Life in the Talbot Settlement
By Backus-Page House Museum
Produced by Tyrconnell Heritage Society, operators of Backus-Page House Museum.
Host - Angela Bobier, Cultural Manager Music - Jack Witmer
Podcasting equipment funded by the Government of Canada.
We acknowledge the land we are on today as the traditional territory of Indigenous People. As settlers at a settler focused museum, we value both the significant historic and contemporary contributions of all Original Peoples and ask how we can be supportive in Indigenous Cultural Renewal?
Life in the Talbot SettlementAug 11, 2021
Cholera- Episode 55
In today’s episode we talk all about cholera. What is it? How do you contract it? How did Upper Canada deal with the monstrous epidemic? How many lost their lives? Show Notes- https://backuspagehouse.ca/2023/09/20/podcast-episode-55-cholera/
Honey & Honey Houses- Episode 54
One of the oldest agricultural pursuits known to man is beekeeping. In today's episode we learn about the process of making honey, settlers' utilization of honeybee crops, the development of keeping bees, and the great influence the insects had on life in Upper Canada. Show Notes- https://backuspagehouse.ca/2023/09/06/podcast-episode-54-honey-honey-houses/
The Anglican Influence on the Talbot Settlement- Episode 53
In this episode written by Becky Van Harn, you will learn all about the characteristics of the early Anglican Church, the clergy reserves and their reception in Upper Canada, and the many Reverend Stewarts in Tyrconnell.
Show Notes- https://backuspagehouse.ca/2023/08/30/podcast-episode-53-anglican-influence-on-the-talbot-settlement/
Laundry & Hygiene Part 1- Episode 52
In this week's episode we talk about soap and the various ways settlers utilized it, the extensive time and effort that went into simple household tasks like doing laundry, and the trials and tribulations of bathing.
Show Notes- https://backuspagehouse.ca/2023/08/09/podcast-episode-52-laundry-hygiene-part-1/
War Modernizing the Farm- Episode 51
During the First and Second World Wars, Canadian citizens served their country in many different ways. On the battlefields soldiers fought for their lives and country, meanwhile back in the fields of Canada, men, women, and children worked to provide food not only for our citizens and military, but our allies. Show Notes- https://backuspagehouse.ca/2023/08/02/podcast-episode-51-war-modernizing-the-farm/
Oral History Project: Blair Ferguson WW2 Talk Part 2
In part 2 of Blair Ferguson's oral history interview we discuss various plane crashes from the area, the Fingal Bombing & Gunnery School and its many changes throughout the years, and the Canadian farmers who helped fight from the farm fields. If you would like to participate in our Seniors Oral History Project, contact us at 519-762-3072
Oral History Project: Blair Ferguson WW2 Talk Part 1
In this episode we talk again to Blair Ferguson. This time he discusses the tragedy and mystery of a not so lost WW2 training plane off the coast of Lake Erie.
Oral History Project: Sharon Malott Part 3
In this 3rd and final episode of Sharon Malott's interview for our Seniors Oral History Project we dive into big changes that have happened to the area over the years, weather events, and tracking down members of her family.
Oral History Project: Sharon Malott Part 2
In part 2 of Sharon's interview we talk about family stories, farm reminiscences, and much more! If you would like to participate and share some stories for Seniors Life in the Talbot Settlement: Oral History Project, please contact us by emailing info@backuspagehouse.ca
Oral History Project: Sharon Malott Part 1
In this episode you will hear from Sharon Malott, a participant of our Seniors Life in the Talbot Settlement: Oral History Project! In today's episode, Sharon tells us about her journey tracing family history, the family farm, and going to Duff Church.
Oral History Project: Dave Skipper Part 2
In the second and last part of Dave's interview he talks about growing up on a farm, fundraising by selling vegetables, and the joys of teaching! If you would like to participate and share some stories for Seniors Life in the Talbot Settlement: Oral History Project, please contact us by emailing info@backuspagehouse.ca
Oral History Project: Dave Skipper Part 1
In this episode you will hear from Dave Skipper, a participant of our Seniors Life in the Talbot Settlement: Oral History Project! In this episode, Dave tells us about going from a one-room schoolhouse to high school, how he started teaching, and his once bustling raspberry farm all while giving us some wise words on inspiration!
Oral History Project: Dave Hagerty Part 3
In the last part of Dave Hagerty's oral history interview we talk about fires, family heirlooms, and fairs! If you have stories to share, consider participating in our Seniors Life in the Talbot Settlement Oral History Project! Contact us at info@backuspagehouse.ca
Oral History Project: Dave Hagerty Part 2
In part 2 of Dave Hagerty's oral history interview we talk about the once bustling town of Fingal, Dave's staged western shoot out on Fingal Line, the Bombing & Gunnery School, and more! You don't want to miss out on this episode! If you would like to participate in our Seniors Life in the Talbot Settlement Oral History Project please contact us at info@backuspagehouse.ca
Oral History Project: Dave Hagerty Part 1
In this episode you will hear from Dave Hagerty, a participant of our Seniors Life in the Talbot Settlement: Oral History Project! Today Dave talks about growing up on a farm, school life at S.S. No. 12, pranks, and many more great stories of Fingal and surrounding area!
Oral History Project: An Angry Sky with Al McGregor
In this episode, Al McGregor shares the background of his book, An Angry Sky, as well as giving an overview of historical events and characters that are featured. If you would like to share your stories with the community, consider participating in Seniors Life in the Talbot Settlement: An Oral History Project! Contact us at info@backuspagehouse.ca
Oral History Project: 1917 with Al McGregor
In today's episode we hear from historical fiction author, Al McGregor, on his book 1917: A Novel of The Great War. Al discusses the characters and setting of his book, important world events that he has incorporated in, World War One propaganda, and so much more! This podcast was taken during our Seniors Life in the Talbot Settlement Oral History Project! If you would like to participate, please contact us at info@backuspagehouse.ca
Oral History Project: Al McGregor
In this episode you will hear from Al McGregor, a participant of our Seniors Life in the Talbot Settlement: Oral History Project! In today's episode, Al shares his upbringing and how he got into broadcasting with CBC Television and Radio!
Oral History Project: Duncan McTavish Part 2
In the last part of Duncan McTavish's interview we hear about farm life out west, ghost stories, and much more!
Oral History Project: Duncan McTavish Part 1
In this episode you will hear from Duncan McTavish, a participant of our Seniors Life in the Talbot Settlement: Oral History Project! In this first episode, we learn about the Cowal Sale, Wiley Side Road, weather events of Dunwich and much more!
Oral History Project: Kilmer Sisters Part 3
In this third and final part of Pat, Sandy, and Bev's oral history interview, they talk about canning, pranks, and haircuts gone wrong! If you would like to participate in our Oral History Project: Seniors Life in the Talbot Settlement, please contact us at info@backuspagehouse.ca
Oral History Project: Kilmer Sisters Part 2
In part 2 of the Kilmer sisters oral history interview we talk about farm life, extracurriculars, the wonderful world of shopping and so much more! Stay tuned for part 3!
Oral History Project: Kilmer Sisters Part 1
In this episode you will hear from Pat, Sandy, and Bev, participants of our Seniors Life in the Talbot Settlement: Oral History Project! In this episode, these three sisters chat about their ancestry and the jump from elementary school in small town Shedden to high school in the big city of St. Thomas.
Oral History Project: Blair Ferguson Part 3
In this third and last episode of Blair Ferguson's oral history interview, we learn about his experience speaking at schools, a bit about his father, and the main message he wants to give. If you would like to participate in our Oral History Project: Seniors Life in the Talbot Settlement, please contact us at info@backuspagehouse.ca
Oral History Project: Blair Ferguson Part 2
This is part 2 of Blair Ferguson's Oral History Interview! In today's episode, Blair talks about war stories he heard as a kid, accounts of the Fingal Bombing & Gunnery School, and committees he has been on!
Oral History Project: Blair Ferguson Part 1
In this episode you will hear from Blair Ferguson, a participant of our Seniors Life in the Talbot Settlement: Oral History Project! Today you will learn about Blair's book on the Fingal Bombing & Gunnery School, his family history, and Victoria Cross recipient Ellis Wellwood Sifton.
Oral History Project: Colin McGugan Part 3
In the last episode of Colin McGugan's oral history interview, we hear about the formation of the West Elgin Genealogical and Historical Society, Hurricane Hazel, and reminiscences of farm living. If you would like to participate in our Oral History Project: Seniors Life in the Talbot Settlement, contact us at info@backuspagehouse.ca
Oral History Project: Colin McGugan Part 2
This is part 2 of Colin McGugan's interview for our Seniors Life in the Talbot Settlement: Oral History Project! In this episode, You will hear about Coyne's Corners school days, stories of the wars, and Colin's careers. Keep an eye out for the last part of Colin's interview!
Oral History Project: Colin McGugan Part 1
In this episode you will hear from Colin McGugan, a participant of our Seniors Life in the Talbot Settlement: Oral History Project! In part 1, Colin talks about the McGugan Family farm, ancestry, the old Coyne's Corners Hotel, and so much more! Keep an eye out for part 2 of Colin's interview!
Oral History Project: Margaret Lang Part 2
This is part two of Margaret Lang's interview for our Seniors Life in the Talbot Settlement: Oral History Project! She sure does have some amazing stories! If you would like to participate in our Oral History Project by interviewing others or sharing your memories, let us know by emailing info@backuspagehouse.ca
Oral History Project: Margaret Lang Part 1
In this episode you will hear from Margaret Lang, a participant of our Seniors Life in the Talbot Settlement: Oral History Project! Listen along as she tells us about growing up in St. Thomas, life during WW2, and her adventures in England. Stay tuned for part two with more great stories!
The Flagship Erie-Episode 50
On October 30th, 1941, the residents of Lawrence Station and the surrounding area awoke to a thunderous noise followed by intense light. This phenomenon created quite the spectacle, those who went out to investigate would soon discover the worst Canadian aviation crash of the time.
Show Notes- https://backuspagehouse.ca/2023/01/25/podcast-episode-50-the-flagship-erie/
New Year's Traditions-Episode 49
In the 21st century, most people gather around New Year’s Eve to have a party, perhaps drink a little, and watch their region’s ball drop at midnight marking the start of the new year. But what other traditions are there? What would the settlers of Upper Canada have done to celebrate the coming year? Today I’ll be talking about the history of wassailing and mummering, both customs that originated in Europe that made their way over to Upper Canada.
Show Notes- https://backuspagehouse.ca/2023/01/11/podcast-episode-49-new-years-traditions/
Christmas in the 1920's -Episode 48
It’s that wonderful time of year again, where we spread the historic Christmas cheer! It’s our Roaring Twenties Christmas episode!
Show Notes- https://backuspagehouse.ca/2022/12/28/podcast-episode-48-christmas-in-the-1920s/
The Gammon Family Stories - Episode 47
In this episode, we read stories written by Edwin Gammon about his family's life in the late 19th and early 20th century in Western Elgin County.
The Moorhouse Doll-Episode 46
In today’s episode we will be talking about the historic Moorhouse Doll. Listen as we describe the route it might have taken while being passed down through generations for over 200 years.
Show Notes- https://backuspagehouse.ca/2022/11/23/podcast-episode-46-the-moorhouse-doll/
Herstory - Episode 45
We talk a lot about the men’s Life in the Talbot Settlement, as it is their story that is often written down, and their legal right to do interesting and world-shaking things. But this settlement was not run by men alone; today we’re going to talk about the myths, the legends: the ladies of the Talbot Settlements.
Show Notes- https://backuspagehouse.ca/2022/11/16/podcast-episode-45-herstory/
Folklore & Ghost Stories -Episode 44
The Talbot Settlement quickly became home to many people after word spread of the new lands. Along with the settlers, various traditions and beliefs followed them from their previous homes. In today’s episode, we discuss some of the past superstitions and ghost stories of the Talbot Settlement.
Show Notes- https://backuspagehouse.ca/2022/11/09/podcast-episode-44-folklore-ghost-stories/
Weather & Climate - Episode 43
Men frozen to the core, colossal remains from the archaic period, rare endangered species, and terrorizing tornados of the Talbot Settlement. Find out more about the unique geography and weather of the area of Backus-Page House Museum!
Show Notes- https://backuspagehouse.ca/2022/10/22/podcast-episode-43-weather-climate/
Manners & Etiquette -Episode 42
Rules, rules, rules! Until the 1960s and 1970s, most people’s lives followed stricter social rules of etiquette then we have today. Listen along as we discuss the etiquette of the 1800s!
Show Notes- https://backuspagehouse.ca/2022/10/09/podcast-episode-42-manners-etiquette/
School Life - Episode 41
Did you know, back in the 17 and 1800s, school attendance was not mandatory? The good old days, eh? This week we dive into school life in the early settlement.
Show Notes- https://backuspagehouse.ca/2022/09/28/podcast-episode-41-school-life/
Death & Burial Practices - Episode 40
Early settlers handled the death and burial rights of their family very seriously. Today we’ll talk about the ways that settlers cared for and buried their dead.
Show Notes- https://backuspagehouse.ca/2022/08/24/podcast-episode-40-death-burial-rituals/
Fairs, Music, & Dances Episode 39
Even in the early days, where pioneer life was all work, people found ways to make it fun. Listen as we share some of the ways settlers in the Talbot Settlement had some fun!
Show Notes- https://backuspagehouse.ca/2022/08/24/podcast-episode-39-fairs-music-dances/
Fashion Throughout the Decades Episode 38
Today we are going to look at fashion throughout the decades for men and women. Starting with the 1850s, we will give a detailed description of popular outfits of the times ending at the early 1900s.
Show Notes- https://backuspagehouse.ca/2022/08/10/podcast-episode-38-fashion-throughout-the-decades/
Pests, Prey, & Predators Episode 37
On the ground a track can be spotted. A 5-by 5-inch impression left in the forest floor. 5 thick claw marks ingrained in the ground.... Listen now to episode 37- Pests, Prey, and Predators.
Show Notes- https://backuspagehouse.ca/2022/07/28/podcast-episode-37-pests-prey-predators/
Crime & Tragedy Part 2 Episode 36
In the early days of the settlement, life wasn’t always so quiet and safe. Today we look at some of the crimes and tragedies that have taken place in the Talbot Settlement.
Show Notes- https://backuspagehouse.ca/2022/07/13/podcast-episode-36-crime-tragedy-part-2/
Party Like It's 1850 Episode 35
Listen as we cover the ins and outs of strict dinner parties, the splendor of tea and garden parties, parties attended for courting, and the grand Talbot Ball! The 19th century party scene was full of strict etiquette, good food, and fun times. Would you party like its 1850?
Show Notes- https://backuspagehouse.ca/2022/06/29/podcast-episode-35-party-like-its-1850/
The Hardware Store in West Lorne Episode 33
Today we’ll be talking about the history of the hardware store in West Lorne, it's owners, stock, and its importance throughout history.
Show notes- https://backuspagehouse.ca/2022/05/18/podcast-episode-33-the-hardware-business-west-lorne/
Food Preservation Episode 34
In today’s episode we’ll be talking about the preservation of food throughout the ages! Canning, freezing, salting, drying, brining, fermentation and much more!
Show Notes- https://backuspagehouse.ca/2022/06/15/podcast-episode-34-food-preservation/
Ports & Shipwrecks of the Talbot Settlement Episode 32
Since people has used its waters, Lake Erie has claimed countless lives and been the cause of many shipwrecks. Though it is the shallowest and smallest by volume of the Great Lakes, she is deadly. Join us in talking about the ports and shipwrecks off the coast of the Talbot Settlement.
Show notes- https://backuspagehouse.ca/2022/05/18/podcast-episode-32-ports-shipwrecks-of-the-talbot-settlement/