Montreal Mayor Gérard Tremblay responded to the Canadian Hungarian Artist Collective’s (CHAC) request to hold a major event that celebrates the 50th Anniversary of the Hungarian Revolution, as Hungarians had come here in large numbers. CHAC was asked to organize an exhibit at City Hall that would tell the story of Hungarians and Hungarian associations in Montreal. I concluded that this was a project that went beyond the mandate of CHAC. Thus, not wishing to lose this great offer to honour Hungarians, I spearheaded the creation of „MHHS” by gathering together many leaders in Montreal, to create the “Montreal Hungarian Historical Society” under the Co- Presidencies of Mária Mailáth and Christopher Adam.

With an almost impossible deadline two months away, and in the summer months, when people are away vacationing, $10,000 was raised and an exhibition was mounted. Of course, all would have wished for more time to do a better more comprehensive research. But, considering the realities, I am amazed that the MHHS group was able to do this and that CHAC was an important player in this project, providing manpower and artistic expertise. Miklos Rogan was of critical importance, as he did all the artwork for the exhibits.

Andrea Blanar

For more information on the Montreal Hungarian Historical Society’s exhibit, click here.