100 Years Ago: Ad for Overseas Requirements, Military Night at Belleville Lodge

The Intelligencer April 7, 1916 (page 3)

Haines

“Overseas Requirements. Men Of The 80th. We invite you to come and see our Wonderful Assortment of Overseas Requirements. All are designed for your comfort and convenience. Indispensable articles, such as Steamer Trunks, Dunnage Bags, Hold-Alls, Wolesley Folding Beds, Tan Knee Length Rubber Boots, and Military Boots in all sizes. See Our Window for Special Display. The Haines Shoe Houses. Belleville, Napanee, Trenton, Smith’s Falls.”

The Intelligencer April 7, 1916 (page 7)

“Military Night at Belleville Lodge. Many Members of the Masonic Society Present. The regular meeting of the Belleville Lodge No. 123, A.F. and A.M. held last night was a memorable one and will not for some time be forgotten by those who attended. It was termed a khaki or military night owing to the fact that many brethren who are wearing the King’s uniform were present. Not only were many members of the craft in the city present, but many who are members of other lodges.

After the business of the lodge had been completed the brethren retired to the banqueting hall, where a dainty spread was partaken of. This function was presided over by Wor. Bro. R.A. Backus, Worshipful Master of the Belleville Lodge, and he performed his duties in an able and affable manner. At the conclusion of the supper a toast list was carried, and the addresses given were much appreciated by all present. …

At intervals, suitable solos were rendered by Wor. Bro. J. McIntosh and Bandsman F. Burke. The orchestra of the 155th Battalion was in attendance, and rendered a number of selections in a manner that was most pleasing.”

100 Years Ago: 155th at Military Smoker, 80th at Khaki Club, Yateman Family Enlists, Paddy the 80th Battalion Dog

The Intelligencer April 6, 1916 (page 2)

“Presentation to Lieut. E. Elliott. Under the auspices of the non-commissioned officers of the 155th Battalion who have been attending the Provincial School of Instruction here, presided over by Lieut. E. Elliott, an enjoyable event took place last evening in the lecture room of the Armouries. It partook of the nature of a smoker, and proved to be one of the most pleasing functions held here for some time. A large number were present, including Lt.-Col. Adams, the popular commanding officer of the 155th Battalion, and a number of officers. All present appeared to be thoroughly at home.

During the evening a presentation was made to Lieut. E. Elliott on behalf of the members of the class under his tuition. This was made by Col. Adams for the donors. The present was a handsome silver cigarette case, and an amber cigarette mouth-piece. The latter was in a silver case, lined with gold. In making the presentation, Col. Adams referred to the excellent work done by Lieut. Elliott. Upon the cigarette case was engraved the following inscription: ‘Presented to Lieut. E. Elliott, by N.C.O.’s of class 8, 155th Battalion, April 5th, 1916.’

In response to the presentation the recipient made a most suitable address. The affair was then of an informal nature, and several present gave brief addresses, which were interspersed with songs. The proceeding closed by the singing of the National Anthem. At the conclusion of the programme refreshments were served.”

The Intelligencer April 6, 1916 (page 2)

“At the Khaki Club Last Night. Now that the days the men of the 80th have to spend in Belleville are numbered, they are taking every advantage of every opportunity to attend the Khaki Club, where they have spent so many pleasant evenings. Though more than half the right half battalion is away on pass, there was a very large number at the Wednesday evening programme at the club last night. …  Several soldiers contributed to the programme, which finished about ten o’clock, after which the usual refreshments were served.

By way of variety quite a number of the men spent sometime in the canteen enjoying selections on the gramophone, presented last week. Everyone was highly delighted with it and can imagine how it will brighten the hours on the troop train, the transport and in the camps overseas.

The tea cosy presented to the Khaki Club and to be disposed of by them was drawn for at the Trench Tea on March 31st, when Mrs. Wheatley was fortunate in securing the valuable card.”

The Intelligencer April 6, 1916 (page 7)

“Whole Family Enlists. If every family in Belleville was to contribute as many men to the Empire as the Yateman family of Mill St. has done, we would be able to raise a purely Belleville Battalion. Walter Yateman and his three sons are serving the colors; two have already received wounds on the field of battle. On Tuesday, Richard Yateman, the only remaining son home, went to the 155th recruiting office, passed the doctor and enlisted, so as to be able to avenge his brothers.”

The Intelligencer April 6, 1916 (page 8)

“Within the Military Circle. Belleville. No one has more friends round the barracks than ‘Paddy’ the 80th Battalion dog. He is devoted to anyone in khaki and knows the calls just as well as the men do. He attends all parades, mounts guard, and is always on hand when first post sounds at night, taking his place in the most comfortable corner of the guard room or the orderly room.

A week ago a large lump developed on his neck. While it did not seem serious Paddy was not as lively as usual. Everyone noticed it and it was decided that Paddy should see a doctor. Accordingly he was taken to Dr. Ackrill the veterinary by the Y.M.C.A. man. He decided in a jiffy just what was to be done and did it and Paddy chased away evidently much relieved and showing his appreciation in the best way he could.

The men wish to acknowledge Dr. Ackrill’s kindness. What he did seemed simple enough but without it we might have had no more Paddy. Dr. Ackrill said that as Paddy had ‘enlisted’ there would be no charge.”

100 Years Ago: 80th Band Farewell Concert, 155th Band Performs, Ad for Gillette Safety Razor

The Intelligencer April 5, 1916 (page 2)

80th Band Farewell

“Keep April 7 Open For 80th Band Concert. The Band of the 80th Overseas Battalion, C.E.F., have had to cancel their engagements to play in Massey Hall, Toronto, and a three days engagement in Ottawa, also several engagements at other points as they expect to proceed overseas at a very early date.

They will play their farewell concert in Belleville on Friday evening, April 7th. A crowded house is sure to greet this famous band of artists. By special request the band will repeat the popular overture ‘William Tell’ by Rossini. A great musical treat is in store for those who attend. …  The sale of seats opens tomorrow morning at Doyle’s Drug Store at 9 o’clock.”

The Intelligencer April 5, 1916 (page 3)

“Fine Concert by 155th Batt. Band. By kind permission of Lieut.-Col. Adams, the commanding Officer of the 155th Battalion, a band concert was given last evening by the Band in the Salvation Army Citadel. There was a good attendance and the programme of instrumental selections given by the band under the able guidance of Bandmaster Hinchey were thoroughly enjoyed. During the evening Bandsman Fred Burke rendered vocal selections in his usual capable and entertaining manner.

Lieut.-Col. Adams presided over the gathering, and during the programme presented pocket Testaments to five members of the band who were formerly members of the Salvation Army band, also one to Sergt. Adams, who was also a member of the local corps. The Testaments were presented on behalf of the Belleville Salvation Army corps. At the conclusion of the delightful programme the members of the band were entertained by the ladies of the Army.”

The Intelligencer April 5, 1916 (page 6)

Gillette - 155th

“The ‘Quinte’ 155th Overseas Battalion. The ‘feel’ of the snug-fitting khaki—the grip on the bayonetted rifle—the clean, invigorating, fresh-air life—the shoulder-to-shoulder comradeship of real men—these rapidly transform ordinary civilians into those Canadian troops whose deeds have astonished military Europe.

With their efficiency goes a passion for trim cleanliness. They are devotees of the razor, and strong partisans of the ‘Made-in-Canada’ Gillette. They enjoy its clean, velvety shave when they have time and toilet conveniences, and appreciate it even more when both are lacking, and no other razor could give them any sort of a decent shave.

Don’t these gallant lads deserve every comfort we can give them? Make the campaign easier for one of them at least by giving him a Gillette Safety Razor.”

100 Years Ago: Recruits to Aid Farmers, Belleville Man Is Wounded, 80th Battalion Member Dies

The Intelligencer April 4, 1916 (page 2)

“An order has been issued from the Militia Department that all men of good character who wish to engage in the spring ploughing and seeding may secure a month’s furlough by application to the Adjutant of their Battalion. Men availing themselves of this opportunity may secure transportation to any point within three hundred miles. Many of the local boys have expressed their intention of aiding the farmers by taking advantage of this opportunity.”

The Intelligencer April 4, 1916 (page 5)

“Belleville Man Receives Wounds. Mrs. Lorimer, 413 Bleecker Avenue, has received a telegram stating that her son, Pte. Jas. W. Lorimer, of the 20th Battalion, has been wounded in the left thigh and arm on the 16th of March, and is now in the clearing hospital. Further particulars have been promised.”

The Intelligencer April 4, 1916 (page 7)

“Private Aldie Campbell, a member of the 80th Battalion of Belleville, died last night from pneumonia at the General Hospital. Deceased is a young unmarried man of twenty-two years of age, and his home previous to his enlistment was in Haliburton. The remains were taken to the Belleville Burial Co.’s undertaking parlors where the body was prepared for burial.”

[Note: Private Aldie Campbell died on April 3, 1916. He is commemorated on Page 63 of the First World War Book of Remembrance.]

100 Years Ago: Soldiers Attend Churches, Memorial Service for Leslie Evans

The Intelligencer April 3, 1916 (page 2)

“Soldiers Attend Divine Service. The 155th Overseas Battalion, C.E.F.,  yesterday morning under the command of Col. Adams, Commanding Officer, attended divine service at Holloway Street Methodist Church. There was a good turnout and the church was filled with soldiers and attendants of the church.

The pastor Rev. J.N. Clarry, B.D., officiated and preached an appropriate discourse. …  The hymns were in keeping with the service and the selection by the fine band of the battalion, under the able leadership of Bandmaster Hinchey, were much appreciated, and rendered in a manner which showed careful preparation.

The 80th Battalion, under the command of Col. W.G. Ketcheson, on Sunday morning attended divine service at St. Thomas Anglican church. The turnout was a most creditable one, all officers and men being out on parade. The fine band under the able leadership of Lieut. Stares played to and from the church.

Rev. Canon Beamish, rector of St. Thomas’ church, preached, and his discourse was in keeping with the occasion. Special music was rendered by the choir, and Prof. Wheatley, organist, gave instrumental selections of a high order.”

The Intelligencer April 3, 1916 (page 2)

“At St. Thomas’ Anglican Church last evening a memorial service was held for the late Corporal Leslie Evans, who recently died in France as the result of wounds received while on active service at the front. Deceased was a member of St. Thomas’ Church, having been confirmed on Whitsunday, May 31st, 1914, and while here was a devout communicant of the church.

A large congregation was present at the service, which was conducted by the Rector, Rev. Canon Beamish. During the service appropriate hymns were sung and prayers for the dead were recited. The Rector preached a sermon which was in every respect worthy of the occasion. …

Tonight we commemorate the passing of one who was known as a modest youth, who was sweet and pure, one of nature’s gentlemen. In this church he was confirmed by the Bishop and prepared for the final summons. He has sacrificed his life for his King and country.

The Rector stated that one hundred and forty-two from the congregation had enlisted for active service, and three had lost their lives, namely, H. Ablard, Reservist Coburn and Corporal Evans. We commend their souls to God’s keeping, assured of a joyful resurrection in paradise and life everlasting. During the service, Prof. Wheatley rendered suitable selections upon the organ.”

[Note: Corporal Leslie Farmston Evans died on March 16, 1916. He is commemorated on Page 83 of the First World War Book of Remembrance.]

100 Years Ago: Corporal Bongard Invalided Home, 15th Reserves Drill, Ad for Gillette Safety Razor, Chocolate Not Cigarettes for Soldiers, Canadian Patriotic Fund, Queen Mary School Concert

The Intelligencer April 1, 1916 (page 2)

“Welcomed Home by Comrades. Corporal C.C. Bongard a member of the 39th Battalion, which left Belleville last fall, arrived here today, having been invalided home. Corp. Bongard was wounded in France, and after remaining some time in a hospital in the mother land, was sent home, arriving at St. Johns, N.B., on the steamer Corinthian.

The returned hero was met at the station by members of the 80th and 155th battalions and escorted through the city. At one time the wounded soldier was connected with the Belleville Hardware Company’s establishment here.”

The Intelligencer April 1, 1916 (page 2)

“The Fifteenth. There was a fair turn out last night. The instruction given showed splendid progress being made by those enthusiastically following the work. There is no reason now why every man physically fit between the ages of 18 and 45 not going overseas residing in Belleville should not be in the reserve. Many have promised and signed up. Now drill is the only thing that counts.

Munitions are what we want, not contracts. Men are what we want, not promises and excuses. Protection is what your wife and children and mother want. And why should you not be the one ready to protect them capably and intelligently? Do you think it is the duty of some other fellow to do this? Of course you don’t! Then get busy. Cut out the amusement game one night a week at least and get down to drill at the Armouries, 8 o’clock Tuesday and Friday evenings.”

The Intelligencer April 1, 1916 (page 3)

Gillette - 80th

“80th Overseas Battalion Canadian Expeditionary Forces. Stirred by the love of liberty and honor—called by the Empire’s need—undaunted by the hardships and carnage at the Front—keen to be in at the finish—Canada’s finest manhood is getting into khaki! Men who thus give up income and home comforts, and risk life itself, certainly should not have to sacrifice such civilized habits as a clean, smooth shave whenever they want it. Experience has shown that the only way to be sure of this at the front is to have a Gillette Safety Razor.

Wherever there is soap and water, and five minutes to spare, the Gillette will give a real velvet shave. Take one to the Front yourself if you can—if you cannot go, see that your enlisted friend has a Gillette Safety Razor.”

The Intelligencer April 1, 1916 (page 3)

“Chocolate for Soldiers. The Y’s certainly excelled their previous efforts last evening in the entertainment they put on in the assembly room of the High School. …  Twelve girls from Mr. Simpkins’ room in Grier Street school, proved themselves very clever in a drill and snatches of patriotic songs. Miss Marie Stewart was an excellent accompanist for the drill. Mr. Reid, in his recitation, proved himself to be a talented reader of good ability. A number of boys gave appropriate recitations entitled ‘No Cigarettes for Me, Sir!’

An interesting sketch entitled ‘Packing for the Soldiers,’ and tableau followed, in which Miss Rough as ‘Aunt Patience Primrose,’ made a decided hit. She was assisted by several girls and boys who, without exception, acted their parts splendidly. In this sketch, which thoroughly delighted the audience, chocolates were recommended as being more nutritious than cigarettes for the soldiers. The singing of the National Anthem closed the programme. The proceeds of the entertainment go towards the purchase of chocolate for the soldiers.”

The Intelligencer April 1, 1916 (page 4)

“Belleville Branch of Canadian Patriotic Fund. During the month of March the local list of beneficiaries included 294, children of soldiers (or young brothers or sisters wholly depended on soldiers); 37, mothers of soldiers, either widows or whose husbands were unable to work. Contributions during the month amounted to $286.25 and the 171 cheques mailed to soldiers families during the same period amounted to $2953.14. These cheques are for the full month’s allowance and have always been sent out regularly about the 11th of each month to avoid any excuse for debts being incurred by beneficiaries.

The committee has heard with regret that in a few instances some families have asked for credit and been allowed to go into debt for supplies. This should not be encouraged by the public, as it has been the object of these early and regular payments to avoid such conditions while the usual breadwinner is absent. It is hoped that it will not be necessary to delay payments till the end of the month in those cases where families do not try to make each month’s allowance last until the next allowance is due.

The response to the Committee’s appeal to subscribers to pay up the amounts promised to be paid in last year has not been as general as might have been expected. When it is known that this delay is seriously embarrassing the management in their efforts, it is trusted that those who have not made the payments promised will do so at once.”

The Intelligencer April 1, 1916 (page 5)

“R.T. Knitting Circle Entertain. Queen Mary School Scene of Pleasing Event. A fair sized audience was present at the R.T. Knitting Circle concert, held in the Queen Mary School in West Belleville last evening. Mr. A.E. Bailey presided in his usual genial and efficient manner. …

At the conclusion of the musicale a comedy sketch entitled ‘The Home Guard’ was introduced by members of Albert College. These amateurs brought out the timidity of the women, while the men were away attending Home Guard Drill, in such a manner that would have done credit to professionals. The various make-ups and humorous lines brought forth rounds of applause from the audience. The National Anthem brought the joyful proceedings to a close, after which a vote of thanks was passed to the members of the Albert College and all those who took part in the programme.”

100 Years Ago: Belleville Y.M.C.A. Assists Soldiers, 155th Battalion Band Serenades Garnet Dobbs

The Intelligencer March 30, 1916 (page 7)
YMCA
“What Belleville Y.M.C.A. Is Doing for the Soldiers. The above cut illustrates one of the features of the Young Men’s Christian Association, and it ought to be of interest to the citizens of Belleville to know that this represents a company of about 80 soldiers emerging from the Association Building after their daily morning swim. This has occurred every week day this winter. The Association has already recorded over four thousand five hundred baths and swims since the soldiers have been using their free privileges. This is in addition to the free writing room and material supplied. Open day and evenings.

A class of 50 officers are taking a special Physical Training Course occupying the Gymnasium from nine a.m. to four p.m. daily for a week or ten days.

The Bowling Alleys seem to be a source of great attraction for the men and the League games are being run off this week.

The Y.M.C.A. doors are open to assist the men in service in every possible way and a welcome is extended to all.”

The Intelligencer March 30, 1916 (page 7)

“Out Serenading. Yesterday afternoon the fine band connected with the 155th Battalion, were out on parade and serenaded one of their members, Mr. Garnet Dobbs, who has been confined to the house for some days by illness.

The music furnished by the band was enjoyed by all who heard it. Bandmaster Hinchey was in command.”

100 Years Ago: Soldiers Gather at Tabernacle Church, 80th Battalion Colours on Exhibit

The Intelligencer March 27, 1916 (pages 1, 2)

“Increasing Need of Fighting Christians. The splendid turn-out by the 80th and 155th Battalions at the Tabernacle church yesterday morning was a sight to make many a loyal heart beat with pride. Led by its magnificent band, with Lieut. Stares at its head, the 80th marched in perfect form from its headquarters to the place of worship, while the 155th, to the airs of its popular band, under the leadership of Bandmaster Hinchey, made a no less creditable display.

Filing in through the spacious vestibule and up the broad steps to the auditorium the greetings were most cordial, the regular attendants freely giving up their pews for the visitors, who with visiting civilians taxed the church to its limit, from one to two hundred being compelled to remain in the entrance.

The Band of the 80th Battalion furnished the musical programme, seated in the front side pews, while the 155th Band occupied a place of honor in the seats of the choir.

Besides the pastor, Rev. S.C. Moore, who delivered a timely discourse, Captain Ketcheson, chaplain of the 80th Battalion occupied a seat in the pulpit, and assisted in the services.

A few cordial words of greeting by the pastor, a beautifully rendered selection, ‘God of our Fathers,’ by the Tabernacle Quartette, composed of Mrs. Grant, Mrs. Nicholson, Messrs. Schryver and Moorman, were followed by the topic of the morning, entitled ‘A Demand for Fighting Christians.’ ”

The Intelligencer March 27, 1916 (page 2)

“Colors For 80th Battalion On Exhibition. The south window of Ketcheson & Earle’s store on Front Street was today the centre of attraction owing to the fact that it was most artistically decorated with the colors of the 80th Battalion, which will be presented to this battalion in the near future.

The two flags are beautiful in design and represent the King’s colors and the colors of the 80th Battalion. The one flag consists of the battalion crest on a field of blue, fringed with gold, whilst the King’s colors is a Union Jack surmounted by a crown. This is also fringed with gold, with the royal crest in the centre.

These two beautiful colors are the gift to the 80th Battalion of members of the Ketcheson family in Hastings County. Col. W.G. Ketcheson is the commanding officer of the 80th Battalion, and not only is he a popular officer, but in private life is held in high esteem. The colors are most beautiful in design, are exquisitely made, and will surely be highly prized by the battalion to which they will be presented.

At present it is not known when the presentation of the colors will be made. …  In addition to the colors in the display is an excellent photo of Col. Ketcheson and pictures of the Battalion taken at Barriefield.

The occasion of the presentation of the colors will no doubt be one of the events of the year, attracting many spectators to the city. The gift is, needless to state, one that is highly appreciated by all members of the 80th Battalion.”

100 Years Ago: Patriotic Concert in University Church, Presentations to 80th Battalion, Death of Private Archie Bowen

The Intelligencer March 25, 1916 (page 1)

“Patriotic Concert in University Church. An interesting patriotic concert took place last evening in the University Church, College Hill. …

The concert was presided over by Dr. Baker, president of Albert College, who stated the concert was under the auspices of the Pink Branch of the Rainbow Club. …  Gifts are being made by us, of money, life and sympathy, and we will keep on giving until this war is over. …  I hope soon we will have peace not simply victory but peace, abiding peace, where we will have no more war. …

The happy evening was brought to a close by the singing of ‘God Save The King,’ with everyone feeling delighted with the success of the concert from which a good sum was realized.”

The Intelligencer March 25, 1916 (page 2)

“Three Handsome Presents to The 80th Battalion. A pleasant ceremony for all concerned was that which took place in the Armouries on Friday morning at 11 o’clock. Advantage was taken of the presence of Col. Ogilvie of Kingston, the Assistant Adjutant General, to make three presentations to the 80th Battalion.

The first was the formal presentation to the Military Y.M.C.A. of the 80th Overseas Battalion of a handsome Columbia Grafonola, the gift of the Khaki Club. The presentation was made on behalf of the Khaki Club by Col. Ogilvie, who said it was given to the men of the Battalion by the good ladies of the club, that they may know when they go overseas and into the trenches that there are folks in Belleville who recall busy but very happy days spent in making things pleasant for them here.

Col. Ketcheson, Officer Commanding the 80th Battalion, accepted the instrument and expressed appreciation of it and the countless kindnesses the men had received through the efforts of the Khaki Club since the battalion came here. He felt, he said, that the good conduct and discipline that has been evident in Belleville, was due in no small degree to the influence thrown around the men by the atmosphere that prevails at the Khaki Club and by those associated with it.

The instrument is a handsome one in quarter cut oak finish, bearing a polished brass shield on which is engraved ‘Presented by the Khaki Club of Belleville, Canada, to the 80th Overseas Battalion, Military Y.M.C.A. For Auld Lang Syne. 1916.’ The shield is very artistic and the engraving expertly executed.

The second presentation was of a Vanaphone, a miniature grip-size gramophone, that will do all the work of the big machine and that may be packed away in a grip as its name suggests, along with a supply of records and taken where ever it is to be used.

This handy little instrument was the personal gift of Miss Falkiner, President of the Khaki Club, who …  said that whatever had been done for the men since they came here had been a pleasure for those who did it. She wished the men to know that the good wishes of the Khaki Club would go with them when they left and that the ladies had every confidence that when the time came for action the 80th would give a good account of itself. These remarks were the occasion for three cheers and a tiger first for the Khaki Club …  then for Miss Falkiner, its energetic President.

The club is providing a supply of records still to be secured. …  For the presentation the machines were placed on a flag covered table and were tied with bows of royal purple, the Khaki Club color.

The third presentation was a double cut too. Col. Ogilvie presented the Military Y.M.C.A.’s shield for indoor baseball to the league winners—the brass band. It was accepted by Lieutenant Stares, Bandmaster. To the players the battalion gave pocket flash lights, twelve in number. …  Capt. Watson led in three cheers and a tiger for Mr. Sharpe of the Military Y.M.C.A., who had the games in charge.”

The Intelligencer March 25, 1916 (page 7)

“Death of a Soldier. Marmora platoon of the 155th Battalion this week lost one of its members through death, in the person of Private Archie Bowen, who died from an attack of pneumonia. Deceased was 22 years of age, and was married two months ago to Miss Pearl Burns of Marmora. He was a son of Mr. and Mrs. David Bowen of Marmora and was popular with the members of his platoon and all residents of the village.”

[Note: Private Archibald Garfield Bowen died on March 13, 1916. He is commemorated on Page 57 of the First World War Book of Remembrance.]

100 Years Ago: 224th Forestry Battalion Recruiting, Battalion Bowling League, Women’s Rifle Club Receives Trophy

The Intelligencer March 24, 1916 (page 2)

“Lieut. Schuster of the 224th Forestry Battalion, accompanied by Lieutenants Butler and Caldwell and Mr. Stone, who superintended the construction of the new Government dock here, made a very successful recruiting visit to the northern towns.

By kind permission of Conductor Vandervoort of the Canadian Northern Railway, the fast train leaving Trenton on Monday morning was named ‘The Foresters’ Special,’ on which they proceeded to Bancroft. Recruiting meetings were held there and a committee formed of the most prominent business men in town, from which there will be good results.

They proceeded from Bancroft to Maynooth and were loyally entertained there by prominent citizens. A committee was also formed which promises good results.

The Graphite Mines were visited and Mr. Foster, manager there called the men from the pits and they were addressed by Lieuts. Schuster and Butler.

They returned via slow train on Thursday and at every station the men were addressed from the rear platform of the last coach by Lieuts. Schuster and Butler.”

The Intelligencer March 24, 1916 (page 2)

“Battalion Bowling League Opens. Promptly at 6:30 last night on the Y.M.C.A. alleys, Captain Watson in the absence of Col. Ketcheson formally opened the Battalion Bowling leagues with a well delivered ball that accounted for almost all the pins on the alley.

Two leagues have been formed, number one including A. Co., B. Co., Brass Band, Machine Gun Section, and Signallers; number 2 including the Headquarters Orderly Room, the Pay Office, the Stretcher Bearers, and the Bugle Band. Excepting this week when two matches a night are being played, there will be a match every night excepting Saturdays for the next five weeks.

Prizes are being offered for the winning team, for the highest score made during the league and for the man making the highest average during the league.”

The Intelligencer March 24, 1916 (page 2)

“Lt.-Col. Ketcheson Presents Shield to Women’s Rifle Club. Through the kindness and interest of Lt.-Col. Ketcheson, commanding officer of the 80th Overseas Battalion, the Women’s Rifle Club of Belleville is in possession of a handsome shield for annual competition between the members.

The shield which is of no mean proportions measures about sixteen inches high by twelve in width. The back is of ebony surmounted on which is a fancy medallion of oxidized silver. The field of the medallion bears the figure in relief of a marksman prepared to shoot. Above the figure is engraved ‘Presented to the Women’s Rifle Club for annual competition.’ Below this superimposed medallion is a fancy oxidized silver ribbon on which is inscribed ‘By Lt.-Col. W.C. Ketcheson.’

Encircling the border of the ebony back are ten miniature sterling silver shields upon which will be engraved the name of each year’s winner. Altogether it is a very handsome and artistic trophy and one calculated to produce the keenest of rivalry among the members of the club.

The presentation is made to show Col. Ketcheson’s interest in this unique pastime of the ladies who have made the stay of the men of the 80th Battalion in Belleville so pleasant.

The following letter, which shows that while the commanding officer does not get to the Khaki Club very often, he is well aware of the splendid work it is doing, and places the right estimate on it and the multitude of interests that these ladies have; accompanies the trophy:—

Belleville, Ont. Miss M.B. Falkiner, President, Women’s Rifle Club, Belleville. Dear Madam,—I have great pleasure in presenting through you to the Women’s Rifle Club of Belleville, this shield to be held as a club trophy and shot for annually, each year’s winner’s name to be engraved on one of the small shields.

This shield is presented as a small token of my appreciation of the noble work which is being done by the members of the Club for the 80th Overseas Battalion and for the cause of King and country generally. Yours sincerely, (Signed) W.G. Ketcheson, Lt.-Col. of 80th Batt. C.E.F.”