bulb fund. You'll understand this fund as you read on. For this we thank Bob Lee, Mike Street and Bob Lane from whence the material came.
Our speaker for the afternoon was Greig Hutton and the subject was the Klussendorf cancellations. At the very beginning of the presentation, wouldn't you know it, the bulb in the overhead blew. Hence, the bulb fund. (see November report) We learn our lessons well. Thankfully we had a back-up and within minutes Greig was able to continue with his most interesting presentation. He is among the most knowledgeable Klussendorf collectors in Canada. Greig has a book out on the Klussendorfs that I believe is available to the public. Thanks Greig.
We also want to thank David McLaughlin for his generous donation to the group of an overhead projector. That will make life that much easier. Thanks David.
Photos from this meeting: photo 1, photo 2, photo 3, Greig presenting his talk, photo 5.

On November 29th, 2005, twenty-six members of the Golden Horseshoe Regional Group met at the very lovely Rousseau House Restaurant in the middle of historic downtown Ancaster, Ontario. Most took advantage of the wonderful luncheon menu and after appetites were sated the remainder of the afternoon got underway in a very relaxed and laid back atmosphere with announcements and a time of show and tell. A little re-organization took place with Dr. Jim Watt remaining as chairman. Mike Street is the Meeting Notice Co-ordinator and yours truly, Peter McCarthy, comes in as secretary. We weren't able to fill the position of program co-ordinator so the secretary will look after that for now.
Show and tell was interesting and we found out there is a wide variety of British North America philately in the area. The afternoon was capped off with a great presentation of Ancaster postal history by Mike Street. This was to have taken place last spring but after a few slides the bulb in Mike's projector blew and we were left high and dry. So when it was announced Mike would try again this past meeting, several came armed with projectors just in case. Thankfully they were not needed.
RIDES NEEDED: Anyone who can provide a ride from the Toronto area to Ancaster and back is asked to email the Golden Horseshoe Regional Group. VOLUNTEERS are needed to assist with group meetings and publicity. Anyone who would like to help should email the Golden Horseshoe Regional Group at the same address.
Directions: From the east take Hwy. 403 to Lincoln Alexander Parkway/Rousseaux St. exit, follow Rousseaux St. to Wilson St., turn left and drive into the village. From the west take Wilson St./Hwy. 2 exit, turn left and follow Wilson St. past shopping centre area. Look for Tim Horton's - the Rousseau House Restaurant is across the street.
To continue making this an interesting group we need the participation of the membership in the form of speakers. There 's such a wide range of subjects out there that there should be no trouble in having people volunteer. What we are looking for is a speaker and a back-up for each meeting. The back-up of one meeting would be the speaker for the following meeting. There is a time limit of forty to forty-five minutes including a question and answer period. If you are interested contact Peter McCarthy at (519) 473-6019 or by email at petermccarthy45@sympatico.ca.
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