Showing posts with label Advocate. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Advocate. Show all posts
March 15, 2018
LOOKING BACK – Ladies keep on fundraising
From the Advocate – 100 years ago (1918)
Ladies keep on fundraising
The Ever Ready Club of Erin, composed of young ladies of the Village, have sent out invitations for an assembly, in the Town Hall, on Friday evening March 15th. Proceeds in aid of Erin Patriotic Society.
The Coningsby Women’s Institute held their monthly meeting at the home of Mrs. W. Sutton, on Thursday evening, March 7th. There were 104 present. The President in the chair. An excellent program was given by the following: Music by the Awrey Orchestra; Song by Mr. and Mrs. E. Awrey; Paper by Miss E.R. Burt; Reading by Miss E. Barbour; Recitations by Miss E. Thompson and Mr. E. Hindley. A collection was taken in aid of the Blind at Halifax, amounting to $7.75. A dainty lunch was served and a social hour spent by all present.
From the Advocate – 35 years ago (1983)
Hillsburgh seniors’ apartments approved
Zoning for the new senior citizens’ apartment complex in Hillsburgh has been approved by Erin Township Council. The building is to be situated on an extension of Spruce Street, on what was part of the Nodwell property, and will have 29 self-contained apartments. Non-profit housing chairman Lloyd Lang said not one negative comment was heard at a public meeting on the project.
Wives start fire department auxiliary
The Ladies Auxiliary of the Erin Fire Department held its first meeting to discuss plans and elect an executive, said public relations person Laura Pickett. The 23-member group will lend support to the firemen and let the public know what they do. The executive includes Jenny Franklin, president; Barb Hebbes, vice-president; Pat Evans, secretary; and Helen Lucas, treasurer. They will do fundraising and hold social events to bring the families of the department closer together. They will “bring refreshments when the men are fighting a grass fire on a hot day.”
From the Advocate – 25 years ago (1993)
Brewers’ Retail may be lost
After years of discussion and anticipation, construction of the new commercial plaza in south Erin is expected to begin in mid-April. Members of the Erin Business Improvement Area (BIA), in conjunction with Village Council, will have input into the appearance of the plaza. Councillors last week studied site plans and brick samples provided by developers Basilio Sinopoli and Vittoria Mauti. It has been an expensive three-year wait since the developers first brought plans to council, including Brewers’ Retail as a major tenant. Council approved a plan, but a group of citizens appealed it to the Ontario Municipal Board. The appeal was settled before the hearing, but Brewer’s Retail is now thinking of pulling out of the project. Reeve Terry Mundell said council is committed to having a building façade that will “fit in with Erin’s old-time charm and heritage.”
From the Advocate – 20 years ago (1998)
Feeling proud from a distance
A letter to the editor from Sarah Denison: I just finished reading Harry Smith’s editorial “Feeling Proud About Erin”. The news must cross the Pacific to reach me, since I’m teaching English in Japan, so it’s old but still cherished. I cherish memories of neighbours who greeted me on afternoon walks and friends who would “honk and wave” as they drove by. I remember hanging out at the arena to watch friends play hockey. Mention of the Erin Fall Fair stirs memories of warm woolen sweaters and cold beers as mini reunions took place all over the grounds. It is really true that you do not realize how important something is to you until it’s no longer at your immediate grasp or in your sight. I hope Erin can hold onto its charm and small town feeling that I love so much.
March 08, 2018
ERIN INSIGHT – 500 weeks of not being a bot
When I sit down to write for the Advocate every week, I gather all of
my information into a numbered folder, a system that started with my first
column in July 2008.
This week I have the satisfaction of hitting a milestone, with a
folder labeled “Week 500”. The series includes one (or sometimes two) columns
per week, hundreds of news stories, and a whack of features, photos and
editorials.
The first column was called Moonlighting for Gas Money. I’ve enjoyed
the freedom of picking my own topics and putting a personal twist on local
news. I’ve been like one of those pesky horseflies that just keeps buzzing
around.
It has been like writing three or four essays a week, for an English
course that never ends. That can be challenging, but it’s way more fun than
being the editor – good riddance to that job.
In case you missed an article, or are having a hard time falling
asleep, the columns and major news stories are available on my blog,
erininsight.blogspot.com. There are no comments from readers.
The blog is useful for checking an older story or reading up on an
issue, maybe prior to the October municipal election.
Not only can you search for key words or phrases, but there is a
topic index – for example, 57 stories on education, 61 on farming, 105 on
history, 11 on suicide, 18 on theatre, and (the grand-daddy) 112 on sewers.
Warning: Do not attempt to read all the sewer articles in one day.
The fumes could be hazardous.
I’m not sure if readers are actually any better off as a result of
all my scribbling, but I know for sure that anyone who cares about Erin’s
public affairs certainly has had the opportunity to be well-informed.
The key bits in the previous sentence are “anyone who cares” and
“public affairs”. People are often so overloaded with information from the
internet and other media that they are forced to retreat into not caring about
pubic business. Jobs and family needs come first, and can consume all of your
energy.
For those with some attention to spare, contact with the outside
world often includes Facebook, Twitter and a variety of platforms that engage
people on topics of their choice. That can be good, but there are dangers.
First of all, you get inundated with crap you don’t want. Second,
spammers and programmers are always trying to invade your devices, scooping up
private information and ensuring that you receive ads and “news” that match your
interests.
If you only engage with people who are almost the same as you, and
only receive news that simply entertains you or reinforces your existing
attitudes, how will you ever develop an understanding your society or other
cultures?
Then there are the bots, computer programs that control a robotic virtual
character, imitating human behaviour on the web. I am persistent, but I am not
one of those.
Bots can analyze information and carry out tasks much faster than a
human brain. They can answer questions, chat with you, teach you, search for
information such as on-line bargains and even make comments on news stories.
Bots can be used for cheating at video games, conducting attacks on
major networks, or the rapid spreading of news that may be “fake” or slanted to
promote a political cause. They could even help steal an election.
Traditional news sources, on the other hand, are good for democracy.
Truthful news and diversity of opinion (whether on-paper, on-air or on-line) help
bind communities together.
Old-fashioned journalists may not be totally unbiased, but at least
they apply a filter to the flow of information that guards against manipulators
and upholds the public interest.
February 08, 2018
LOOKING BACK – Returning war veteran hosts concert
From the Advocate – 100 years ago (1918)
Returning war veteran hosts concert
A Grand Concert is to be
held at Hillsburg Town Hall, on Friday evening, Feb. 15th. Sgt. J.R. McNally,
recently returned from the Firing Line, will preside as Chairman. Proceeds are for
the Red Cross of Hillsburg.
The Belfountain and
Rockside Red Cross Society have shipped to headquarters for the month of
January 42 pair of socks, 18 suits of pyjamas, 12 day shirts and 36 towels.
From the Advocate – 35 years ago (1983)
Will Conservatives back a leader?
An editorial by Advocate
Editor Bob Kincaid asked: Did Joe Clark do the right thing when he called for a
Progressive Conservative leadership convention after receiving over 66 per cent
of his party’s support? He is allowing 33 per cent to run the party. Mr. Clark
should realize that 66 per cent is not that bad.
The Conservatives have
made it a habit to shoot themselves in the foot, just when they have the
opportunity to win an election and take over the government. Former party
president Dalton Camp said it is “preposterous” that a mere 33 per cent should
be allowed to set policy. On the other hand, Toronto MP Otto Jelinek says new
convention is badly needed.
Potential new leaders –
“phantoms”, as Clark calls them – should be coming out of the woodwork in the
next two to three weeks. If Clark wins this time, will the party stand behind
their leader and become solid? I doubt it. They haven’t for the past 40 years.
Why should they now?
From the Advocate – 25 years ago (1993)
Editor Bill Doole remembered
Career journalist,
teacher and former owner and editor of The Advocate Bill Doole died last week
after an 11-year-long battle with Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Doole, 76, was
well-known and liked in the newspaper business and the communities where he
worked. He and his wife Nora, who died in 1990, owned the Erin Advocate for six
and a half years in the 1970s, buying it from Charles W. Hull in July 1972. He
would sometimes write a column called Typewriter Dust, and after retiring wrote
a column called Sweet and Sour.
Doole was the son of an
Irish immigrant building contractor who had fought at the Battle of Batoche
during the Riel Rebellion. He started as a copy boy and became a crime reporter
at the Toronto Star. He served with the Canadian army in Ottawa during the war.
He later worked for the Vancouver Sun and was editor and publisher of the Brampton
Conservator. Before buying The Advocate, he taught journalism for two years at
Sheridan College.
From the Advocate – 20 years ago (1998)
Anonymous $25,000 for trailway
A $25,000 anonymous donation for development of
the Elora Cataract Trailway was presented to the trailway association last
week by long-time trail advocates Peel Regional Councillor Ian Sinclair,
Caledon Ward 1 Councillor Richard Paterak and Erin Mayor Barb Tocher. The
donation will be used to develop the trail from Mississauga Road in Caledon to
the Sixth Line of Erin. The Erin section could be done by September. The
fundraising target is $238,000, with $114,723 raised so far. It is being used
for trail surfacing, interpretive rest areas and parkland in Erin village and
Hillsburgh.
October 29, 2015
The Great War Open House
On Thursday, October 29, 2015, I made a presentation at the Great War Open House hosted by the Town of Erin Heritage Committee, held in the Council Chambers. It attempts to show what life was like in Erin in 1914 and 1915, and the role that the Erin Advocate newspaper played at that time.
CLICK HERE to download the images from that presentation as a single PDF file (33 MB).
My thanks to
- Chair Jamie Cheyne and members of the Heritage Committee.
- Councillor Jeff Duncan, who provided enthusiasm and research help.
- Doug Kirkwood, Service Officer for the Erin Legion, who shared some of his extensive research on local people involved in the war.
Cenotaph
- Looking Back at the past is fascinating, not only because we see how different things were. When we get a glimpse of the lives of real people, we can imagine ourselves living at that time.
- The No. 7 Company of the 30th Battalion of the Wellington Rifles was based in Erin. They were formed in 1866 after the scare of the Fenian raids and eventually became part of 153rd Wellington County Battalion during World War One.
- Erin’s soldiers came from all walks of life, and enlisted in many different places. A cenotaph to help us remember our fallen was not dedicated until 1956.
Arthur Berry
- The first name on the list is Arthur Berry, a farmer from Orton, the son of George and Annie Berry of Orton, a member of the Disciples of Christ. The Canadian Great War Project is an on-line database. It says he enlisted at age 18, served with the 153rd Wellington Battalion and was killed in action at age 20. His body was not recovered.
Arthur Berry Vimy Memorial
- His name appears on the Vimy Memorial
Arthur Berry plaque
- And on a plaque at Orton United Church, formerly the Methodist Church
Population Chart
- In 1914, Erin Village had about 500 people. Erin Township including Hillsburgh and the other hamlets had a total of 3,000 – less than they had 50 years earlier. The combined Erin population would dip as low as 3,100 in World War Two. It would not pick up until 1961, after our water works were installed, and it soared to 11,000 by 2001.
- We’d had the railroad for 35 years – great for shipping out potatoes and bringing in tourists to Stanley Park. There were two trains a day to Toronto and two returning, plus regular bus service to Guelph.
Going West this Spring?
- At World War One, Erin Township had been settled for almost a hundred years, but there was no fire department, the roads were dirt or gravel, and there were no sewers.
- Life expectancy was mid-50s, many women still died giving birth and over 10 per cent of babies didn’t live until their first birthday.
- Erin was already past its peak as an industrial centre. Our water-powered mills were still operating, but steam turbines at big town factories were driving the economy.
- Rural areas like Erin were being depopulated as farming became more mechanized. People were moving to the cities and to the fertile farmland of the Canadian Prairies. Canada’s population was growing, but the immigration from Europe was being directed to the West.
- The Canadian Pacific Railway was urging people to go West, and many Erin residents did. Though many returned during the prairie drought of the 1930s.
Archduke’s assassin
- Community newspapers in those days were often the only source of news – international, national, provincial, local events and social gossip.
- The Advocate reported that Bosnian Serb Gavrilo Princip appeared before a magistrate in Sarajevo, expressing no guilt for assassinating Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife Sophie on June 28, 1914. It was treated as far-away political upheaval.
- And even once the war was on, many people expected it would be over by Christmas of 1914. Canadians realized only gradually that they would have to change their way of life.
King George
- King George in his uniform, ready to fight.
- Canada’s identity, outside Quebec, was embedded in the British Empire. Once England was at war, Canada was at war – no questions asked.
Mother Britain poem
- Every week, there was a poem on Page 1 – like this one, warning the bally Huns, that those who strike at Britain, must reckon with her sons.
Uniforms at Salisbury
- The Canadians looked quite spiffy in their uniforms, while training in England.
Ford car
- A few people could afford the new automobiles, but horses and buggies were still the norm. And the cars weren’t much use in the winter, so cutters or sleighs were a necessity.
Magic Baking Powder
- Here are some other examples of ads in the Advocate. Magic Baking Powder, made by the Gillett Company.
Corn Flakes
- No comment needed
The Darkest Hour novel
- Every issue of the paper had the next chapter of a serialized novel – usually a mix of romance and melodrama.
Fashion news
- And even with a world war raging, the Advocate carried the latest fashion news from Paris. This hat, with rabbit ear bows of black velvet, was considered one of the smartest creations of the season.
W.A.R. Store
- Merchants were not above using the war for commercial promotion – like this ad from W.A. Ramesbottom.
Columbia Records at Bell’s store
- Robert Bell’s store carried the latest music from the relatively new recording industry. The 3rd last song on the list: Cows may come, Cows may go, but the Bull goes on forever.
Fruit-a-tives
- The newspaper was packed with ads for dubious medicines, and testimonial articles claiming miracle cures. Perhaps a pre-cursor of today’s info-mercial.
Castoria
- Castoria promises to contain no opium or morphine – which tells you something about other medicines on the market.
Advocate prints butter paper
- The war drove up the price of butter wrapper paper – but the Advocate was selling it at the old price. We would print almost anything.
Wellington Hull
- The publisher of the paper was Wellington Hull, a master of multiple revenue streams. Before buying the paper in 1894, he had been a farmer, a butcher, a village councillor and the reeve. He owned land in Erin village, just west of what is still known as Hull’s Dam.
- He was a Wellington County Constable, and later a Magistrate and Justice of the Peace.
- He was the official starter at local horse races
- He was a car salesman.
Advocate – Union Bank building
- Hull built a solid building and leased the ground floor to the Union Bank, later the Royal Bank.
- Wellington Hull passed the paper on to his son Roy, who passed it on to his son Charles. The family operated The Advocate for 78 years. The great thing about owning a newspaper, is that you can run free ads for yourself every week.
Farms for sale
- If you couldn’t get a loan downstairs, you could always try upstairs at the Advocate office.
Real estate agent
- He was a real estate agent and farm equipment dealer.
Auctioneer
- An auctioneer
Marriage licenses
- And the issuer of marriage licenses. Note the cost of an annual subscription – $1 per year, which is probably why he needed other sources of income.
Bombs on Dunkirk
- The paper normally had two full pages of war news, like this story of a dirigible air raid. It was a constant narrative of heroism, foul deeds by the enemy, glorious victories and human slaughter.
War news – Nerve pills
- For those who were depressed by the war news, there were Milburn’s Heart and Nerve Pills, designed to build up the unstrung nervous system.
Pleasant pellets
- It appears some women were having crying spells. They were starting to feel old and look old – due to some weakness or derangement. Fortunately, Dr. Pierce’s Pleasant Pellets could be ordered by mail to restore youthful vigour.
German guns seized in Toronto
- There were frequent stories of German spies. Canadian transport ships had been the target of mines and submarine attacks in the Atlantic, and it was widely believed that spies had fed critical information to the enemy.
- The United States was not in the war at this stage, and there were millions of Germans living there. Canada feared those Germans might invade Canada, so as a precaution, police confiscated all firearms belonging to Germans in Toronto.
Wellington raises half-regiment
- In 1914, Wellington County was planning to raise half a regiment of 500 men. It would cost $90 to outfit each soldier, for a large expenditure of $45,000.
Acton Tanning Co. busy
- In Acton, they were working day and night to supply leather for war horses.
Cavalry horses painted blue
- The French had a novel idea – they would paint their horses blue so they would blend in with the horizon and not be noticed by the enemy.
Four horses in a shell hole
- George Arnett of Erin was a member of the Royal Horse Artillery. He said the artillery shells would make a hole large enough to put four horses in. A later letter said six horses.
Canada makes shells
- The British War Office had placed orders for $154 million worth of shells – and every machine shop or factory capable of making shells was busy. Canada was shipping out 10,000 shells per day, and hoped to push the average to 40,000 shells per day.
Drawing of barn being shelled
- There was very little action photography, but survivors would describe battles, and artists would create drawings for the newspapers – like this barn being hit by a shell.
Drawing of air battle
- Air battles caught the public’s imagination, with the exploits of flying aces like Canada’s Billy Bishop and Germany’s Manfred von Richthofen (the Red Baron).
Sgt. Frank Belway
- Frank Belway didn’t move to Erin until later, but he was well known as the manager of Stanley Park, owner of a grocery store and the third President of the Legion.
Distinguished Flying Cross
- In World War One he earned the Distinguished Flying Cross for flying low over enemy lines under heavy machine gun fire, to get exact information on the positioning of their troops.
German albatross forced down by Belway
- He also had the rare distinction of forcing an enemy pilot to land behind the Allied lines.
Carmichael ad – Shot to Pieces
- The Carmichaels were a prominent Hillsburgh family with a prosperous store. The website carmichaelfamilyonline is an excellent source of information on Hillsburgh history.
John and Grace Carmichael
- Portraits of John and Grace Carmichael.
Marjorie visits
- The Advocate social notices reported a visit by their daughter Marjorie, who was about to leave for France.
Nursing Sister Marjorie Carmichael
- At the age of 29, working in Toronto as a nurse, Marjorie had enlisted as a nursing sister.
Open Letter to Women
- The Advocate carried an open letter from the most powerful women in Canada – the National Committee for Patriotic Service:
- The President was Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Connaught. That was Louise Margaret, a German princess who was married to the third son of Queen Victoria, Prince Arthur – who was Canada’s Governor General. Her daughter was Princess Patricia, who had her own Light Infantry Regiment in the Canadian army. Then you had the wife of Prime Minister Robert Borden, the wife of Opposition Leader Wilfred Laurier, and a long list of upper class ladies.
- The message was simple: Canadian women must “ungrudgingly” give up their sons and husbands for this struggle.
- A side note about the Duchess – she died of influenza during the war, at a time when there was no vaccine for the flu, and doctors didn’t even know it was caused by a virus. The flu pandemic in 1918 would infect 500 million people and kill at least 50 million – 3 per cent of the world’s population. That was far more than the 11 million soldiers and 7 million civilians who died in the war.
Patriotic Concert by Brisbane students
- Student concerts and many social events were raising funds for aid to the Belgians, who were being allowed to starve to death after their country was invaded.
- Erin Township Council voted to start a Patriotic Fund to assist in the war effort. Councillors were assigned areas and would canvass every resident.
- There was also a Patriotic Association that helped out the families of soldiers. Many children did extra work in the farm fields while their fathers were away. Farmers who had not enlisted were under extreme pressure to increase food production.
W.C.T.U. knits socks
- The Women’s Christian Temperance Union in Erin was busy knitting socks for soldiers, and collecting material for bandages.
Teachers donate ambulance
- Wellington teachers decided to donate one per cent of their salaries to buy a motor ambulance for the front.
Red Cross fundraising
- The cost of treating the wounded was very high, so the Red Cross launched a major fundraising campaign.
Machine gun drawings
- It cost $1,000 for each machine gun, and the federal government appealed for public donations. In 1915, communities across Canada gave over $1 million for machine guns.
War Tax Stamp
- The federal government brought in new taxes to help pay for the war effort, including an extra one cent for every telegraph message, a one-cent war stamp on every letter (regular postage was two cents), two cents for every bank cheque, five to ten cents on train tickets, five cents on every pint of regular wine, and 25 cents on each bottle of champagne.
Surcharge on property taxes
- The provincial government brought down a special surcharge on property taxes that would raise $1.8 million.
Pensions for wounded
Severely wounded survivors were entitled to a monthly pension that ranged from $264 for privates, up to $2,100 for brigadier-generals.
Parliamentary propaganda
- News or propaganda: “Canada’s loyalty to the great struggle of the Motherland for the cause of right was again manifested in the vote of another $100,000 for the war fund by the absolutely unanimous voice of the members of the House of Commons.”
Soldiers’ fountain pens
- Soldiers were urged to buy good quality pens that would last for years after the war.
Hugh McMillan photo
- This is Hugh McMillan. When the war broke out, Prime Minister Borden promised Britain 20,000 troops. Within a month, 30,000 had enlisted at an army camp in Valcartier, Quebec.
- Travelling to Valcartier to enlist were Erin boys: Hugh McMillan, Albert McBride, Elmer Green, Horace McArthur, Alan and Ernie Royce, Howard Cox, Gordon McRae and Laurence Tarzwell.
- When Hugh McMillan signed up, he listed his occupation as “Chauffeur”, and that’s what he was assigned to do. He was a truck driver supplying the trenches, an ambulance driver, and a chauffer for senior officers.
Hugh McMillan pennant, and Marjorie
- McMillan was a prolific letter writer, and quite proud of his home. He raised the Hillsburg Pennant not far from the front lines in France.
- He also mentions Marjorie Carmichael from Hillsburg, working in a nearby hospital, keeping in touch with the local boys.
Hillsburg pennant
- Image from the Wellington Museum and Archives
CLICK HERE to download the images from that presentation as a single PDF file (33 MB).
My thanks to
- Chair Jamie Cheyne and members of the Heritage Committee.
- Councillor Jeff Duncan, who provided enthusiasm and research help.
- Doug Kirkwood, Service Officer for the Erin Legion, who shared some of his extensive research on local people involved in the war.
Cenotaph
- Looking Back at the past is fascinating, not only because we see how different things were. When we get a glimpse of the lives of real people, we can imagine ourselves living at that time.
- The No. 7 Company of the 30th Battalion of the Wellington Rifles was based in Erin. They were formed in 1866 after the scare of the Fenian raids and eventually became part of 153rd Wellington County Battalion during World War One.
- Erin’s soldiers came from all walks of life, and enlisted in many different places. A cenotaph to help us remember our fallen was not dedicated until 1956.
Arthur Berry
- The first name on the list is Arthur Berry, a farmer from Orton, the son of George and Annie Berry of Orton, a member of the Disciples of Christ. The Canadian Great War Project is an on-line database. It says he enlisted at age 18, served with the 153rd Wellington Battalion and was killed in action at age 20. His body was not recovered.
Arthur Berry Vimy Memorial
- His name appears on the Vimy Memorial
Arthur Berry plaque
- And on a plaque at Orton United Church, formerly the Methodist Church
Population Chart
- In 1914, Erin Village had about 500 people. Erin Township including Hillsburgh and the other hamlets had a total of 3,000 – less than they had 50 years earlier. The combined Erin population would dip as low as 3,100 in World War Two. It would not pick up until 1961, after our water works were installed, and it soared to 11,000 by 2001.
- We’d had the railroad for 35 years – great for shipping out potatoes and bringing in tourists to Stanley Park. There were two trains a day to Toronto and two returning, plus regular bus service to Guelph.
Going West this Spring?
- At World War One, Erin Township had been settled for almost a hundred years, but there was no fire department, the roads were dirt or gravel, and there were no sewers.
- Life expectancy was mid-50s, many women still died giving birth and over 10 per cent of babies didn’t live until their first birthday.
- Erin was already past its peak as an industrial centre. Our water-powered mills were still operating, but steam turbines at big town factories were driving the economy.
- Rural areas like Erin were being depopulated as farming became more mechanized. People were moving to the cities and to the fertile farmland of the Canadian Prairies. Canada’s population was growing, but the immigration from Europe was being directed to the West.
- The Canadian Pacific Railway was urging people to go West, and many Erin residents did. Though many returned during the prairie drought of the 1930s.
Archduke’s assassin
- Community newspapers in those days were often the only source of news – international, national, provincial, local events and social gossip.
- The Advocate reported that Bosnian Serb Gavrilo Princip appeared before a magistrate in Sarajevo, expressing no guilt for assassinating Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife Sophie on June 28, 1914. It was treated as far-away political upheaval.
- And even once the war was on, many people expected it would be over by Christmas of 1914. Canadians realized only gradually that they would have to change their way of life.
King George
- King George in his uniform, ready to fight.
- Canada’s identity, outside Quebec, was embedded in the British Empire. Once England was at war, Canada was at war – no questions asked.
Mother Britain poem
- Every week, there was a poem on Page 1 – like this one, warning the bally Huns, that those who strike at Britain, must reckon with her sons.
Uniforms at Salisbury
- The Canadians looked quite spiffy in their uniforms, while training in England.
Ford car
- A few people could afford the new automobiles, but horses and buggies were still the norm. And the cars weren’t much use in the winter, so cutters or sleighs were a necessity.
Magic Baking Powder
- Here are some other examples of ads in the Advocate. Magic Baking Powder, made by the Gillett Company.
Corn Flakes
- No comment needed
The Darkest Hour novel
- Every issue of the paper had the next chapter of a serialized novel – usually a mix of romance and melodrama.
Fashion news
- And even with a world war raging, the Advocate carried the latest fashion news from Paris. This hat, with rabbit ear bows of black velvet, was considered one of the smartest creations of the season.
W.A.R. Store
- Merchants were not above using the war for commercial promotion – like this ad from W.A. Ramesbottom.
Columbia Records at Bell’s store
- Robert Bell’s store carried the latest music from the relatively new recording industry. The 3rd last song on the list: Cows may come, Cows may go, but the Bull goes on forever.
Fruit-a-tives
- The newspaper was packed with ads for dubious medicines, and testimonial articles claiming miracle cures. Perhaps a pre-cursor of today’s info-mercial.
Castoria
- Castoria promises to contain no opium or morphine – which tells you something about other medicines on the market.
Advocate prints butter paper
- The war drove up the price of butter wrapper paper – but the Advocate was selling it at the old price. We would print almost anything.
Wellington Hull
- The publisher of the paper was Wellington Hull, a master of multiple revenue streams. Before buying the paper in 1894, he had been a farmer, a butcher, a village councillor and the reeve. He owned land in Erin village, just west of what is still known as Hull’s Dam.
- He was a Wellington County Constable, and later a Magistrate and Justice of the Peace.
- He was the official starter at local horse races
- He was a car salesman.
Advocate – Union Bank building
- Hull built a solid building and leased the ground floor to the Union Bank, later the Royal Bank.
- Wellington Hull passed the paper on to his son Roy, who passed it on to his son Charles. The family operated The Advocate for 78 years. The great thing about owning a newspaper, is that you can run free ads for yourself every week.
Farms for sale
- If you couldn’t get a loan downstairs, you could always try upstairs at the Advocate office.
Real estate agent
- He was a real estate agent and farm equipment dealer.
Auctioneer
- An auctioneer
Marriage licenses
- And the issuer of marriage licenses. Note the cost of an annual subscription – $1 per year, which is probably why he needed other sources of income.
Bombs on Dunkirk
- The paper normally had two full pages of war news, like this story of a dirigible air raid. It was a constant narrative of heroism, foul deeds by the enemy, glorious victories and human slaughter.
War news – Nerve pills
- For those who were depressed by the war news, there were Milburn’s Heart and Nerve Pills, designed to build up the unstrung nervous system.
Pleasant pellets
- It appears some women were having crying spells. They were starting to feel old and look old – due to some weakness or derangement. Fortunately, Dr. Pierce’s Pleasant Pellets could be ordered by mail to restore youthful vigour.
German guns seized in Toronto
- There were frequent stories of German spies. Canadian transport ships had been the target of mines and submarine attacks in the Atlantic, and it was widely believed that spies had fed critical information to the enemy.
- The United States was not in the war at this stage, and there were millions of Germans living there. Canada feared those Germans might invade Canada, so as a precaution, police confiscated all firearms belonging to Germans in Toronto.
Wellington raises half-regiment
- In 1914, Wellington County was planning to raise half a regiment of 500 men. It would cost $90 to outfit each soldier, for a large expenditure of $45,000.
Acton Tanning Co. busy
- In Acton, they were working day and night to supply leather for war horses.
Cavalry horses painted blue
- The French had a novel idea – they would paint their horses blue so they would blend in with the horizon and not be noticed by the enemy.
Four horses in a shell hole
- George Arnett of Erin was a member of the Royal Horse Artillery. He said the artillery shells would make a hole large enough to put four horses in. A later letter said six horses.
Canada makes shells
- The British War Office had placed orders for $154 million worth of shells – and every machine shop or factory capable of making shells was busy. Canada was shipping out 10,000 shells per day, and hoped to push the average to 40,000 shells per day.
Drawing of barn being shelled
- There was very little action photography, but survivors would describe battles, and artists would create drawings for the newspapers – like this barn being hit by a shell.
Drawing of air battle
- Air battles caught the public’s imagination, with the exploits of flying aces like Canada’s Billy Bishop and Germany’s Manfred von Richthofen (the Red Baron).
Sgt. Frank Belway
- Frank Belway didn’t move to Erin until later, but he was well known as the manager of Stanley Park, owner of a grocery store and the third President of the Legion.
Distinguished Flying Cross
- In World War One he earned the Distinguished Flying Cross for flying low over enemy lines under heavy machine gun fire, to get exact information on the positioning of their troops.
German albatross forced down by Belway
- He also had the rare distinction of forcing an enemy pilot to land behind the Allied lines.
Carmichael ad – Shot to Pieces
- The Carmichaels were a prominent Hillsburgh family with a prosperous store. The website carmichaelfamilyonline is an excellent source of information on Hillsburgh history.
John and Grace Carmichael
- Portraits of John and Grace Carmichael.
Marjorie visits
- The Advocate social notices reported a visit by their daughter Marjorie, who was about to leave for France.
Nursing Sister Marjorie Carmichael
- At the age of 29, working in Toronto as a nurse, Marjorie had enlisted as a nursing sister.
Open Letter to Women
- The Advocate carried an open letter from the most powerful women in Canada – the National Committee for Patriotic Service:
- The President was Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Connaught. That was Louise Margaret, a German princess who was married to the third son of Queen Victoria, Prince Arthur – who was Canada’s Governor General. Her daughter was Princess Patricia, who had her own Light Infantry Regiment in the Canadian army. Then you had the wife of Prime Minister Robert Borden, the wife of Opposition Leader Wilfred Laurier, and a long list of upper class ladies.
- The message was simple: Canadian women must “ungrudgingly” give up their sons and husbands for this struggle.
- A side note about the Duchess – she died of influenza during the war, at a time when there was no vaccine for the flu, and doctors didn’t even know it was caused by a virus. The flu pandemic in 1918 would infect 500 million people and kill at least 50 million – 3 per cent of the world’s population. That was far more than the 11 million soldiers and 7 million civilians who died in the war.
Patriotic Concert by Brisbane students
- Student concerts and many social events were raising funds for aid to the Belgians, who were being allowed to starve to death after their country was invaded.
- Erin Township Council voted to start a Patriotic Fund to assist in the war effort. Councillors were assigned areas and would canvass every resident.
- There was also a Patriotic Association that helped out the families of soldiers. Many children did extra work in the farm fields while their fathers were away. Farmers who had not enlisted were under extreme pressure to increase food production.
W.C.T.U. knits socks
- The Women’s Christian Temperance Union in Erin was busy knitting socks for soldiers, and collecting material for bandages.
Teachers donate ambulance
- Wellington teachers decided to donate one per cent of their salaries to buy a motor ambulance for the front.
Red Cross fundraising
- The cost of treating the wounded was very high, so the Red Cross launched a major fundraising campaign.
Machine gun drawings
- It cost $1,000 for each machine gun, and the federal government appealed for public donations. In 1915, communities across Canada gave over $1 million for machine guns.
War Tax Stamp
- The federal government brought in new taxes to help pay for the war effort, including an extra one cent for every telegraph message, a one-cent war stamp on every letter (regular postage was two cents), two cents for every bank cheque, five to ten cents on train tickets, five cents on every pint of regular wine, and 25 cents on each bottle of champagne.
Surcharge on property taxes
- The provincial government brought down a special surcharge on property taxes that would raise $1.8 million.
Pensions for wounded
Severely wounded survivors were entitled to a monthly pension that ranged from $264 for privates, up to $2,100 for brigadier-generals.
Parliamentary propaganda
- News or propaganda: “Canada’s loyalty to the great struggle of the Motherland for the cause of right was again manifested in the vote of another $100,000 for the war fund by the absolutely unanimous voice of the members of the House of Commons.”
Soldiers’ fountain pens
- Soldiers were urged to buy good quality pens that would last for years after the war.
Hugh McMillan photo
- This is Hugh McMillan. When the war broke out, Prime Minister Borden promised Britain 20,000 troops. Within a month, 30,000 had enlisted at an army camp in Valcartier, Quebec.
- Travelling to Valcartier to enlist were Erin boys: Hugh McMillan, Albert McBride, Elmer Green, Horace McArthur, Alan and Ernie Royce, Howard Cox, Gordon McRae and Laurence Tarzwell.
- When Hugh McMillan signed up, he listed his occupation as “Chauffeur”, and that’s what he was assigned to do. He was a truck driver supplying the trenches, an ambulance driver, and a chauffer for senior officers.
Hugh McMillan pennant, and Marjorie
- McMillan was a prolific letter writer, and quite proud of his home. He raised the Hillsburg Pennant not far from the front lines in France.
- He also mentions Marjorie Carmichael from Hillsburg, working in a nearby hospital, keeping in touch with the local boys.
Hillsburg pennant
- Image from the Wellington Museum and Archives
- The “H” at the end of Hillsburgh did not come into common use until the Second World War
McMillan – shell didn’t burst
- McMillan was very casual about the dangers, saying his house had been hit by a shell, but it didn’t burst.
McMillan – respirators issued
- Or that he’d been issued a respirator for poison gas
- “The Germans will pay for this.”
News from Ypres
- Ypres was Canada’s first major battle. Chlorine gas was used for the first time by the Germans.
- Listen to the news language used about Canadian soldiers: “Though reduced in the lines, and with dispositions made hurriedly under the stimulus of critical danger, they fought through the day and though the night, and then through another day and night; fought under their officers until, as happened to so many, these perished gloriously, and then fought from the impulsion of sheer valor, because they came from fighting stock.”
McMillan – under fire at Ypres
- Ypres was the battle during which Doctor John McCrae of Guelph wrote his famous poem In Flanders Fields.
- From the same battle Hugh McMillan wrote of rescuing a comrade whose truck had stalled, with shells falling all around. There was a German aviator overhead sending signals to the artillery. The road was filled with women and children running from the shells. “You have no idea what it was like, and I couldn’t explain it in writing”. In fact, he was having trouble writing because the guns were making the ground shake. “Bye, bye dear mother. Write soon, and oftener.”
McMillan – souvenirs
- McMillan lost a batch of letters during the Battle of Ypres, but another soldier found them and forwarded them to his parents. He sent some souvenirs, including a piece of the Yres cathedral, and a “Housewife” – a string shopping bag he picked up from a German soldier.
McMillan – if my turn comes
- “If my turn comes, it will be no worse than hundreds of other poor fellows who have fallen. The only way to do out here is to do your best and trust to God to bring you through safely.”
- “I’ve only been off duty half a day since coming to France, and that day I had a headache.
McArthur gets Advocate, congratulates hockey team
- Horace McArthur was very glad to receive copies of the Advocate at the front. He congratulated the Erin Hockey Team and wished them a successful season.
- His job was to dig trenches on the night shift, ducking out of sight when the German flares went up.
McArthur has close calls
- He too was very casual about danger, reporting that a shell had fallen four feet away from him, but that the explosion had only covered him with mud. After a bullet went through his hat, he said, “That was close enough for me”.
McArthur believed dead
- It was rumoured that Horace had been killed, and The Advocate wrote to his father, a minister, for information. Rev. McArthur reported that Horace’s letters had suddenly stopped after the Battle of Ypres. He was with the 48th Highlanders, 15th Battalion, three fourths of whom were lost.
McArthur in prison camp
- Finally a letter arrived from Horace. He had been captured, sent to a German hospital, treated for gas poisoning and appendicitis, and sent to a prison camp where he was allowed to receive mail, as long as it had no reference to the war.
- Horace later escaped from that prison camp.
F.W. Wood funeral director
- Typically, the local furniture maker would be the casket builder as well, in this case F.W. Wood.
High school debate
- His son Arthur was a senior high school student, and was involved in a Literary Society debate, arguing that the United States was morally obligated to join the war on the Allied side.
New recruiting drive
- At that time there was a new recruiting drive, and Arthur Wood was one of two high school students who signed up.
Jolly good fellows recruited
- Principal Tomlinson held a big party at his house, and the boys were each presented with a gold ring. They were also rewarded with a rendition of the song, “For They Are Jolly Good Fellows”.
Twenty volunteers
- The goal was 25 recruits and they got 20.
- Notice the wording from the editor at the end – “Keeper up the good work boys. You Country needs you now.”
35,000 more men needed – now up to 150,000
- Stories in the newsapaper could seem like a country talking to itself, reassuring itself that it was doing the right thing: “Canada is surely measuring up to her duty in her contribution of men to the war.”
- Today, it would be controversial front-page news. In 1915, it was one paragraph on an inside page – 35,000 more men needed for the firing line in France. That would bring the total so far to 150,000, but even then, we were just getting started.
- Canada had a population of 8 million in 1915. Eventually, she would have 650,000 men and women enlisted, 8.3% of the population. The casualties would total over 65,000 dead and 172,000 wounded.
- Erin Township and Village had a combined population of 3,500. From that we had 228 volunteers and 97 draftees, for a total of 325. That’s 9.3% of the local population. Of those, at least 28 died.
- As we promise every November, they have not been forgotten.
Erin is still proud that we did our bit for King and Country.
- And that’s the story so far.
McMillan – shell didn’t burst
- McMillan was very casual about the dangers, saying his house had been hit by a shell, but it didn’t burst.
McMillan – respirators issued
- Or that he’d been issued a respirator for poison gas
- “The Germans will pay for this.”
News from Ypres
- Ypres was Canada’s first major battle. Chlorine gas was used for the first time by the Germans.
- Listen to the news language used about Canadian soldiers: “Though reduced in the lines, and with dispositions made hurriedly under the stimulus of critical danger, they fought through the day and though the night, and then through another day and night; fought under their officers until, as happened to so many, these perished gloriously, and then fought from the impulsion of sheer valor, because they came from fighting stock.”
McMillan – under fire at Ypres
- Ypres was the battle during which Doctor John McCrae of Guelph wrote his famous poem In Flanders Fields.
- From the same battle Hugh McMillan wrote of rescuing a comrade whose truck had stalled, with shells falling all around. There was a German aviator overhead sending signals to the artillery. The road was filled with women and children running from the shells. “You have no idea what it was like, and I couldn’t explain it in writing”. In fact, he was having trouble writing because the guns were making the ground shake. “Bye, bye dear mother. Write soon, and oftener.”
McMillan – souvenirs
- McMillan lost a batch of letters during the Battle of Ypres, but another soldier found them and forwarded them to his parents. He sent some souvenirs, including a piece of the Yres cathedral, and a “Housewife” – a string shopping bag he picked up from a German soldier.
McMillan – if my turn comes
- “If my turn comes, it will be no worse than hundreds of other poor fellows who have fallen. The only way to do out here is to do your best and trust to God to bring you through safely.”
- “I’ve only been off duty half a day since coming to France, and that day I had a headache.
McArthur gets Advocate, congratulates hockey team
- Horace McArthur was very glad to receive copies of the Advocate at the front. He congratulated the Erin Hockey Team and wished them a successful season.
- His job was to dig trenches on the night shift, ducking out of sight when the German flares went up.
McArthur has close calls
- He too was very casual about danger, reporting that a shell had fallen four feet away from him, but that the explosion had only covered him with mud. After a bullet went through his hat, he said, “That was close enough for me”.
McArthur believed dead
- It was rumoured that Horace had been killed, and The Advocate wrote to his father, a minister, for information. Rev. McArthur reported that Horace’s letters had suddenly stopped after the Battle of Ypres. He was with the 48th Highlanders, 15th Battalion, three fourths of whom were lost.
McArthur in prison camp
- Finally a letter arrived from Horace. He had been captured, sent to a German hospital, treated for gas poisoning and appendicitis, and sent to a prison camp where he was allowed to receive mail, as long as it had no reference to the war.
- Horace later escaped from that prison camp.
F.W. Wood funeral director
- Typically, the local furniture maker would be the casket builder as well, in this case F.W. Wood.
High school debate
- His son Arthur was a senior high school student, and was involved in a Literary Society debate, arguing that the United States was morally obligated to join the war on the Allied side.
New recruiting drive
- At that time there was a new recruiting drive, and Arthur Wood was one of two high school students who signed up.
Jolly good fellows recruited
- Principal Tomlinson held a big party at his house, and the boys were each presented with a gold ring. They were also rewarded with a rendition of the song, “For They Are Jolly Good Fellows”.
Twenty volunteers
- The goal was 25 recruits and they got 20.
- Notice the wording from the editor at the end – “Keeper up the good work boys. You Country needs you now.”
35,000 more men needed – now up to 150,000
- Stories in the newsapaper could seem like a country talking to itself, reassuring itself that it was doing the right thing: “Canada is surely measuring up to her duty in her contribution of men to the war.”
- Today, it would be controversial front-page news. In 1915, it was one paragraph on an inside page – 35,000 more men needed for the firing line in France. That would bring the total so far to 150,000, but even then, we were just getting started.
- Canada had a population of 8 million in 1915. Eventually, she would have 650,000 men and women enlisted, 8.3% of the population. The casualties would total over 65,000 dead and 172,000 wounded.
- Erin Township and Village had a combined population of 3,500. From that we had 228 volunteers and 97 draftees, for a total of 325. That’s 9.3% of the local population. Of those, at least 28 died.
- As we promise every November, they have not been forgotten.
Erin is still proud that we did our bit for King and Country.
- And that’s the story so far.
March 25, 2015
New photo gallery puts focus on Erin
As published in The Erin Advocate
Perhaps it is a short attention span that has led me to try a lot of different things, without becoming an expert at any of them. The pursuit of variety makes life interesting, of course, but still I envy people who can concentrate their efforts and be very successful.
I got a film camera as a present for my fifth birthday, a simple plastic box with a lens, and my friends thought I was a bit strange, going around the neighbourhood in Welland taking snapshots of trees and flowers.
Well, I’m still doing that with the Town of Erin as my neighbourhood, and while the quality has improved slightly, I’m just figuring it out as I go along. I’ve realized that if you wait for perfection, you’ll be waiting forever, and if you don’t share what you’ve got, you miss an opportunity to have some useful fun.
Putting stuff out there for the public has been central to my careers as a writer and graphic designer. The 345 columns I’ve written for the Advocate in the last 7 years are republished on a blog: erininsight.blogspot.ca. They are fully searchable, organized by date and topic.
Some articles have photos with them, but until recently the content was 99% words. In January I started a new section within the blog called Somewhereinerin. It is a gallery of photos I’ve taken in the Erin area (plus a few vacation sunsets). Just click on the tab at the top of the home page to take a look.
At first, I was trying to post a new photo every day, until I discovered just how difficult that is while trying to make a living doing other things. A few new ones every week is more realistic.
Of course, I’m not the first photographer to take an interest in Erin. I admire the professional work of Martin Lamprecht (featured on the new Town of Erin website), Tristan Clark who does local news and portrait/wedding photography, and former Advocate photographers Sandra Traversy and Jill Janson, all of whom have web sites.
Whenever I post an article or a photo, I’ll normally send out a tweet – a very small sound in a noisy world – in an attempt to spark some interest and link readers to the blog. You can follow me on Twitter using @ErinWriter, and sign up as a follower on the blog.
Part of the blogging game is to drive traffic to your site, in order to sell products or make money from advertising. My blog, however, is more of a community service than a business, especially since I can’t be competing with The Advocate while working for them.
Still, I thought I’d try putting non-local ads on the blog, to see if they would generate some income. It’s easy to sign up with Google. They put a constant rotation of ads onto the blog that are somehow linked to the content, but you really only make money if people actually click on them.
I’m not much of an ad clicker and it turns out that my readers are not either. After ten weeks, I’ve made a total of $4.85, and they don’t send you anything until you hit the $10 mark.
With an average of more than 80 visits to the blog every day, I thought I might do better than that, but I had no illusions about hitting a jackpot. Still, you never know. Maybe a photo or story will go viral some day. Maybe I should learn how to shoot video.
The curious thing about traffic to the blog is that while the content is all about Erin, most of the visitors are not from Erin. Of the 86,200 all-time visits, less than half are from somewhere in Canada.
The topics obviously have a broad appeal, since I’ve had 20,000 visits from the US, 7,000 from Germany, 3,300 from Russia, 3,000 from France, 2,300 from Ukraine, 1,400 from the United Kingdom, 601 from China and 460 from Saudi Arabia. Go figure.
Perhaps it is a short attention span that has led me to try a lot of different things, without becoming an expert at any of them. The pursuit of variety makes life interesting, of course, but still I envy people who can concentrate their efforts and be very successful.
I got a film camera as a present for my fifth birthday, a simple plastic box with a lens, and my friends thought I was a bit strange, going around the neighbourhood in Welland taking snapshots of trees and flowers.
Well, I’m still doing that with the Town of Erin as my neighbourhood, and while the quality has improved slightly, I’m just figuring it out as I go along. I’ve realized that if you wait for perfection, you’ll be waiting forever, and if you don’t share what you’ve got, you miss an opportunity to have some useful fun.
Putting stuff out there for the public has been central to my careers as a writer and graphic designer. The 345 columns I’ve written for the Advocate in the last 7 years are republished on a blog: erininsight.blogspot.ca. They are fully searchable, organized by date and topic.
Some articles have photos with them, but until recently the content was 99% words. In January I started a new section within the blog called Somewhereinerin. It is a gallery of photos I’ve taken in the Erin area (plus a few vacation sunsets). Just click on the tab at the top of the home page to take a look.
At first, I was trying to post a new photo every day, until I discovered just how difficult that is while trying to make a living doing other things. A few new ones every week is more realistic.
Of course, I’m not the first photographer to take an interest in Erin. I admire the professional work of Martin Lamprecht (featured on the new Town of Erin website), Tristan Clark who does local news and portrait/wedding photography, and former Advocate photographers Sandra Traversy and Jill Janson, all of whom have web sites.
Whenever I post an article or a photo, I’ll normally send out a tweet – a very small sound in a noisy world – in an attempt to spark some interest and link readers to the blog. You can follow me on Twitter using @ErinWriter, and sign up as a follower on the blog.
Part of the blogging game is to drive traffic to your site, in order to sell products or make money from advertising. My blog, however, is more of a community service than a business, especially since I can’t be competing with The Advocate while working for them.
Still, I thought I’d try putting non-local ads on the blog, to see if they would generate some income. It’s easy to sign up with Google. They put a constant rotation of ads onto the blog that are somehow linked to the content, but you really only make money if people actually click on them.
I’m not much of an ad clicker and it turns out that my readers are not either. After ten weeks, I’ve made a total of $4.85, and they don’t send you anything until you hit the $10 mark.
With an average of more than 80 visits to the blog every day, I thought I might do better than that, but I had no illusions about hitting a jackpot. Still, you never know. Maybe a photo or story will go viral some day. Maybe I should learn how to shoot video.
The curious thing about traffic to the blog is that while the content is all about Erin, most of the visitors are not from Erin. Of the 86,200 all-time visits, less than half are from somewhere in Canada.
The topics obviously have a broad appeal, since I’ve had 20,000 visits from the US, 7,000 from Germany, 3,300 from Russia, 3,000 from France, 2,300 from Ukraine, 1,400 from the United Kingdom, 601 from China and 460 from Saudi Arabia. Go figure.
December 31, 2014
Hillsburgh urges Erin to do its war duty
From the Advocate – 100 years ago (1914)
After the people of Hillsburgh raised $800 for Belgian war relief, a correspondent identified only as Uncle Dan issued a challenge in The Advocate: “Come, Erin, come, get in the race, you have no need to hide your face; you’re just as loyal as the rest, it’s up to you to do your best. Come, Erin’s Reeve, pull up your sleeve, and then throw off your sweater; you lead a town that’s sane and sound, come on and lead one better. You’ve citizens of worth and wealth, who all enjoy the best of health; they’ll do their duty, bet your pants, if you will only give the chance. Don’t let the little Hillsburg street, your patriotic spirit beat; your ladies have been good and true, come Erin’s men, now do your do.”
From the Advocate – 45 years ago (1969)
4H Achievement Day was held at Erin District High School recently. Receiving Provincial Honours were Susan Burt, Donna Ismond, Elizabeth Jackson, Barbara Smith and Marilyn Winters. County Honours went to Jeannie Simpson, Elaine Winters, Nancy Millson, Karen Sutton, Lillian Hindley, Carolyn Slote, Phyllis Bayne, Diane Beatty, Teresa Morrison and Lois Marshall.
The long-awaited time clock in the Erin arena has become a reality, to the delight of players and fans. Donated by the Erin Lions Club, the clock is painted in their colours and displays the time, score and penalties.
From the Advocate – 35 years ago (1979)
The Down Memory Lane column recalled the Christmas of 1954, when the residents of Erin village got a new water system as a “present”. Reeve Stanley Leitch made the announcement with Councillors P.J. Sinclair, Cecil Carney, Fred Steen and James Robertson. Leitch said he hoped the system would serve as many as 150 customers by the end of 1955.
Erin Township Council will urge the Wellington County Board of Education to reconsider its decision to cancel bus service for students in the new Hillsburgh subdivision. They do not qualify for transportation under the board’s policy. Council will also ask the province for sidewalks when it resurfaces Highway 25, but Reeve Bert Wheeler said he wants to bus service to continue, regardless of whether sidewalks are built.
From the Advocate – 25 years ago (1989)
Bill Dalley, a former publisher of the Erin Advocate and the Orangeville Banner, died Tuesday night of a heart attack at the age of 67. He came from England in 1954 and worked about 12 years for the Thompson newspaper chain before taking over the Banner in 1962. After five years there, he operated a dress shop in Orangeville for several years. In 1976 he joined The Advocate as publisher and sales manager. He retired in 1987, but continued to do occasional work for the paper until last spring, along with running a photography and framing studio in Orangeville. Friends described him as a happy-go-lucky guy who was dedicated to helping the Big Brothers organization.
The EWAG Toy Lending Library may be asked to vacate the space it now uses at the Township Public Library. Library Board CEO Anne Higginbottom told council that while they appreciate having the toy library in the village of Hillsburgh, the regular library has cramped quarters that limit the services they can offer to the public. Currently, they cannot open the library to the public while Storyhour is in progress. They could also use the space for an Audio Visual Centre, and a Reading and Study Area.
After the people of Hillsburgh raised $800 for Belgian war relief, a correspondent identified only as Uncle Dan issued a challenge in The Advocate: “Come, Erin, come, get in the race, you have no need to hide your face; you’re just as loyal as the rest, it’s up to you to do your best. Come, Erin’s Reeve, pull up your sleeve, and then throw off your sweater; you lead a town that’s sane and sound, come on and lead one better. You’ve citizens of worth and wealth, who all enjoy the best of health; they’ll do their duty, bet your pants, if you will only give the chance. Don’t let the little Hillsburg street, your patriotic spirit beat; your ladies have been good and true, come Erin’s men, now do your do.”
From the Advocate – 45 years ago (1969)
4H Achievement Day was held at Erin District High School recently. Receiving Provincial Honours were Susan Burt, Donna Ismond, Elizabeth Jackson, Barbara Smith and Marilyn Winters. County Honours went to Jeannie Simpson, Elaine Winters, Nancy Millson, Karen Sutton, Lillian Hindley, Carolyn Slote, Phyllis Bayne, Diane Beatty, Teresa Morrison and Lois Marshall.
The long-awaited time clock in the Erin arena has become a reality, to the delight of players and fans. Donated by the Erin Lions Club, the clock is painted in their colours and displays the time, score and penalties.
From the Advocate – 35 years ago (1979)
The Down Memory Lane column recalled the Christmas of 1954, when the residents of Erin village got a new water system as a “present”. Reeve Stanley Leitch made the announcement with Councillors P.J. Sinclair, Cecil Carney, Fred Steen and James Robertson. Leitch said he hoped the system would serve as many as 150 customers by the end of 1955.
Erin Township Council will urge the Wellington County Board of Education to reconsider its decision to cancel bus service for students in the new Hillsburgh subdivision. They do not qualify for transportation under the board’s policy. Council will also ask the province for sidewalks when it resurfaces Highway 25, but Reeve Bert Wheeler said he wants to bus service to continue, regardless of whether sidewalks are built.
From the Advocate – 25 years ago (1989)
Bill Dalley, a former publisher of the Erin Advocate and the Orangeville Banner, died Tuesday night of a heart attack at the age of 67. He came from England in 1954 and worked about 12 years for the Thompson newspaper chain before taking over the Banner in 1962. After five years there, he operated a dress shop in Orangeville for several years. In 1976 he joined The Advocate as publisher and sales manager. He retired in 1987, but continued to do occasional work for the paper until last spring, along with running a photography and framing studio in Orangeville. Friends described him as a happy-go-lucky guy who was dedicated to helping the Big Brothers organization.
The EWAG Toy Lending Library may be asked to vacate the space it now uses at the Township Public Library. Library Board CEO Anne Higginbottom told council that while they appreciate having the toy library in the village of Hillsburgh, the regular library has cramped quarters that limit the services they can offer to the public. Currently, they cannot open the library to the public while Storyhour is in progress. They could also use the space for an Audio Visual Centre, and a Reading and Study Area.
December 24, 2014
Soldiers well-fed at training camp
From the Advocate – 100 years ago (1914)
The Government has set aside Sunday, January 3 as a special day of prayer for a speedy end to the war.
Members of the second contingent in camp at the Exhibition Grounds, Toronto, number about 4,000 men. In the matter of food they are well provided for. Nine tons of food are disposed of every day. Each man receives daily 1 lb of meat, 1.25 lb of bread, 1 lb of potatoes, 6 ozs of fresh vegetables, 2.5 ozs of bacon, beans, butter, sugar and jam, 1.5 oz of cheese and split peas, 1.25 oz of tea, and 1.125 oz of coffee, salt and pepper. An increase of bacon and sugar and an allowance of one pint of milk per man will be made in a day or two as soon as authority is sent in from Ottawa.
From the Advocate – 45 years ago (1969)
Charles Hull, Publisher and Editor of The Advocate, along with staff members Corey Herrington, Freda Hull, George Ware and Jeff Barry, wish everyone in the community the peace and happiness of Christmas. Greetings also from the correspondents: Dorothy McKinnon in Hillsburgh, Mrs. R. McCreary in Cedar Valley, Mrs. Robert Sloan in North Erin, Mrs. D.C. Kirkwood in Erin, Mrs. John Trimble in Belfountain, Mrs. D.G. Robertson in Ospringe, Mrs. K. Raeburn in Caledon, Mrs. F. MacArthur in Churchill, Mrs. H. Thompson in Marsville and Judi Petherick in Alton.
A proposal by Peel County Council to straighten and widen Winston Churchill Boulevard north of Terra Cotta to promote safety in the area has been temporarily stopped after objections from the Credit Valley Conservation Authority. Chairman R.K. McMillan said CVC must be notified of any future plans for the road.
From the Advocate – 35 years ago (1979)
Al Johnson’s 22-month-old bull terrier Gus won two competitions at the Credit Valley Dog Show held at the Canadian National Exhibition site. The Erin dog was the best male, and the best of both males and females in his class.
Many Erin residents were surprised on Sunday morning to discover they had been without power for up to four hours. Erin Hydro spokesman Weir Winter said workers had to shut off power to repair wires near the Greening Donald plant that were damaged in a wind storm last Tuesday.
Erin Village Fire Chief Wib Scott told council recently that the department needs a new $35,000 pumper to meet its obligations to fight fires in sections of Erin Township. The Township currently pays $11,000 a year for the service, but it is being renegotiated and the Ontario Fire Marshall’s office is investigating the situation. Scott says two reliable pumpers are needed so the village is not left unprotected while fighting a fire in the Township. If the Village gets out of the rural service, the Township could be forced to set up a substation, possibly in Ballinafad.
From the Advocate – 25 years ago (1989)
About 40 residents of Cedar Valley expressed their displeasure with a development proposal that would double the size of their hamlet. Sue Orr of R.J. Burnside and Associates, representing developer Don Kilgour, said 41 lots are proposed for the 75-acre site. A letter from Triton Engineering said limited development could be done with private wells, plus a possible fire-fighting storage reservoir, but that if there is to be even more development there in the future, the new homes should be on a communal water system. Residents were concerned about changes to the rural character of the area, the loss of farmland, the strain on already overcrowded schools and increased traffic flow. The land is currently agricultural. Council will decide on rezoning in about eight weeks.
The Government has set aside Sunday, January 3 as a special day of prayer for a speedy end to the war.
Members of the second contingent in camp at the Exhibition Grounds, Toronto, number about 4,000 men. In the matter of food they are well provided for. Nine tons of food are disposed of every day. Each man receives daily 1 lb of meat, 1.25 lb of bread, 1 lb of potatoes, 6 ozs of fresh vegetables, 2.5 ozs of bacon, beans, butter, sugar and jam, 1.5 oz of cheese and split peas, 1.25 oz of tea, and 1.125 oz of coffee, salt and pepper. An increase of bacon and sugar and an allowance of one pint of milk per man will be made in a day or two as soon as authority is sent in from Ottawa.
From the Advocate – 45 years ago (1969)
Charles Hull, Publisher and Editor of The Advocate, along with staff members Corey Herrington, Freda Hull, George Ware and Jeff Barry, wish everyone in the community the peace and happiness of Christmas. Greetings also from the correspondents: Dorothy McKinnon in Hillsburgh, Mrs. R. McCreary in Cedar Valley, Mrs. Robert Sloan in North Erin, Mrs. D.C. Kirkwood in Erin, Mrs. John Trimble in Belfountain, Mrs. D.G. Robertson in Ospringe, Mrs. K. Raeburn in Caledon, Mrs. F. MacArthur in Churchill, Mrs. H. Thompson in Marsville and Judi Petherick in Alton.
A proposal by Peel County Council to straighten and widen Winston Churchill Boulevard north of Terra Cotta to promote safety in the area has been temporarily stopped after objections from the Credit Valley Conservation Authority. Chairman R.K. McMillan said CVC must be notified of any future plans for the road.
From the Advocate – 35 years ago (1979)
Al Johnson’s 22-month-old bull terrier Gus won two competitions at the Credit Valley Dog Show held at the Canadian National Exhibition site. The Erin dog was the best male, and the best of both males and females in his class.
Many Erin residents were surprised on Sunday morning to discover they had been without power for up to four hours. Erin Hydro spokesman Weir Winter said workers had to shut off power to repair wires near the Greening Donald plant that were damaged in a wind storm last Tuesday.
Erin Village Fire Chief Wib Scott told council recently that the department needs a new $35,000 pumper to meet its obligations to fight fires in sections of Erin Township. The Township currently pays $11,000 a year for the service, but it is being renegotiated and the Ontario Fire Marshall’s office is investigating the situation. Scott says two reliable pumpers are needed so the village is not left unprotected while fighting a fire in the Township. If the Village gets out of the rural service, the Township could be forced to set up a substation, possibly in Ballinafad.
From the Advocate – 25 years ago (1989)
About 40 residents of Cedar Valley expressed their displeasure with a development proposal that would double the size of their hamlet. Sue Orr of R.J. Burnside and Associates, representing developer Don Kilgour, said 41 lots are proposed for the 75-acre site. A letter from Triton Engineering said limited development could be done with private wells, plus a possible fire-fighting storage reservoir, but that if there is to be even more development there in the future, the new homes should be on a communal water system. Residents were concerned about changes to the rural character of the area, the loss of farmland, the strain on already overcrowded schools and increased traffic flow. The land is currently agricultural. Council will decide on rezoning in about eight weeks.
December 17, 2014
Ten Nights in a Bar-Room
From the Advocate – 100 years ago (1914)
The Women’s Christian Temperance Union will hold an Entertainment in aid of the Patriotic Fund, in the Erin Town Hall, on December 29, 1914, at which the play entitled “Ten Nights in a Bar-Room” will be given. Full particulars in Bills later.
Mr. G. Arnett of Erin received a letter on Monday from his son, who is on the firing line with a detachment of the Royal Horse Artillery, in which he says, “I am well. This is different from the Boer War. It is only the big guns we care for. We call them ‘Jack Johnsons’. Where they burst it tears up the ground making a hole large enough to put four horses in. We are losing a few men.”
From the Advocate – 45 years ago (1969)
Students from Erin Public School took the first prize Co-op trophy for their float in the Santa Claus parade, with an entry called Christmas in Mexico. Second was Hillbilly Christmas by “The Gang” and third was the Erin Boy Scouts float. The parade featured 20 floats, new model cars, snowmobiles, comic characters, Alton’s new band and majorettes and of course Santa, surrounded by elves.
The responsibilities of Wellington County Council are being whittled away by the Ontario government, according to Warden Norman Roszell. The province recently took over property assessment. With many nearby areas planning to switch to “regional” government, and a study of the same concept between Guelph and Wellington, Roszell said the county would have to prove its validity if it hopes to remain intact.
From the Advocate – 35 years ago (1979)
A Toronto-based electronics firm says it could provide Erin residents with 24 channels of high-quality colour television using the space-age technology of satellites. Since Erin village is not served by cable TV, the company would install a satellite receiver for about $50,000 and broadcast the signal through the village, if enough residents are interested to make it viable. Terry Howes said 200 families could maintain the system for $6 to $8 per month, about the same cost as cable. He said once the debt is paid off, the service would be free. Many communities use such satellites, even though they are illegal. More liberal regulations are expected soon. Howes said a community group would have to operate the service, and he warned that “freeloaders” tapping into the system without paying could hurt its viability.
The Erin Church of Christ held a special reception as a Christmas gift to the Ly family, which arrived recently as refugees from Vietnam. Annie Cook chaired the service of songs and messages, which included a talk by Mrs. S. Spencer of Marsville, who had come to Canada from Holland unable to speak English. A musical program was provided by Marj Sinclair, Jean Robinson, Kathleen Kirkwood, Maureen Wood and Darlene Fallon.
From the Advocate – 25 years ago (1989)
Erin Township has applied for 50% funding of community projects through the provincial PRIDE (Program for Renewal, Improvement, Development and Economic Revitalization) Program. Residents have been given a list a possible projects and are being asked to indicate their priorities. It includes replacing the façade of the community centre ($35,000), burying overhead wires ($150,000), decorative streetlighting ($50,000), retrofitting light standards ($10,000), replacing concrete sidewalks with paving stones ($20,000) and cleaning up the river front and developing parkland ($25,000).
Township Council unanimously rejected a suggestion from Erin resident R.E. Oliver that it investigate the use of depleted gravel pits as possible dumpsites for Toronto’s garbage. He referred to an ad in the Toronto Sun from a company looking to buy pits for that purpose, and said the coming waste management crisis could be an opportunity for industrial growth and tax revenues.
The Women’s Christian Temperance Union will hold an Entertainment in aid of the Patriotic Fund, in the Erin Town Hall, on December 29, 1914, at which the play entitled “Ten Nights in a Bar-Room” will be given. Full particulars in Bills later.
Mr. G. Arnett of Erin received a letter on Monday from his son, who is on the firing line with a detachment of the Royal Horse Artillery, in which he says, “I am well. This is different from the Boer War. It is only the big guns we care for. We call them ‘Jack Johnsons’. Where they burst it tears up the ground making a hole large enough to put four horses in. We are losing a few men.”
From the Advocate – 45 years ago (1969)
Students from Erin Public School took the first prize Co-op trophy for their float in the Santa Claus parade, with an entry called Christmas in Mexico. Second was Hillbilly Christmas by “The Gang” and third was the Erin Boy Scouts float. The parade featured 20 floats, new model cars, snowmobiles, comic characters, Alton’s new band and majorettes and of course Santa, surrounded by elves.
The responsibilities of Wellington County Council are being whittled away by the Ontario government, according to Warden Norman Roszell. The province recently took over property assessment. With many nearby areas planning to switch to “regional” government, and a study of the same concept between Guelph and Wellington, Roszell said the county would have to prove its validity if it hopes to remain intact.
From the Advocate – 35 years ago (1979)
A Toronto-based electronics firm says it could provide Erin residents with 24 channels of high-quality colour television using the space-age technology of satellites. Since Erin village is not served by cable TV, the company would install a satellite receiver for about $50,000 and broadcast the signal through the village, if enough residents are interested to make it viable. Terry Howes said 200 families could maintain the system for $6 to $8 per month, about the same cost as cable. He said once the debt is paid off, the service would be free. Many communities use such satellites, even though they are illegal. More liberal regulations are expected soon. Howes said a community group would have to operate the service, and he warned that “freeloaders” tapping into the system without paying could hurt its viability.
The Erin Church of Christ held a special reception as a Christmas gift to the Ly family, which arrived recently as refugees from Vietnam. Annie Cook chaired the service of songs and messages, which included a talk by Mrs. S. Spencer of Marsville, who had come to Canada from Holland unable to speak English. A musical program was provided by Marj Sinclair, Jean Robinson, Kathleen Kirkwood, Maureen Wood and Darlene Fallon.
From the Advocate – 25 years ago (1989)
Erin Township has applied for 50% funding of community projects through the provincial PRIDE (Program for Renewal, Improvement, Development and Economic Revitalization) Program. Residents have been given a list a possible projects and are being asked to indicate their priorities. It includes replacing the façade of the community centre ($35,000), burying overhead wires ($150,000), decorative streetlighting ($50,000), retrofitting light standards ($10,000), replacing concrete sidewalks with paving stones ($20,000) and cleaning up the river front and developing parkland ($25,000).
Township Council unanimously rejected a suggestion from Erin resident R.E. Oliver that it investigate the use of depleted gravel pits as possible dumpsites for Toronto’s garbage. He referred to an ad in the Toronto Sun from a company looking to buy pits for that purpose, and said the coming waste management crisis could be an opportunity for industrial growth and tax revenues.
December 10, 2014
Wellington could raise half a regiment
From the Advocate – 100 years ago (1914)
Wellington will consider raising half a regiment of soldiers, consisting of 500 men, and fully equipping them for war service. Warden R.F. Bale has given the matter serious consideration and will soon recommend it County Council in the current session. He estimates the scheme will cost $90 per man, amounting to an expenditure of $45,000.
From the Advocate – 45 years ago (1969)
A fight is shaping up over a $3 million plant Canada Brick plans to build near Cheltenham on the Credit River. Chris Yaneff, who owns 140 acres next to the proposed 254-acre site, and a neighbour, David Buxton, say they are ready to fight Chinguacousy Township, whose planning board has already approved the project. Other residents are complaining about possible pollution of the Credit River, noise and dust, and the cost of rebuilding roads. “It’s zoned agricultural and estate residential and on the official plan this area is designated green belt,” said Buxton. “It’s inconceivable the township would allow spot zoning for industry and that the wishes of so many people can be ignored by council.”
A report to the Ontario government recommends purchasing 610 square miles of Niagara Escarpment lands for $31 million, leasing other nearby lands and restricting development through zoning controls on another 300,000 acres. New gravel pits would be banned within 2 miles of the escarpment face, while old pits would be restored as parks. Premier John Robarts said the government has not necessarily accepted all the recommendations, but agreed that escarpment lands are a recreational wonderland that should be preserved.
From the Advocate – 35 years ago (1979)
Erin Village’s 100th birthday celebration got off to an enthusiastic start Saturday. On hand to unveil a plaque on The Founding of Erin were Lieutenant Governor Pauline McGibbon, MP Perrin Beatty, MPP Jack Johnson, Township Reeve Bert Wheeler, Ruth Schatz of the Ontario Heritage Foundation (which provided the plaque), and Erin Reeve (County Warden) Larry MacKenzie. Sarah Kiteley, President of the Shamrock Senior Citizens group, presented Mrs. McGibbon with a porcelain doll dressed in a 19th century costume made by former village resident Vera Brown.
Laurie Graham, 19, of Inglewood, daughter of David Graham who owns Graham Fibreglass in Erin, had a third-place finish in a World Cup ski race at Val d’Isere, France.
David Graham told village councillors and Stanley Park residents protesting noise levels at his plant that he hopes to reduce the levels to within Ontario environment standards within a year. Councillor Evelyn O’Sullivan said she has been forced to sleep at a friend’s house to seek relief from the noise, and others are concerned about property values.
From the Advocate – 25 years ago (1989)
Village Councillors had many questions and reservations about a proposed four-storey, 120-unit retirement home on Dundas Street in Erin. Sanvac Investments urged them to approve the project, but they deferred the decision. At a recent public meeting, area residents said it did not fit the neighbourhood. Councillor John Pritoula said firefighters would have difficulty fighting a fire on the fourth floor. Councillor Deborah Sutherland said the building would be too far from the downtown core. Councillor John McDougall was concerned about increased traffic, and Deputy Reeve Carolann Osborne said water problems in the area would be made worse, and Reeve Terry Mundell said there was not enough information to pass the zoning bylaw.
The Belfountain Task Force residents’ group is working with Caledon’s mayor, members of the Niagara Escarpment Commission and Credit Valley Conservation to oppose a 600-acre housing plan by the Enterac company. A 10-day hearing at the Ontario Municipal Board is planned for March, and the residents group has hired a hydrogeologist, a planner and a lawyer to present their concerns. Issues include threats to Belfountain’s rural heritage and existing wells, to the Credit River, to farmland and environmentally sensitive land near the escarpment.
Wellington will consider raising half a regiment of soldiers, consisting of 500 men, and fully equipping them for war service. Warden R.F. Bale has given the matter serious consideration and will soon recommend it County Council in the current session. He estimates the scheme will cost $90 per man, amounting to an expenditure of $45,000.
From the Advocate – 45 years ago (1969)
A fight is shaping up over a $3 million plant Canada Brick plans to build near Cheltenham on the Credit River. Chris Yaneff, who owns 140 acres next to the proposed 254-acre site, and a neighbour, David Buxton, say they are ready to fight Chinguacousy Township, whose planning board has already approved the project. Other residents are complaining about possible pollution of the Credit River, noise and dust, and the cost of rebuilding roads. “It’s zoned agricultural and estate residential and on the official plan this area is designated green belt,” said Buxton. “It’s inconceivable the township would allow spot zoning for industry and that the wishes of so many people can be ignored by council.”
A report to the Ontario government recommends purchasing 610 square miles of Niagara Escarpment lands for $31 million, leasing other nearby lands and restricting development through zoning controls on another 300,000 acres. New gravel pits would be banned within 2 miles of the escarpment face, while old pits would be restored as parks. Premier John Robarts said the government has not necessarily accepted all the recommendations, but agreed that escarpment lands are a recreational wonderland that should be preserved.
From the Advocate – 35 years ago (1979)
Erin Village’s 100th birthday celebration got off to an enthusiastic start Saturday. On hand to unveil a plaque on The Founding of Erin were Lieutenant Governor Pauline McGibbon, MP Perrin Beatty, MPP Jack Johnson, Township Reeve Bert Wheeler, Ruth Schatz of the Ontario Heritage Foundation (which provided the plaque), and Erin Reeve (County Warden) Larry MacKenzie. Sarah Kiteley, President of the Shamrock Senior Citizens group, presented Mrs. McGibbon with a porcelain doll dressed in a 19th century costume made by former village resident Vera Brown.
Laurie Graham, 19, of Inglewood, daughter of David Graham who owns Graham Fibreglass in Erin, had a third-place finish in a World Cup ski race at Val d’Isere, France.
David Graham told village councillors and Stanley Park residents protesting noise levels at his plant that he hopes to reduce the levels to within Ontario environment standards within a year. Councillor Evelyn O’Sullivan said she has been forced to sleep at a friend’s house to seek relief from the noise, and others are concerned about property values.
From the Advocate – 25 years ago (1989)
Village Councillors had many questions and reservations about a proposed four-storey, 120-unit retirement home on Dundas Street in Erin. Sanvac Investments urged them to approve the project, but they deferred the decision. At a recent public meeting, area residents said it did not fit the neighbourhood. Councillor John Pritoula said firefighters would have difficulty fighting a fire on the fourth floor. Councillor Deborah Sutherland said the building would be too far from the downtown core. Councillor John McDougall was concerned about increased traffic, and Deputy Reeve Carolann Osborne said water problems in the area would be made worse, and Reeve Terry Mundell said there was not enough information to pass the zoning bylaw.
The Belfountain Task Force residents’ group is working with Caledon’s mayor, members of the Niagara Escarpment Commission and Credit Valley Conservation to oppose a 600-acre housing plan by the Enterac company. A 10-day hearing at the Ontario Municipal Board is planned for March, and the residents group has hired a hydrogeologist, a planner and a lawyer to present their concerns. Issues include threats to Belfountain’s rural heritage and existing wells, to the Credit River, to farmland and environmentally sensitive land near the escarpment.
December 03, 2014
Patriotic Assembly a major social event
From the Advocate – 100 years ago (1914)
The Patriotic Assembly in the Town Hall on Thursday evening last, given by the young Ladies of Erin, was a big success, and is conceded by all who took part in it, as being one of the best social events ever held here. There was a large number present, including many from the neighbouring towns and cities. The music by Markle’s Orchestra, Elora, was of the best variety. The hall was prettily decorated with flags and bunting, showing the patriotism of the young ladies. A choice lunch was served. The nice sum of $56 was cleared, which was presented to the Belgian Relief Fund.
From the Advocate – 45 years ago (1969)
Starting January 1, 1970, sex education will be a compulsory course in all schools under the Wellington Board of Education. The school board was informed that a family life program in Guelph last year was well received by teachers, parents and students. Regular teachers will handle the course unless they feel they cannot properly teach it, in which case another teacher, a doctor or a Health Unit staff person will do it. The plan covers kindergarten through Grade 12. Parents will have the right to withdraw their child from any family life class.
New parking signs have been erected in the Village of Erin, after a bylaw that came into effect last week. During the winter months, parking on the streets of the village is prohibited between 1 am and 7 am.
The As We Were column recalled an article 50 years earlier, in The Advocate of 1919. J.M. Dods & Co. of Alton had leased the large brick building owned by C.E. McMillan in Erin. In 1969 it was the site of a Laundromat and tuck shop. They also leased C.H. Walkers wagon manufacturing shop, which later became the site of the public school. At these Erin locations they would manufacture finished cotton products, employing 50 people.
From the Advocate – 35 years ago (1979)
A delegation to Village Council has complained about noise from the new Graham Fiberglass factory. Stanley Park resident Yolanda Reimann said residents of that area and Erin Heights are upset about a continual high-pitched noise and its possible health effects, and 31 residents have signed a letter to the company. The Ministry of the Environment will be taking measurements. Graham’s Marketing Manager Roy Ralph said the firm wants to be a good neighbour and has hired a consultant to advise them. Council member Evelyn O’Sullivan said she has been complaining to the company since August without success.
Wellington County Council plans to spend $1.6 million to rehabilitate and restore the 1843 court house on Woolwich Street in Guelph. With a new addition, the complex will provide a headquarters for administration of county business. Architect Carlos Ventin said it is “probably the most historic building in this part of Ontario.”
From the Advocate – 25 years ago (1989)
After using Tanker #2 for more than 20 years, Hillsburgh Fire Chief Wayne McIsaac has purchased a new tanker truck. Erin Township Council considered several tenders, and agreed to a purchase of $92,000. The truck will be manufactured by Dependable Emergency Vehicles of Brampton, with a 240-horse diesel engine and a 1,600-litre aluminum tank.
The AIDS committee of Guelph and Wellington opened its new information office in Guelph last week, and welcomed an announcement from local MP Perrin Beatty, Minister of National Health and Welfare, that they would receive a grant of $150,000. The centre will help small rural communities to provide accurate AIDS information, considered essential in defeating the disease.
The Patriotic Assembly in the Town Hall on Thursday evening last, given by the young Ladies of Erin, was a big success, and is conceded by all who took part in it, as being one of the best social events ever held here. There was a large number present, including many from the neighbouring towns and cities. The music by Markle’s Orchestra, Elora, was of the best variety. The hall was prettily decorated with flags and bunting, showing the patriotism of the young ladies. A choice lunch was served. The nice sum of $56 was cleared, which was presented to the Belgian Relief Fund.
From the Advocate – 45 years ago (1969)
Starting January 1, 1970, sex education will be a compulsory course in all schools under the Wellington Board of Education. The school board was informed that a family life program in Guelph last year was well received by teachers, parents and students. Regular teachers will handle the course unless they feel they cannot properly teach it, in which case another teacher, a doctor or a Health Unit staff person will do it. The plan covers kindergarten through Grade 12. Parents will have the right to withdraw their child from any family life class.
New parking signs have been erected in the Village of Erin, after a bylaw that came into effect last week. During the winter months, parking on the streets of the village is prohibited between 1 am and 7 am.
The As We Were column recalled an article 50 years earlier, in The Advocate of 1919. J.M. Dods & Co. of Alton had leased the large brick building owned by C.E. McMillan in Erin. In 1969 it was the site of a Laundromat and tuck shop. They also leased C.H. Walkers wagon manufacturing shop, which later became the site of the public school. At these Erin locations they would manufacture finished cotton products, employing 50 people.
From the Advocate – 35 years ago (1979)
A delegation to Village Council has complained about noise from the new Graham Fiberglass factory. Stanley Park resident Yolanda Reimann said residents of that area and Erin Heights are upset about a continual high-pitched noise and its possible health effects, and 31 residents have signed a letter to the company. The Ministry of the Environment will be taking measurements. Graham’s Marketing Manager Roy Ralph said the firm wants to be a good neighbour and has hired a consultant to advise them. Council member Evelyn O’Sullivan said she has been complaining to the company since August without success.
Wellington County Council plans to spend $1.6 million to rehabilitate and restore the 1843 court house on Woolwich Street in Guelph. With a new addition, the complex will provide a headquarters for administration of county business. Architect Carlos Ventin said it is “probably the most historic building in this part of Ontario.”
From the Advocate – 25 years ago (1989)
After using Tanker #2 for more than 20 years, Hillsburgh Fire Chief Wayne McIsaac has purchased a new tanker truck. Erin Township Council considered several tenders, and agreed to a purchase of $92,000. The truck will be manufactured by Dependable Emergency Vehicles of Brampton, with a 240-horse diesel engine and a 1,600-litre aluminum tank.
The AIDS committee of Guelph and Wellington opened its new information office in Guelph last week, and welcomed an announcement from local MP Perrin Beatty, Minister of National Health and Welfare, that they would receive a grant of $150,000. The centre will help small rural communities to provide accurate AIDS information, considered essential in defeating the disease.
November 26, 2014
War forces smoking and drinking cutbacks
As published in The Erin Advocate
From the Advocate – 100 years ago (1914)
Canadians have cut back their smoking and drinking as a result of the war, the federal government reports. The total of the Inland Revenue Report, made up largely of excise taxes on tobacco and alcohol, was down by $316,000 to $1,726,197 for October. In August, a war tax on these products initially produced extra revenue, but cutbacks by consumers have more than erased those gains.
From the Advocate – 45 years ago (1969)
Anger over water rates that have skyrocketed from $36 a year to $84 a year has prompted residents of Mountainview subdivision to ask for annexation to the Village of Erin. The homes just south of the village are part of Erin Township and have a privately operated water system. Spokesman Fred Berry said a petition will be presented to the two councils, with 99% of homeowners in favour of annexation. If approved by the councils and the Ontario Municipal Board, the move would allow residents to be part of the village water system.
A Folk Service of old time spirituals and modern upbeat songs sponsored by the Erin United Church Choir was hosted by Rev. G. Howse and enjoyed by a large audience. Choir numbers included When the Saints Go Marching In and O Mary Don’t You Weep, with solo parts by Mrs. R. Sherwood, Mrs. C. Robinson and Mrs. L. Davidson. The trio of Mrs. C. Hull, Mrs. C. Justice and Mrs. N. Sinclair sang Rock-a-Ma-Soul and Just a Closer Walk with Thee, and Miss Linda McKenzie of Ospringe demonstrated her piano skills. The Friendly Four quartette from Hillsburgh, Harry Burt and the Graham brothers Howard, Donald and Ken, with their sister Mrs. Ruth Oliver as accompanist, did a series of gospel songs.
From the Advocate – 35 years ago (1979)
Cy Finn’s dog Rex was saved from drowning by the help of three residents who came to his aid. Rex was crossing the pond at Hull’s Dam on thin ice and fell through. Willie Hall, 13, heard his howls and called for help from high school student Rob MacKenzie and village employee Ivan Underhill. They brought a canoe and used a shovel to cut a path to the dog through the ice and coaxed it to shore.
Some Hillsburgh students at Ross R. MacKay school will lose their bus ride to school next year, the school board has decided. Bus service has been provided for younger children in the Armstrong subdivision north of the village for the past three years, even though it is within the walking area set by the board’s policy. Township Council is being urged to improve the sidewalks, the condition of which is forcing some children to walk on the highway.
From the Advocate – 25 years ago (1989)
Jim Craig, Community Affairs Officer for Canada Post, told Erin Village Council that he expects a Retail Postal Outlet to be operating in Erin by next year. He said while there are no plans to close the main Erin Post Office, it could happen eventually. Moving the functions of a post office to a retail store can only happen when a postmaster/mistress resigns. The Erin Post Office has 850 lockboxes, and about 400 people on general delivery. Some of the lockboxes are “gangloaded” for two or three families. Craig predicted that community mailboxes would come to Erin, since Canada Post wants to get people off general delivery.
The Wellington County School Board will hire a Race and Ethnocultural Equity Project Leader. The staff person will make principals, teachers and students more aware of the need to provide quality educational opportunities regardless of race or ethnicity. The cost of the project will be partly covered by a $35,000 grant from the Ministry of Citizenship.
From the Advocate – 100 years ago (1914)
Canadians have cut back their smoking and drinking as a result of the war, the federal government reports. The total of the Inland Revenue Report, made up largely of excise taxes on tobacco and alcohol, was down by $316,000 to $1,726,197 for October. In August, a war tax on these products initially produced extra revenue, but cutbacks by consumers have more than erased those gains.
From the Advocate – 45 years ago (1969)
Anger over water rates that have skyrocketed from $36 a year to $84 a year has prompted residents of Mountainview subdivision to ask for annexation to the Village of Erin. The homes just south of the village are part of Erin Township and have a privately operated water system. Spokesman Fred Berry said a petition will be presented to the two councils, with 99% of homeowners in favour of annexation. If approved by the councils and the Ontario Municipal Board, the move would allow residents to be part of the village water system.
A Folk Service of old time spirituals and modern upbeat songs sponsored by the Erin United Church Choir was hosted by Rev. G. Howse and enjoyed by a large audience. Choir numbers included When the Saints Go Marching In and O Mary Don’t You Weep, with solo parts by Mrs. R. Sherwood, Mrs. C. Robinson and Mrs. L. Davidson. The trio of Mrs. C. Hull, Mrs. C. Justice and Mrs. N. Sinclair sang Rock-a-Ma-Soul and Just a Closer Walk with Thee, and Miss Linda McKenzie of Ospringe demonstrated her piano skills. The Friendly Four quartette from Hillsburgh, Harry Burt and the Graham brothers Howard, Donald and Ken, with their sister Mrs. Ruth Oliver as accompanist, did a series of gospel songs.
From the Advocate – 35 years ago (1979)
Cy Finn’s dog Rex was saved from drowning by the help of three residents who came to his aid. Rex was crossing the pond at Hull’s Dam on thin ice and fell through. Willie Hall, 13, heard his howls and called for help from high school student Rob MacKenzie and village employee Ivan Underhill. They brought a canoe and used a shovel to cut a path to the dog through the ice and coaxed it to shore.
Some Hillsburgh students at Ross R. MacKay school will lose their bus ride to school next year, the school board has decided. Bus service has been provided for younger children in the Armstrong subdivision north of the village for the past three years, even though it is within the walking area set by the board’s policy. Township Council is being urged to improve the sidewalks, the condition of which is forcing some children to walk on the highway.
From the Advocate – 25 years ago (1989)
Jim Craig, Community Affairs Officer for Canada Post, told Erin Village Council that he expects a Retail Postal Outlet to be operating in Erin by next year. He said while there are no plans to close the main Erin Post Office, it could happen eventually. Moving the functions of a post office to a retail store can only happen when a postmaster/mistress resigns. The Erin Post Office has 850 lockboxes, and about 400 people on general delivery. Some of the lockboxes are “gangloaded” for two or three families. Craig predicted that community mailboxes would come to Erin, since Canada Post wants to get people off general delivery.
The Wellington County School Board will hire a Race and Ethnocultural Equity Project Leader. The staff person will make principals, teachers and students more aware of the need to provide quality educational opportunities regardless of race or ethnicity. The cost of the project will be partly covered by a $35,000 grant from the Ministry of Citizenship.
November 19, 2014
Anti-British papers considered criminal
From the Advocate – 100 years ago (1914)
Mr. and Mrs. John Green of the 9th Line of Erin have lately received a long letter from their son Elmer, who is with the first Canadian Contingent of the 48th Highlanders on the Salisbury Plains. They expect to move shortly from tents to huts that will each house 35 men. He says they are treated very kindly by the English and that they expect to visit London in a few days.By an order-in-council, the Canadian government has made it a criminal offence to circulate or possess anti-British papers, which are apparently popular in Montreal. Offenders could face a $5,000 fine or two years in prison.
Economist Sir Henry Pellatt predicts that after a declaration of peace there will be a doubling of Canadian industries within five years. “We must build up enough industries to meet the needs of an ever-increasing agricultural population,” he said. “The close of the war will let loose the stream of emigration, and we shall see three or four hundred thousand people a year from Great Britain and Europe take their places as Canadian farmers.”
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| Remembrance Day in Erin, 2014 |
Harry Smith has been unanimously elected as the chairman of the newly formed Recreation Board, with Mrs. H.P. O’Sullivan as the Secretary. They decided to do a survey through the Erin Advocate to see what services are desired by people of all ages and what can be provided with existing facilities. The survey on page 7 includes choices ranging from a Rifle Club and Field Hockey to a Community Theatre and a Bridge Club. Choices for a new major facility include a swimming pool, a community park, tennis courts and a lawn bowling green.
Tenders are invited for the removal of the Erin Station of the Canadian Pacific Railway – one of 20 to be demolished as part of a consolidation project. CPR acquired the Erin line in 1880, and up to four passenger trains per day plus freight trains served the community. There were once special train excursions to the Erin Fair and Stanley Park, but passenger service was discontinued in 1958. The last regular agent at the station was Bill Weber.
The Wellington Board of Education has approved new facilities worth $100,000 at Ross R. MacKay School and $88,000 at Brisbane School. Each will get a general purpose room - gymnasium, two change rooms, a stage, storage rooms, a kitchen and a new entrance foyer, and MacKay will also get a teachers’ room.
The As We Were column recalled the Advocate of November 1910, in which it was reported that the population of Erin village was 526, while Orangeville had 2,351 and Grand Valley 759.
From the Advocate – 35 years ago (1979)
Erin Village Bylaw Enforcement Officer Robert Stewart had his tires slashed by vandals last week. In another incident, stop signs were removed at the intersection of 17 Sideroad and Second Line, leaving drivers unprotected.
Judy Andrews, originally from Florida, has set up shop at 2 Union Street in Erin, operating The Craft Menagerie. She does her own designs of home decorating items such as pillows, table cloths and stuffed animals.
Doris Fines, in her Dateline Ospringe column, reports that the Mimosa Metric Munchers had a Halloween party at Linda Moore’s house. The 4H girls made their own submarine sandwiches, and Brian Moore took them all for a hay ride, where there was much talking, laughing and singing.
From the Advocate – 25 years ago (1989)
Erin Village Bylaw Enforcement Officer Robert Stewart has responded to an anonymous Letter to the Editor, which complains that he is not doing his job by not enforcing the loitering bylaw. He said that Village Council has arranged with the OPP that charges would only be laid if the OPP provide the names and addresses of a group of people who do not disburse when told to do so by police. A follow-up Letter to the Editor was published from Kari-Ann Puckering, a young person who is part of the so-called “Becker’s Gang”. She says the group is unfairly blamed for downtown vandalism, and says the village has failed its youth by not delivering promised recreation such as a swimming pool, roller skating and teen dances.
November 12, 2014
Lantern slide show has images of war
From the Advocate – 100 years ago (1914)
A Concert under the auspices of the Anglican Church, Erin, will be given in the Town Hall, Erin, at 8 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 13th. The program will consist of an illustrated lecture by Rev. G.W. Tebbs, of Orangeville, accompanied by over 100 lantern slide views of the present war. Patriotic songs by Erin Male Quartette. Admission 25 and 10c. Proceeds devoted to Patriotic Fund.
From the Advocate – 45 years ago (1969)
Thieves jimmied the window and got inside the Royal Bank in Erin Friday night, and attempted to force open the night depository from inside. The burglar alarm when off and the intruders fled empty-handed.
Erin is one of 44 Ontario communities qualifying for special help in getting adequate doctors’ services. The Ontario Health Resources Development Plan will ensure that doctors willing to work in Erin will earn at least $26,000 annually.
A fashion show was held at Hilltop Lodge on Friday by the Isabella MacDonald Boutique, with seven local models presenting fashions in a setting of multi-coloured flowers, silver and gold spangles and coloured spotlights. Boutique proprietor Mrs. E.G. Manning was presented with flowers by Mrs. Karl Kuhlhoff and Mrs. Pat Mueller. Proceeds from the event went to the Erin Youth Centre.
Rev. G.W. Howse of Erin United Church welcomed a large assembly to the annual Remembrance Service on Sunday. Lessons were read by Rev. D. Herbison of Burns Presbyterian and Rev. H. McPherson of the Church of the Living Word, and prayers for the Queen, Country, peace and the fallen were offered by Rev. F.C. Elliott of St. John Brebeuf.
From the Advocate – 35 years ago (1979)
Members of All Saints Anglican Church have launched a $100,000 fundraising campaign, two thirds of the amount needed to renovate and expand their building. The parish hall, a converted drive shed, will be replaced by a two-storey structure designed by local architect Ed Lanik. There will be new space for Sunday school classes, meetings, a rector’s study and a large kitchen.
George Ware reports that the Erin Legion had one of its best Remembrance turnouts in recent years, with the Kitchener Kavalier Drum and Bugle Corps leading the parade. The dinner and dance included entertainment by the Johnny Tocher Orchestra. Poppy Chairman Jack Horton said poppy sales and the church collection brought in $1,200.
From the Advocate – 25 years ago (1989)
A report by the Health Unit has found 8 of the 18 wells on George Street in Hillsburgh to have unsafe levels of bacteria, and recommends that the municipal water supply be extended to the street “at the earliest opportunity”. No problems were observed with area septic systems, but Councillor Barb Tocher is concerned that the aquifer may be contaminated. Township council will ask the Ministry of the Environment for help in fixing the problem.
As a “Thank-You” to Hillsburgh firefighters and the arena manager for their efforts during last month’s storm and the recent tanker truck accident, Erin Township Council voted to buy each of them a 15-pound turkey.
Erin Village Council has approved spending $623,479 for a new water tower. Construction of the 375,000 imperial gallon elevated storage facility will be carried out by Landmark Structures Ontario Ltd., to replace the old storage tank at the top of Hill Street.
A Concert under the auspices of the Anglican Church, Erin, will be given in the Town Hall, Erin, at 8 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 13th. The program will consist of an illustrated lecture by Rev. G.W. Tebbs, of Orangeville, accompanied by over 100 lantern slide views of the present war. Patriotic songs by Erin Male Quartette. Admission 25 and 10c. Proceeds devoted to Patriotic Fund.
From the Advocate – 45 years ago (1969)
Thieves jimmied the window and got inside the Royal Bank in Erin Friday night, and attempted to force open the night depository from inside. The burglar alarm when off and the intruders fled empty-handed.
Erin is one of 44 Ontario communities qualifying for special help in getting adequate doctors’ services. The Ontario Health Resources Development Plan will ensure that doctors willing to work in Erin will earn at least $26,000 annually.
A fashion show was held at Hilltop Lodge on Friday by the Isabella MacDonald Boutique, with seven local models presenting fashions in a setting of multi-coloured flowers, silver and gold spangles and coloured spotlights. Boutique proprietor Mrs. E.G. Manning was presented with flowers by Mrs. Karl Kuhlhoff and Mrs. Pat Mueller. Proceeds from the event went to the Erin Youth Centre.
Rev. G.W. Howse of Erin United Church welcomed a large assembly to the annual Remembrance Service on Sunday. Lessons were read by Rev. D. Herbison of Burns Presbyterian and Rev. H. McPherson of the Church of the Living Word, and prayers for the Queen, Country, peace and the fallen were offered by Rev. F.C. Elliott of St. John Brebeuf.
From the Advocate – 35 years ago (1979)
Members of All Saints Anglican Church have launched a $100,000 fundraising campaign, two thirds of the amount needed to renovate and expand their building. The parish hall, a converted drive shed, will be replaced by a two-storey structure designed by local architect Ed Lanik. There will be new space for Sunday school classes, meetings, a rector’s study and a large kitchen.
George Ware reports that the Erin Legion had one of its best Remembrance turnouts in recent years, with the Kitchener Kavalier Drum and Bugle Corps leading the parade. The dinner and dance included entertainment by the Johnny Tocher Orchestra. Poppy Chairman Jack Horton said poppy sales and the church collection brought in $1,200.
From the Advocate – 25 years ago (1989)
A report by the Health Unit has found 8 of the 18 wells on George Street in Hillsburgh to have unsafe levels of bacteria, and recommends that the municipal water supply be extended to the street “at the earliest opportunity”. No problems were observed with area septic systems, but Councillor Barb Tocher is concerned that the aquifer may be contaminated. Township council will ask the Ministry of the Environment for help in fixing the problem.
As a “Thank-You” to Hillsburgh firefighters and the arena manager for their efforts during last month’s storm and the recent tanker truck accident, Erin Township Council voted to buy each of them a 15-pound turkey.
Erin Village Council has approved spending $623,479 for a new water tower. Construction of the 375,000 imperial gallon elevated storage facility will be carried out by Landmark Structures Ontario Ltd., to replace the old storage tank at the top of Hill Street.
November 05, 2014
Erin soldier writes home
From the Advocate – 100 years ago (1914)
Mr. and Mrs. Wm. McMillan received a letter from their son H. McMillan who was in the first contingent of Canadian soldiers going in England. He arrived safely in Plymouth after “a very enjoyable trip with many diversions, in the way of concerts, games and contests, one of the latter being climbing the rope up the mast which is sixty feet high, in which he and another young man were winners”. He was in a convoy of 40 ships, and was once riding right beside an 800-foot dreadnaught battleship, which he describes as a “fierce looking thing”.
A patent medicine advertorial: “Many people who have been reading the terrible war news from day to day, especially those who have relatives at the seat of war, have become so nervous that it is impossible for them to sleep. Milburn’s Heart and Nerve Pills will build up the unstrung nervous system and strengthen the weak heart – 50c per box, 3 boxes for $1.25.”
The Hillsburgh Beaver newspaper, defunct for several years, has been revived and expanded by the new publisher A.H. Steadman, formerly of Wiarton.
From the Advocate – 45 years ago (1969)
A sudden tightening of the mortgage money market has put a halt for now to a 160-lot subdivision that was expected to more than double the population of Hillsburgh. Only 15 homes have been built. All but four purchasers have been rejected by lending institutions even though the homes are selling for $21,495, thousands less than comparable homes in Metro Toronto. Because they are on septic tanks, they do no qualify for National Housing Act mortgages. Purchasers need a $9,000 annual income, a downpayment of $2,208 and must make monthly payments of $204 for principal, interest and taxes.
McClellan Motors in Erin, formerly known as Carney Bros. Ltd., has been sold to Mr. Ed Stewart of Ospringe. The business will continue to be operated as a garage, along with several dealerships.
A photo of Mrs. Bert Price of Cedar Valley appeared on the front page, with her holding a prize 12 lb., 32-inch pickerel that she caught last week in the Nottawasaga River near Stayner.
From the Advocate – 35 years ago (1979)
No one was hurt on Halloween in Erin, but at least three fires were set by vandals – two in derelict automobiles and one in a portable classroom at Erin District High School where a window was smashed. The Citizens’ Patrol and at least six OPP cruisers were busy in Erin, with a stop sign being pushed over, garbage cans dumped on the streets, eggs thrown and threats made against downtown businesses including The Advocate.
Ontario Lieutenant-Governor Pauline McGibbon will be the special guest of honour to kick off the Erin Village Centennial Village celebrations. Other participants at the event will be piper Dave Davidson, Rev. James Mackay, Reeve Larry MacKenzie, MP Perrin Beatty, MPP Jack Johnson, Township Reeve Bert Wheeler, Ruth Schatz of the Ontario Heritage Foundation, event chair Bill Higgins and Erin Senior Citizens’ President Mrs. S.S. Kiteley.
From the Advocate – 25 years ago (1989)
After months of interviews, Village Council has hired Jim Hunt as the new Works Superintendent. He was previously a construction supervisor and road repair worker for the City of Etobicoke.
The Erin District High School junior and seniors girls’ basketball teams both ended their season on a high note, advancing to the CWOSSA playoffs next week. The senior Raiders coached by Bill Hocken defeated the Norwell Redmen 47-31 with Diane Fisher scoring 18 points, Teriann Bratton 6 points and Janice Root 4 points.
Mr. and Mrs. Wm. McMillan received a letter from their son H. McMillan who was in the first contingent of Canadian soldiers going in England. He arrived safely in Plymouth after “a very enjoyable trip with many diversions, in the way of concerts, games and contests, one of the latter being climbing the rope up the mast which is sixty feet high, in which he and another young man were winners”. He was in a convoy of 40 ships, and was once riding right beside an 800-foot dreadnaught battleship, which he describes as a “fierce looking thing”.
A patent medicine advertorial: “Many people who have been reading the terrible war news from day to day, especially those who have relatives at the seat of war, have become so nervous that it is impossible for them to sleep. Milburn’s Heart and Nerve Pills will build up the unstrung nervous system and strengthen the weak heart – 50c per box, 3 boxes for $1.25.”
The Hillsburgh Beaver newspaper, defunct for several years, has been revived and expanded by the new publisher A.H. Steadman, formerly of Wiarton.
From the Advocate – 45 years ago (1969)
A sudden tightening of the mortgage money market has put a halt for now to a 160-lot subdivision that was expected to more than double the population of Hillsburgh. Only 15 homes have been built. All but four purchasers have been rejected by lending institutions even though the homes are selling for $21,495, thousands less than comparable homes in Metro Toronto. Because they are on septic tanks, they do no qualify for National Housing Act mortgages. Purchasers need a $9,000 annual income, a downpayment of $2,208 and must make monthly payments of $204 for principal, interest and taxes.
McClellan Motors in Erin, formerly known as Carney Bros. Ltd., has been sold to Mr. Ed Stewart of Ospringe. The business will continue to be operated as a garage, along with several dealerships.
A photo of Mrs. Bert Price of Cedar Valley appeared on the front page, with her holding a prize 12 lb., 32-inch pickerel that she caught last week in the Nottawasaga River near Stayner.
From the Advocate – 35 years ago (1979)
No one was hurt on Halloween in Erin, but at least three fires were set by vandals – two in derelict automobiles and one in a portable classroom at Erin District High School where a window was smashed. The Citizens’ Patrol and at least six OPP cruisers were busy in Erin, with a stop sign being pushed over, garbage cans dumped on the streets, eggs thrown and threats made against downtown businesses including The Advocate.
Ontario Lieutenant-Governor Pauline McGibbon will be the special guest of honour to kick off the Erin Village Centennial Village celebrations. Other participants at the event will be piper Dave Davidson, Rev. James Mackay, Reeve Larry MacKenzie, MP Perrin Beatty, MPP Jack Johnson, Township Reeve Bert Wheeler, Ruth Schatz of the Ontario Heritage Foundation, event chair Bill Higgins and Erin Senior Citizens’ President Mrs. S.S. Kiteley.
From the Advocate – 25 years ago (1989)
After months of interviews, Village Council has hired Jim Hunt as the new Works Superintendent. He was previously a construction supervisor and road repair worker for the City of Etobicoke.
The Erin District High School junior and seniors girls’ basketball teams both ended their season on a high note, advancing to the CWOSSA playoffs next week. The senior Raiders coached by Bill Hocken defeated the Norwell Redmen 47-31 with Diane Fisher scoring 18 points, Teriann Bratton 6 points and Janice Root 4 points.
October 29, 2014
Erin Township starts Patriotic Fund
From the Advocate – 100 years ago (1914)
Erin Township Council has voted to start a Patriotic Fund to assist in the war effort. Council has divided the territory and assigned members to do a thorough canvas of residents: J. Binnie in the North, E. Beswick in the East, Jos. Benham in the South and W. Jessop in the West. Welland County Council has donated $5,000 for the purchase of apples and flour for the British Government. Hastings County will send four carloads of fruit, grain, vegetables and clothing to the Belgians.
From the Advocate – 45 years ago (1969)
The Advocate printed a speech on Page 1 by Energy Minister George Kerr, regarding a provincial plan to subsidize water and sewage works for small municipalities, with sufficient funding to ensure that the annual cost of sewers would not exceed $120 per household. “The Communities requiring such assistance are ones facing unusually high costs because of topography, type of soil or rock, which increases the charge for construction, or those with a small population and low assessment. It is not realistic today to permit a small community, already established for many years, to go without the necessities of pure water supply and treatment of wastes. Downstream users will benefit directly from such projects.” The Advocate noted that the funding “could be of extreme importance to Erin Village in getting underway the several proposed housing development projects.”
Mel Barden of Hillsburgh died suddenly at the age of 66, collapsing at the wheel of a truck after delivering a load of lumber with Ross McKinnon to the home of Joe Baldwin in Erin. He is mourned by his wife Lillian (Steen) and some 1,500 people paid their respects. He had served on Erin Township Council for many years, operated a garage, gas station and clothing store in Hillsburgh and was a well-known participant and judge at horse shows.
From the Advocate – 35 years ago (1979)
The Community Telephone Company is seeking increases that will mean rate hikes of up to 100 per cent for some customers in Erin and Hillsburgh. Jeanette Cox, president of the Committee for Better Service, said the announcement “is like pouring a can of gas on the fire” and promised vigourous opposition.
MP Perrin Beatty cut the ribbon to officially open the new Graham Fiberglass factory in Erin. The plant will provide about 100 jobs.
The signs have gone up at three locations, saying: “Erin Village protected by Block Parents”. On hand for the event were Cathy McGinnity, Erin Public School Principal Bruce Macpherson, Block Parents Chair Louise Lone, Barbara Crane and her son Robbie, Erin Councillor Evelyn O’Sullivan, Gillian Cantrell and Sharon Rolling.
From the Advocate – 25 years ago (1989)
In a letter to a local resident, Transportation Minister William Wrye has promised that a traffic light at Brisbane will now be on the ministry’s priority list, but Erin Township Clerk Murray Clark says the municipality had not been informed, and there’s no indication of when the work will be done. He said it would be the Township’s first traffic light. Councillor Doris Topolsek released the exchange of letters with a woman who wants to remain anonymous. The writer noted a fatal accident at the corner on September 1, and many others that have caused a public outcry. The minister said traffic and accident data show that “the requirements for traffic signals have been met”.
A proposal for a four-storey 120-unit seniors complex on Dundas Street drew strong opposition from some area residents. “I don’t want that building in my backyard,” said John Duckworth. Village planning consultant John Logan also said the location is not ideal, since any seniors facility should be closer to downtown Erin.
Erin Township Council has voted to start a Patriotic Fund to assist in the war effort. Council has divided the territory and assigned members to do a thorough canvas of residents: J. Binnie in the North, E. Beswick in the East, Jos. Benham in the South and W. Jessop in the West. Welland County Council has donated $5,000 for the purchase of apples and flour for the British Government. Hastings County will send four carloads of fruit, grain, vegetables and clothing to the Belgians.
From the Advocate – 45 years ago (1969)
The Advocate printed a speech on Page 1 by Energy Minister George Kerr, regarding a provincial plan to subsidize water and sewage works for small municipalities, with sufficient funding to ensure that the annual cost of sewers would not exceed $120 per household. “The Communities requiring such assistance are ones facing unusually high costs because of topography, type of soil or rock, which increases the charge for construction, or those with a small population and low assessment. It is not realistic today to permit a small community, already established for many years, to go without the necessities of pure water supply and treatment of wastes. Downstream users will benefit directly from such projects.” The Advocate noted that the funding “could be of extreme importance to Erin Village in getting underway the several proposed housing development projects.”
Mel Barden of Hillsburgh died suddenly at the age of 66, collapsing at the wheel of a truck after delivering a load of lumber with Ross McKinnon to the home of Joe Baldwin in Erin. He is mourned by his wife Lillian (Steen) and some 1,500 people paid their respects. He had served on Erin Township Council for many years, operated a garage, gas station and clothing store in Hillsburgh and was a well-known participant and judge at horse shows.
From the Advocate – 35 years ago (1979)
The Community Telephone Company is seeking increases that will mean rate hikes of up to 100 per cent for some customers in Erin and Hillsburgh. Jeanette Cox, president of the Committee for Better Service, said the announcement “is like pouring a can of gas on the fire” and promised vigourous opposition.
MP Perrin Beatty cut the ribbon to officially open the new Graham Fiberglass factory in Erin. The plant will provide about 100 jobs.
The signs have gone up at three locations, saying: “Erin Village protected by Block Parents”. On hand for the event were Cathy McGinnity, Erin Public School Principal Bruce Macpherson, Block Parents Chair Louise Lone, Barbara Crane and her son Robbie, Erin Councillor Evelyn O’Sullivan, Gillian Cantrell and Sharon Rolling.
From the Advocate – 25 years ago (1989)
In a letter to a local resident, Transportation Minister William Wrye has promised that a traffic light at Brisbane will now be on the ministry’s priority list, but Erin Township Clerk Murray Clark says the municipality had not been informed, and there’s no indication of when the work will be done. He said it would be the Township’s first traffic light. Councillor Doris Topolsek released the exchange of letters with a woman who wants to remain anonymous. The writer noted a fatal accident at the corner on September 1, and many others that have caused a public outcry. The minister said traffic and accident data show that “the requirements for traffic signals have been met”.
A proposal for a four-storey 120-unit seniors complex on Dundas Street drew strong opposition from some area residents. “I don’t want that building in my backyard,” said John Duckworth. Village planning consultant John Logan also said the location is not ideal, since any seniors facility should be closer to downtown Erin.
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