Jane Elizabeth (Rooke) Daines

Innisfail

1877-1966

Description

Life and Work

Running away from home at the age of 16, Jane worked as a governess with the family of an Anglican Church minister in England.

There she met master blacksmith William Daines. They married and immigrated to Canada in 1911, coming to Innisfail where Jane's uncle homesteaded. Jane's entrepreneurial skills developed when she took in the Hotel laundry to make money to buy coal to run William's blacksmith forge.

Known for her nursing skills, she frequently accompanied local doctors in attending to the sick. She opened her home to local women requiring care before and after giving birth. Jane was noted for serving meals on fine china and linen to her patients and friends.

Active with the Anglican Church and Women's Institute, Jane raised seven children.

Memoirs

Letter of Appreciation by Jim Daines

If Grandma Daines thought your idea or what you were doing was fine, then you knew you were on the right track.

- Jim Daines, grandson


Associated Member Museum: Innisfail and District Historical Village