Who Were The Farmerettes?
During 1941 – 1952, approximately 40 thousand girls between the ages of 16 – 18 went to work on Canadian farms during World War II, to maintain critical food production in a program sponsored by the Canadian Government.
Topic:
Please join us to learn the story of how the Famerettes were recruited, where they lived, and how they got to camp. See where the camps were established and what their accommodations were like. After tough days in the fields and orchards, learn how they had fun. Hear the stories of these young women, now in their 90s, explain how they still recall what they often describe as the best summer(s) of their lives.
Speaker:
Bonnie Sitter is a writer with a passion for historical research. She has written for magazines, often exploring agricultural themes. Her co-authored book “Onion Skins and Peach Fuzz – Memories of Ontario Farmerettes” chronicles the experiences of these young women who replaced male farm labour during and after the war. Her book was also developed into a theatrical production by Canadian playwright Ms. Alison Lawrence. Ms. Sitter also served as the historical producer for the award winning documentary “We Lend a Hand: The Forgotten Story of Ontario Farmerettes”, which premiered in 2025 and is being nominated for the Governor General’s History Award for Excellence in Community Programming. Additionally, she is the proud recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal, recognizing her contributions to community and Canadian history. She has been instrumental in
having a Provincial Heritage Plaque recognizing the Farmerettes being placed in the Charles Daley Park in Lincoln, Ontario – where the first Farmerette camps were established.
Date & Time:
Thursday November 19th 7:30-9:30pm
This event is being presented via Zoom: please join using your own device.
Members will automatically receive an email containing the link to join the presentation.
Non members may request a link by sending an email to: oakvillehistory@gmail.com
