The object is a violin from 1716 that originally belonged to my 7th great grandfather, Richard Dalmore who was convicted of horse thieving in Ireland. After this he was deported to America and settled in New York, bringing the violin with him. He then fought on the union's side of the Civil War. Eventually the Irish last name “Dalmore” was changed to “Dilmore” (my moms maiden name), due to discrimination from the Great Famine of Ireland. The violin was eventually passed down to my great great uncle, Hermon Jr, who was a violin teacher and the conductor of the London Ontario Symphony. My great aunt is now in possession of it from her taking lessons on it as a child. It speaks to my family’s love of the arts. The violin shows that the arts are a very important part of being an american and being dedicated to your craft. My story connects to the migration of Irish people to America.

– LD

Relationship:  Great-grandchild of im/migrant or more Great-grandchild of im/migrant or more