From Tots to Teens: Childhood in the Victorian Era

An image of a beige stuffed bear. He has wheels attached to his feet. He is sitting on a wooden floor, the background is blurred.

This exhibit aims to explore elements of Victorian Childhood, from the pastimes enjoyed by youth to their dress, and their day-to-day activities. A selection of Children’s items from the Eldon House Collection, illustrating some of the wonderful games, toys, books and garments enjoyed by generations of youth, as Eldon House explores the “Year of the Child” through 2025.

We acknowledge that we are on the traditional lands of the Anishinaabek, Haudenosaunee, Lūnaapéewak and Attawandaron. We honour and respect the history, languages and culture of the diverse Indigenous people who call this territory home.

We acknowledge all the treaties that are specific to this area: the Two Row Wampum Belt Treaty of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy/Silver Covenant Chain; the Beaver Hunting Grounds of the Haudenosaunee NANFAN Treaty of 1701; the McKee Treaty of 1790, the London Township Treaty of 1796, the Huron Tract Treaty of 1827, with the Anishinaabeg, and the Dish with One Spoon Covenant Wampum of the Anishnaabek and Haudenosaunee.

The three Indigenous Nations that are neighbours to London are the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation; Oneida Nation of the Thames; and the Munsee-Delaware Nation who all continue to live as sovereign Nations with individual and unique languages, cultures, and customs.