Trunk
"There is no piece of philanthropic work that accomplishes so much good at so little cost. "
These are the words of William Quarrier, founder of The Orphan Homes of Scotland, with which he described the migration of children to Canada. It cost about £15 to migrate a child, but £12 per year to look after them on the Poor Law in Britain. Quarriers alone sent over 7,000 children to Canada.
On departure from Quarriers, each child was given a wooden trunk. Inside was a selection of new winter and summer clothes, along with boots, hats, handkerchiefs, a sewing kit, a tin of pins, thread and bobbin and writing materials. It was the first time many of the children had owned new clothes, and they kept all their worldly possessions inside the trunk.
Lent by Quarriers
Bible and 'Pilgrim's Progress'
Bible lent by Barnardo’s
Each child was presented with a copy of John Bunyan’s 'Pilgrim’s Progress' and a Bible which they were expected to read. 'Pilgrim’s Progress' is an allegory about a Christian who overcomes many obstacles to reach the Celestial City. Quarrier believed it would inspire the children as they embarked on their journey to a new life.
'Pilgrim's Progress' lent by Quarriers
Tackety boots
Hobnail boots, known as 'Tackety boots' in Scotland, were given to children as they were durable and inexpensive. Lent by Quarriers
Straw bonnet
Girls were given straw bonnets to wear for church on Sundays. They were also provided with ribbons for the occasion. Lent by Quarriers
Child's suitcase
ANMM Collection. Gift from Ronald Smith.