100 Years Ago: Reserve Militia Meeting, Red Cross Tea

The Intelligencer December 18, 1915 (page 1)

“Local Company of Reserve Militia. The large class of Reserve Militia who have been drilling for the last six weeks or more held their organization meeting at the Armouries last night, presided over by Lieut.-Col. Barragar. The men were complimented by the Colonel upon the enthusiasm shown in undertaking this necessary work of organizing and thoroughly drilling the reserve strength of the community.

He favored the establishment of one company of 250 men and increasing same to two companies as soon as possible, these making a Reserve of half a battalion to add to the strength of the 15th Regiment. The qualifications for enlistment are much the same as the active militia and all men physically fit between the ages of 18 and 60 should come forward and take this necessary drill. The instruction is given by competent drill instructors on each Tuesday and Friday evening of each week. The election of officers was proceeded with by the chairman, assisted by Capts. Cook and Wallace as scrutineers. …

This work of organizing the Reserve is most important as we must be protected by a drilled force when so many of the gallant men are going forward on the active overseas expeditions. Let every man consider it his duty to be prepared.”

The Intelligencer December 18, 1915 (page 2)

“Successful Red Cross Tea. The Tea held at Hotel Quinte on Thursday afternoon in aid of the Red Cross and Women’s Patriotic Association was a great success, forty-five dollars being realized. …

The President of the Association, Mrs. Lazier, was presented with a check for one hundred dollars by Mrs. Rogers, proceeds of the tickets sold on the lunch cloth which was drawn for at the tea and won by Mrs. J.P. Thomas, the lucky number being 167. The Association is deeply grateful to Mrs. Rogers for this splendid addition to its finances.

The Association has received since the last meeting $68.50 from Colonel Stewart on behalf of Camp Rob Roy, Sons of Scotland, the proceeds of their concert on St. Andrew’s night, for which the Association is greatly obliged.”