Naval Marine Archive founders earn Canadian Nautical Research Society award

At the award presentation, from left, Paul Adamthwaite, Richard Gimblett and Betty Ann Anderson [photo courtesy CNRS]

Since 1984, this is the fifth time the society has recognized excellence in contributions to maritime history across a broad range of activities.

The award was presented recently at the society’s annual general meeting, by Dr. Richard Gimblett.

“Paul Adamthwaite and Betty Ann Anderson are recognized for their outstanding efforts as the co-founders and leading lights in the sustainment of the Naval Marine Archive — The Canadian Collection.” Established in 1999 at their home, they acquired the former federal Post Office in downtown Picton as a permanent home dubbed “The Victory” after Lord Nelson’s flagship at Trafalgar.

“Over its quarter-century of existence, they have grown The Victory as a unique combination library, archive and cultural collection of maritime and aviation books, papers and objects oriented toward the conservation and dissemination of maritime and related history. With over 350,000 publicly catalogued items, its holdings constitute the largest grouping of naval and marine titles in a single building anywhere in Canada.”

Gimblett went on to note their additional contributions to the furthering of Canadian maritime history include having provided administrative services to the Canadian Society of Marine Artists, with a large portion of the main floor of The Victory acting as a gallery for the works of CSMA members.

“Betty Ann’s painting skills and contacts in the art world were instrumental in bringing the CSMA into this collaboration with the Naval Marine Archives. Paul has had many years of dedicated service to the CNRS, including variously as President (2008-11), as website manager since 2006, and as co-editor of The Northern Mariner / Le Marin du Nord (with Roger Sarty, 2007-15). For her part, Betty Ann, a native of Prince Edward County, has directed her many artistic and teaching talents to a range of outreach activities. Most notable are the education programs she has led over the years in conjunction with the local school board.

“Their commitment to the preservation and dissemination of maritime history deservedly merits the distinction of the Alec Douglas Award for Contributions to Maritime History. Alec Douglas was the founding secretary of the CNRS.

The Naval Marine Archive – The Canadian Collection – The Victory – is located at 205 Main Street, Picton. It is open daily. Admission is free of charge to view the fine archives and collections of marine books, the art gallery, ship models and displays. There are extensive collections on yachting, the mercantile marine, navies, aeronautics, military subjects, the Arctic and First Nations, biographies, and local and Great Lakes history.