Between the late 18th and early 20th centuries the economic structure of Scottish society changed and many people, whether they were forced or compelled, left Scotland in large numbers and built new homes all over the world. The Scottish diaspora includes Australia, New
Zealand, South Africa, South America and North America. In fact, the Scottish population outside of the country is greater than the population inside Scotland. Scottish cultural influence is seen all over the world; in Canada the Maritime Provinces were heavily influenced by Gaelic culture.

On temporary loan from the prestigious National Museums of Scotland, the King Township Museum is happy to present The Emigrant’s Kist. This poignant exhibit tells the story of the Scottish emigrant during the early days of travel by sea. The exhibit concerns itself with those who came to a new country and what they felt was important to bring with them, whether practical or sentimental.

A kist is a chest into which the traveler would place their most prized possessions for use in creating a home in a new land. Many items were recommended by emigration agencies but most were things people
felt were absolutely necessary in starting a new life. The hopes and fears that were expressed through the safekeeping and transport of a few personal items illustrates, not only the experiences of historic Scottish emigrants, but of all newcomers building a home in their adopted country.

The story will be a familiar one to many Canadians whose roots are far from this country. The cost of travel was expensive and people would save their wages for months in order to pay for their passage. Once onboard they were faced with appalling conditions; most traveled in
steerage and families were crammed together in small spaces. Facilities were not clean and they had to bring their own food to cook while on aboard. The journey to cross the Atlantic took about a month. Once in their new country the struggle to survive and prosper was a challenge
faced and conquered by many with the help of their First Nations’ neighbours.