Virtual Exhibit Tour

Ernest George Newman, better known as George, was one of the many children that moved to Canada during the late 1800s and early 1900s. After his placements were completed, George lived and worked in Tillsonburg for over thirty years before he passed away in 1952. 

This is a small collection of books, photograph, and other items that belonged to George. Items include photographs of George and his wife Mary Ann, along with their two children Bert and Phyllis. Small trinkets like pens, a handkerchief, and other small items. A large truck that traveled with George to Canada is on display. As noted in the information panel, this is the only item part of the museum's permanent collection that is directly related to a British Home Child. It was donated by the family in 2013. 

Charles Lucas arrived in Canada in 1911. He was placed with George M. Veit near Courtland. After his placement there was completed, he went one to work General Motors and married Lillian Burholder in 1928. Charles and Lillian lived Courtland where he purchased the old cheese factory at the corner of highway #3 in Courtland. He turned this property into a service station. 

In his youth, Charles played tenor saxophone for the Tillsonburg Citizen's Band. His uniforms and instrument are currently on display at the museum, along with a number of other personal artifacts. Items included the truck that travelled to Canada with Charles, several books such as his personal bibles, a copy of "The Cricket on the Hearth" by Charles Dickens and 'Friday's Child." Charles also won two medals prior to arriving in Canada, these too are on display. One is the "Dr. Barnardo's Homes Good Conduct and Length of Service Medal" and the other is the "Cambridgeshire County Council Education Committee Medal", awarded for good conduct, industry, and punctual attendance. 

To learn more about Charles and his time in Canada, please visit his information page here

Also included in the Tillsonburg Home Children display are a number of other medals, certificates, and trinkets that belonged to other Home Children from the area. 

Artifacts include, collection boxes, also knowns are 'Penny Boxes" for the Dr. Barnardo's Homes, the National Children's Home and Orphanages, and the Church of England Waifs and Strays Society to collection donations and additional "Good Conduct Medals and a roll of honour.