Change and continuity : three generations of women's work in North West River, Labrador

Kindl, Rita (1999) Change and continuity : three generations of women's work in North West River, Labrador. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

This thesis is an examination of the lives of three generations of women in North West River, Labrador. Change and continuity in the work and lives of Settler women in the face of dramatic economic and technological developments is the underlying theme of the thesis. I adopt a broad definition of 'work' so as to include an examination of the following activities of women: wage work, self-provisioning activities, raising children, volunteer work and domestic chores. I argue that while the wage economy and consumerism have changed the manner in which women accomplish their 'work', women's responsibilities remain unchanged. The work ethic of Settlers in North West River and the manner in which it has influenced women's work throughout this century are discussed. The work ethos in North West River as it applies to both men and women has emphasized hard work, endurance and self-reliance. This ethos, while burdening women, also allows women to take pride in their 'work'. I also discuss the influence of the International Grenfell Association over the lives of women in North West River. The International Grenfell Association has offered women wage work, introduced formal volunteer work to the women of North West River and created an elite within the town.

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