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Lady Macdonald’s Handwritten Diary

Lady Susan Agnes Macdonald (1836–1920) was the second wife of Sir John A. Macdonald (1815–1891), Canada’s first Prime Minister. Lady Macdonald’s diary, primarily covering the years 1867 to 1869, is a unique first-hand account of the earliest days of the new Dominion of Canada, beginning just a few days after Confederation in July 1867. As well as providing insight into the political culture of the time, the diary records Lady Macdonald’s daily activities, social obligations, and private experiences as one of Canada’s most prominent women at a pivotal time in the nation’s history.

To commemorate Canada’s 150th anniversary, Library and Archives Canada has digitized Lady Macdonald’s handwritten diary and made it available online for transcription and tagging.

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