100 Years Ago: Mayor Calls Meeting of Citizens on 2nd Anniversary, Frankford Overseas Club

The Intelligencer August 3, 1916 (page 7)

“Proclamation. His Honor, the Lieutenant-Governor of this Province, has by proclamation set apart Friday, August 4th, the 2nd anniversary of the declaration of war, as a day for the people to discuss publicly the great problems that face this Province as part of our Empire, and on that date reaffirm their belief in the righteousness of the cause for which we are fighting, and their inflexible determination to continue the struggle until victory has been achieved.

Following the wishes of the Government I have called a meeting of citizens to be held in the Armouries at eight o’clock on the evening of FRIDAY, AUGUST 4TH. Every man, woman and child is invited to attend. Several short addresses will be delivered and an attractive and entertaining programme provided. The meeting will be held on the floor of the Armouries and seat accommodation provided.

God Save the King. H.F. Ketcheson, Mayor.”

The Intelligencer August 3, 1916 (page 7)

“The Frankford Overseas Club. On the Public School Grounds, on Friday evening last, a public reception was tendered by the Club and citizens to Pte. E.E. Ketcheson, who has recently returned from the front incapacitated for further active service.

The following address was read by the President, Miss A.L. Carroll:—Dear Pte. Ketcheson,—It is with feelings of greatest happiness that we, the members of the Frankford Overseas Club, assemble here this evening to greet and extend to you a thousand welcomes to this your boyhood home.

Three months ago, the sad tidings, ‘Ed. Ketcheson is wounded.’ flashed over the wires. The deepest sorrow prevailed for yourself and your dear ones at home. …  This indeed is an unique event. It is the first opportunity we have had to welcome home a Frankford hero.

You answered the first call of King and Country, and by your manly courage and noble heroism you have helped to make the name ‘Canada’ a household word throughout the civilized world, and helped the Allied nations realize that Canada is indeed a nation. …

With Rev. B.F. Byers as chairman, many of the townsmen were called on for a few remarks. Later Dr. J.U. Simmons read an address and presented Pte. Ketcheson with a gold watch-chain and locket from the citizens, after which lunch was served.”