The Orillia Museum of Art & History (OMAH) is pleased to announce the next event in our History Speaker Series. Join us as John Smith, the youngest son of CFOR founder Gordon Smith, shares vivid stories from Orillia’s golden age of radio.
This engaging talk, titled “From the Golden Age of Radio: CFOR’s Legacy in Orillia,” will take place on Wednesday, May 121, 2025, at 7:00 PM on Zoom. Pre-registration is required.
Founded in 1945 by Gordon Smith, CFOR quickly became a cultural touchstone in Orillia—bringing local news, music, entertainment, and community voices to the airwaves. With innovation, humour, and a deep commitment to local storytelling, the station helped define what community meant in postwar Orillia. Radio was more than entertainment—it was a lifeline that connected neighbours, preserved local identity, and amplified the stories of a growing town.
John Smith will share personal memories of his father’s legacy and the unforgettable moments that defined CFOR. His stories bring to life the sounds, characters, and energy of a time when radio was the beating heart of the community.
Event Details
Date: May 21, 2025, at 7:00 PM
Location: Zoom
Tickets: To receive a link to the talk, visit https://www.orilliamuseum.org/project/history-speaker-series-cfor-radio-legacy or call 705-326-2159.
Registration is free; donations to OMAH are appreciated.
