7th Annual Beacons of History Awards

The Beacon Historical Society presented its seventh annual “Beacons of History” awards on Thursday, Nov. 9 to a couple and a group who have made substantial contributions to Beacon and helped to preserve its history and sense of community. The event, held at the Roundhouse, was a success by every measure, thanks to deserving honorees, generous supporters, a beautiful venue and a good cause.

View the program here: https://youtu.be/Cr-R07-3wZ8 . And be sure to check out more than 50 photos on our Beacon Historical Society Facebook page.

The 2023 recognition was presented to:

Individual Honorees:

Joanne and Ian MacDonald

Ian and his late wife Joanne have made many significant contributions to Beacon, most notably to the Beacon Historical Society, a passion they shared. Joanne taught at Sargent Elementary for 20 years. Ian, a Beacon native, served as Assistant City Judge for 10 and County Attorney for 17 years. Outside of their professional careers, both volunteered their time to organizations supporting the beauty and culture of the city. Joanne was a long-time member and president of the Tioronda Garden Club. Ian served as trustee and president of the Howland Library Board of Trustees. Both have given generously of themselves to better and beautify Beacon.

Organizational Honorees:

Beacon Volunteer Firefighters Past and Present

The proud tradition of volunteer firefighting began in the Twin Villages as early as 1840, and since that time, thousands of brave men and women have answered the alarm to save lives and properties through selfless (and often dangerous) service to the rest of us. The three current volunteer companies, Beacon Engine, Mase Hook & Ladder and Lewis Tompkins Hose Company, have protected our community for decades but now face unprecedented 21st-century challenges and pressures. We are honored to recognize these dedicated neighbors for their volunteer spirit, selfless service and admirable courage on behalf of the rest of us.