Woonsocket, Rhode Island, USA
1898 - A French-Canadian Exodus. Mill Operative Scared Away from New England Villages by War Talk.

There has been a large exodus of French-Canadian families from the mill villages of New England from the mill villages of New England since the war talk began. It may not be the fear of war alone which have impelled those who have gone to pack up and scurry across the Canadian border, but the war has undoubtedly had very much influence in the matter. The operatives have been somewhat dissatisfied since wages were cut in the cotton mills and the coming of the war added to their belief that this Yankeeland was not the abode of milk and honey they had formerly thought it, says the New York Sun.

From all over the state and villages in Connecticut and Massachusetts come reports of the French Canadian exodus. From Woonsocket alone 21 persons have left this week, and dozens of families had fled before. The Pawtucket valley villages tell the same story, and what is true of this section is also true of other New England villages.

It must not be supposed that all the French-Canadians in New England partake of this spirit. While these mill operatives are by no means a warlike people there are many among the younger element who would be glad to fight for the United States if they were needed.

Many of those who remain are very much troubled regarding the future, and mill men say that they are being constantly asked regarding the probability of aliens being drafted.

The Spencer Reporter
Spencer, Iowa
July 12, 1898

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