Edwin Baker (CNIB) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Edwin Albert Baker
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| Born | January 9, 1893 Collins Bay, Ontario
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| Died | April 7, 1968 (aged 75) |
| Known for | Co-founder of the Canadian National Institute for the Blind |
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Edwin Albert Baker (born January 9, 1893 – died April 7, 1968) was a very important Canadian. He helped start the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB). This organization helps people who are blind or have low vision.
Edwin Baker was born in Collins Bay, Ontario. He studied electrical engineering at Queen's University. He finished his studies in 1914. Soon after, he joined the Canadian army.
In 1915, while serving in France during a war, he was injured. This injury caused him to lose his sight completely.
Even though he lost his sight, Edwin Baker became a leader. In 1918, he and six other people created the CNIB. He worked there for a very long time, from 1920 until he retired in 1962. He was like the main boss, helping to guide the organization.
He was married to Jessie Robinson. They had three sons and one daughter.
Edwin Baker's Amazing Work
Edwin Baker dedicated his life to helping others. He worked hard to make sure blind Canadians had the support they needed. He believed in giving people the tools to live full and independent lives.
As the leader of the CNIB, he helped create many programs. These programs supported blind people with education, jobs, and daily living skills. His work changed the lives of thousands of Canadians.
Awards and Special Honours
Edwin Baker received many important awards for his dedication. These honours showed how much his work was valued.
- In 1935, he was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire. This is a special award from the United Kingdom.
- In 1938, he received an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Queen's University. He also got one from the University of Toronto in 1945. These degrees recognized his great achievements.
- He was awarded the Croix de Guerre. This is a military honour from France.
- In 1967, he became a Companion of the Order of Canada. This is one of Canada's highest civilian honours.
- A Historica Canada Heritage Minute about Edwin Baker is planned for release in the fall of 2024. These short videos tell important Canadian stories.
