In Memory of

   Donald I. Laird Jr.

December 29, 1948 – October 1, 2003

a dear and special friend

On October 1, 2003 Donald I. Laird Jr. lost his lengthy battle with cancer. He resided in Rochester, New York. 

An artist, musician and historian, Mr. Laird was involved in many local activities through the years, including program development at the H. Lee White Marine Museum and creation of its website, www.hleewhitemarinemuseum.com. In 1986 Don founded the Ontario Singers, a local vocal ensemble focusing on historic music.  He also produced several cassettes and CDs featuring music of the Civil War era.  Between 1985 and 1991, he worked at the Fort Ontario State Historic Site, first as Interpretive Program Assistant and then as Site Manager.  During his tenure at the fort, Don established the Friends of Fort Ontario and expanded the costume interpretive program as well.  He also taught community enrichment classes at Oswego County BOCES.

A Donald J. Laird Jr. Program Fund has been created at the museum in his honor.

Please call the museum office at (315) 342-0480 for information