A Secret Life Of Lena Victoria Wiggins

This evocative video follows the extraordinary life of Lena Victoria Wiggins, capturing her journey from a young girl in early 20th-century England to the matriarch of a growing family in Canada. Through a combination of archival photographs and historical context, A Secret Life of Lena Victoria Wiggins highlights the resilience and strength of one family as they navigate the challenges of war, migration, and building a life together. The story begins in England during the early 1900s, where a young Lena faces the heartbreak of losing her brother in the First World War. As the war rages on, she works in the Kodak film factory, later transitioning to a munitions factory, contributing to the war effort. Amidst the devastation, the Spanish Flu sweeps through England, marking another period of loss and uncertainty. When the war ends, Lena meets Alfred Doling, a soldier returning home. Their love story blossoms, and the two marry, welcoming their first child. In 1920, they embark on a new chapter, immigrating to Canada to build a future. Settling in Timmins, Ontario, Alfred works in the gold mines while they grow their family and establish roots in their new home. The narrative continues into the Second World War, where Alfred and two of their children enlist, leaving the family once again connected to the global conflict. Tragedy strikes as two of their children pass away, and the eldest, born with a handicap, remains at home. Meanwhile, their youngest son joins the Cadets Corps, too young to enlist but eager to follow in his family’s footsteps. Through Lena and Alfred's story, A Secret Life of Lena Victoria Wiggins weaves a powerful tale of love, loss, resilience, and the enduring ties of family across generations. This poignant exploration of personal and historical events invites viewers to reflect on the sacrifices and strength required to build a life during some of the most tumultuous periods in modern history.