Albert Seaman's Paintings, Drawings and Essays
Albert Seaman's Paintings, Drawings and Essays
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Winter welcomeA family reunion, c. 1860.
Watercolour on Arches CP paper. Image size 12" (30.5 cm) by 16" (40.6 cm) © 1995The old log building shown in this painting is typical of many Ontario pioneer homes erected in the early part of the nineteenth century. It is based on an example presently standing in Black Creek Pioneer Village where it is known as the Broom Maker’s House. This type of construction was used for expediency rather longevity. Consequently, not too many of these old buildings have survived to this day. The early settlers were renowned for the large families they produced in order to ensure enough hands to work their land claims. Records show that it was not uncommon to find a dozen or more people living in a building such as this. Inevitably, despite the hardships, family ties were far more substantial than would be found in our contemporary society. Although the pioneers’ festive reunions would have been much simpler than today’s, they would have been warm and happy events. The painting depicts the occupants of the house greeting relatives who are arriving for Christmas celebrations. Decorations for the home would probably have been made from available plants in a mixture of pagan and Christian traditions. The Christmas tree, introduced by German settlers, was acquiring popularity by this time. Plenty were available and one may well have been featured in this scene. This picture has been used for a Christmas card. Picture status - Available.
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