Canada and the British immigrantWeaver, Emily P. (Emily Poynton)
History
Canada and the British immigrant
Weaver, Emily P. (Emily Poynton)
Canada -- Description and travel; Canada -- Economic conditions
Upon the whole, clothing is dearer in Canada than in England, but the
extra cost of the various articles is in a measure neutralized by the
fact that a cheaper class of goods—that is, cotton and muslin—can be
worn, at least in the inland parts, for a longer period in the year. If
possible, it is well to bring out a good supply of boots and shoes and
clothing, but not too many of such outer garments, which a change of
fashion may render conspicuously out-of-date within a year or two, for
Canadians of all classes pay a good deal of attention to dress.
It is good to bring some blankets, and wadded quilts and table-linen,
which are all more expensive in Canada than in the “Old Country.” On the
other hand, it is not well for the newcomer of little capital to put too
much of his small stock of money into such provision for the future, for
often the articles bought far in advance do not seem quite what would be
bought after some experience in the new home; and it is most desirable
to keep a few pounds—or dollars—on hand against a possible emergency.
In fact, the government requires that every adult immigrant—except farm
labourers and domestic servants—should have some money in his or her
possession when landing (See Appendix, Note C, pg. 298); and half as
much is required for children under eighteen. This rule is strictly
kept, and during the last ten years no less than 1,471 immigrants (of
course, by no means all British) were sent back on their arrival on
account of lack of funds; and a considerable number of British and other
immigrants are not allowed to land, or are deported within two years, on
account of insanity, tuberculosis, or other diseases of mind or body.
Others have been rejected on account of criminality or bad character; or
because there was reason to believe that they would be, or had actually
become, public charges.
With regard to the question of admittance, it is most desirable that
anyone thinking of coming to Canada, and having a suspicion of some
defect or disease in himself or any member of his family, should be very
careful to make sure before starting whether or not he and the rest of
his party would be admitted. In case of doubt, he would be wise to write
to the Assistant Superintendent of Emigration, 11 and 12, Charing Cross,
London, giving full particulars, for it is worse than useless for anyone
to have the trouble and expenses of the sea voyage only to be sent back.
It is much better not to start at all.
For information concerning the cost of passage, the amount of baggage
allowed, and so forth. (See Appendix, Notes D, pg. 299 and E, pg. 300.)
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
Reviews
Reviews
No reviews yet
Be the first to share your thoughts on this work.
Elsewhere in the archive
Join the Discussion
Join the discussion
Sign in to leave a comment or review.
Sign InorCreate an account