100 Years Ago: Belleville City Council Grants $50,000 to Patriotic Fund, Robert Gibson Is Wounded

The Intelligencer March 30, 1917 (pages 1, 3)

“City Council Grants Fifty Thousand Dollars. A communication was read from the Belleville Branch of the Canadian Patriotic Fund asking the Council to make a grant of $5,000 per month for this year to the fund. …  Ald. Platt—We have given $5,000 and we should give $45,000 for the balance of the year, making a grant of $50,000 for the year. Mayor Ketcheson—We could issue a debenture now for $25,000.

A motion prevailed that the city make a grant of $50,000 to the Canadian Patriotic Fund, and be paid over at the rate of $5,000 per month, commencing on April 1^st.

Sailors’ Relief Fund. A motion moved by Ald. Marshall prevailed that a grant of $500 be made to the British Sailors’ Relief Fund. Committees adjourned.”

The Intelligencer March 30, 1917 (page 2)

“Robert M. Gibson Wounded at Front. Mrs. Gertrude J. Gibson, 16 Harriet St., Belleville, Ont. Sincerely regret to inform you, 455,899 Pte. Robert Wm. Gibson, Infantry, officially reported wounded, March 20, 1917. Will send further particulars when received. Officer in Charge Records.”