OSGOODE TOWNSHIP MUSEUM
Sign My Book Touchscreen Exhibit
The Sign My Book virtual exhibit was inspired by a mysterious envelope that came to the museum in 2022.
It was a hot afternoon in late July when James Jensen, our Executive Director, went out to check the mail. He found a large white envelope among the usual letters and flyers. The return address was Kirkland, which is near Seattle, Washington. But James didn’t recognize the sender’s name.
Intrigued, James opened the package, revealing an old and faded autograph book. The cover hinted at the history within its well-worn pages. It was burgundy, with detailed scrollwork and a picture of the Greek god Pan.
James opened the book, and read the name inscribed on the inside. The autograph book had belonged to Katie Kennedy, and dated back to January 2nd, 1884. Katie lived in Vernon, Ontario, which is in Osgoode Township. She was born in 1875, and received the book on her ninth birthday.
Through the faded ink, the late 1800s came alive.
Autograph books were a popular Victorian pastime. Girls and women of all ages used them to share poems, drawings and messages. Some even added mementos, like pressed flowers and locks of hair.
The autograph book gives tangible evidence of Katie’s social life. It looks very different than the social media apps that we use today. But autograph books and social media have a lot in common. They both let young people—especially teens—connect and share memories. They both offer an outlet to express identities and celebrate friendships.
This journey back in time inspired our new exhibit and virtual experience. The Sign My Book exhibit explores the marks made by teens in the Osgoode Township from the 1880s to today. Through this exhibit, we honour the hopes and dreams of yesterday’s teens. And invite today’s teens to dream boldly and forge their own paths in the world.
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