Celebrating Millie Bennett: Cardinal’s Quiet Artistic Legacy Honoured

On June 9, the Township of Edwardsburgh Cardinal (TWPEC) Committee of the Whole received a heartfelt presentation honouring the late Millie Bennett, a gifted papier-mâché artist and long-time resident of Cardinal. A sculpture created by Bennett and gifted to her friend and collaborator Judie Martin in 2008 was officially donated to the community as a tribute to Millie’s remarkable creative legacy.

The sculpture—an intricate figure of Cosette from Les Misérables—was originally presented to Martin following years of collaboration through the St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival (SLSF). “I have treasured her (Cosette), I really have,” said Martin during the presentation. “But I think that Millie’s creations should be featured in Cardinal, which was her home for so long, and so I would like very much to donate Cosette to the public library in Cardinal.” In her written notice, she added: “It was created just for me. I would like to donate my treasure to the people of Cardinal to enjoy and remember this generous and talented woman, a citizen of your village.”

Judie and her husband Peter Martin, a former TWPEC councillor, are downsizing their home and moving from Cardinal to Prescott. Without space to continue displaying the sculpture, Judie felt it was the right time to share it with the community that meant so much to Millie. The sculpture will be permanently displayed at the Cardinal Branch of the Edwardsburgh Cardinal Public Library, where it can be appreciated by residents and visitors alike.

Born and educated in Bathurst, New Brunswick, Millie began crafting as a child using discarded paper her father brought home from the local mill. She later joined the RCAF Women’s Division during the Second World War and served in North Battleford, Saskatchewan, where she met and married William (Bill) Bennett. The couple eventually settled in Cardinal, Bill’s hometown, where he worked at Canada Starch Co., and Millie became a dedicated community volunteer—offering her time and talents to local schools, hospitals, churches, political organizations, and civic causes.

Millie’s artistic journey remained a constant throughout her life. She was known for her papier-mâché figures, soft sculptures, and handcrafted works, which were admired both locally and beyond. Her creativity was also shared through commissions and donations to causes close to her heart, leaving a lasting impression on those who knew her or worked with her.

“Millie was a remarkable woman whose art reflected compassion, curiosity, and care,” said Donna Gladstone, CEO of the Edwardsburgh Cardinal Public Library. “Many of us at St. John’s United Church have cherished her work for years—her pieces are in our sanctuary and remind us weekly of her talent and heart. It’s an honour to help share her story with the wider community.”

Mayor Tory Deschamps also expressed his gratitude during the presentation, saying, “Thank you, Judie, so much for thinking of us when you are letting go of such a prized possession.”

While Millie’s contributions to the arts reached international audiences, she lived much of her life quietly in Cardinal. Her daughters, Beverley and Stephanie, continue to call the village home and carry forward her legacy. Millie’s grandson, Dennis Hutt, his wife Leah Thompson, and their daughter Brielle Hutt—Millie’s great-granddaughter—were also in attendance. Their presence brought a heartfelt, personal touch to the evening, underscoring the pride and admiration Millie’s family continues to hold for her life and work.

In addition to the sculpture, Judie Martin donated a plaque outlining Millie Bennett’s life and contributions to the community, offering context for visitors viewing the piece. She also provided a copy of the commemorative book Such Stuff as Dreams Are Made On – 20 Years of the St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival. The publication celebrates the festival’s origins and growth, featuring personal stories and photographs by individuals who helped shape its first two decades.

As the St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival celebrates its 23rd season, this tribute offers a meaningful reminder of the power of creativity, community, and quiet generosity.