HAZEL CHISHOLM MATHEWS was born in Oakville, the great-granddaughter of Colonel William Chisholm, founder of the town. She was educated in New York City, returning to spend each summer in Oakville. Since 1984 she has lived permanently in Oakville, making her home in the old Custom House, which she renovated after it had stood vacant for over fifty years. She has two sons, one daughter, and four granddaughters.