About the Children
The death toll among young children was a frightening reality. Disease as well as accidents claimed the lives of more children than we would care to count. Epidemics were common and included anything from the flu to smallpox. Fitzwilliam's own cemeteries show the little graves of entire households. In some cases the family line did not continue.
In happier times, the children played, dreamed and grew. Many stayed on in Fitzwilliam or branched out into the neighboring towns. They became the ancestors of today's "old" families. These children had a solid upbringing with religion and family values being at the forefront of their lives.
Within our collections we have colorful toys, furnishings and clothing samples from these youngsters. Every piece was cherished because it could not easily be replaced. We cherish these possessions as much as they did. We invite you to visit our Children’s Room at the museum and reminisce. Some day some of our things may be on exhibit for future generations too.