Ryerson Memorial Volume
Prepared on the occasion of the unveiling of the Ryerson statute in the grounds of the Education department on the Queen's birthday, 1889
"Ryerson Memorial Volume" by J. George Hodgins is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work commemorates the unveiling of a statue dedicated to Dr. Egerton Ryerson, the founder of Ontario's public education system, highlighting his contributions and the principles that shaped educational structures in the province. This volume not only details the events surrounding the memorialization of Ryerson but also reflects on the broader impact of his educational reforms. The opening of the book sets the stage for the unveiling ceremony that took place on Queen's Birthday in 1889, accompanied by a series of speeches and acknowledgments of Ryerson's achievements in education. It reveals that Dr. Ryerson was a pivotal figure in the establishment of a free school system in Upper Canada and notes the challenges he faced during the early years of his administration. The beginning describes the importance of the occasion and emphasizes the collaborative effort of various educational and political leaders to honor Ryerson's legacy, asserting that his influence remains integral to Ontario’s educational landscape.