Austin Foster, MA, CAHP-In, is a historical researcher and writer specializing in heritage conservation. He holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Classical Studies and History and a Master of Arts in History from the University of Guelph. His professional and volunteer experience spans academia, archival management, archaeology, municipal heritage planning, and historical conservation. He has contributed to Euro-Canadian and Indigenous archaeological projects, worked on heritage conservation initiatives, and conducted research for the Canadian War Memorials Database. Foster is a professional member of the Canadian Museums Association and an intern member of the Canadian Association of Heritage Professionals. In 2023, Foster won the Tri-U Essay prize.
Austin Foster presents the history of the University of Guelph’s War Memorial Hall, based on archival research for the War Memorial Hall: Its Early History, Heritage, and Legacy – A Centennial Retrospective (1924–2024) report. The presentation addresses the Ontario Agricultural College’s military context, focusing on its experience during the First World War, the fundraising campaigns and commemorative efforts that supported the project, and the active involvement of students and the wider community. It also examines the design propositions considered for War Memorial Hall, the practical challenges faced during its planning and construction, and the building’s role throughout the interwar years and the Second World War.
Location: Guelph Civic Museum
Doors open at 6:30 and the presentation starts at 7:00 pm, followed by a question period.
The lecture will premiere in-person at the Guelph Civic Museum. The recorded conversation will be available on YouTube, and the Museum Everywhere Portal.
