Honouring British Home Children who became part of Tillsonburg’s history
Tillsonburg is remembering a part of its history that began with children arriving in Canada from the United Kingdom.
Monday, September 28th is British Home Child Day, and the Town is recognizing the thousands of children sent to Canada through child migration programs - including children who eventually became part of the Tillsonburg community.
Kate Bakos, Cultural Heritage Manager and Curator at Annandale National Historic Site, says there will be a visible reminder downtown Monday.
Annandale, the Town of Tillsonburg and Oxford County Archives have also brought together photographs, historical records and family stories for a special exhibition.
The British Home Children program operated from 1869 to 1948, and more than 100,000 children were sent to Canada during that time.
Many came from families dealing with poverty or other hardships. They were placed with families, on farms or in domestic service.
The experience wasn't the same for every child. Some found supportive homes and opportunities, while others faced hardship, exploitation and abuse. The Tillsonburg exhibition looks at the experiences and contributions of several British Home Children who became part of the local community.
Bakos says the exhibit isn't intended to tell every story.
The exhibition is on display at Annandale National Historic Site and Museum through October 31st. There is also an online version through Oxford County Archives, so you can explore the stories and historical records from home. On September 28th, the Tillsonburg Rotary Clock Tower will be illuminated in yellow - the colour associated with British Home Children and the sunflower, their official flower.
It's a chance to learn about people who became part of Tillsonburg's history - and the contributions they and their descendants have made to the community.
