The Intelligencer August 27, 1914 (page 3)
“A practical and interesting meeting of the members of the Home Guard was held last night in the Armoury. There were about 100 present, who enrolled and signed the articles of agreement to serve in any capacities assigned to them individually or collectively. … On motion of Mr. W.C. Mikel, Friday of each week was selected for drill, and it was also arranged to have musketry instruction on Thursday and Friday nights at the Armouries. The musketry instruction is the most important part of the work. …
Colonel Ponton gave interesting reminiscences of the part taken by local militiamen in 1837, 1846 and 1848. … Sir Mackenzie Bowell, in his usual vigorous manner, urged the necessity for a watchful lookout for suspicious strangers in our midst. After the meeting all the members fell in for their first drill under the command of Colonel Lazier. None were too old to march, and all were willing. It was an unique occasion, which all enjoyed.”
First World War Belleville 