Museum Exhibition
Emerging Communities
Late 19th and early 20th century life in Peel was very focused on the community and community events. Belonging to a club, lodge or other group gave people a certain amount of status, a sense of belonging, security and an opportunity to help those less fortunate.
Check any early map of Peel and you’ll likely see many references to the “Orange Hall” or “ Masonic Temple”. Newspapers are full of references to groups such as the Oddfellows, Rebekas, and the Order of the Eastern Star. And most rural women belonged to one of the 20 branches of the Women’s Institute.
These groups provided education, the chance to socialize, and most importantly, financial help for the truly destitute. This help may have been provided only to members of the group itself, but it was important as there was no form of government assistance.
Many of the groups and societies profiled in this exhibit no longer exist, or have modified their mandate to fit the changing times. The important role thy played has been taken over by groups such as the Rotary Club, Loin’s Club, Zonta Club and Kinsmen. Churches still play an important roll in the community, and have been joined by places of worship for a variety of faiths.
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