The year 1939 was full of tension throughout the world as it feared another disastrous war. Still most Canadians as my family were hopeful that such an event would not take place.Unfortunately their hope would fade when on September 10th, 1939, Canada officically declared war on Germany. Thus began the Second World War, which would scar humanity forever. Although many of us were not first-hand witnesses to the horrors of war, most of us have heard stories from our families and others about it. I, Elizabeth MacDonald, too have heard these stories from my parents, and so I dedicate this scrapbook to the memory of all those who lived throughout the years 1939-1945.
Larry MacDonald(Father) Age: 19 Location: Toronto, Ontario
At the outbreak of war, my father had been studying medicine at the University of Toronto and working at a local grocery shop with minimum wage. He lived with his mother and his older brother Robert.He had not liked the idea of fighting in a war on another continent.
Mary MacDonald(Mother) Age: 16 Location: Toronto, Ontario
(Maiden Name: Ross)
In 1939, my mother had still been studying in high school and really did not know what the outcome of war would have been. She had lived in Buffalo, U.S.A. most of her life, but after the demise of her father, her mother had moved to Toronto and she had left with her to take care of her. She adjusted well and saw Toronto as her home.In order to survive, she had taken up a job from early on.
Robert MacDonald(Uncle) Age: 22 Location: Toronto, Ontario
Uncle Robert had already graduated from University and was working in a small bank. He was living with his mother and my father, supporting them most of the time. At the declaration of war however, he immediately enlisted in the RCAF.He was a very adventurous character.
David MacDonald(Uncle) Age: 22 Location: Toronto, Ontario
Cousin of my father, he helped his father with the family textile business. He was a frequent visitor to our home and Uncle Robert's best friend. His house was only a five minute walk away. However, he did not share the same enthusiasm as Uncle Robert during the war.
Ben Ross(Uncle) Age: 21 Location: Buffalo, U.S.A.
Only brother to my sister, he had remained in Buffalo when she and their mother had moved away, in order to join the American Navy. By 1939, he had been in the Navy for 3 years, and sent money whenever he could to Toronto. When Canada joined the war, he had requested his family to return to Buffalo but they did not think it possible. Even though they were not at war, he like most Americans were pro-Allies. |
