Fanshawe Township
1880-1910
During these three decades farming becomes the economic engine which drives development in London and Middlesex County.
Farm families remain almost self sufficient in food production yet rural communities and towns and villages become more interdependent. Surging farm production surpluses are shipped locally and around the world generating incomes to purchase a growing industry of agricultural implements, finished clothing and household items often from catalogues and specialized stores and businesses.
Farming is still hard and hazardous work. Crop failures, barn fires, bad weather, illness, injury and death often lead to the loss of the farm.
Buildings
Original Building
Circa 1871
Original Building
Circa 1888
Time Line
> 1883 - The Thames River bursts its banks, causing flooding and devastating London.
> 1885 - The Chinese Immigration Act restricts Chinese immigration to Canada following the completion of the Canadian Pacific Railway.
> 1887 - Western Fair opens in its current location in London.
> 1890 - Paul Peel’s painting “After the Bath” wins the Bronze Medal at the Paris Salon.
> 1901 - Queen Victoria dies; Edward VII becomes King of England.
