Ancient rules for unmarried teachers

In the children’s Museum of the Brome County Historical Society you will find a board with the following rules of conduct for unmarried teachers in Canada in the 1800s and early 1900s. Does this remind you of Saudi Arabia?

  • You may not marry during your contract.
  • You are not to keep company with men.
  • You must be at home between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. unless attending an official function.
  • You must not loiter downtown in any of the ice cream stores.
  • You may not travel beyond the town limits unless you have permission.
  • You may not ride in a carriage or an automobile with any man unless he is your father or brother.
  • You may not smoke cigarettes.
  • You may not dress in bright colours.
  • You may under no circumstances dye your hair.
  • You must wear at least two petticoats.
  • Your dress may not be shorter than 2 inches above the ankle.