Perriam

(submitted by Shirley Perriam)

Walter Thomas Perriam (1904–1997) was born in Oldham, England. An only child, Walter lost his parents at age 12. At the age of 18 he immigrated to Canada to escape a strict aunt.

The ocean crossing took six weeks and Walter landed in Montreal. From there he boarded a train to London, Ont. and took a stagecoach to Lucan. He was met by Newman Johnson, who took Walter to his Warwick Twp. farm to become a farm hand. Walter had been an English town boy and when taking his first trip to Arkona he walked to town and wanted to know if Arkona had any street cars. Walter was a hard worker with a quick wit and a temper to match.

In 1928 Walter married Edna Vidella Haskell and they raised four sons: Donald, Glen, Norman, and Lloyd. Walter worked for other farmers, including Gordon Curts, and for the Department of Highways until 1969 when he retired.

Walter and Edna lived most of their lives in the Warwick-Arkona area, spending ten years in the Orchard View Apartments and their last days at the Watford Nursing Home (Quality Care Centre).

Walter Perriam milking his first cow. Courtesy S Perriam.

Chapter 24 of 25 - Perriam Family

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