Edwin Baker, Canadian soldier and educator, co-founded the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (d. 1968)

Edwin Albert Baker: A Visionary Leader in Canadian Blindness Advocacy

Edwin Albert Baker (January 9, 1893 – April 7, 1968) stands as a monumental figure in Canadian social history, widely recognized as a pioneering co-founder of the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB). His extraordinary life journey, marked by personal adversity and profound dedication, laid the groundwork for comprehensive support and advocacy for Canadians who are blind or partially sighted, shaping the landscape of disability services in the nation for decades.

Early Life, Education, and Wartime Service

Born in the quaint community of Collins Bay, Ontario, near Kingston, Baker demonstrated early academic prowess and a keen intellect. He pursued and successfully earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from the esteemed Queen's University in Kingston in 1914. This strong educational foundation in a demanding scientific field showcased his analytical mind and problem-solving capabilities. However, the escalating global conflict soon called for his service. Later that very year, at the dawn of World War I, he selflessly enlisted with the Sixth Field Company, Canadian Engineers. This specialized unit played a crucial role on the front lines, undertaking vital tasks such as constructing fortifications, laying communication lines, and clearing obstacles, often under perilous conditions.

The trajectory of Baker's life was irrevocably altered in 1915 when he suffered severe injuries while serving in France. A devastating battlefield incident resulted in the complete loss of sight in both eyes, rendering him permanently blind. This profound personal tragedy, unfortunately common among countless soldiers exposed to the brutal realities of trench warfare and the innovative, destructive weaponry of the era, rather than diminishing his spirit, ignited a fierce determination to advocate for others facing similar challenges.

The Founding and Leadership of the CNIB

In the immediate aftermath of the Great War, Canada faced a pressing need to support its returning veterans, many of whom, like Baker, had sustained life-altering injuries, including blindness. Recognizing this urgent societal gap and driven by his personal experience, Edwin Albert Baker, alongside six other visionary individuals – including notable figures like Alfred L. Baker (no relation) and C.W. Carr – took a decisive step. In 1918, they collaboratively founded the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB), an organization conceived to offer vital rehabilitation, vocational training, and social integration services for blind Canadians across the nation. This marked a significant turning point in the country's approach to disability support, moving towards more structured and comprehensive assistance.

Baker's commitment to the CNIB was immediate and unwavering. He served as the organization's inaugural Vice-President from its inception in 1918 until 1920. Demonstrating exceptional leadership, strategic acumen, and tireless dedication, he subsequently assumed the demanding dual role of Managing Director and General Secretary in 1920. This comprehensive executive position placed him at the helm of the CNIB's operations, guiding its growth, shaping its policies, and expanding its reach. He remained steadfastly in this crucial leadership capacity for an impressive 42 years, until his retirement in 1962. Under his enduring stewardship, the CNIB blossomed into a nationally recognized and indispensable institution, profoundly impacting the lives of tens of thousands of Canadians through services such as Braille literacy programs, accessible technology initiatives, employment support, and advocacy for greater public accessibility and inclusion.

Personal Life and Enduring Legacy

Beyond his prolific professional contributions, Edwin Albert Baker maintained a rich personal life. He was married to Jessie Robinson, and together they built a family, raising three sons and a daughter. His remarkable journey from a decorated, blinded war veteran to a pioneering advocate and leader serves as a powerful testament to resilience, vision, and the transformative power of dedication. Baker's legacy continues to resonate through the enduring work of the CNIB, which remains a cornerstone of support for the blind and partially sighted community in Canada, continuing its mission to empower individuals and champion accessibility.

Frequently Asked Questions about Edwin Albert Baker and the CNIB

Who was Edwin Albert Baker?
Edwin Albert Baker was a distinguished Canadian electrical engineer, a decorated World War I veteran who lost his sight in battle, and a pivotal co-founder of the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB). He dedicated his life to advocating for and empowering blind and partially sighted Canadians, serving as CNIB's Managing Director for over four decades.
What is the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB)?
The CNIB is a registered charity, founded in 1918, dedicated to changing what it means to be blind today. It provides a wide range of services, support, and advocacy for Canadians living with vision loss, including rehabilitation, independent living skills, career support, and accessible technology training, aiming to foster independence and inclusion across the country.
Why was the CNIB founded?
The CNIB was founded in 1918 primarily to address the urgent needs of soldiers returning from World War I who had sustained vision loss, many of whom faced significant challenges reintegrating into society. Its mission quickly expanded to serve all Canadians with blindness or partial sight, providing essential support that was largely unavailable at the time.
How long did Edwin Albert Baker lead the CNIB?
Edwin Albert Baker served as Managing Director and General Secretary of the CNIB for an extensive period of 42 years, from 1920 until his retirement in 1962. His long tenure was instrumental in shaping the organization's growth, strategic direction, and profound impact on the lives of countless Canadians.