The Intelligencer January 27, 1917 (page 1)

“A Grant of Three Thousand per Month for Patriotic Fund. This Sum Was Passed by the County Council Almost Unanimously. Moved by Mr. Montgomery, seconded by Mr. Naylor, that this Council give $3,000 per month to the Patriotic Fund. Mr. Vermilyea thought the grant should be the same as last year, namely $2,000 per month. He moved an amendment to that effect. The situation does not demand the increase.

Mr. Montgomery said he made the motion, and he would support it. We must see that those left behind do not suffer. Farmers, manufacturers, merchants and laborers havc doubled their earnings since the war commenced. Not a man in Hastings County would feel the extra amount named. …  After some further discussion the motion prevailed.”

The Intelligencer January 27, 1917 (page 2)

“A Construction Battalion. With the advent of the 257th Railway Construction Battalion into the local recruiting field, some impetus to the record of recruit-taking may be looked for, on account of the great latitude allowed this corps. The 257th is the first battalion to test out the new physical qualifications which were announced from Ottawa the same day the 257th took the field.

These regulations are much easier to pass than the former ones. A man who is deaf in one ear, or whose vision in one eye is slightly below par, or with some other slight disability, can join this battalion. There are so many men who have offered their services and have been turned down for some minor physical cause that these new orders are keenly welcomed by them. These men cannot see why they should be kept from going to France on account of something or other that has nevcr interfered with their efficiency.

An interesting fact about the 257th is the large number of officers who have had previous railway construction experience during the building of the Transcontinental. As a matter of fact, so many of the builders of this line have been taken on by Col. Martin that the unit has been dubbed the Transcontinental Battalion. …  The 257th has opened a recruiting office at Midland and has opened one in Belleville district. …  It is understood that the 257th has recruited nearly 500 men since January 11th, so prospective recruits in this part of Ontario, should join quickly, or it may be too late.”

The Intelligencer January 27, 1917 (page 6)

“Ontario Military Hospital, Orpington, Kent. Dear Mrs. McFee: Will you convey our heartfelt thanks to the Roslin and Plainfield Women’s Institute to whom we are indebted for cases of feather pillows which reached us this morning. They are in the best of condition and are most useful. They will make many of the men more comfortable than we could make them with issue pillows.
Again many thanks.

You ladies of Belleville have been so very good to us. It seems to me almost every month we have some token that you are thinking of our men, and with best wishes for the New Year, I am, Yours sincerely, G. McPherson, Ass’t Matron.”

The Intelligencer January 27, 1917 (page 10)

“Good-bye, Mother, Don’t Worry! Good-bye—trusting to God to bring him home to her safely—if that be His will.

Good-bye—trusting in you and me to see his Mother through while he, her natural support and defender, is somewhere in France, facing shot and shell for God, for right, and for native land. The Canadian Patriotic Fund. Give As Your Own  Heart Prompts You to the Patriotic Fund.”

The Intelligencer January 26, 1917 (page 1)

“Commodore Jarvis Asks for Recruits—Canada Has Promised Five Thousand. Though not a large audience, it was a very appreciative one, that was present at the Royal Naval Recruiting meeting in the City Hall, last evening, over which Mayor Ketcheson presided.

Before delivering his address, Commodore Aemilius Jarvis, the speaker of the evening, exhibited some very interesting slides and moving pictures. …  After the pictures, Commodore Jarvis launched into his address, which was a plea for recruits for the British Navy, which is quietly and effectively protecting Canada’s shores. It is through the protection of our mercantile marine by the British Navy, that Canada has been able to enjoy her present prosperity. …

Canadian soldiers go to and from Europe in safety, not one life having been lost, and letters pass between the men in the trenches and friends at home, thanks to the Navy that keeps the German navy off the seas.

Owing to a large increase in the tonnage of the British Navy, an increase must be made in the personnel, stated Commodore Jarvis and through Capt. Guinness, a call has been issued for 5,000 Canadians to assist in manning the larger ships. These men need no previous training in order to enlist in the Navy. They will be man-o’-wars men, a sort of soldier-sailor. Every class of trade is needed on these ships, so that the vessel may cruise from place to place, self-sustained.

Men, who have a particular calling, such as a mechanic, etc., will receive promotion. The men wanted are those from 18 to 30 years of age, and will be signed on as seamen, and the pay will be the same as that of a soldier in the expeditionary forces. Seamen with previous experience are also wanted, for duty on the North Atlantic Fleet, with stations at Halifax and Bermuda. …

An appeal was made for recruits for the Naval Service. Belleville and Hastings County had done well in sending men to the front, and Commodore Jarvis was convinced, they would do equally well in providing men for the navy. The speaker also stated that Lady Guinness would award a medal to every Canadian woman who secured a recruit for the Navy. …  The singing of the ‘National Anthem’ closed the entertainment.”

The Intelligencer January 26, 1917 (page 2)

“Men who have been turned down as being unfit, now have a chance to serve their country by enlisting in the 257th Railway Construction Battalion. The medical standard of this battalion is reduced from that demanded for service in the trenches, while the age limit is extended to 48 years.

The battalion is being organized by Lieut.-Col. L. T. Martin, who is himself a well-known railway constructor from Renfrew, and has engaged in many large enterprises. The headquarters of the battalion is stationed in Ottawa and the officers are all practical railway construction men, who have volunteered to form this corps for railway work in France, or wherever it is needed back of the front.

Though the battalion has been authorized for only two weeks, one company of men have already been secured. As soon as the battalion is up to full strength it will without further training be sent direct to France, where it will be employed on Railway construction work. The following is the list of the class of men wanted for the battalion.

Foreman. General foremen, walking bosses, excavation, rock work, drilling, track-work, steel bridge, timber trestle, concrete, master mechanics, shovel, pile driver, rigging, etc., etc.

Mechanics. Carpenters, timber farmers, pipe fitters, mechanics, hoist runners, dinkey skinners, firemen, shovle runners, drillers, driller helpers, powder men, blacksmiths, steel workers, riggers, all kinds of handy men, laborers, etc.”

The Intelligencer January 26, 1917 (page 6)

“Welcoming Our Boys. Belleville, Jan. 26, 1917. Dear Sir,—In reference to the reception given to Pte. Manchester Gifford, one of Belleville’s returned heroes, who has sacrificed his one leg to help protect the women and children of our Dominion, and save the honor of our country; and then to think there was not a hearty welcome awaiting him.

As far as rank is concerned, I think one soldier deserves it as well as another. It certainly must have been neglect on behalf of the citizens of Belleville in not showing their appreciation of the hero. The best welcome we could give, would be small in comparison to what this young man has given up. Is he downhearted? NO! He says he would give his other leg if he could but get one more shot at the Kaiser. From a Soldier’s Wife.”

The Intelligencer January 25, 1917 (page 2)

“The splendid musical programme at the Khaki Club, on Wednesday evening, was in charge of Professor Ernest Wheatley, assisted by Mrs. Wheatley, Miss H. Ketcheson, Miss Mildred Fagan, Miss Kathleen Diamond, and Miss Doris Vermilyea. In spite of many attractions in the city, there was a large crowd present.

The sensation of the evening was the playing of a most difficult piano solo by Professor Wheatley, with the entire keyboard covered with a sheet, which clever and most interesting performance met with great applause. …  Needless to say the boys were well looked after. The pleasant evening closed at ten o’clock with the singing of the National Anthem.”

The Intelligencer January 25, 1917 (page 2)

“The 235th Battalion’s recruiting meeting in the City Hall last evening was well attended. Pte. Whitley, an ex-naval man of the Grand Fleet, who was wounded six hours after the war was declared and was wounded again in the Battle of Jutland, after which engagement he was invalided out of the navy, gave a very realistic description of the fighting in which he took part.

He also described a Zeppelin raid on London, which occurred while he was on leave in that metropolis.It was in one of these raids that Pte. Whitley lost his little sister, whose death the ex-sailor means to avenge by signing up with the 235th Battalion. Pte. Whitley’s speech made a profound impression on those present. Other addresses were made by Mrs. Parsons and several officers of the Battalion. Capt. Buckley made a very efficient chairman throughout the evening.”

The Intelligencer January 25, 1917 (page 6)

“The Thurlow Red Cross. The first packing of the new year was held in Foxboro, January 9th, and although the weather was unfavorable, there was a good attendance of packers and plenty of goods ready to ship.

The ladies wish to thank Mr. G. A. Ketcheson of Wallbridge, for a barrel of very choice spy apples. $33 worth of tickets were sold for this, and Mr. Palmer of Corbyville had the lucky ticket. He gave the apples back and they were sold to Mr. Dunning for $10. So $43 were realized from that barrel. Mr. Lingham of Canifton, has given a hundred pounds of Reindeer flour, and tickets are now being sold for it.”

The Intelligencer January 25, 1917 (page 8)

“Waste Papers to be Collected and Baled—Proceeds of Sale Goes to I.O.D.E. for Patriotic Purposes. Under the auspices of the St. Julien Chapter, I.O.D.E. last evening about forty boys representing the High and Public Schools of the city were entertained at the Y.M.C.A. Lecture room. In addition to the boys Mayor Ketcheson, who occupied the chair was present as were also School inspector, Mr. H. J. Clarke and the Principals of the schools.

The object of the gathering was to organize the boys for a canvas of the city and collect old newspapers, magazines and waste paper in order that some may be baled and sold, proceeds to go to the Chapter for patriotic purposes.

A fine spread was provided and thoroughly enjoyed by all present. After supper brief addresses were given by the gentlemen present also by Mrs. Dr. MacColl, Regent of the Chapter.

Mayor Ketcheson was the first speaker and his address was to the boys. In his opening remarks he said that in a time like the present the boys as well as the men must do their part. We are liable to overlook the little things, but little things some times are large things, when they are properly looked after. …  Thousands of dollars are wasted yearly in this city by waste paper being burned or destroyed in some other way. If we can gather this paper at least $4,000 could be made in a year by having this waste paper gathered up.

He would see that a building was secured and a press will be installed. The boys, he would ask to bring the waste paper to have the same pressed. It will be styled Waste Paper Campaign. …  Mr. A. E. Thrasher said he would do all he could to assist in this matter. The boys in Queen Mary School were collecting old paper and saving it.

Principal McLaurin of the High School said the boys had a goal before them namely to make $4,000 a year. The ladies and boys can successfully carry out most anything. If the boys put their vim into the scheme it will prove a great success.

The success lies in securing a large quantity of waste paper. He would pledge the support of the staff, the girls and the boys of the High School to this scheme.

Mr. Simpkins said Grier Street School would do all they could in this matter. He also advised the boys to learn knitting. He and his wife have already knitted a hundred pairs of socks and he knit one half that number. (Applause.) …

All the boys present agreed to assist in the new enterprise. On motion of Max Herity seconded by Master Gordon Robertson a hearty vote of thanks was tendered the ladies for the bountiful spread provided.”

The Intelligencer January 24, 1917 (page 3)

“The enlistment of Clarence W. Earle of the local Bank of Commerce staff, makes the fourth member of the staff to join the present draft of the Cobourg Heavy Battery. The others are Gunners B. R. Wickman, J. C. DeLong, and L. J. Lafferty. The Union Bank is also represented by Gunner E. V. Foster in the present draft, and Gunner J. H. Roberts with the fifth draft now in France.”

The Intelligencer January 24, 1917 (page 7)

“Dr. Harry Jarman, son of Mr. G. R. Jarman, Police Magistrate, of Bancroft and northern part of Hastings County, was killed in action somewhere in France on January 15th. He had been away on active service for two years. The hero was popular, and much esteemed by all who knew him.”

[Note: Captain Harry Love Jarman died on January 15, 1917. He is commemorated on Page 578 of the First World War Book of Remembrance.]

The Intelligencer January 23, 1917 (page 1)

“Canadian Patriotic Fund. Those Who Can’t Go Should At Least Help to Pay.”

The Intelligencer January 23, 1917 (page 2)

“Two Bright Recruits. Cecil and James Reid, sons of a patriotic farmer residing in the Second Concession of Thurlow, signed up with the 254th Battalion yesterday, and this morning, spic-and-span in becoming uniforms, visited the editorial sanctum of The Intelligencer, to shake hands with the editor. They are bright, active young men, with the natural bearing of gentlemen, and will make creditable additions to the battalion.”

The Intelligencer January 23, 1917 (page 2)

“The Rose Pink Knitting Circle held a most successful tea Thursday afternoon, in the Y.M.C.A. parlors. The parlors were prettily decorated with the colors of the Circle. The table-cover, donated by Mrs. J. G. Galloway, was drawn for, Mrs. W. S. Clarke holding the lucky number.

The Circle heartily thank all those who assisted in making the tea a success. Miss Stork, Mrs. Duff, Miss MacDonnell and Miss Fleming for solos, and their accompanists, Mrs. Lewis, Mrs. Wagner and Miss Potter; also the orchestra of the 254th Battalion for their selections, which delighted all present. The receipts for the benefit of the Red Cross, totalled nearly $125.”

The Intelligencer January 23, 1917 (page 7)

“From Corp. G. A. Perry. Somewhere in France, Dec. 30, 16. Mrs. G. A. Perry, 6 Moira St. east, Belleville. Dearest Wife—Just a line to say I am still living and well in the Trenches for Xmas. Also expect to be in again for New Years. We boys do wish we had more men so we could get a pass and a rest, which we need badly. Last time in the trenches we stood six days in mud up to our knees. The men in the trenches are tired of the war, but still it will take a terribly long time to drive them out. …  I have Scottie Hall of Belleville with me, second on my machine gun, also Stan. Martin from home. Tell Richie Ketcheson I have not received his letter yet. I lost my mail when I was in the hospital in this country. …  I remain your loving husband, Corpl. G. A. Perry, M. G. S., 54 Canadians, France.”

The Intelligencer January 23, 1917 (page 7)

“Patriotic Meeting and Band Concert By The 235th Battalion, in the City Hall, Wednesday January 24th. At 8 p. m. A returned sailor of the Grand Fleet will be one of the speakers.”

The Intelligencer January 22, 1917 (page 1)

“Despite the inclemency of the weather last night, the Griffin Opera House was well filled by an audience which assembled after the church services to hear recruiting addresses on behalf of the 235th Battalion. The fine band of the battalion, under the leadership of Bandmaster Taugher, rendered a number of finely executed selections. …

Capt. Rev. W. G. Clarke, being called upon, said that the citizens of Belleville were to be congratulated by their presence at the meeting upon such an inclement evening. The young men of Belleville were of good calibre. The question is often asked, ‘Is this Canada’s war?’ This is Canada’s war, because Germany wanted to win a prize, and that prize was Canada. From the very beginning the prize they chiefly wanted was this Canada. This is Canada’s war because it is Britain’s war, and wherever Great Britain is at war Canada is at war. …

Proceeding, Major Campbell said that if the voluntary system of recruiting is not successful in the next three months, either the Militia Act or Conscription will be resorted to. To prevent this, the speaker urged that every young man should enlist, before his Government comes along and says, ‘Now you must come’ and bring them along like so many sheep. The 235th Battalion is making one grand effort this week for this system, and he appealed to every young man and woman to help the unit carry out its campaign successfully. …

Sergt. Mellor said men were needed and needed badly. …  There are many young men in Belleville who are not in khaki. They have not measured up to their responsibility. The speaker made a strong appeal to the young men to enlist and was assisted by two gentlemen in the audience, namely Messrs. Walter Alford and W. C. Mikel, K.C., who offered $25 each to any two young men who would volunteer and be accepted by any military organization in the city. Even this tempting offer did not have the desired effect of inducing anyone to signify their intention of enlisting.”

The Intelligencer January 22, 1917 (page 2)

“Make Your Dollars Fight at the Front. Buy Dominion of Canada Three-Year War Savings Certificates.

$25.00 for $21.50, $50.00 for $43.00, $100.00 for $86.00. Individual Purchases Limited to $1500.

For Full Particulars Apply at Any Bank or Any Money Order Post Office.”

The Intelligencer January 22, 1917 (page 3)

“Saturday Night Recruiting Parade. The recruiting campaign of the 235th Battalion was launched most successfully on Saturday night in this city. In the evening a torchlight procession took place and it attracted many citizens to Front Street. Headed by the fine battalion band, the members of the Battalion who are in the city paraded up and down the Front street. Roman candles were discharged and the men carried colored lights which added much to the attractiveness of the parade.

At the conclusion of the parade an open air meeting was held at the corner of Front and Bridge streets. Brief but inspiring addresses were delivered by Col. Scobell, O. C. of the Battalion. Major Campbell, Chief Recruiting Officer for this division and Mrs. Parsons. Hundreds of citizens listened to the addresses given. At the conclusion of this part of the programme Mrs. Parsons in company with Private Webber visited the pool rooms of the city, where she gave brief but pointed addresses. At various places the talented lady was cordially received and her remarks were listened to with apparent attention.”

The Intelligencer January 22, 1917 (page 3)

“Boot Bargains. We Do As We Advertise. Gorman’s Boot Shop. Bang down go Prices. Re-inventory Sale. Sale Commences Tuesday—Come Early!”

The Intelligencer January 22, 1917 (page 5)

“Recruiting addresses were given in various educational institutes and industrial plants in the city today by the 235th Battalion. Albert College was visited this morning, addresses being given by Major G. J. Campbell, Chief Recruiting Officer of the 3rd District, and Mrs. Parsons. The same speakers addressed the pupils of Queen Mary School.

During the noon hour at 12.45, Capt. Lane and Sergt. Mellor of the 235th Battalion visited the Graham Evaporator plant, and the Canadian Steel Company’s plant was visited this afternoon by Capt. Shaughnessy, Capt. Lane and Capt. Miller.

At 5.45 this evening, Major Campbell, Sergt. Mellor and Mrs. Parsons will address the employees of Marsh and Henthorne Munitions Plant. Deacon’s Shirt Factory will also be visited by Mrs. Parsons; and the same speaker will this evening address a meeting for women in the High School.”

The Intelligencer January 20, 1917 (page 1)

“A whirlwind opening characterized the Citizen’s Recruiting Campaign now on in this city. Promptly at one o’clock to the accompaniment of steam whistles and bells, the men of the 235th Belleville Battalion, headed by their brass band, moved up Front Street, which was alive with more than the usual Saturday throng of people.

Following the parade two open air meetings were held at prominent city corners, the people pressing close to the automobiles from which the speakers launched their appeal for men. The recruiting officers, sergeants and men working industriously in and out of the listening crowds.

During the morning hundreds of cards were distributed among the merchants and business men of the down town section. In signing these cards the men visited pledged their best efforts to secure at least one recruit for the cause. The officers charged with the duty of securing these pledges report that but an occasional citizen refused to pledge his aid in the effort to get men.

During the afternoon the city was deluged with hand bills announcing the two big meetings to be held tomorrow; the mass meeting for men only to be held at 3 p.m. in the City Hall, at which Capt. McCorkell and Major Southey, officers returned from the Front, are to relate their experiences, and the huge recruiting rally to be held in the Opera House at 8.30 o’clock on Sunday night when Major Campbell, Col. Scobell, Capt. Clarke, Mrs. Capt. Parsons and Sgt. Mellor are to make their appeals. The 235th Brass Band will play patriotic selections.

A feature of the program for Saturday will be the holding of recruiting meetings in the several pool and billiard halls, where Mrs. Parsons and uniformed speakers will task the youth of the city to take war seriously, to consider their duty and to don the khaki.

A departure from ordinary recruiting methods is the campaign tomorrow. Uniformed speakers will appear in practically all of the city churches at the evening service and make a ten minute appeal for co-operation of the various congregations in the week’s campaign and in the business of securing recruits generally.

On Monday the 235th Battalion will send speakers to the various manufacturing plants and to the schools, where short addresses will be made. At the factories a direct effort will be made to secure recruits and inasmuch as the battalion has been promised the co-operation of those in control it is anticipated that the result will be immediate.

During the next few days every school in the City will be visited, and each factory. At a meeting of the School Board on Friday night a resolution was adopted favoring the brief addresses at the schools.

On Monday night a mass meeting of all the patriotic women and girls of the city will be held in the auditorium of the High School, where Mrs. Parsons and others will outline the present campaign and its possibilities and ask for the active co-operation of all. It is particularly desired that those who have relatives in Khaki and at the front be present at this meeting. The meeting will commence at 8.00 p.m. sharp.

At a well attended meeting of business men held in the City Hall Friday night extraordinary interest in the campaign was aroused and the men present each and all signed pledge cards to secure one or more recruits and to forward the campaign in every possible way.

The campaign will be prosecuted vigorously until Thursday night when the Battalion will open a similar campaign in the town of Trenton.”

The Intelligencer January 20, 1917 (page 2)

“The Initial Dance of the Staff Sergts. and Sergeants of the 254th Battalion, C.E.F., was held last evening in the large hall at Johnstone’s Dancing Academy, under the esteemed patronage of Lieut.-Col. and Mrs. A. P. Allen, Capt. and Mrs. B. L. Hyman, Capt. and Mrs. Sandford, Capt. and Mrs. Hamilton, and the members of the Khaki Club Committee.

The musical programme was exquisitely rendered by the orchestra of the 254th Battalion, under the direction of Bandmaster Hinchey. There was a very large attendance of the elite of the city, who tripped the light fantastic until the early hours of the morning. The decorations were most appropriate and unique. The refreshments left nothing to be desired, and the committees of the 254th Battalion desire to tender their sincere thanks to the many ladies who were instrumental in making their opening dance the huge success that it was.”

The Intelligencer January 20, 1917 (page 5)

“The Canadian Patriotic Fund Rural Giving. There is one argument in favor of grants to the Canadian Patriotic Fund from County and Township councils that does not apply to cities and towns. The farmer is ready to help the fund by personal contributions but he cannot be reached in a local campaign, as can the man in the city. He cannot be readily canvassed; the appeal to him cannot therefore be made as forcibly as to his city comrade.

It is reasonable, then, to employ the regular machinery of the councils and raise by taxation a sum that represents, more or less roughly, the collective desires of the people. By local taxation the ratepayer pays in proportion to his wealth. …

It is important that whatever be done by a council be done unanimously. It is not desirable that a municipal grant represent perhaps the views of only a small majority of the council, and thus becomes a subject of permanent controversy.

It must be remembered that the unorganized districts of Ontario, while they cannot make county grants, have given freely of their men, and that therefore the old districts of the Province are bound to help them. The sections long on cash must help those that are long on patriotism, but short on cash.”

The Intelligencer January 20, 1917 (page 6)

“Listen! The ‘Cry for Men’! Have You Heard It? It comes straight across the Seas from the Boys in the Trenches who, hard pressed by the Hun, are battling heroically for home and country.

Send Us Reinforcements! Have You a Heart? Have You a Conscience? Can you at this hour, when the fate of the Empire hangs in the balance, ignore the call?

Join the 235th Battalion in Its Campaign this week to secure Recruits for Overseas Service—for any branch or unit of that service as the Recruit prefers.

If You Are Fit! Now is the Accepted Time to Enlist! If you are ineligible. Now is the Time to Do Your Bit, viz: Get some man who is fit, to go in Your Place. If You can’t persuade him To Put On The Uniform, ‘Send Us His Name’ and ‘We’ll Get The Man’

Let Us Comb the City to the Last Available Man. Then Belleville Will Have Done Her Full Duty.

Headquarters – Corby Building – Lt.-Col. S. B. Scobell, Officer Commanding.”

The Intelligencer January 20, 1917 (page 8)

“235th Team Defeats The Depot Batteries. A most excellent brand of hockey was that put up here last night by the Depot Batteries Intermediate team, and the local 235th Intermediates, the locals winning out by one goal, after a hard and continuous struggle throughout the whole time the teams were on the ice, and thereby administering the first defeat of the Garrison boys of Kingston.

The teams were so well-matched that little body-checking was indulged in, and Referee Jacobi, who handled the game perfectly, was so strict, and discouraged any attempt at heavy checking and slashing, by penalizing the offenders, that a most noticeably clean game resulted.”

The Intelligencer January 20, 1917 (page 10)

“From Percy Palmer. Dear Mother,—Have received all seven boxes, in good condition. I received the box containing the sweater and lemon biscuits yesterday. The cakes were great and the sweater was exactly what I wanted. …

I was in hospital for a week with swollen glands and a very bad cold. They sent me then to a convalescent home in which I did not stay long as it was not a very nice place. I stayed there one day and then asked to be sent back to the Battery. It was twenty miles and I had to walk back. I had no map to go by and did not know the way, but eventually after a lot of roaming around, I reached camp at eight o’clock Xmas Eve. I had very sore feet and legs for three or four days, but am all right at present.

Taking everything into consideration and along with the fact that there is a war on, I spent a very enjoyable Xmas. We only did stables and had the rest of the time to ourselves. We had a very nice dinner, which consisted of mashed potatoes, beefsteak and onions, following with plum pudding, so we did not fare too bad. …  Hoping this letter finds you well. I remain, Your loving son, P. Palmer.”

The Intelligencer January 19, 1917 (page 1)

“Drastic Orders for Supernumerary Officers. London. The Canadian authorities here are dealing in drastic fashion with the problem of several hundred unemployed supernumerary officers of senior rank. Colonels and majors, without appointments, in the Shorncliffe area numbered 238 a few months ago, and the total since has greatly increased. Their unemployment is due partly to the breaking up of battalions, partly to amalgamations, and mainly to the absurd system of giving civilians entirely without military knowledge or qualifications high military rank.

Every senior officer without employment is now offered the choice of reverting to junior rank and filling any vacancy immediately available, or returning to Canada.”

The Intelligencer January 19, 1917 (page 2)

“Meeting for Men. Capt. J. E. McCorkell, who left Belleville with the 39th Battalion two years ago, and who is now at home on furlough from the 5th Brigade Machine Gun Co., will address a mass meeting for men only, that is to be held in the City Hall at 3 o’clock on Sunday afternoon, and which is to be one of the big features of the Citizens’ Recruiting Campaign to be launched by the 235th Battalion to-morrow.

Capt. McCorkell leaves on Monday next to rejoin his unit in France, and this will be an opportunity for his townspeople to hear from his lips the story of ‘Life in the Trenches.’ The meeting will offer an opportunity for the distribution of pledge cards for personal service in securing recruits, and the battalion hopes that it will be largely attended. This is not, however, a recruiting meeting.”

The Intelligencer January 19, 1917 (page 8)

” ‘Quinte’s Own’ 254th (Overseas) Battalion C. E. F. Lieut. Col. A. P. Allen, O. C.

Your King and Country Need You. Join Now. Be Loyal to Your Own County Battalion and Make it a Success. The 254th.

Come on Boys. A Free Hunting Trip to Europe. You Know What for—Freedom.

Ammunition, Rifle and Clothing Supplied Free of Cost. Will You Come?”

The Intelligencer January 18, 1917 (page 1)

“May Order Canadian Wives from England. Toronto. Canadian authorities here are seriously contemplating the advisability of ordering Canadian wives and women relatives of soldiers to return to Canada to help the food situation here and avoid the possibility of future shortages, says a London cable to The Evening Telegram. …

It is estimated there are sixty thousand wives and other relatives of Canadian officers and men living here, and all thinking Canadians deplore this state of affairs, which puts an extra and often needless tax on the food resources of this country at a critical time, helps raise rents, and generally makes it harder for the wives of British soldiers, who have no separation allowances like the Canadians.

It is stated that wives of Canadian officers at British base camps often obtain the army meat rations at rates which are much below the open market. Many Canadian women come over here against the express wishes of their soldier relatives. It is known that the Canadian authorities have disapproved of Canadian women coming to England. War work is frequently an excuse, but many Canadian women here are doing practically nothing.”

The Intelligencer January 18, 1917 (page 2)

“The Pink branch of the Rainbow Club gave a reception yesterday from four to nine o’clock at the spacious and beautiful home of Miss Bleecker on Moira street to Hero Melbourne Sprague. The receipts for the benefit of The Red Cross Society totalled forty dollars. The At Home proved in every way a most enjoyable and marked success.

The Circle thanks all who assisted in making the At Home so great a success: The 254th Battalion orchestra for delightful music rendered. The J. M. Greene Co. per Mr. J. A. Goodsell for the beautiful Edison Phonograph, truly termed the phonograph with a soul. Mr. Robert for a donation of five dollars. Givens and Son for flowers donated.

The spacious dining-room was decorated in the circle colors and much admired. The lady employees of Sinclair’s Company attended in a body and presented the hero with a beautiful bouquet of carnations and in response Melbourne gave the ladies a half hour talk describing his experience in the trenches before and after having been wounded.

During the afternoon Mrs. F. E. O’Flynn and Mrs. Dr. Yeomans representing the Belleville Women’s Red Cross and Patriotic Association in the absence of the President, Mrs. Col. Lazier, made a presentation to Pte. Sprague of a handsome and appropriately engraved match safe. Although taken completely by surprise the recipient made a becoming reply thanking the ladies for their kindly considerations for the men at the front.”

The Intelligencer January 18, 1917 (page 3)

“How Major Gilroy Met His Death. Sergt. T. E. Hyland, who left Belleville with the 80th Battalion, in writing to a friend in this city, gives the following account of the death of Major Gilroy, also of the 80th Battalion, an officer who was much respected by the men under him:

It was in the advance on the Regina Trench that we ran across his body, lying all by itself, and it was Lewy Bolton, the old drummer of the 80th Bugle Band, who recognized him. So after we had won the battle and routed the Germans, a few of us stole back and took a look, and sure enough, it was our dear old Major of the 80th, but then of the 16th, and his revolver and everything had been taken off him.

We buried our dear comrade about 20 yards to the rear of the entrance to Regina Trench, and a large white cross now marks the spot. Poor old Lewy Bolton, who first recognized the body, was some time later in trying to make his way back to the dressing station, shot through the head by a German sniper. So we lost another of the good old 80th boys. Will try and tell you some more later, but you can be sure that the good old Major was shot by a German sniper, and now rests in peace in France. Sergt. T. E. Hyland.”

The Intelligencer January 18, 1917 (page 5)

“Another Belleville hero arrived here to-day, but his home coming was not known, hence there was no demonstration accorded him. The hero was Private Gifford, who left Belleville with the 39th Battalion two years ago.

He was in engagement at Ypres, and it was there that he was severely wounded. With a number of comrades Gifford was in a trench, when a high explosive shell burst in their midst. The result was that some were killed, and Private Gifford had a leg injured to such an extent that amputation above the knee was necessary. After being in a hospital for some time he was provided with a cork leg. He was to-day met by many friends who extended to him a hearty welcome home.”

The Intelligencer January 18, 1917 (page 6)

“Leaders of Toronto Group Lose in Exhibition Game. The 228th Battalion Juniors received a rude jolt in an exhibition game here last night with the local 235th Junior team. With three straight victories to their credit in their respective group, the Men ‘O the North were quite confident of their ability to dispose of the locals in easy fashion. It was not to be, however, as they came out on the small end of a 11 to 3 score.

The game was one of the best junior games here this season, and was marked by good checking, combination and clever stick-handling. The locals were a little heavier and in better condition than the Northern Fusiliers and used their weight effectively.”

 

The Intelligencer January 17, 1917 (page 1)

“A meeting was held last evening in the Council Chamber, City Building, for the purpose of discussing ways and means for raising money, in the city for patriotic purposes. The result was that $75,000 is the amount aimed at, and this sum will be realized by the City Council making a grant of $5,000 per month, or $60,000 for the year, and the remaining $15,000 to be raised by subscriptions.

It was a representative gathering of citizens, the following being in attendance: Hon. H. Corby, Mayor Ketcheson, Judge Deroche, Judge Wills, Messrs. T. Ritchie, J. E. Walmsley, H. Sneyd, R. Tannahill, H. W. Ackerman, A. Jones, O. H. Scott, W. M. Mott, A. Gillen, S. Masson, K. C., C. M. Stork, W. H. Panter, J. Elliott, J. A. Kerr, F. K. Spriggs, J. G. Moffat, J. S. Henderson, Wm. Carnew, Ald. St. Charles, Ald. Smith and Rev. Dr. Blagrave. …

Judge Wills—Some machinery will have to be put in motion for the collection of the $15,000 necessary to be raised by subscriptions. On motion a committee composed of Judge Deroche, Judge Wills, Mayor Ketcheson, Messrs. H. W. Ackerman, Wm. Carnew, H. Sneyd, R. Tannahill and A. R. Walker, was appointed to act in this matter.

The meeting was then brought to a close, after it was decided the committee would meet again next Tuesday evening to formulate a plan of campaign.”

The Intelligencer January 17, 1917 (page 7)

“Recruiting Campaign. With the blowing of the factory whistles and the ringing of the church bells in the city, the 235th Battalion week of recruiting activities will commence at one o’clock on Saturday noon. A parade will be held headed by the 235th Band. During the afternoon, two open air meetings will take place on main thoroughfares. On Saturday night, a torchlight procession will be held by the battalion, after which open air meetings and meetings in the various pool and billiard rooms in the city will take place.

The activities of the campaign will be carried out on Sunday, and each minister in the city has been asked to devote part of their services in an appeal for men for overseas service. At 8.30 p.m. a large mass meeting will be held in Griffin’s Opera House, at which Major G. I. Campbell, Chief Recruiting Officer for Ontario, Lt.-Col. Scobell, O.C. the 235th Battalion, Capt. McLean and Sergt. Mellor will speak. The 235th Band will also be present and will render a musical programme. A full programme of the week’s doing will be announced later.

This evening a public meeting will be held in the City Hall for organization purposes. Cards will be passed around at this meeting for the signature of those present who will secure the enlistment of one recruit. A committee will be formed for the purpose of stirring up interest in the campaign among the business men and employees, through telephone conversations and personal interviews. Mr. D. V. Sinclair has been asked and will preside at the meeting and it is hoped that everyone who is interested in the welfare of the country will turn out and boost this campaign through to a success.”

The Intelligencer January 17, 1917 (page 7)

“Patriotic Mass Meeting at the Belleville City Hall at 8 p.m., To-night. Wednesday, Jan. 17th. Come and help to launch the biggest recruiting campaign ever conducted in this city.”