As we celebrate Canada’s 150th Anniversary, there is a lot of discussion around the history of companies and businesses across the country.
In the 119-year history of the Mannix Family in business, there have been many people, organizations and stories that all played a significant role in forming the company you are a proud member of today.
While many companies often allow their history to collect dust in the closet, the Mannix Family has made an effort to capture as much as possible.
In April 1985, a project was launched to form the Loram Group History Centre. The purpose was to recognize the many thousands of people who helped build the Loram Group.
Staff began sorting and organizing material contained in the many boxes, packages and loose articles stockpiled in the area. There were framed and unframed pictures, photo albums, tapes, slides, films, scrapbooks, reports and pamphlets, artifacts, memorabilia, small tools, technical instruments, office equipment and furniture — all destined for a future home in the History Centre in Calgary.
Mary Perks was brought back to the Loram Group after a ten-year absence to help with the project. Mary originally joined the Mannix team back in 1953 as secretary to Eric Connelly.
“You worked for a family company, and you felt part of it,” she said. “You didn’t just work with them, they were friends too. This is why today I remember so many names, many of whom I haven’t seen for years, and some who I never saw after that. But I know these men and women, they really made an imprint in my mind. It was a people company and a hard-working company. Everybody worked hard. When something had to be done, it had to be done now!”
The History Centre is now referred to as the History Collection. While it is no longer open for touring, the collections are still being preserved and retained for learning opportunities, as well as a support for research of the corporate history. The Collection continues to grow with donations received through the ongoing “history in the making” from current corporate entities.
Take a few moments to check out this corporate historical timeline, woven together with key highlights as Canada grew to be 150 years old.
