Onion Johnnies: Recollections of Seasonal French Onion Sellers in Scotland

French Onion Johnnies were a familiar group of seasonal workers in Britain until the late twentieth century. This book recounts the lives of nine Onion Johnnies who worked in Scotland between the 1920s and 1970s, providing a fascinating insight into their lives and experience.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 15 June 2023
Publisher: Birlinn General

For nearly 150 years, until the late twentieth century, French Onion Johnnies, also known as 'Ingan Johnnies' in Scotland, were a familiar presence in towns and cities across Britain. In this captivating book, nine Onion Johnnies, including one 'Jenny,' who worked in Scotland at various times between the 1920s and the 1970s, share their remarkable stories. The recollections, recorded in interviews conducted in Brittany and at Leith in 1999 by the Scottish Working Peoples History Trust, offer a profound insight into the lives and experiences of those whose livelihoods and way of life have vanished into history. This book paints a poignant portrait of the past and a way of life that has never been fully documented before, providing a unique and invaluable perspective on our collective heritage.

French Onion Johnnies:

Until the late 20th century, French Onion Johnnies, also known as 'Ingan Johnnies' in Scotland, were a familiar sight in towns and cities across Britain. These seasonal workers, who hailed from France, were a significant part of the workforce in various industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, and hospitality.

The French Onion Johnnies arrived in Britain in the late 19th century, seeking employment opportunities and a better life. They were often recruited by employers who needed a reliable and hardworking workforce, particularly during peak seasons. The Johnnies worked long hours, often in challenging conditions, and were known for their dedication and hard work.

Their presence in Britain brought about cultural and social changes. The Johnnies brought with them their culinary skills, introducing new dishes and flavors to the British cuisine. They also brought their music, dance, and traditions, which added to the vibrant tapestry of British culture.

However, the French Onion Johnnies' journey was not without its challenges. They faced discrimination and prejudice from some parts of society, who viewed them as outsiders and immigrants. They were often subjected to low wages, poor working conditions, and social exclusion.

Despite these challenges, the French Onion Johnnies remained a resilient and determined group of people. They formed communities and associations to support each other, and they worked tirelessly to improve their conditions and advocate for their rights.

The French Onion Johnnies' legacy is still felt today in Britain. Their contributions to the country's economy, culture, and society have been recognized, and their stories continue to inspire and educate people.

In this book, nine Onion Johnnies, including one 'Jenny,' who worked in Scotland at various times between the 1920s and the 1970s, share their remarkable stories. The recollections, recorded in interviews conducted in Brittany and at Leith in 1999 by the Scottish Working Peoples History Trust, offer a profound insight into the lives and experiences of these individuals.

The book paints a poignant picture of the past and a way of life that has vanished forever. It sheds light on the struggles and hardships faced by the Johnnies, as well as their resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

The French Onion Johnnies' story is a testament to the power of human resilience and the importance of preserving our collective heritage. It reminds us of the value of diversity and the contributions that immigrants have made to our society.

This book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in history, social justice, and immigration. It provides a unique perspective on the lives of the French Onion Johnnies and their contributions to British society.

In conclusion, the French Onion Johnnies were a familiar group of seasonal workers in Britain for nearly 150 years. Their stories, recorded in this book, offer a fascinating insight into the lives and experiences of these individuals. The book paints a poignant picture of the past and a way of life that has vanished forever, but it also reminds us of the resilience and determination of the human spirit.

Weight: 186g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839830310
Edition number: Reissue