A long-time leader in Thunder Bay tourism has been recognized with provincial accolades for a lifetime of contributions to the sector.
Peter Boyle, who was the manager of marketing and visitor experience at Fort William Historical Park (FWHP) before retiring earlier this year, has received the Distinguished Career Award of Excellence from the Ontario Museum Association (OMA).
The award was announced on Nov. 22 during the association’s 2024 Awards of Excellence, which were presented online.
“The OMA Distinguished Career Award of Excellence is presented to individuals who, over an extended period, have created a lasting and meaningful legacy in the Ontario museum community,” according to the organization.
“Throughout an extensive, 40-year career at the park, Peter has contributed to the research and development of FWHP’s rich and award-winning living history and educational programming telling the story of Central Canada’s 19th century fur trade.”
Boyle began his career as a student interpreter at the centre in the 1980s, achieving several accomplishments over four decades. Among them, Boyle ensured the structural and aesthetic fitness and accuracy in the historical depiction of 44 historical buildings and secondary structures, including an Anishinaabe Encampment and Learning Wigwam, the OMA noted.
“His direction of senior artisan staff in conservation efforts reflects his dedication to preserve the past, while his expansion of FWHP’s collaborations with diverse partners and stakeholders exemplifies his forward-looking aspirations for the FWHP,” the organization said.
Boyle also led efforts to get Fort William Historical Park designated as a Provincial Heritage Property of Provincial Significance, which gives the site certain protections under Ontario law.
Sitting on the shores of the Kaministiquia River, Fort William Historical Park is a reconstruction of historic Fort William, which was a significant outpost during the region’s early fur trade.
