Hamilton, Ontario, October 13, 2002 – The Reverend Dr. Mel Bailey, one of Hamilton’s finest and most respected citizens, will celebrate his 90th birthday on November 17, 2002. An accomplished author and historian, Dr. Bailey has shared his devotion to the City of Hamilton for over 59 years through his many books and articles capturing the diverse and legendary moments in the history of our city. An Open House will take place at the South Gate Presbyterian Church, 120 Clarendon Avenue, Hamilton—the same church where Dr. Bailey was a minister for 31 years—on Sunday, November 24, 2002 from 1:30 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. to celebrate this memorable occasion! The City of Hamilton is striving to change its image, but thanks to Dr. Bailey’s devotion to learning about Hamilton, we have a richer historical foundation to build upon.
Dr. Bailey has dedicated a significant part of his life to studying and sharing the history of Hamilton. In the shadow of Dundurn Castle, Thomas Melville Bailey was born on November 17, 1912 at 31 Davenport Street. Fascinated by the history of the Castle and the lives of Sir Allan Napier MacNab and his family, Dr. Bailey has written numerous books depicting the ‘lives and times’ of those Hamiltonians who came before us. As recently as the year 2000, Dr. Bailey’s expertise was put to use as researcher and editor of Mountain Memories, the first hardcover, pictorial history book of the Hamilton Mountain.
Hard work and a lifetime commitment to the Hamilton community and the Presbyterian Church In Canada hasn’t gone unnoticed. Not only has Dr. Bailey been inducted into the Hamilton Gallery of Distinction, but this versatile citizen has received the Confederation Medal on the 125th Anniversary of Canada; the Certificate of Recognition from Hamilton City Council for service on the Hamilton Historical Board, and the Outstanding Achievement Award for volunteerism in Ontario – just the tip of the iceberg compared to the many well deserved honours earned by Dr. Bailey. Daughter, January, comments, “Living with a father who is an historian and minister has been very exciting. He knows so much and it has helped me throughout my life.” She adds, “It’s an honour to have this man as my father. He has taught me so much.”
If Sir Allan MacNab was alive today I’m sure he’d agree that Dr. Bailey holds a special and significant place in the making of Hamilton’s history. Happy 90th Birthday Dr. Bailey!