Anderson Department Store, St. Thomas, window display celebrating the work of the Canadian Red Cross Society, in support of the Society's April, 1942 fundraising drive. Anderson Department Store fonds, C5 Sh6 F16 37
During the Second World War, civilians who remained at home in Elgin County actively participated in the war effort. From rationing food and supplies to fundraising and purchasing war bonds, they did whatever possible to help from home. The Canadian Red Cross contributed by sewing quilts and packaging and sending out parcels and care packages to the soldiers fighting in the war. Alma College took in a number of students from St. Hilda's College in order to keep them safe from bomb-threatened England. It was also a time for women to enter into once unprecedented workplace roles.
Click on the pictures below to see the various ways in which the citizens of Elgin County contributed to the war effort from home.
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The Weatherhead Co. Ltd., St. Thomas, Victory Bond display in the old Granite Arena, 1943. Scott Studio fonds 523/2584 |
St. Thomas City Hall Victory Bond display, ca. 1944. Scott Studio fonds 18/2503 |
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Employees of the Weatherhead Co. Ltd. plant staffed the Victory Bond display outside St. Thomas City Hall, 1942-1944. Scott Studio fonds 523/2503 |
Graduates of the General Motors Mechanic's Course, Truman's Garage, Aylmer, November, 1940. Scott Studio fonds 522/2465 |
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Anderson Department Store, St. Thomas, window display promoting membership in the St. Thomas Air Cadets, September, 1943. Anderson Department Store fonds C5 Sh6 B1 F16 39 |
St. Hilda's College, England, girls at Alma College, St. Thomas, 1944. Alma College fonds R6 S3 Sh3 B8 1 |