Image of British Home Children - Image from Veterans Affairs Canada
The Town of Greater Napanee has declared September 28, 2024, as National British Home Child Day. This proclamation honours the legacy of over 100,000 children brought from the UK to Canada between 1869 and 1948, who were sent to work on farms and in households. Known as British Home Children (BHC), many of these children settled in the Napanee area and significantly contributed to the community’s development.
Home Children Canada, a charity established in 2012, works tirelessly to raise awareness of the history and experiences of BHC. On National BHC Day, over 65 venues across Canada, Scotland, and England will participate in the “Beacons of Light for BHC and Child Migrants Tribute,” honoring the memories of these children and their descendants. The proclamation aims to ensure the stories of the British Home Children are recognized and remembered with dignity and compassion.
Home Child Canada has requested that the falls at Springside Park be lit red for the National British Home Child Day on September 28th, 2024.
Written by Emily Chatwood
