The Orillia Public Library has many fun and informative programs for adults and seniors! Check out our Calendar of Events for more details!
British Home Child Program
Saturday, May 11th @ 1pm
Programming Room
Free!
Please call 705-325-2338 to register.
Over 118,000 children were brought to Canada between 1863 and 1949, many into the Orillia area! Most Canadians have no idea of the existence of the British Home Children and the pivotal role they played in the historical development of this great country we call Canada. On May 11th leading experts will explain how this immigration program spanned from opportunity to slavery, success to despair. Speakers include:
Sandra Joyce - Two years after her father's death she stumbled upon his name on a ship's passenger list. Her book, The Street Arab, is based on his story.
Gloria V. Phillips - Author of two historical fiction novels, A Pilgrim Passing Through and A Pilgrim's Daughter. She is also a dedicated genealogist who has written two non-fiction genealogy books - From Islay They Came and The Clockmaker’s Children. Her writing reflects her interest in history and her talents as a researcher. Gloria is a volunteer at a Family History Center where she assists others in their genealogy research. She is a contributing author to the best-selling Canadian anthology A Second Cup of Hot Apple Cider.
Lori Oschefski - This child of a surviving Home Child will be speaking about her mother's incredible story. It inspired her interest in the child migration schemes and the history behind them. Lori is the founder of the international organization "British Home Children Advocacy & Research Association.
Karen Mahoney - Global Moderator for the UK's largest free family history forum, Rootschat, will be speaking on researching your British Home Child.
The library will be hosting for the entire month of May the BHCA&RA's British Home Child display which features two vintage children's trunks and many items relating to these children. The display will also features a photographic display by John Reeves and Lori Oschefski.
Email for more information or to register.
