Common Threads: An Exhibit of Quilts, Craft, & Community

Every quilt had a story to tell. Whether inspired by cherished memories, beautiful fabrics, or the simple joy of creating, each piece in this exhibit reflected a passion for quilting and the artistry that transformed fabric into something truly meaningful.

This special exhibit was made possible by the participating Quilt Guilds and Ontario Fairs:

• Quilts of Valour Canada
• Mississauga Quilters Guild
• Region of York Quilters Guild
• Toronto Modern Quilt Guild
• York Heritage Quilters Guild
• Yorkshire Rose Quilt Guild
• Fergus Agricultural Society
• FLOS Agricultural Society – Elmvale Fair

While visiting Pod D of Withrow Common, guests were invited to watch a screening of We Lend a Hand: The Forgotten Story of Ontario Farmerettes. This award-winning, 49-minute documentary, directed by Colin Field and Bonnie Sitter, told the inspiring story of the Ontario Farm Service Force. Between 1941 and 1952, more than 40,000 teenage girls volunteered to work on farms across Ontario, helping sustain critical food production during and after the Second World War. The film highlighted the hardships they endured and the invaluable contributions they made to feeding both Canadians and war-torn European populations, including prisoners of war. Screenings took place twice daily throughout all 18 days of the fair.

Guests experienced the stories that had been sewn into our shared history and brought to life through quilts, workshops, and film, each connected by a Common Thread.

We Lend a Hand: The Forgotten Story of Ontario Farmerettes.

12:00 pm – 6:00 pm Daily (August 21 – September 7)

We Lend a Hand: The Forgotten Story of Ontario Farmerettes is a documentary film that tells the extraordinary story of 40,000 teenage girls who volunteered on Canadian farms and helped to win the Second World War.