4th Line Theatre Bringing Forgotten Canadian History to Life With Ontario Farmerettes On Nov. 26

4th Line Theatre is shedding light on a largely forgotten chapter of Canadian history with the documentary film ‘We Lend A Hand: The Forgotten Story of Ontario Farmerettes,’ screening on Nov. 26. at Lakefield College School.

Colin Field, Albeiro Films, Producer/Director --’We Lend A Hand: The Forgotten Story of Ontario Farmerettes’ documentary film. Photo courtsy of 4th Line Theatre.

Created by director/producer Colin Field and Bonnie Sitter, historical producer, the documentary tells the extraordinary story of 40,000 teenage girls who volunteered on Canadian farms during and after World War II and helped sustain the nation's food supply, when young men left to fight overseas.

Bonnie Sitter, author, was searching through old family photographs when she found a captivating image of a group of young women taken on her late husband's family farm near Thedford, with a caption on the reverse that read ‘Farmerettes 1946.’

This led her to research the Farmerette story and publish an article in The Rural Voice asking for women who served as Farmerettes to get in touch with her.

Shirleyan English, a retired London Free Press journalist, read the article and wrote a letter to the editor, explaining her own experience as a Farmerette and how it remained the best summer of her life. Sitter and English went on to co-author the book Onion Skins and Peach Fuzz: Memories of Ontario Farmerettes in 2019.

“We wanted to capture the story of how the Farmerettes helped win the Second World War by volunteering to aid farmers with food production,” said Sitter.

Filmmaker Colin Field first met Sitter in 2019 and wanted to bring this forgotten Canadian story to life.

“I was privileged to collaborate with Bonnie on this extraordinary story of dedication and perseverance explained Field. “I got to interview 20 Farmerettes - now in their late 90s - for the documentary, and after two years of work, and with the help of sponsors and generous donors the documentary is finally complete.”

After the screening, there will be a Q&A with the filmmakers and 4th Line Theatre Managing Artistic Director Kim Blackwell. There will also be a chance to acquire autographed copies of the book Onion Skins and Peach Fuzz: Memories of Ontario Farmerettes.

A portion of ticket sales will go to 4th Line Theatre’s 30 to the Future Endowment Fund and Lakefield College’s Northcote Farm Endowment. A portion of the proceeds go towards victims of the Home Hardware fire in downtown Lakefield.

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Trent Valley Archives Hosting Open House and Book Launch On Saturday

Trent Valley Archives is opening its doors to the public to celebrate the launch of its newest book and explore materials related to the dispersal of families who came with the 1825 Peter Robinson emigration this Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Trent Valley Archives.

Around 11:30 a.m., Dr. Elwood Jones, author, historian and archivist and John McQuarrie, photographer, will speak about their new book, ‘Peterborough, Spirit of Place.’ It profiles some of the history of Peterborough, including articles about the 1825 Robinson emigration and how the town evolved from that point.

Jones will also present materials related to what happened to the next generation of those who immigrated from Ireland in the early 1800s. Where they went and what they were able to accomplish is a matter of great interest as Peterborough County and areas beyond began to develop into the vibrant places they have become.

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Peterborough Residents Take to Ireland to Celebrate 200th Anniversary of Peter Robinson's Settler Emigration Scheme

To mark the 200th anniversary of the Peter Robinson Settler Emigration Scheme, Peterborough residents took to Cobh, Ireland for a wreath-laying ceremony to celebrate the occasion on Friday.

(From left to right) David Kyffin, Counsellor and Program Manager at Embassy of Canada to Ireland; Eoighan Murphy, Chair of the Cork branch of the Irish Hotel Federation; Cllr Joe Carroll, Mayor of Cork County Council; Amanda Slattery, Manager at Ballyhoura Development CLG; John Concannon, Irish Ambassador to Canada; Brendan Moher, Chairperson of Nine Ships 1825 Inc. Peterborough; Glenn O'Meara, Descendant of O'Meara, Rathcormack 1823, Minnesota and Pádraig Casey, CEO of Ballyhoura Development CLG. Photo courtesy of Ballyhoura Development CLG.

The event was initiated and organised by Ballyhoura Development with several partners. It honoured the memory of over 500 families from the Ballyhoura region and surrounding areas who departed on 11 ships for Upper Canada in 1823 and 1825.

The event, emceed by Ballyhoura Development Manager Amanda Slattery, was attended by Mayor of Cork County Council Cllr Joe Carroll, Irish Ambassador to Canada John Concannon, Canadian Embassy representative David Kyffin, Limerick City and County Council Cllr Gregory Conway, and 1825 Ships Inc. Chairperson Brendan Moher of Peterborough.

“The commemoration event was a special ceremony of remembrance, reflection, and reconnection—honouring the legacy of those who departed two centuries ago,” said Slattery.

Descendants from Canada and America took part in the ceremony. Paul Hickey of Peterborough, a descendant of a family from Doneraile who sailed on the Star, laid a wreath on behalf of the 1825 emigrants. Glenn O’Meara of Minnesota, whose ancestors left Rathcormac in 1823 aboard the Stakesby, laid a wreath in memory of the earlier group. Father Tom McDermott of Cobh led the blessing.

Moher presented Padraig Casey, CEO of Ballyhoura Development, a commemorative plaque representing the communities of the Ballyhoura region.

“May the vast waters of the North Atlantic never separate us from the warm fires we forever will share at the hearth of our Irish and Canadian families,” said Casey.

The event culminated in Ambassador John Concannon's official unveiling of a special exhibition on the Peter Robinson Settlers in Cobh Heritage Centre and the unveiling of a commemorative plaque by the Mayor of Cork County Council, Cllr Joe Carroll.

“I can’t express the gratitude and fondness we all felt. The Ballyhoura, Nine Ships and Cobh Heritage Centre teams created a powerful and meaningful experience,” said O'Meara. “I feel blessed to have been part of it.”

This ceremony marks the first of two major commemorative events. Ballyhoura Development will host the larger ‘Ireland-Canada Homecoming’ from September 15 to 21, welcoming descendants of the Peter Robinson Settlers back to the Ballyhoura region for a week of reconnection, storytelling and shared heritage.

“This was a truly unique experience for the descendants of this emigration, and a special day to highlight a once forgotten piece of our history,” said Slattery. “We thank all who supported and attended this memorable occasion.”

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Ballyhoura Development on this initiative and further demonstrate the emigration story of Ireland and Canada and its significance to Cobh, and look forward to sharing the exhibition on the Peter Robinson Settlers Emigration Scheme as a key feature of the heritage centre experience,” said Breeda Keane-Shortt, Cobh Heritage Centre.

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Lang Pioneer Village Sets May 20 As Opening Day

May 20 is opening day at Lang Pioneer Village Museum to kick off its 2025 season, Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., announced on Tuesday.

Photo courtesy of Elizabeth King and Lang Pioneer Village.

The museum’s summer hours and special event season kick off with the annual Father’s Day Smoke & Steam Show on Sunday, June 15. Special events this year include Transportation Day Car & Motorcycle Show and Christmas by Candlelight.

The Keene Hotel, which underwent flooring upgrades over the fall and winter, will also reopen this spring.

“Spring is an exciting time for us here at the Museum as we switch gears and look forward to welcoming visitors back to the site for our Spring and Summer programming,” said Elizabeth King, museum operations manager. “Whether you are joining us for the hustle and bustle of an event day, digging in deeper at a workshop, or are here for the slower pace of a regular day - we invite you to experience history and learn with us.”

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Local Journalist Releases Book 'Peterborough People to Remember' to Highlighting Peterborough Figures Not to Be Forgotten

Local Journalist Ed Arnold has written about 12 people he believes their history and influence should not be forgotten in his book, ‘Peterborough People to Remember,’ showcased in front of Sullivan’s Pharmacy on Wednesday afternoon.

Arnold Displays an Excerpt From an article published in the Peterborough Examiner where he was a former managing editor. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

His 303-page book explores the 12 figures and Peterborough's growth from the 1800s until the early 1970s. The stories range from two capitalists who shaped Canada’s economy to five soldiers to Peterborough’s first-born and raised NHL hockey player and more.

“It's about 12 people from Peterborough who I thought should be remembered and I don't think all of them have been appropriately,” explained Arnold. “All the research I've done over the years, I kept coming across these names and jotting them things about them. I had a lot of research already before I started and I found their stories fascinating. I didn't know anything about most of them.”

'Peterborough People to Remember' took Arnold a year and a half to write. He has written roughly 25 books to date. His last book, ‘The First Ones,’ was released last October.

The following are the people featured in his book:

• Katherine Wallis, The Artist

• George Cox, The Capitalist

• Joseph Flavelle, The Capitalist

• Frank ‘Moose’ Heffeman, The Hockey Player

• Frank O'Connor, The Candy Man

• George Bennett, First Officer Casualty

• Anthony Schiarizza, Youngest to Die

• Marlon Overend, Only Woman

• Heber Rogers, Family

• Reginald Yellend, Youngest Major

• Tony Schiarizza, The Specialist

• Bobby Allan, Legendary

The book is available at Sullivan’s Pharmacy in East City, Peterborough Petes Souvenir Store at the Peterborough Memorial Centre and Happenstance Books & Yarns in Lakefield.

While Arnold tells the story of 12, he says his book could have highlighted many viable candidates.

“There are literally thousands of people in Peterborough that deserve recognition and deserve to be remembered,” he said. “I'm just recognizing 12 in the hopes that others will be remembered.”

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Lang Pioneer Village to Hold Corn Roast On Aug. 18

Join the harvest season as the Corn Roast at Lang Pioneer Village Museum is happening on Aug. 18 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Heather Doughty and Lang Pioneer Village.

The family-friendly day has historic demonstrations, live music, and plenty of fire-cooked corn. Tour with a free horse-drawn wagon ride and tour the historic village.

The village will teach visitors how corn was used back then such as cornbread, popcorn, dried corn, corn soups and corn relish in the Fitzpatrick House. They will also sample some Johnny cake with maple syrup in the Milburn House.

The village will have demonstrations including threshing, bagging, fanning mill and corn grinding.

A corn-on-the-cob eating contest will take place on the Village Green at 2 p.m. Corn crafts and corn hole by the Ayotte Cabin are some activities that will be run.

Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for students and seniors (60+), $7 for youths (ages 5-14) and free for children under five. Family admission is also available for $40 and includes two adults and up to four youths (ages 5-14). Visitors may purchase admission in advance via the Museum’s online shop but advance purchase is not required.

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Trent Valley Archives Hosting ‘Peterborough Perpetrators,' True Crime Walks In Downtown Core

Due to popular demand, Trent Valley Archives (TVA) is offering its ‘Peterborough Perpetrators’ true crime walk in the downtown core.

Photo courtesy of TVA.

Walking dates are July 12, 19, Aug.16 and 23 at 7 p.m.

They are led by Madison More, a researcher and tour guide. The tour will feature stories such as the 1970s shooting of Grand Hotel owner Murray Green, the mysterious disappearance of an early lumber jack fueled by the discovery of human remains and an escape from the Peterborough jail and the ensuing police chase.

The cost is $20 per person and registration and payment in advance are required. Tours run rain or shine. Tickets are available by going online, calling or emailing TVA at 705-745-4404 or admin@trentvalleyarchives.com.

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Lang Pioneer Village Hosting 27th Annual Transportation Day Car & Motorcycle Show July 14

Lang Pioneer Village is showcasing antique and classic cars and vintage motorcycles from across the province during the 27th Annual Transportation Day Car & Motorcycle Show on July 14 from 10 a.m to 3 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Lang Pioneer VIllage.

Guests can tour the village by horse-drawn wagon ride or stroll as they view cars, trucks and motorcycles of every make and model.

Demonstrations include broom making, shingle making at the Shingle Mill and grinding at the Lang Grist Mill are available for viewing. Enjoy performances by the Peterborough Scottish Country Dance Society.

There will be displays by the Peterborough County City Paramedics, Peterborough Speedway and the Canadian Armed Forces.

A pancake breakfast is served while supplies last in the Peterborough County Agricultural Heritage Building (additional fee applies). Refreshments and sweet treats will be available for purchase throughout the day at the Keene Hotel or you can enjoy a traditional European-brewed craft beer in the Haven Brewing Company beer garden. Ben’s Kettle Corn will be popping up fresh kettle corn, fresh Empire Cheese curd and bread available for purchase in the Cheese Factory and the Keene Lions Club food truck will be onsite selling BBQ goods (cash only).

Anyone bringing a vehicle to display, participant registration runs from 8 a.m. to noon. The $10 registration fee includes admission into the village. The first 200 vehicles to enter will receive a complimentary dash plaque as a souvenir of their participation. Over 25 trophies will be awarded, including the coveted People’s Choice and Lang’s Choice.

Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for students and seniors (60+), $7 for youths (ages 5-14) and free for children under five. Family admission is also available for $40 and includes two adults and up to four youths (ages 5-14).

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Take Father's Day Back Into History With Lang Pioneer Village's 27th Annual Father’s Day Smoke & Steam Show

Lang Pioneer Village is treating dads to a day filled with tractors and powerful equipment with its 27th Annual Father’s Day Smoke & Steam Show this Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Lang Pioneer Village.

The event features local collectors bringing to life some of the oldest antique tractors and steam engines around and competing for over 20 awards.

At noon, competitors participate in various tractor games, including balance challenges and lawn tractor races. Throughout the village, smoke and steam collectibles, hit-and-miss engines, antique tool collections, model train displays, and more will be displayed.

Historic demonstrations including broad axe hand hewing, natural dyeing, weaving, broom making, wood turning, grinding at the Grist Mill and more are available for viewing. Tractor and wagon rides while touring the Village and live music by Lotus Wight are available entertainment.

A pancake breakfast is being served (while supplies last) in the Peterborough County Agricultural Heritage Building. Refreshments and sweet treats will be available throughout the day at the Keene Hotel or Ben’s Kettle Corn will be available.

The Keene Lions Club food truck will be onsite selling BBQ goods and fresh Empire Cheese curd available for purchase in the Cheese Factory. A traditional European-brewed craft beer will be available for purchase courtesy of Haven Brewing Company. Visitors can participate in the pie-eating contest on the Village Green at 2 p.m. with limited space available.

The day will conclude with a tractor parade through the historic village beginning at 3 pm.

Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for students and seniors (60+), $7 for youths (ages 5-14) and free for children under five. Family admission is also available for $40 and includes 2 adults and up to 4 youths (ages 5-14). Tickets are available at the door and in advance online.

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Explore History Come to Life Again as Lang Pioneer Museum Opens For the Season On Tuesday

Relive history in the Kawarthas as Lang Pioneer Village Museum’s 2024 season kicks off for the spring starting this Tuesday.

Photo courtesy of Elizabeth King and Lang Pioneer Village.

The Museum will be open for spring hours from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday to Friday until June 15. The annual Father’s Day Smoke & Steam Show on June 16 is kicking off the Museum's summer hours and special event season.

This season will see the return of several special events including the Father’s Day Smoke & Steam Show, the Transportation Day Car & Motorcycle Show, a Corn Roast, Applefest, Spooky All Hallows’ Eve and Christmas by Candlelight. The Christmas Bazaar which brings together a variety of local artisans at the Peterborough County Agricultural Heritage Building for a day of holiday shopping, is also returning.

“As we move into the spring and summer season at the Museum, staff and volunteers are excited to welcome you back to the site for tours, events and programs,” said Elizabeth King, museum operations manager. We are pleased to be able to share our regular roster of annual events, as well as some new workshops, demonstrations and projects that we hope you will enjoy. We hope you can join us on our beautiful site this year - where history is brought to life and becomes a fun and informative experience for all.”

Season passes are available for purchase for those wanting to take advantage of all the Museum has to offer this season.

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