Through The Mill: Girls and Women in the Quebec Cotton Textile Industry 1881-1951

by Gail Cuthbert Brandt

A detailed look at the lives of girls and women in Quebec's cotton textile industry, 1881-1951.Through The Mill explores the vital role of girls and women in the industrialization of Canada, particularly in Quebec's cotton mills. They comprised over half the workforce until World War I, yet their labor activism and contributions to working-class families are often overlooked. This book uncovers their remarkable stories.Based on 84 oral interviews and extensive primary sources, this feminist labor history examines textile companies' motivations, recruiting methods, demographics, and working conditions. Discover how these women transformed Quebec into a modern industrial society during the Quiet Revolution. Perfect for scholars and anyone interested in Canadian history, women's studies, and labor movements.

Genres: Nonfiction

330 pages, Paperback

Published October 15, 2018

About the author

Dr. Cuthbert Brandt is a Canadian historian specializing in Canadian social and women's history.
She is a former principal of Renison University College,& former Associate Vice-President, International at the University of Waterloo, Ontario.

Reviews

[James Fisher · Rating 4 out of 5]

An amazing work of fact-finding and analysis of working conditions of women and girls in the large cotton mills in Quebec.

[Constance Lechman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Scolarly and interesting historical read. Who knew that wonen played such an important role in Quebec’s textile industry? Starting in the eatly 1900s they were unrecognized activists paving the way for future generations of women in the workplace!
Very enjoyable read.