100 Years Ago: Farewell Gathering, Memorial Service at St. Andrew’s Church, Harold Boyle Killed in Action

The Intelligencer October 10, 1916 (page 1)

“Farewell Gathering. A very enjoyable evening was spent at the home of Mr. S. N. Jones, Yeoman street, when a number of young people gathered to bid farewell to Signaller S. J. Jones of the 155th Battalion, before leaving for overseas. The evening was spent in games and music and was brought to a close by singing ‘For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow’ and ‘God Save the King.’ ”

The Intelligencer October 10, 1916 (page 1)

“Impressive Services at St. Andrews Church. At St. Andrews Presbyterian church on Sunday a memorial service was held in connection with the regular service. The memorial service was for Lieut. Eugene Hyman, Private Walter Craig, Privates George and Raymond Matthew, who have been killed in action. The two latter were sons of Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Matthew of Calgary, who when living in Belleville, were members of St. Andrew’s church.

A large congregation was present at the impressive service. The pastor, Rev. A. S. Kerr, officiated. …  At the conclusion of the sermon an appropriate hymn was sung, after which Rev. Mr. Kerr referred to the departed heroes.

Lieut. Hyman, who enlisted for oversea service, was in his youth a Sunday School scholar of St. Andrews church. He went away from the city and enlisted out west. He was popular and deservedly so.

Walter Craig was well known in the city, and also among the congregation of St. Andrew’s church. He had always been identified with the church. He enlisted from here and was killed whilst he (the speaker) was away attending the General Assembly. He was a fine young man and possessed of sterling qualities. In June last he met his death.

Privates George and Raymond Matthews were the only sons of a family who were members of St. Andrew’s church, but now reside in the west. They were exceptionally good boys, and were in relationship with the church. They enlisted out west. George died of wounds and Raymond was killed.

We mourn the passing away of these four soldiers, and loved ones are called upon to bear a heavy burden. They were loyal and gave their best for King and country. While words of sympathy seem vain and empty we extend to the loved ones our deepest sympathy in the loss they have sustained.

At the conclusion of the remarks by the pastor a hymn was sung and the congregation remained standing while the organist, Miss Fenn, played the Dead March, which was most impressive. …  The singing of the National Anthem brought the services to a close.”

[Note: Lieutenant Eugene McMahon Hyman died on September 26, 1916. He is commemorated on Page 107 of the First World War Book of Remembrance.]

[Note: Private Walter Stephen Craig died on June 4, 1916. He is commemorated on Page 72 of the First World War Book of Remembrance.]

[Note: Private Raymond Matthews died on June 7, 1916. He is commemorated on Page 133 of the First World War Book of Remembrance.]

[Note: Private George Matthews died on September 15, 1916. He is commemorated on Page 133 of the First World War Book of Remembrance.]

The Intelligencer October 10, 1916 (page 2)

“Another Bellevillian Killed. The report was circulated on Saturday that Gunner Harold Boyle of Belleville, had been killed in action, and proved to be true. He was killed on September 27th, and an official message from the Record Office, Ottawa, to his father, Mr. Charles Boyle, has been received.

Gunner Boyle joined the 34th Battery of Belleville and left Kingston on June 15th, 1916, for overseas. He was only 19 years of age, and a young man who had many friends in this city. To the bereaved parents will be extended the heartfelt sympathy of all citizens. A brother, Sergeant-Major Gordon Boyle, is upon active service.”

[Note: Private Harold Boyle died on September 26, 1916. He is commemorated on Page 57 of the First World War Book of Remembrance.]

100 Years Ago: Harold Boyle Killed in Action, Belgian Relief Fund, Ad for Sewing Machine Operators

The Intelligencer October 7, 1916 (page 2)

“A report was current upon the street today that Harold Boyle of this city had been killed in action. He left here some months ago as a member of the 34th Battery.”

[Note: Private Harold Boyle died on September 26, 1916. He is commemorated on Page 57 of the First World War Book of Remembrance.]

The Intelligencer October 7, 1916 (page 5)

belgian-relief048
“The Shadow of Death Hangs Over Belgium. 3,000,000 People are Living Within A Few Days of Actual Starvation. Belgian Relief Fund. $2.50 Feeds a Belgian Family One Month.”

The Intelligencer October 7, 1916 (page 8)

sewing-machine049
“WANTED. Sewing Machine Operators on Whitewear, Waists, Dresses. Experienced and to learn. Young girls able to run sewing machines at home will find it easy to learn operating. They will be given every assistance by a fully experienced operator in our factory.

Respectable boarding houses provided through Y.W.C.A. Wages from first day. Also Men Cutters. Gale Mfg. Co. Ltd. Cor. Spadina and Wellington, Toronto, Ont. Gale Mfg. Co. Ltd.”

100 Years Ago: Bond Issue for Small Investors, John Miller Wounded

The Intelligencer October 6, 1916 (page 1)

“Second Bond Issue Planned for Small Canadian Investors. Ottawa. It is understood that the Government intends to offer bonds of denominations from ten dollars up, which can be purchased through the banks, and on which an interest of approximately five per cent will be earned, redeemable in five years. …

The issue of the bonds of small denominations is designed to attract investment for several hundred thousand men and women who have comparatively small amounts to invest in something that will both be safe and patriotic.”

The Intelligencer October 6, 1916 (page 2)

“Another Belleville Boy Is Wounded. Mrs. E. Miller, residing on Dunbar street, Belleville, this morning received an official message from the Record Office, Ottawa, stating that her son, Pte. John Miller, was on September 28th, admitted to the Southampton Hospital, England, suffering from gunshot wound in chest.

The young private above referred to enlisted in the 21st Kingston Battalion, with other Belleville boys. He left for overseas in May, 1915, and had been in the trenches for some time. His many friends in Belleville will hope that the wound received is not of a serious nature. Miss Lila Miller, a sister of the unfortunate young soldier, is an employee of the Intelligencer Office.”

100 Years Ago: Women as Munition Workers, Thanksgiving Dinner Appeal for 155th, Gunner Edmonson Wounded, Returning Absentees, John Samuel Pope Wounded

The Intelligencer October 5, 1916 (page 1)

“Women Succeed as Munition Workers. Ottawa. The Minister of Labour pronounces the employment of women to be a decided success. Women have shown themselves to be well adapted to the more delicate work of munition manufacture, such for example as the making of fuses and parts which require very careful handling.

Thousands of women have volunteered and some 1,200 to 1,500 are being employed, although there are some times objections on the part of foremen and other employees to the employment of many women. Those who have gone into the industries are many of them former store women. They go in at $1 to $2 a day and some earn as high as $4 a day on piece work after they have become proficient.”

The Intelligencer October 5, 1916 (page 1)

“Contributions for Farewell Dinner. Kingston. An appeal is being made to the citizens of Belleville and Hastings County on behalf of the 155th Battalion, and it is fully expected that Belleville and Hastings County will remember the soldier boys on this the last Thanksgiving day before going to the front.

All preparations are being made for a big Thanksgiving dinner for the overseas forces in this war camp on Monday next. The Daily Standard.”

The Intelligencer October 5, 1916 (page 1)

“Gunner Edmonson Wounded in Action. The following message was received this morning: Ottawa, Oct. 5. Mrs. M.J. Edmonson, 18 Railway Street, Belleville, Ont.

Sincerely regret to inform you, 304067 Gunner Reg. Edmonson, artillery, officially reported admitted to No. 5 Southern Gen. Hospital, Portsmouth, Sept. 30th. Contusion head, face, thigh, severe, accidental. Will send further particulars when received. Record Office.

Gunner Edmonson is a Belleville boy, and enlisted with the 33rd Battalion, in December, 1915, and proceeded overseas during May 1916. His wounds, which were the result of an accident, are severe.”

The Intelligencer October 5, 1916 (page 1)

“Returning Absentees. Many men who have become deserters by accident through going on leave and exceeding their passes, or by going without passes but with no intention of deserting, are now returning to their units in camp.

Seven absentees have already returned to the 155th Battalion, and as all are being treated generously it is felt that all absentees will return to go overseas with their units. Any man returning within the next ten days will escape punishment beyond the loss of pay during the period of his absence.

If he is arrested as a deserter after his battalion has left Barriefield camp, he is liable to a punishment of two years’ imprisonment and at the end of his term can be compelled to serve out the balance of his term of enlistment. There is every inducement for the absentee and deserter to return to the fold before it is too late.”

The Intelligencer October 5, 1916 (page 5)

“Thurlow Boy Wounded. Samuel Pope, a resident of Thurlow Township, has received word that his son Pte. J. S. Pope, has been wounded at the front and is at present an inmate of an hospital in England. This is the second occasion that Pte. J. S. Pope has been hit by the Huns, on the first occasion he was struck in the back and is now suffering from wounds in the hip.

He enlisted at Medicine Hat, Alta., and left with the second Contingent. His many friends in the community will wish for a speedy recovery from his wounds.”

100 Years Ago: Winter Quartering of Soldiers, Deserters Are Numerous, Harry Corby Donates to Patriotic Fund, Alexander Beaton and William Wallace Wounded, 155th Ask for Magazines, Belleville Cadet Corps, Successful Fair at Y.M.C.A.

The Intelligencer October 4, 1916 (page 1)

“Requests for allotment of soldiers for Winter—Every little place in the district Wants Troops for the Winter. There is now a race between the various municipalities of this district to secure soldiers to be quartered during the winter. …  one that seems to be of very great interest to the district concerned is that dealing with the 235th Battalion. …  The 235th Battalion is about 500 strong now.

There is Bowmanville, Port Hope and Cobourg in the list of runners. …  The question is also agitating other places. Belleville is getting the Canning factory (beg pardon) ‘The Barracks’ into shape for the new battalion which rumor states is to be quartered there.”

The Intelligencer October 4, 1916 (page 1)

“Deserters Are Numerous. Kingston. ‘If we had our deserters back with us, the battalion would be strong enough’ said an officer on Monday, discussing recruiting. This fact is only too true, and yet no effort is being made by the department in rounding up these absentees.

There are today, even in this country a great many men who took the oath to serve in the Canadian Expeditionary Force, but who became peeved at some little thing, went home and have never been molested. …

In the old days a deserter was branded but this method is rather severe just now. In any case the police could do a lot and with little trouble could bring in more than the number of recruits secured in the same period by our large recruiting staff.”

The Intelligencer October 4, 1916 (page 1)

“Substantial Gift to Patriotic Fund. The following communication, submitted to The Intelligencer this morning, explains itself: Belleville, Ont., Sept. 25, 1916. H.F. Ketcheson, Esq., Chairman of the Patriotic Committee of the City of Belleville, Belleville, Ont. My Dear Mr. Ketcheson,—Allow me to congratulate you and the gentlemen of your committee on the good work you have done since this fund was started for the purpose of protecting the wives and families of our dear boys who are sacrificing their health, and possibly their lives in fighting to sustain Canada and the British Empire.

I, also, wish to congratulate you as Mayor of the City and the gentlemen who have the honor of presiding as Aldermen with you for applying the handsome amount of the people’s money this year to the fund which I am sure will meet with the approval of all our citizens.

I understand that with the amount voted by the City your committee will still require almost as much more by private subscriptions to meet the requirements and calls for the year. …  I will be pleased to subscribe $100 per week until the end of the war; 80 per cent to go to the Patriotic Fund, and the balance, 20 per cent, to be paid to the Belleville Red Cross Patriotic Society, Argyle, Quinte and St. Julien Chapters, I.O.D.E., one quarter each, to assist the good work being done by our ladies of this City which I am sure we all, as citizens appreciate. I remain, Yours sincerely, (Signed) H. Corby.”

The Intelligencer October 4, 1916 (page 2)

“Alexander Beaton Wounded in Field Hospital. The following telegram was received today by Mrs. Beaton, this city, announcing the wounding of her son, the message speaks for itself: Ottawa, Ont., Oct. 4. Mrs. Flora Beaton, 241 BleeckerAve. Belleville, Ont.

Sincerely regret to inform you that 455096, Private Alexander Beaton, infantry, is officially reported admitted to No. 32 Stationary Hospital, Wimereux, Sept. 25, 1916. Gunshot wound in the thigh and arm. Will send further particulars when received. Officer in Charge Record Office.”

“Officially Reported Wounded. Mrs. James Wallace, Front Street, Belleville, this morning received from the Record Office, Ottawa, officially notifying her that her son Lieut. William H. Wallace had been wounded sometime between the 24th and 27 of September.”

The Intelligencer October 4, 1916 (page 5)

“Ask for Magazines. The 155th Battalion stationed at Barriefield, has sent out a request for magazines, papers, books, small games such as checkers, dominoes, etc., these to be used by the men on the trains and transport en route overseas.

This request was made to the Y.M.C.A. Secretary. If friends of the 155th Batt. would send their donations of magazines, books, games, etc. to the Y.M.C.A. Sometime before Oct. 11th they will be shipped to Barriefield.”

The Intelligencer Oct. 4, 1916 (page 5)

“Nearly All in Uniform. Belleville Cadet Corps Had Forty Boys When Started. Lieut.-Col. Barrager, commandant of the School of Infantry, has received several letters from boys at the front who had their first military experience in the original Queen Mary School in Belleville of which he was principal. When the cadet corps was organized some eight years ago Col. Barrager immediately applied for permission to organize one for his school. …

There were forty boys in the corps and though no uniform was allowed the enthusiasm was at high pitch. Today with one or two exceptions every one of those boys are in uniform in units connected with the first contingent.

The fact that such a large percentage of the boys have enlisted is one of the greatest tributes to the cadet corps movement and in years to come with the present system of government assistance the corps should flourish even more than ever.”

The Intelligencer October 4, 1916 (page 5)

“Enjoyable Event at the Y.M.C.A. Under the auspices of St. Julien Chapter, I.O.D.E., of this city, a fair was opened up yesterday in the Y.M.C.A. building, and was continued today. It has proved to be an attraction and the ladies in charge will no doubt be pleased with the result of their efforts to secure funds for a most worthy object, namely procuring comforts for the boys at the front.

The main floor of the building has been converted into a bowery of beauty. In addition to the fish pond which is well patronized, there are three booths tastefully decorated. …  Miss Bessie Handley is in charge of the tea-room, and is assisted by a number of young ladies who are ever ready to wait upon those who are desirous of partaking of light refreshments and a cup of tea.”

100 Years Ago: British Red Cross Society Appeal, September Red Cross Penny Bags, Final Leave for 155th, Farewell Party

The Intelligencer October 3, 1916 (page 1)

“British Red Cross Society. A communication was read in reference to the Council making arrangements to meet the latest appeal from the British Red Cross Society. Notice of the society’s needs of funds was received by Mayor Ketcheson from the Lieut.-Governor of Ontario.

It is proposed to make the collections on October 19. The British Red Cross Society spent in the first two years of war $15,000,000 and it is estimated that $8,750,000 will be required this year. Last year Belleville contributed $5,567.14 to this fund.

It was decided to have a special committee of the Council and citizens appointed to look after the matter.”

The Intelligencer October 3, 1916 (page 1)

“We Want Ever to impress the fact that the pennies you drop in the Red Cross Penny Bags from time to time, and never miss, when added together, make a considerable sum, for providing necessities and comforts for our boys in the trenches.

For the month of September we are very pleased to acknowledge an increase of nearly fifteen dollars over the collections for the month of August, though we still fall short of our two hundred dollar mark.

Cannot the children help more? This month one little boy was very happy because his bag contained a whole dollar saved from money earned and given him for treats.

This is the season of greater demands on our purses, increased expenses, but we must not forget that it is also the season that brings greater hardships and suffering to those who are fighting for us, and we can surely deny ourselves in some way, to evidence our sympathy and desire to help. We congratulate Ketcheson Ward in having once more risen to the first place in its givings. Keep it up Ketcheson Ward. …  Total $183.95.”

The Intelligencer October 3, 1916 (page 2)

“Their Final Leave. Members of A and B Companies of the 155th Battalion, who are residents of Belleville and vicinity, arrived here yesterday afternoon on their last pass to visit relatives and friends previous to going overseas. The boys will remain here until the latter part of the week.”

The Intelligencer October 3, 1916 (page 2)

“Farewell Party. Last evening at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Myles Huddlestone, 44 Great St. James Street, a farewell party was given to their son, John N. Huddlestone, who is about to leave for overseas with the 155th Battalion, and also James Huddlestone, brother of Mr. Myles Huddlestone.

A large company was present, and the evening was spent in games and amusements of various kinds. At eleven-thirty John was presented with a gold signet ring, and James with a silver wrist watch, after which each made a suitable speech. At midnight a dainty tea was served, and at an early hour this morning the guests took their departure, looking happy and well pleased.”

100 Years Ago: Oscar Deshane Wounded, Memorial Service for William Post, Eugene Hyman Reported Dead, Arthur Mallory Wounded, Soldiers to Make Wills, Mail for Prisoners of War, Women Willing to Work During War

The Intelligencer October 2, 1916 (page 1)

“Private Oscar Deshane Wounded. The following notification has been received by Mrs. Paul Deschane of this city from the Overseas Record office.

Ottawa, Ont. Sept. 29. Mrs. Paul Deschane:—61 S. Foster Ave., Belleville. Sincerely regret to inform you that 455,692 Private Oscar Deschane, Infantry, officially reported admitted to No. 3 Stationary Hospital, Boulogne Sept. 18, 1916, Shell Shock. Will send further particulars when received. Officer in Charge Record Office.”

The Intelligencer October 2, 1916 (page 1)

“Memorial Service in Christ Church for Corp. Post. A memorial service was held last evening in Christ Church for the late Corporal Wm. Post, who was killed in action on the 9th inst.

The service consisted of ‘the burial of the dead’ set into evensong, with suitable hymns. …  the sermon was preached by the Rev. Dr. Blagrave, rector of the church. …  Among other things the rector pointed out that the late Corporal Post had been a member of Christ Church since his baptism, as an infant. …

The service was quite impressive, and equally helpful and comforting to those who have lost, in a glorious cause, husband, son, brother and father.”

[Note: Lance Corporal William Post died on September 11, 1916. He is commemorated on Page 149 of the First World War Book of Remembrance.]

The Intelligencer October 2, 1916 (page 1)

“Lieut. Hyman Reported Dead. Mrs. Eugene Hyman of Belleville, this morning was in receipt of a cablegram, which contained but one word and a signature. That word was ‘Sympathy’ and the signature was ‘Col. Clarke.’ It is feared that the message refers to the death of Lieut. Eugene Hyman, who a few months ago left this city to do his part for King and country.

He is a son of the late Mr. S. A. Hyman, who for many years conducted a fur store here; and which is being continued by his son, Capt. B. L. Hyman. Lieut. Hyman, when the war broke out, was in the drug business at Strome, Alberta, and feeling it his duty to join the colors disposed of his business and came eastward to Belleville. He had previously qualified as a military officer, and was given a commission as Lieutenant. …

His education was acquired in the Public and High Schools of Belleville, and he successfully passed his examination at the College of Pharmacy. Gene, as he was familiarly called, was a general favorite with his companions, being of a genial and obliging disposition. It is sincerely hoped that the above message does not mean his death.”

[Note: Lieutenant Eugene McMahon Hyman died on September 26, 1916. He is commemorated on Page 107 of the First World War Book of Remembrance.]

The Intelligencer October 2, 1916 (page 1)

“Pte. Mallory Is Wounded. Mr. Burnham Mallory, who resides on North Victoria Avenue, Belleville, and who is County Treasurer, yesterday received an official notification from the Record Office, Ottawa, that his son Pte. Arthur B. Mallory had been wounded. The young wounded soldier is the third son of Mr. and Mrs. Mallory. …

He left Halifax in April last and had been in the trenches for some time. He was wounded whilst in Action between the 4th and 7th of September. The many friends of Pte. Mallory will join the Intelligencer in the hope that his wounds are not of a serious nature.

Another brother Pte. Philip Mallory is in the hospital suffering from what is termed as trench feet.”

The Intelligencer October 2, 1916 (page 2)

“Wills Made by the Soldiers. An order dealing with wills for soldiers who are going overseas appears in orders of the 155th Battalion. The making of a will is a very important matter and the military authorities are making every effort to get all the soldiers to discharge this duty before going out of Canada. The work thus done greatly assists in the rapid discharge of red tape incurred in properly disposing of a soldier’s estate after he has been killed in action. …

The will must be witnessed by two persons, and forms may be obtained at company orderly rooms. Company commanders will see that these forms are properly completed and handed in to the Battalion orderly room.”

The Intelligencer October 2, 1916 (page 4)

“Mail for Prisoners. Owing to difficulties experienced in sending letters and parcels to Canadian prisoners-of-war in Germany the Post-office Department has issued revised instructions regarding the despatching of mail to Germany. Postage need not be paid on either letters or parcels.

Regarding rules as to letters, the department reiterates that letters must be left open and should not exceed in length two sides of a sheet of notepaper, and on no account must the writing be crossed.

Postcards are preferred to letters, and if the former are sent they must not contain views of warships, camps, docks, bird’s-eye views and any conspicuous landmarks. Communications should be confined to family news, and no references to the naval, military, or political conditions are allowed.

Parcels must not contain letters, but outside of that there is no restrictions as to contents of parcels so long as they are intended for the benefit of the addresses. No parcel should exceed 11 pounds.”

The Intelligencer October 2, 1916 (page 5)

“Women Will Work to Relieve Eligible Men. A meeting was held in the Y.M.C.A. Saturday at 3 P.M., of the Women’s Emergency Corps, Belleville Branch. It was decided to have a registration of all the women who are willing to work during the period of the war, and so relieve all the men who are physically fit for duty but feel they cannot leave their positions.

The movement has been taken up in each Military Division. Belleville belongs to No. 3 Division, which extends from Bowmanville to Cornwall, and north as far as Ottawa. …

The Registration will begin at the Y.M.C.A. Tuesday afternoon, at the Patriotic Booth, and all the women who have not a regular occupation, are urged to register and aid the committee who are anxious to get a good list of volunteers.

Do not wait for a personal canvass—and do not make the excuse that you are not trained. At least show your patriotism by offering your services. We hope the emergency will not arise so that you will be called upon, but at least be ready and organize. When our boys have so nobly responded, women, do not hesitate to answer this appeal and put your names down as willing to help if the opportunity presents itself.”

100 Years Ago: Three More Belleville Boys Give Up Lives, Flag Not to Be Lowered, Letter of Thanks, Belleville Roll of Honour Proposed

The Intelligencer September 30, 1916 (page 1)

“Three More Belleville Boys Give Up Lives. The Canadian casualty list grows in length daily, and thousands of homes are mourning the loss of loved ones, who have sacrificed their lives for King and country. Belleville is no exception to the rule. The number reported killed is considerable and to-day three more names were added to the honor roll.

Pte. Faux. Private Joseph B. Faux’s name appeared in Monday’s list as having been wounded, and this morning a message was received that he had died from wounds.

Pte. Faux was known to many in Belleville, where he had resided for some time. Previous to enlistment he was employed in the Rolling Mills here. He went overseas with the 80th Battalion. A wife and six young children survive, and to them will be extended the heartfelt sympathy of all citizens.

[Note: Private Joseph Barnard Fox died on September 24, 1916. He is commemorated on Page 87 of the First World War Book of Remembrance.]

Pte. Carlaw. Ex-Alderman D. Carlaw, who resides on Alexander street, Belleville, was this morning in receipt of a telegram from the Record Office, Ottawa, to the effect that his son, Private Jas. Douglas, was killed in action on September 15th. He was 32 years of age and was the eldest son, and joined the Princess Patricia’s Light Infantry. He had been in the trenches for some time.

Pte. Carlaw was well known in the city and vicinity, and his death will be regretted by a host of friends. For some time he was a school teacher in Northumberland County, and was also an inspector for the Seymour Power Company. He was associated with his father in the milling business in Belleville. Deceased was a clever young man and possessed of a kindly disposition.

[Note: Private James Douglas Carlaw died on September 15, 1916. He is commemorated on Page 64 of the First World War Book of Remembrance.]

Corporal McMichael. The following sad message was this morning received by Mrs. McMichael, residing in Belleville. Ottawa, Sept. 30th. Mrs. Charlotte McMichael, 73 South George St., Belleville. Deeply regret to inform you, 41224 Acting Corporal Alexander McMichael, infantry, officially reported killed in action between September 15th and 17th, 1916. Officer in charge of Record Office.

William A. McMichael was a native of London, Eng., and came over to this country about fourteen years ago. He married a Belleville lady, who with two children, aged four and two years, survive. In the loss they are called upon to bear, the sympathy of all citizens will be extended to them.

Corporal McMichael enlisted in the 39th Battalion, and held the rank of Sergeant, proving to be a good soldier, and now has given the greatest possible service to King and country.”

[Note: Lance Corporal William Alexander McMichael died on September 17, 1916. He is commemorated on Page 129 in the First World War Book of Remembrance.]

The Intelligencer September 30, 1916 (page 2)

“Flag Will Not Be Lowered. In the early part of the war a practice was in vogue here to fly the flag at half-mast upon the receipt of a Belleville soldier being killed in action. This has been discontinued because it is strictly against military regulations.

Mayor Ketcheson has notified the janitor of the city building, to keep the flag flying under all circumstance at the mast head.”

The Intelligencer September 30, 1916 (page 3)

“Expressions of Appreciation. Dear Mrs. Faulkner:—To add to our long list of debts to you and the good people of the Township of Thurlow, we have to-day received two large barrels containing something over 100 bottles of preserved fruits, all packed in evaporated apples.

Will you please take steps to let the kind people who gave this fruit know that it is very much appreciated, and that we thank them ever so much. It has been distributed all over the hospital and is being greatly enjoyed at the evening meal. As we have nearly 400 patients under our care, you will see that a great many people shared in the treat. Yours Sincerely, J.T. Clarke.”

The Intelligencer September 30, 1916 (page 7)

“An Honor Roll. Sir:—The Council of the City of Belleville being desirous of perpetuating the patriotism and devotion to duty which has characterized the sons of Belleville in the great struggle in which the British Empire has been so deeply engaged since August 1914, has arranged to have a ROLL OF HONOR prepared, to be hung in the City Building so that in future years the names of those sons of Belleville who, whether at home or throughout the Empire, have volunteered and served in the forces of the British Empire or her allies overseas, will be properly preserved.

In accordance with this the Council of 1916 have appointed a committee composed of His Worship the Mayor, H. F. Ketcheson, esq., Alderman W.B. Deacon and Mr. A. R. Walker, Librarian of the Public library to prepare such list, and they earnestly request the co-operation of the citizens in gathering the information required.

The list will include the names of those residents of Belleville who enlisted, and also of those born in Belleville, who at the time of their enlistment were residents of other places. It will also contain the number of the regiment or other military unit in which they enlisted and the number of which they were transferred if any. For the purpose of identification it will be necessary to have the rank and regimental number of the soldier, the place of enlistment, and if possible, the date of the same.

A special list will be made of those who have made the great sacrifice and another of those who have been returned in the casualty lists as having been wounded.

Any citizen having any information which will help the committee in its efforts, is requested to send the same to Mr. A. R. Walker, Corby Public Library, Belleville, who has been appointed secretary of the committee. H. F. Ketcheson, W. B. Deacon, A. R. Walker. Committee.”

 

100 Years Ago: Ad for Neilson’s Chocolates, Letter from Local Boys, Patriotic Fund and Pension Expenditures

The Intelligencer September 29, 1916 (page 3)

Neilson's chocolate

“the Saluting Base ‘Canada’s Finest’ Neilson’s Chocolates.”

The Intelligencer September 29, 1916 (page 5)

“From Local Boys. France, Sept. 3, 1916. Dear Intelligencer:—I now wish all the staff of The Intelligencer good-bye, and I hope to come back safe to Canada again after I have done my part in this war, and I am in hopes of doing good work.

All the Belleville boys are well and we shall carry with us all the kind thoughts of the people of Belleville. Remember us to Adjutant E. Flynn, and Charlie Gibson, and hope they are well.

We remain Yours sincerely, Pte. Fred Dixon, Pte. W. Gibson, Pte. T. Shea, Pte. J. Kennedy, Pte. A. Bolyea.”

The Intelligencer September 29, 1916 (page 6)

“Heavy Payments From War Funds. Ottawa. The Militia Department is now paying out two million dollars monthly in separation allowances. This heavy expenditure is due to the fact that a very large proportion of the Canadians at the front have left dependents in Canada.

The payments from the Patriotic fund account for another million a month, while the pension expenditure has reached a million and a half monthly before the recent heavy additions to the casualty list. These new casualties and the new scale of pensions determined upon last session will increase materially the expenditure under this head.”

100 Years Ago: Belleville Casualties, Arthur Johnson and Ernest Geen Promoted

The Intelligencer September 28, 1916 (page 5)

“Belleville Boy Wounded. Mr. D. Carlaw, who resides on Alexander street in this city, has received a message that his son, Douglas, had been seriously wounded and his condition was such that fatal results are expected.

Died from Wounds. A message received in the city this morning conveyed the sad intelligence that Corporal Robert John Bell had died from wounds received while in service at the front. The young man was a son of Mr. John Bell who resides in the country, adjacent to the city. The corporal enlisted here and has been overseas some months.”

[Note: Sergeant Robert John Bell died on September 16, 1916. He is commemorated on Page 53 of the First World War Book of Remembrance.]

The Intelligencer September 28, 1916 (page 5)

“Belleville Boys Are Promoted to Lieutenants. Corporals Arthur L. Johnson and Ernest Geen, of the 21st Battalion, C.E.F., have been promoted to Lieutenants, as a mark of appreciation for hard work since going to the front. Lieut. Johnson’s friends will be glad to know he has entirely recovered from a wound received by a sniper’s bullet.

Lieut. Geen has been in the trenches for over a year and thus far has not received a scratch. He is now on a furlough and may be in Belleville in the near future.”