Storytime at Dickinson House Brings the Past to Life

A good turnout enjoyed the perfect weather for story time on the lawn beside Dickinson House in Manotick Sat., July 6

The 4th annual storytelling event brought Manotick’s history to life in a unique way. Bill Tupper was the emcee for the day and introduced the three guest speakers.

The British Home Children story was presented by Colette Laplante, who told of the struggles and successes of the Home Children around the first World War. One such child was Harry Watson, who started life in Canada work for the railway.

His story was one of success in contrast to many others who were abused and made to work on farms as slave labour.

Maternal Menagerie was the story of the Van Dusen family presented by Tom and his brother, Mark. Their family had a large assortment of animals around their house of dogs and cats etc. They once gave their Mother Julie a pet monkey for Mother’s Day. The Van Dusen’s had seven children who went into journalism including the Ottawa Citizen and Journal.

Stories and Songs from the Ottawa Valley were presented by Paul Weber. He sang of the Great 1870 Ottawa and the Valley, Gerry Barber the Chaudière Bouncer and paid homage to Stompin’ Tom Conners’ Big Joe Mufferaw.

Greg Newton photos

Bill Tupper served as the emcee for the storytelling day.

The audience enjoyed the perfect day for an enjoyable event at Dickinson House.