Sarah McDonald

Sarah McDonald

Sarah McDonald was born in Alexandria, Ontario, on February 28, 1866. Her father was James McDonald and her mother was a Kennedy. She was the oldest of five children: Sarah, Ronald, James, Maggie, and Mary Belle.



Wandering Years

Upon completion of her schooling, Sarah went to Lowell, Massachusetts with an aunt where she worked in a private home for awhile. She then returned to Alexandria. After a brief stay at home, in 1892, Sarah left to visit her sister Maggie in Edmonton. The first stage of her trip was aboard the funeral train of Sir John A. MacDonald, from Montreal to Ottawa.

Planting Roots in St. Albert

Once in Edmonton, Sarah worked for an aunt and uncle at "Edmonton House". She and Alex McDonald were married in St. Albert on July 1, 1894.



Children

Alex and Sarah's first child was stillborn on July 18, 1895. One year later, on July 18th, 1896, their daughter Christina (Tena) Catherine was born. Romeo (Romey) McDonald was born on May 8th, 1898. The next two children were born in the twentieth century: Jeannette Anne born August 31st, 1902, and Angus James born June 7th, 1905. All were born on the homestead and Sarah was assisted in her deliveries by an Indian midwife.

Epitaph

Sarah McDonald and her husband Alex McDonald were dedicated, persevering, stoic and proud pioneers. Their days were certainly fulfilled by hard work on their farm and related activities. They relaxed through entertainment with their family, friends and neighbors. They enjoyed many picnics by the Sturgeon river with friends and relatives from Edmonton dropping by to enjoy the farm animals and the fresh country air.

Sarah McDonald and her husband Alex McDonald were always there to give a helping hand to anyone in need. They were known for their generosity and kindness to others and were well respected in the district. Sarah McDonald passed away on March 24, 1945, and was buried along side her husband Alex McDonald.