The Oakville Historical Society is pleased to announce the speaker for our last Speaker Night of
2026, a ZOOM virtual presentation, on Thursday, November 19th, presented by Ms. Bonnie Sitter.
During 1941 – 1952, approximately 40 thousand girls between the ages of 16 – 18 went to work on
Canadian farms during World War II, to maintain critical food production, the program being
sponsored by the Canadian Government.
Please join us to learn the story of how the Famerettes were recruited, where they lived, and how
they got to camp. See where the camps were established and what their accommodations were like.
After tough days in the fields and orchard, learn how they had fun. Hear the stories of these young
women, now in their 90s, explain how they still recall what they often describe as the best summer(s)
of their lives.
Ms. Sitter is a writer with a passion for historical research. She has written for magazines, often
exploring agricultural themes. Her co-authored book “Onion Skins and Peach Fuzz – Memories of
Ontario Farmerettes” chronicles the experiences of these young women who replaced male farm
labour during and after the war. Her book was also developed into a theatrical production by
Canadian playwright Ms. Alison Lawrence.
Ms. Sitter also served as the historical producer for the award winning documentary “We Lend a
Hand: The Forgotten Story of Ontario Farmerettes”, which premiered in 2025. This documentary
being nominated for the Governor General’s History Award for Execellence in Community
Programming. Additionally, she is the proud recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal,
recognizing her contributions to community and Canadian history. She has been instrumental in
having a Provincial Heritage Plaque recognizing the Farmerettes being placed in the Charles Daley
Park in Lincoln, Ontario – where the first Farmarette camps were established.

This event is being presented via Zoom: please join using your own device.

Members will automatically receive an email containing the link to join the presentation.

Non members may request a link by sending an email to: oakvillehistory@gmail.com