Enjoyed by All
Family, friends and neighbours of the Chamberlain Family meet one day on the Labour Day Weekend for conversation, shared meals and games for all ages. As families moved further afield, the date of the Picnic moved from Labour Day to the Sunday before.
A unique legacy
It is unusual that several generations of families will keep a reunion running. Picnic hosts have been TD Chamberlain and David Eason (starting in 1921), Percy Chamberlain and his cousin Ethel Reynolds (starting in 1956), and as of 1986, Bill and Fran Chamberlain and their family. During the pandemic, a reunion was held online for two years.
The year 2022, a return to in-person picnics, was a new beginning without the leadership of Bill Chamberlain who passed away in late 2020. His family members do their best to follow his vision for honouring the past and future.
A shared experience
Over the years, volunteers within different branches of the family organized children’s games, races and a piñata, and quizzes that test picnic-goers knowledge of local, Canadian and family history. It becomes a wonderful opportunity for family elders to share their knowledge and cherished memories.
First Photo: Bill and Fran Chamberlain (far right) and their family wore 1920s garb to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Picnic in 1996.
Second Photo: Elgin Northey and Gordon Bradfield help coordinate races during the 1964 Picnic. Families take turns organizing games and emceeing events.