A transformational gift from a Trent alumna to Trent University’s Campaign for Momentous Change will enrich students’ understanding of Canadian history through experiential learning, revitalize Trent’s architectural heritage, and provide researchers from around the world with improved access to a treasure trove of materials in the Trent Archives. 

The gift from Campaign Honorary Champion Martha Wilder ’74 is three-fold: Supporting Canadian history projects, reimagining an architecturally significant space on campus, and digitizing archival material. 

“Thanks to this thoughtful and generous gift, Trent University will elevate Canadian history for students, the public, and researchers across the world,” says Sherry Booth ’98, associate vice president of Philanthropy & Alumni Engagement. “Early plans are already underway to offer students, alumni, and community members tours through sites where Canadian history was made. Our vision is to also breathe new life into K-House at Otonabee College, which will be known as The Wilder Place, to create a gathering space in the original architectural spirit of Trent. Our archives will also digitize irreplaceable materials, such as handwritten letters from author Margaret Laurence, making them available online and preserving them for generations to come.” 

Wilder, a member of Trent’s Philanthropic Advisory Council, says she was inspired to support Trent so that the nation’s stories are never forgotten.  

“I am fortunate that I am able to support Trent University! And I am delighted to designate a gift to the Canadian Studies Department, the Archives and The Heritage Fund. Shared knowledge of our nation’s history helps to sustain our collective identity and familiarity with our heritage gives us a better understanding of our lives. Momentous change happens when you create a vision and work collectively with a willing spirit to succeed.”

Through the Wilder Fund for Canadian History, two initial pilot projects are in the works: a video series highlighting the often forgotten or misrepresented figures who helped found the nation; and anew academic course that includes tours through the places where history was made such as the battle grounds of the failed 1837-38 rebellions in Toronto, Niagara, and Montreal.  

The gift also supports transforming the heritage space in Otonabee College, now known as K-House lounge, that offers quintessential Trent architecture. 

"With a cozy fireplace, updated furniture, and an enhanced outdoor patio layout, K-House will once again be a dynamic place to foster community," says Dr. Michael Eamon, co-chair of the University's Heritage Stewardship Committee. 

Digitization at the Trent Archives, meanwhile, will provide 24-7 universal access to materials such as an original proclamation related to British North America, militia lists, 18th century coroner inquests, and oral history recordings describing Canada’s early medicine and dentistry. 

“Researchers currently must decide if it’s worth it to travel to Peterborough (sometimes from another continent), book a hotel, and make an appointment to review our archives," says Karen Suurtamm, Trent archivist. "With digitization, researchers simply click a button. More Canadian stories will be told!”