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Oswald Hoskins fonds
- Date Range
- [1907-1982]
- Collection
- Oswald Hoskins fonds
- Description Level
- Fonds
- GMD
- textual record
- graphic material
- Scope and Content
- This fonds consists of handwritten and typed histories of the automotive industry in the Bulkley Valley from the early 1900s to 1970 written by Oswald Hoskins, and 37 photographs and postcards collected by Oswald Hoskins. The fonds is arranged in two series: Historical Writings, and Photographs.
- Collection
- Oswald Hoskins fonds
- Description Level
- Fonds
- GMD
- textual record
- graphic material
- Creator
- Oswald Hoskins
- Fonds No.
- PF34
- Accession No.
- 2019.22
- Physical Description
- 2 cm textual records
- 37 photographs and postcards
- Date Range
- [1907-1982]
- History / Biographical
- Oswald "Ozzie" Hoskins was born in Cranbrook BC in 1907, moving to Hazelton with his family in 1913 and to Smithers in 1918. As a student he worked part time at Henry Motors in Smithers helping to assemble Model-T Fords. He also worked on the construction of the Provincial Government building (Central Park Building today). Later he joined Henry Motors full time, remaining there until 1933 when he founded Hoskins Service on Main Street and Fifth Avenue (now Highway 16). Oswald married Ruby Williams on October 21st 1934. They had two sons, Tom (1935-1951) and Michael. The business continues to exist as Hoskins Ford in 2019. Oswald served as chairman of the village commissioners from 1943-1945, and as President of the Smithers Chamber of Commerce in 1954. He was elected President of the Northwest Associated Board of Trade in 1966, and served as stipendiary magistrate for Smithers from 1952-1954. Long time member of the Omenica Masonic Lodge, becoming district deputy grand master in 1951. Co-founder and charter member of the Smithers Rotary Club, serving as first full term president. Founded Smithers Ice Supply after retiring from Hoskins Ford. Founded the Bulkley Valley Rock and Lapidary Club. Oswald Hoskins died on July 27th 1982.
- Scope and Content
- This fonds consists of handwritten and typed histories of the automotive industry in the Bulkley Valley from the early 1900s to 1970 written by Oswald Hoskins, and 37 photographs and postcards collected by Oswald Hoskins. The fonds is arranged in two series: Historical Writings, and Photographs.
- Arrangement
- Photographs were given P number identifications and are physically filed with the BVM photograph collection, but intellectually connected to this fonds.
- Reproduction Restrictions
- Copyright of some postcards may still reside with company that produced them
- Type of Record
- Archival Description
Less detail