The Intelligencer February 21, 1917 (page 1)

“Patriotic Campaign Off to Grand Start. The three days’ campaign inaugurated in this city to raise $75,000 for patriotic purposes is off to a good start. This morning at nine o’clock, the members of the various teams started off on a canvassing tour of the city, buoyed with hopes of a successful mission. The bands of the 235^th and 254^th Battalion were also on hand and paraded various parts of the city discoursing suitable selections.

Last evening at the assembly room of the Y.M.C.A. the workers in the campaign were entertained to supper which was provided by ladies who are deeply interested in the campaign. It was a bountiful repast they provided and it is needless to state it was appreciated. The orchestra of the 254^th band under the able leadership of Bandmaster Lieut. Hinchey was present and rendered some beautiful selections.

Mayor Ketcheson presided over the gathering in his usual affable manner. After supper, four brief addresses were made and all were of an optimistic nature. In opening this part of the evening’s programme, His Worship outlined the object of the gathering. …  He felt confident that the $75,000 aimed at would be secured as it was for a most worthy object. (Applause.)

Rev. C. G. Smith, Pastor of the Baptist Church, joined with the Mayor in congratulation to the ladies for the bountiful repast provided. The campaign which will be commenced to-morrow, he had no doubt but that it would be successful. The churches of the city had done what they could towards this cause; which was a most just cause. …

Judge Wills said: ‘Where duty calls, all would be found ready for it. There was no grander or better work to be engaged in than in soliciting aid for the Patriotic Fund.’ …

Mr. Wm. Carnew, in his opening remarks, spoke eulogistically of the ladies and the noble work and sacrifices they were making at the present time. The campaign was a purely business proposition, and he had no doubt the $75,000 would be obtained. We did not, in Belleville, know what failure means. …  He hoped the result would be beyond our expectation. This concluded the speech-making and the gathering adjourned.”

The Intelligencer February 21, 1917 (page 2)

“Semi-Military Funeral. With military honors the remains of the late Private John Wrightmeyer, who was a member of the 254^th Battalion, were yesterday afternoon consigned to the tomb at Belleville cemetery. At his late residence, John Street South, Adjutant Ritchie, of the Salvation Army, assisted by Capt. Rustin, conducted a service, and also officiated at the grave.

The cortege was led by the 254^th Battalion Band playing the Dead March in Saul. The bearers were fellow comrades of the deceased namely Sergts. Boyle, Bedford, Roe, Saylor and Rutherford, and Corporal Hill. Upon the casket were placed floral tributes.”

The Intelligencer February 21, 1917 (page 2)

“Sinclair’s Pictorial Review Patterns. With the coming of the Spring Season, every Woman is interested in Patterns, and Pictorial Review Patterns are of special interest, because they set the styles for the continent of North America.

Help the Patriotic Fund! Don’t Forget the Patriotic Fund.

Make Wednesday, Thursday and Friday Red Letter Days for Belleville. This may be your last chance.—Do your best and have no regrets.”

The Intelligencer February 21, 1917 (page 3)

“Patriotic Campaign Off with a Bang. Contributions Pouring in From all Sections of The City—Success is Already Assured.

BANG. They’re off and the Biggest Money raising campaign in the History of Belleville is off to a flying start. Never was such an enthusiastic meeting of workers held as that which gathered around the Festive Tables last evening in the Y.M.C.A., to a luncheon provided by the ladies of the Belleville Patriotic Association, and if high spirited enthusiasm and a set purpose to a man counts for success, then the $75,000 aimed at will be a reality long before the final count on Friday night. …

Bright and early this morning the canvassers took up their duties and they report a most encouraging and liberal response to their efforts and at noon the incomplete total amounted well up in the Thousands and why not? For the cause is most worthy and the need Great.”

The Intelligencer February 21, 1917 (page 6)

“It’s All or Nothing Now! Citizens of Belleville Read This!

‘It is all or nothing. Let us give all we have, as these give—our last penny, our last ounces of effort, our last drop of blood. We give nothing if we hold back part of the price. Whatever we have we owe to our country, and what she gave we give back to her. Take! Take! Old Mother! Let that be our cry! Take all that I have! Take me! Buckle on your harness, then! Whatever sacrifices are demanded of you, make them cheerfully, bravely. Be steadfast till the end.’ Harry Lauder.

Harry Lauder has given to his country the life of his only son, and has placed his entire fortune at his country’s disposal.

What are you going to give to-morrow to Canadian Patriotic Fund? $75,000 and We Need More!”

The Intelligencer February 21, 1917 (page 7)

“235^th Battalion Ordered to Move. Rumors that have been circulating the streets regarding the removal of the 235^th Battalion from this city to either Ottawa or Brockville, were dispelled this morning. Definite orders have been received at the battalion’s headquarters to move to Ottawa, and take over the quarters vacated by the 207^th Battalion.

At present, the Capital City is without an infantry battalion, and as it is imperative that at least one infantry battalion should be stationed in the city, the 235^th has been chosen for the purpose. This is an honor to the 235^th, as it will take part in all government ceremonies, and form guards of honor, etc.

The battalion will leave this city not later than March 5^th. The officers of the battalion are all sorry to leave the city, the hospitality of the citizens being greatly appreciated by them. All the officers are energetic and capable men, who have made hosts of friends in the city, and it will be with great regret that the citizens will part with the battalion.

Lt.-Col. S. B. Scobell, O.C., and five officers of his battalion, left at noon to-day for Ottawa, for the purpose of opening a recruiting office in the city, and to prepare the barracks for their men. The battalion will still recruit in this division, and expect to remain in Ottawa for at least two or three months before proceeding overseas.”

The Intelligencer February 21, 1917 (page 8)

“Ritchie’s. An Initial Display of Ladies’ New Spring Suits! In Our Centre Window.

$75,000 to the Belleville Branch of the Canadian Patriotic Fund in Three Days. Give liberally to this most worthy of all causes that the necessary amount may be a reality when the Curtain rings down on the final day.”

The Intelligencer February 20, 1917 (page 1)

“Be Ready With Your Dollars. Tomorrow Is The Day and $75,000 The Mark. Tomorrow is the appointed time. The testing time of our City’s patriotism. Belleville has had countless magnificent and sad proofs of the soul-stirring bravery and patriotism of her sons on the battlefields of France and Belgium. Fighting—bleeding—and dying to keep alive the spirit of Freedom in the world. Not only for who are living in comfort at home now; but for future ages to look back upon, and to pour their blessings upon the memory of those stalwart hearts that braved the torments of hell throughout these years, it will be with feelings of glorious pride that they sprang from such stock. …

Tomorrow—Feb. 21^st,—Tomorrow our patriotism will be placed on the scales. Its weight will be measured in Gold. Will it measure up to the Flesh and Blood that has passed the test? Citizens of Belleville THINK—think of this before writing your names on the cards that will be handed to you tomorrow. …

CAMPAIGN NOTES. Energy and enthusiasm rule supreme in the Campaign Headquarters. If the Citizens generally show one half the interest that is being shown by the Committee, a most magnificent success is assured. …  Anyone wishing to buy an automobile. Now is the time. $50.00 will be given to the Patriotic Fund for each Machine sold at Headquarters.”

The Intelligencer February 20, 1917 (page 2)

“James P. Connelly Wounded. The following message was received from Ottawa this morning. Mrs. Kathleen O’Brien Connelly, 70 Dundas St., Belleville. Sincerely regret to inform you, 454529, Pte. James Patrick Connelly, infantry, officially reported admitted to Thirtieth Casualty Clearing Station, Feb. 3^rd, 1917. Gunshot wound left leg and hip. Will send further particulars when received. Officer in Charge Records.”

The Intelligencer February 20, 1917 (pages 2, 3, 6)

“Have You Ever Felt the Pangs of Starvation ??? You Would Have That Experience if the Germans Came! So PAY! PAY! PAY! For the Boys Who Are Blocking Their Way. Feb. 21, 22, 23. Patriotic Fund Campaign.”

“What Will It Be YOUR Money or Your Life ?? Your Country Needs Both. If You Won’t Give Your Life For Your Country Give Your Money To Help Those Who Are Giving Their Lives. February 21, 22, 23. Patriotic Fund Campaign.”

“How Would You Like To Spend These Pleasant Nights In The Trenches? ???? Think Of This From Now Until February 21, 22, 23 Then Dig Down Deep For The Boys Who Are Doing This For YOU.”

“What The Canadian Patriotic Fund Is Doing in Belleville. Takes Care of 72 Mothers (Wholly Dependent on Their Sons), 352 Wives of Soldiers, 677 Children Dependent upon Soldiers. …

“No Commissioned Officer’s Family on the List. No One Connected with the Administration of the Fund Receives ONE CENT of Remuneration. Their Services Are Given Free. So. DO YOUR SHARE FEB. 21—22—23 to Raise Belleville’s $75,000, and ‘We’re Going To Get It.”

 

 

The Intelligencer February 19, 1917 (page 1)

“Griffin’s Opera House was filled to capacity last evening, the occasion being a recruiting meeting held by the 235^th Battalion. Capt. McLean occupied the chair, and performed his duties in a very efficient manner. The first speaker to be called was Capt. Lane of the 235^th Battalion, who in opening his speech remarked that it is not the soldier’s business to speak, but to fight, therefore he would attempt no lengthy talk. In brief, Capt. Lane stated, that he found talking men into enlisting was of no avail nowadays. About the strongest appeal to the men at home has been the returned soldier, who has come back wounded from the front, bearing scars on his person, in the eyes of the world. …

We have not seen many of these returned soldiers, but about 5,000 of them will soon be landed in Canada and will go to every city in the Dominion, and will make such an appeal that there will be no more need of the Militia Act. Men are needed more now than at any other time of the war. …  Concluding, Capt. Lane stated, it would be the fathers, mothers, sisters and brothers that would have to bring recruits in, we can’t talk to them any more.

Before calling upon the next speaker, Capt. McLean stated that there were not many recruits being secured at the present time. …  He appealed to the ladies of Belleville to adopt, as ladies in not far-distant towns had, a boycott of the stores in the city, who employed men of military age, so that they would be compelled to employ girls in the men’s positions behind the counter. (Applause)

Mr. N. F. Davidson, K.C., of Toronto, the speaker of the evening on being called upon, stated it gave him much pleasure to be present on such a patriotic occasion. In commencing his address, Mr. Davidson declared that reputations could and have been lived down on the battlefields of Flanders. The names of many young men have been renowned, ennobled and magnified in France. …

The signs of the times are in the air, we are not coming forward to enlist as we ought, and the Militia Act will certainly be put in force in three months’ time, if we do not come forward. …  Mr. Davidson concluded his address by a lengthy appeal to the women to assist in recruiting, giving many instances in which they could induce the men to enlist.

The meeting closed with ‘God Save the King.’ During the evening the 235^th Battalion Band rendered several appropriate selections, which were well received.”

The Intelligencer February 19, 1917 (page 1)

“People of Belleville Are Prosperous. And One Case of Poverty Among Our Soldiers’ Dependants Would Be a Lasting Disgrace to Our Fair City. Yes, Belleville is prosperous—very prosperous as is every section of Canada—but we are prosperous at the expense of our soldiers who have gone to fight our battles on the Battlefields of Europe. We are prosperous because hundreds of Brave men from Belleville have given up their occupations that they might help the cause of Freedom and thus all who desire can find profitable employment.

We are prosperous because Business is Better than it has been in many years, and wages in all walks of life are higher. The munition workers are paid most generously for their valued services, and unskilled laborers are now receiving the wage that skilled workers received before the war.

Yes, we are prosperous—but remember—

We must give out of our abundance and give most generously if the wives mothers and children of our soldiers are to be properly housed, clothed and fed. Belleville has done nobly in the past, but we must not rest on the laurels already gained. Instead we must dig down still deeper into our pockets—dig down to the extent of $75,000 that we may not have to depend on the generosity of some other communities to meet the promises we have made to our soldiers’ dependants. For they are debts of honor and the responsibility of payment rests with every citizen. …

There will be a general meeting of all workers at the Campaign Headquarters to-night at 8 o’clock, and all workers are invited to a luncheon provided by the ladies of the Belleville Patriotic Association, to-morrow evening at 6.30 in the Y.M.C.A.”

The Intelligencer February 19, 1917 (page 3)

“Slackers Buy Service Buttons. Ottawa. Offered tempting sums of money by slackers in Hull and Ottawa, it is alleged that some returned soldiers have resorted to selling their ‘returned soldier buttons’ to raise ready money. …  Fearing the application of conscription, many eligible for active service are said to be offering from $200 upwards for returned men’s buttons, and in some cases, it is stated, their offers have been readily accepted by owners of buttons. Under the Federal law it is a serious offence for a soldier to sell or transfer his overseas button. The penalty for anyone found guilty of this offence is three years in prison without the option of a fine.

It is understood that complaints trafficking in the buttons have been made to the officers of the Canadian Association of Returned Soldiers, and that the investigation board of the association is inquiring into them.”

The Intelligencer February 19, 1917 (page 5)

“ ‘Good bye and Good Luck!’

‘Thank you for the wishes and for Wrigley’s. The Flavour Lasts. This great little pick-me-up is full of vigour and vim for the jaded soldier. Quenches thirst, allays fatigue, gives new life to enervated spirits. Every letter or parcel for your soldier friend should contain a few bars. Appetite, digestion and spirits are the better for it.”

The Intelligencer February 19, 1917 (page 6)

“Death of Member of 254^th Battalion. As the result of an attack of pneumonia, Private John Wrightmeyer, of the 254^th Battalion, died in Belleville yesterday. Deceased, who was in his 22^nd year, was a son of Mr. and Mrs. Manley Wrightmeyer, who reside at 36 Wharf Street. He was born at Codrington, Durham county, and came here last fall, and enlisted with the 254^th Battalion, taking up his residence on South John Street. He was a member of the Salvation Army. A widow but no family survive. In addition to the parents, three brothers and two sisters also survive. One brother is in France, and another brother is a member of the 254^th Battalion. The funeral to-morrow afternoon, will be of a military nature.”

The Intelligencer February 17, 1917 (page 2)

“Patriotic Fund Committee in Full Swing. The citizens of Belleville will be called upon to make an extreme effort on February 21-22-23 to keep alive the Canadian Patriotic Fund which has done such wonderful things to help the departments of our Brave Soldier Boys who are fighting and dying so that we, who stay at home, may have homes to stay at.

The Province of Ontario must raise $6,000,000. Belleville’s share of this is $75,000. Surely no citizen of Belleville would want other parts of the Province to carry the burdens of this City. This will happen if every man, woman and child in Belleville doesn’t make the greatest efforts and sacrifices to swell the receipts of February 21-22-23, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday of next week. $75,000 is a whole lot of money and WILL NOT BE RAISED if you give just what you can spare, but all you CAN RAISE by the greatest effort.

The citizens at large should know that the campaign Headquarters cor. Bridge and Front Street are open to everyone. This is a people’s campaign, everyone in the City is a member of the Patriotic Fund Campaign Committee. There is no chosen few running the campaign. Therefore if you have not been in to offer your help or are not boosting for the success of the Fund you are not doing your duty as a patriotic citizen. Everyone must help. There must be no shirkers in Belleville from now until Saturday, and then some.

At the committee rooms the many energetic gentlemen who have rolled up their sleeves and are working hard, are in session day and night, and will be until the $75,000 is raised. So if you are not a worker be a booster. Pay yourself and get after the other fellow. Don’t let the other fellow do both.

These instructions apply also to the ladies of Belleville, as no amount of success can be expected without the assistance of the ladies. Since the beginning of the war the ladies of Belleville have taken a noble part in looking after ‘OUR BOYS.’ Showing them the delightful home hospitality while stationed here and sending them the comforts in the trenches. Once more duty calls the ladies of Belleville, and they won’t be found wanting, while the raising of the $75,000 is the men’s work the ladies must not and will not be inactive spectators but by using their moral suasion can assist wonderfully loosening up process.

Get together citizens of Belleville. Ladies, Gentlemen and Children and boost, Boost, BOOST and also PAY! PAY!! PAY!!! to the great victory campaign of 1917 and swell the $75,000 to overflowing.”

The Intelligencer February 17, 1917 (pages 2, 3, 7, 8)

“What Good Would Your Money Be if Germans Landed In Belleville? ??? Then Pay to Your Utmost To Keep Them Out !!! Patriotic Fund CAMPAIGN Feb. 21, 22, 23”

“What Have You Done For The Empire Since August 4^th, 1914 ??? Prepare To Do A Man’s Share Feb. 21, 22, 23 $75,000 For PATRIOTIC FUND.”

“Are You A Man of Your Word ?? You Promised To Look After the Families Of Those Who Are Doing Your Work At the Front. Have You Done Your Share or Let The Other Fellow do it? Feb. 21, 22, 23, Patriotic Fund CAMPAIGN”

“Do Your Share to Raise The $75,000! There Must Be No Shirkers in Belleville—Feb. 21, 22, 23—History Days”

The Intelligencer February 16, 1917 (page 1)

“If enthusiasm is any indication of success the Patriotic Fund Campaign in Belleville, February 21, 22, 23, will eclipse all other efforts. The enthusiasm displayed at last night’s meeting of the various committees, augurs well for the success of this most laudable undertaking. Practically all of the members were present, and each committee occupied a separate table and went to work with a vim and dash seldom to be found in a body of men working for a common purpose. Suggestions were made and eagerly accepted, with a result that no stone will be left unturned to make Belleville’s Big Patriotic Fund Campaign of 1917, such a success that the amount will not be outdone by any city of its size in the Province.

The mark this year is $75,000, and we’re going to get it. This slogan properly represents the determination and energy of the hard-working committee men. However, the citizens of Belleville must put their shoulders to the wheel and push the movement along to a successful conclusion. The Committee Rooms on the corner of Front and Bridge Streets are open at all time to all the citizens. They should call in and show that they are ready to do their share.

The Lists Committee are working hard on the lists supplied by the letter carriers, and this important work will be completed to-night. The Chairman of Finance Committee is writing to the head offices of all the companies, banks, agencies, mills, &c., represented in Belleville.

The Publicity Committee has placed the one sheet lithos in all the windows on Front Street, and also on all the prominent bill boards. The advertising will appear in tomorrow’s paper. The thanks of the Committee are due to the co-operation of the local press in the Publicity Campaign, without this co-operation success would be impossible.

It is now up to every citizen of Belleville to prepare to give to their utmost, to care for the dependents of our brave men at the front, and $75,000 will hardly take care of our Belleville soldiers’ families, as last year over $600 was given out in Belleville more than was given to the Fund. Let Belleville do its duty in 1917.”

The Intelligencer February 16, 1917 (page 3)

“Patriotic Concert a Big Success. To say that the initial concert of the Belleville Patriotic Chorus in the City Hall, last evening, was a success is putting it mildly. The hall was filled to capacity, every available seat being occupied, and the program was of such a quality that it is felt that if Prof. V. P. Hunt had not announced that owing to the length of the program, no encores would be given, the audience would have applauded for one after each number. In fact, the rule set by Prof. Hunt was almost broken, after Miss Joy Higgs had contributed a violin solo, when the applause was continuous for over five minutes, in an effort to bring this talented artist on the platform again.

Selections were given by the splendid 254^th Battalion Band, which merited much applause. Bandmaster Hinchey and his bandsmen certainly outdid themselves in their performance last evening. …  The concert was under the patronage of the colonels and officers of the 235^th and 254^th Battalions, C.E.F., and the proceeds were for the Patriotic Fund.”

The Intelligencer February 16, 1917 (page 7)

“The Eldorado Red Cross. The following is the annual report of The Florence Nightingale Red Cross Society of Eldorado. This Society was organized on December the 1^st, 1915. We have 48 members and held 12 meetings during the year with an average attendance of 16 members. At these meetings we discussed ways and means of providing comforts for the soldiers at the front and those in the hospitals. …

This Society meets the second Wednesday of each month, when we will be pleased to receive new members. Age bars no one as the most knitting done by any one person was done by our eldest member, Mrs. Wm. Fox, who has knit nearly seventy pairs of socks during the year, Mrs. T. Lewis coming second. They both have done their bit, and set a good example for the younger women to follow. We take this opportunity of thanking all those who though not members so kindly assisted in any way.”

The Intelligencer February 16, 1917 (page 8)

“Coal Situation in Belleville. To the editor of The Intelligencer:—We were successful in getting four cars of hard coal delivered to us yesterday afternoon over the Grand Trunk. These cars have been over the Canadian border only from a week to ten days, which considering the conditions that have been hampering all railroads during the recent severe weather is very satisfactory delivery.

We have been keeping our customers supplied at all times this winter and have in many cases helped out the customers of other dealers with all the coal we felt justified in sparing them. …  We have turned down orders for hundreds upon hundreds of tons from nearby towns in order to keep what small reserve of coal we had for our own citizens. …

In our estimation the basis of the whole trouble is the inability of the American Coal Companies to actually furnish the coal. They are not mining over 60% of their normal output, due to great shortage of labor. …  Although we have had to contend with transportation delays on this side of the border to some extent, nevertheless on the whole the G.T.R. in our opinion has done remarkably well in the matter of prompt forwarding of coal. So far as The Schuster Co., Ltd. is concerned, every car of coal that has been shipped us has arrived at its destination, and it has all come by Grand Trunk, about 45 cars in all. We hope to have several more cars shipped to us in the near future, which when they arrive will go a long way towards relieving the general shortage in Belleville.

An important lesson to be learned by the coal consuming public from the present acute situation, which although it is more acute and more serious than ever before, is not a new one, is the great desirability of having the Winter’s coal supply delivered during the Summer and Fall. W. N. Belair.”

The Intelligencer February 15, 1917 (page 1)

“A threat has been made that if the present high price of book paper does not slide down quickly in Canada every parent from Nova Scotia to Vancouver will have the inequality brought before him in added cost of school books. That, roughly, is the ‘big stick’ which the book publishers wield. Most of the book publishing in the Dominion is of textbooks.

Publishers compare that where three years ago they used to pay four and a half cents a pound for paper they have been for a whole year charged increasing prices, which now reach eleven and three-quarter cents a pound.”

The Intelligencer February 15, 1917 (page 2)

“On the evening of January 25^th, 1917, about forty friends and neighbors gathered at the home of Mr. Jas. P. Wellman, where a very pleasant evening was spent in games, singing, speeches, etc., after which the following address was read by Mrs. Jas. Sprackett and Miss M. Thompson presented the watch to their son, Eddie, who has recently enlisted in the 254^th Battalion of Hastings Co.

Pte. G. E. Wellman:— We your friends and neighbors have assembled here tonight to express our appreciation of the noble impulse that has prompted you, at this time of our country’s peril to enlist to fight for the liberties, not only of your country, friends and relations, but also the liberties of the whole world.

We fully appreciate the sacrifice you are making in giving up the present prospects of a prosperous business career and the safety, ease and comfort of a good home, for the stern, perilous life of a soldier in this present unprecedented conflict, but we believe that the knowledge to you of duty performed will be your reward.

And now Eddie since you have chosen the honor of going forth to defend the liberties of the world from being over-run, down-trodden and debased by the most unscrupulous and fiendish military machine the world has ever known, we your friends at home have a sacred duty to perform in upholding you in your purpose and knowing the needs of our men at the front, it is our duty to be thrifty and saving and to labor at such work as will aid you along with our other brave boys and Allies in winning the war, and to see to it that we labor for things essential.

And now Eddie we will ask you to accept this watch, as a token of our appreciation of your action of enlisting, and when far away from friends and loved ones, when you look at this watch may you remember that your friends are praying for your safety and that, you may return safely to us after the liberties of the world have been firmly secured. Signed on behalf of your friends and well wishers. Judson A. Gunter, Jas. Sprackett, M. D. Haggerty.”

The Intelligencer February 15, 1917 (page 3)

“254^th Battalion’s Valentine Dance. Last evening at Johnstone’s Dancing Academy, the Staff Sergeants and Sergeants of the 254^th Battalion, C.E.F., held their second dance of the season. This dance being held on St. Valentine’s Day the decorations and programmes were very appropriately gotten up. Dancing started at 9 P.M. All the dancers were masked, and some were in masquerade costume, which added greatly to the interest and effect of the evening’s amusement. The music was supplied by the excellent orchestra of the 254^th Battalion. The supper table was most artistically decorated, and the refreshments left nothing to be desired. There were about one hundred couples present, all of whom enjoyed themselves dancing until the early hours of the morn.

Great praise and thanks are due to the ladies, who worked hard to achieve so great a success as the dance proved to be. The Staff Sergeants and Sergeants take this opportunity to sincerely thank the following patronesses for all their kindness and help given: Mrs. A. P. Allen, Mrs. B. L. Hyman, Mrs. Sandford, Mrs. Hamilton, Miss Farrow, Miss M. B. Falkiner, Miss M. M. Campbell, Mrs. A. R. Symons, Mrs. W. S. Clarke and Miss Eva Panter.

It was deeply regretted that, owing to illness, Mrs. (Lt.-Col.) A. P. Allen was unable to be present.”

The Intelligencer February 14, 1917 (page 1)

“Militia Called Out for Home Defence. The calling out of from 25,000 to 50,000 of the members of the active reserve militia of Canada for training and for home defence under the provisioins of the militia act as it is understood, now being arranged for by the Department of Militia. The question has been under consideration by the Government for some weeks, in fact ever since the recruiting for the overseas forces began to fall off seriously last summer.”

The Intelligencer February 14, 1917 (page 2)

“Fewer Valentines. Booksellers and stationers during the past few days have been doing a fairly brisk business in valentines, for today is the fourteenth, when the time-honored custom is followed of sending a card or other token emblematic of the day to your sweetheart, with the customary greeting, ‘To my Valentine.’

Although the booksellers report trade, they will also tell you that it has not been as large as in former years, and the number of Valentines being sent through the mails this year is almost negligible, according to post-office officials. These report that they hardly notice the difference in the number of letters and cards as compared with the regular mail.”

The Intelligencer February 14, 1917 (page 3)

“Appeal to People to Help on Farms. Strenuous efforts will be made by the Ontario Government through the machinery of the Department of Agriculture and by a public appeal to secure for the farming community of the province the labor that will be absolutely necessary to enable the farmers to respond properly to the appeal of greater production. …

The call will go particularly to those who have been in the habit of spending weeks or months at summer resorts. …  In addition to spending a healthy vacation on the farm the man or boy who does it will be properly paid as well. According to officials of the department even unskilled workers will be paid twenty to twenty-five dollars a month and their keep.

The Department of Agriculture is making arrangements to meet the seed problem that has arisen because of the seed embargo. It is stated that reports show there is sufficient seed for the spring crops, but that it needs to be more evenly distributed. Accordingly, the department and its district representatives will act as clearing houses. They will receive applications for seed from farmers, and file statements from farmers with seed to sell, bringing buyer and seller together.”

The Intelligencer February 13, 1917 (page 1)

“Pte. James Huddlestone Reported Ill in France. The following telegram was received in this city to-day. Ottawa, Ont., Feb. 13. Miles Huddlestone, 44 Great St. James St., Belleville, Ont. Sincerely regret to inform you, 636744 Pte. James Huddlestone, infantry, previously reported seriously ill, now officially reported dangerously ill, Sixteen General Hospital, February 10^th, 1917. Will send further particulars when received. Officer I. C. Records.”

The Intelligencer February 12, 1917 (page 1)

“Skilled Men Are Requisitioned to Deal with the Coal Difficulties. The practical value of the man power inventory recently completed by the National Service Board is now being demonstrated. A preemptory call to national service has already been made.

The coal situation and other transportation difficulties have been traced largely to scarcity of locomotive engineers, roundhouse mechanics and other skilled labor. The names of many such men are available through the National Service cards which they have filled out. …

A special staff was immediately put to work at the National Service statistical branch locating the men needed, from among those who are skilled in the trades required and who are not occupied in other lines, but have expressed a willingness to go back to their old occupations during the war, if needed in the service of the country. Within twenty-four hours of the receipt of the call, the names of hundreds of men, capable of solving the situation, were in the hands of the Railway Commission.”

The Intelligencer February 12, 1917 (page 5)

“From Sergt. J. E. R. Stevens. Miss Nellie Bartlett, Foxboro, Ont. My dear Miss Bartlett,—I was the fortunate soldier to receive the pair of socks, which you so very kindly knitted. They are indeed very nice, and very valuable to us, just now, that the winter is on.

Living in Canada you are used to very cold weather in winter, but I certainly don’t think you would enjoy a real frosty day here. It can be ‘some’ cold. Well, I spent some time at one of your Canadian hospitals out here a few weeks ago. I saw one or two nurses from Ontario, and some from other parts of your great country. I received very kind treatment, and hope to renew pleasant associations after the war. I have many friends in different parts of Canada, Montreal, Quebec, British Columbia, etc., and it has always been my wish to come out there. In fact, if the war had not been on, I should be in your country now.

I am from Jamaica, in the British West Indies. Perhaps you have come across some Jamaicans in Canada. Quite a few come over to work, and to study at Queen’s and McGill.

I have seen many of your countrymen in France, and they have struck me as a lot of fine men, and excellent soldiers. They have done real good work in this war. Have you got any brothers in the Army? If so, and you tell me his regiment, I may come across him over here some day.

I hope you will reply to this letter, as a letter means a lot to a chap here. I remain, Yours sincerely, J. E. R. Stevens, No. 4189, Sgt. J. E. R. Stevens, C. Coy, 4^th (S) Batt. B. W. I., B. E. F., France.”

The Intelligencer February 10, 1917 (page 2)

“Mrs. Dr. Murphy, who resided here for a number of years before Dr. Murphy became Superintendent of the Brockville Asylum, and is well known to the Belleville people, was in Germany for two months after war was declared and since that time has been engaged with her two daughters in the British Red Cross Work. While visiting some friends here recently she kindly consented to give an address for the benefit of the Womens’ Patriotic and Red Cross Association of this City.

Mrs. Murphy has given addresses in Toronto, Ottawa and other places and the ladies are to be congratulated in their good fortune in securing her.

The Association has packed and shipped over 800 pair of socks within the month, also hospital supplies and rendered valuable assistance to our own boys at the Front. Officers from the Front pay tribute to the splendid socks sent forward and nearly every mail brings letters of appreciation of the splendid work of this spendidly organized Association of the women of Belleville.”

The Intelligencer February 10, 1917 (page 5)

“4,000 Barnardo Boys in the Army Service. London. Bogue Smart, inspector of British immigration to Canada, writing to the honorary director of Barnardo’s Homes, says: ‘The conduct of your boys in Canada in this national crisis is wonderful. Just consider these young fellows, at one time almost forgotten, coming forward voluntarily, leaving comfortable homes, and good and profitable situations, to the number of over four thousand, to answer the call of King and Country!”

The Intelligencer February 10, 1917 (page 9)

“The horse breeding industry of Canada is on a much better footing than it was a year ago, and during 1916 registrations showed considerable increase over those of last year, but although there appears to be a considerable number of horses in the country, they are chiefly of the nondescript class that no one wants. If these could be disposed of for army purposes at any price the country would benefit. The number of horses that have been taken from Canada for the war since the beginning of hostilities now totals about 80,000. …  a scarcity of good draft horses has been created that will mean an increased demand for Clydesdale breeding.”