By William Crooks
Jim Manson, a historian with deep roots in the Eastern Townships, is set to deliver a talk on April 13 at the Bruck Museum in Cowansville, honouring the remarkable contributions of Marion Phelps to local history. The event, part of the QAHN Heritage Talks 2025, will explore Phelps’ legacy and her lifelong dedication to preserving and promoting the region’s past.
Manson, who studied under Phelps as a child, recalled how she inspired his love for history from an early age. “She was somebody committed to expanding people’s knowledge of history in the region,” he said. “She really promoted the idea of local history and the fact that it was important to us.”
Born in 1908, Phelps grew up in Stukely Township, where she attended local schools before training as a teacher at Macdonald College. It was there that she stumbled upon a book by Catherine Day on Eastern Townships history—an experience that changed her life. “She had never heard of the Loyalists before reading that book,” Manson explained. “From that day forward, she was committed to not just finding out more about Eastern Townships history but also trying to interest other people in it.”
Phelps taught for decades, spending much of her career at Cowansville High School. However, her work extended far beyond the classroom. After retiring in 1962, she became a fixture at the Brome County Historical Society, volunteering in the archives for over 40 years. From behind her desk, she assisted countless researchers, preserving historical records and ensuring that the region’s heritage was not forgotten.
“She didn’t get paid for it,” Manson noted. “All the work she did, she did as a volunteer. And we’ll never see those days again, I don’t think. Just her selflessness, her complete commitment to encouraging young people in particular to learn something about their history—to be proud of their history.”
Throughout her life, Phelps remained deeply concerned about the decline of local history education, particularly in English-speaking communities. Manson recalled that she often worried about how to instill a love of history in future generations. “She was aware that a lot of Anglophones were leaving the region and that exposure to history in schools was being reduced. She wanted to do something about it.”
In 2001, the Quebec Anglophone Heritage Network (QAHN) established an award in her honour to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to local history. At the award’s inaugural ceremony, Phelps was introduced by Manson himself. “It was fitting,” he said, “that it was held at Macdonald College, the place where her journey into history really began.”
Even in her later years, Phelps remained active. She continued working at the archives well into her 90s and, according to Manson, remained as sharp and dedicated as ever. “I remember her telling me, ‘I won’t be working full-time anymore—I’ll be working part-time,’” he said with a chuckle. “And she was about 96 or 97 at the time.”
Phelps passed away in 2013 at the age of 105, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and service to the region’s history. Her funeral, held several months after her passing, saw Manson delivering her eulogy, an honour he describes as deeply meaningful. “To me, she was somebody I looked up to, somebody I respected—not just for her knowledge but for everything she gave to this community.”
The upcoming talk will highlight these aspects of Phelps’ life, bringing her story to new audiences. “She did so much to promote local history right up until the end of her life,” Manson said. “That’s what I really want to bring out.”
Following Manson’s lecture, attendees will be invited to share their own memories of Phelps in an open-mic session. The event runs from 2 to 4 p.m., and seating is limited. Those interested in attending are encouraged to RSVP in advance.
