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HISTORY OF WORK POINT BARRACKSby Jack BatesPART 4 — 1907 to 19181914Daily Colonist PERMANENT DEFENCES Detachments of the militia have for almost six months been stationed at Nanaimo and Ladysmith, and, if reports which reach us are correct, the time for their withdrawal is not yet in sight. Shortly after the necessity for sending troops into the colliery districts arose this paper drew attention to the desirability of a permanent garrison being stationed at Nanaimo. By this we meant not such a garrison that as now exists there, but one composed of regular troops, not drawn from Work Point, for that barracks is already much undermanned, but drafted from some point in the east or raised by means of enlistment in the Province. At a time when the minister of militia is on the coast we take the opportunity of drawing his attention to the importance of such provision being made. It is certain that no one realizes more than he does that it is a desirable thing that the officers and men now serving up the island should be returned to their homes in Victoria at the earliest opportunity. There may be circumstances, of which we are unaware, that will make this possible sooner than is anticipated, but the suggestion we advance has this also to recommend it in that it would make for the strengthening of the permanent forces in British Columbia. The growing importance of this Province warrants the establishment of one or two more garrisons as well as considerable strengthening of the personnel at Work Point. This is a matter that we earnestly hope will receive the careful attention of Colonel Sam Hughes during his present visit to the coast. January 24, 1914 An error, that is a very common one, is to speak of Work Point Barracks. To be strictly accurate, we should say Wark Point Barracks. February 25, 1914 FIRE ENDS CAREER OF OLD INSTITUTION Marine Hospital Destroyed Yesterday – Ancient Landmark of City In the destruction of the Marine Hospital, on the former Indian reserve, an old landmark of the city disappeared. It was an inglorious end that came to the institution, for forty years a prominent structure in the city, but for some years past it had ceased to be utilized for the work for which it was erected, and laterally it had become a menace from the standpoint of health and a refuge for undesirable, who have been using it for living quarters. The work of destruction commenced on Saturday, when a number of old shacks nearby the hospital were destroyed. It was continued yesterday morning, Chief of Police Langley and Fire Chief Davies being the chief participants in the last rites of the old time institution. Cotton waste, liberally soaked in coal oil, started the blaze, which for several hours wrapped the old building in a sheet of flames. It was testimony to the solid construction of the building that the work of the flames was resisted for so long. The blaze will, however, prove a blessing in that one of the most insanitary spots in the city has been wiped out. The sanitary conditions, as a result of the large number of tramps who have infested the place, were little short of appalling. The flames bursting from the roof of the building attracted the attention of many persons in the city, and one excited individual, not knowing that the outbreak of fire had been planned, sent in an alarm of fire from the corner of Yates and Wharf streets. He apparently failed to figure out just how the fire apparatus, having arrived at that point, was to be sent across the arm to the burning building. The old Marine Hospital was erected in the early seventies. In fact, its erection was stipulated in the act whereby British Columbia entered confederation on July 1, 1871. In the same locality there had been erected, and used prior to that date, the old hospital and insane asylum of colonial days, Dr. Jackson being hospital superintendent of the former for years. When the old structure ceased to be used as a hospital, the patients were removed to the French Hospital, at the head of Pandora avenue and, later, the amalgamation of the old Royal and French Hospitals led to the establishment of the Royal Jubilee Hospital. The old asylum was done away with, and the patients afterwards removed to the New Westminster Asylum. During the war in South Africa the marine Hospital destroyed yesterday served as a barracks for the contingent which was sent to the front. To the seafaring men who have for years sailed from this port the Marine Hospital was an institution of importance. It served the needs of the marine population, exclusive of the naval forces, and many a storm-tossed mariner who arrived at this port was given shelter there until he could make other arrangements for his future. Daily Colonist Civil Aid Force – Some 60 men of the permanent force of the C.G.A. will be sent up this week to augment the civil aid force at Nanaimo. They will be commanded by Major A.T. Ogilvie. Staff Course at Barracks – The practical portion of the staff course now being taken by a number of the militia officers of the province opened yesterday at the Work Point Barracks under Majors Lipsett and Eaton and will be continued for several weeks. Victoria Times OFFICERS TAKING STAFF COURSE A large number of officers are taking the course for Staff Officers at Work Point Barracks. The results of the theoretical tests were given some days ago, and the practical work is now being undertaken. This includes the construction of trenches and bridges. May 9, 1914 PASSED STAFF COURSE The following officers, who have during the last fortnight been taking the practical portion of their staff course examinations at the barracks at Work Point, are now announced to have passed: Lt Col AW Currie, Majors L Ross and G Hughes and Capt’s Roberts of the 50th Gordon Highlanders; Lt Col Duff Stuart, CO of the Vancouver Infantry Brigade; Lt Col RG Leckie and Capt G Godson, of the 72 (Seaforth) Highlanders; Lt Col A Flick and Capt Matthews of the BC Horse; Major Sclater and Capt.’s Prower and Dowding. Daily Colonist PROMOTIONS GAZETTED Victoria Militia Officers Pass Staff Course Examinations The following officers of the Province are gazette in the last Militia Orders published from Ottawa as having completed the militia staff course and passed the required examinations which entitle them to have the letters “M.S.C.” recorded after their names in the militia list. Lt. Col. J. Duff - Stuart, 23rd Infantry Brigade, Vancouver; Lt. Col. C. Flick, Major H.H. Matthews, Capt. J.N. Power of the 31st B.C. Horse; Major J. Belantry, 6th Regiment; Capt. I.W. Dowding, 11th Regiment; Lt. Col. A.W. Currie, Majors L. Ross and G.B. Hughes and Capt. C.M. Roberts, of the 50th Highlanders; Lt. Col. R.G.E. Leckie and Capt. Godson, of the 72nd Seaforth Highlanders. All these officers it will be remembered recently took the practical portion of their course at the Work Point Barracks. Continued ... additional gazette issues TIMES FUSILIERS SHOOTING TROPHY
WHITE HOMES OF SOLDIERS AT MACAULAY POINT – FIFTH REGIMENT, C.G.A.
June 24, 1914 ANNUAL CADET CAMP Over 1,000 Youths to Go Into Summer Traing at Macaulay Plains Major W.H. Belson announced yesterday that arrangements for the annual cadet training on Macaulay Plains July 6 to 11 are now nearing completion. Lieut. Col. R.G.E. Leckie, commanding officer of the 72nd Seaforth Highlanders will, as last year, be camp commandant, assisted by Captain R.V. Harvey of the 88th Fusliers as D.A.A.G. and Q.M.G. Most of the Victoria cadets corps will be represented n camp and those of Vancouver, North Vancouver and South Vancouver, also the cadets of the Cowichan and Nanaimo corps. Altogether between 1,000 and 1,200 may be expected. June 26, 1914 ARRANGEMENTS FOR HIGHLANDERS CAMP Parade at 8 a.m. on Saturday – March Out to Camp at 2 p.m. The 50th Regiment of Highlanders is busily engaged each night on the Central School grounds in company drill, preparatory to going into camp on Saturday next. Lt. Col. A.W. Currie announced yesterday that a full muster was expected as he had received very few applications for leave of absence. The regiment will parade on Saturday morning at headquarters, at 8 o’clock, and will spend the forenoon in class firing on the rifle range. At midday they will march back to headquarters, where lunch will be served. At 2 o’clock the whole regiment, including any not able to make the morning parade will set out on their march to camp at Macaulay Plains. A camp has been planned and supplied with water by the engineers from Work Point barracks. On arrival the 50th will pitch tents, dine at 5 p.m. and do two hours drill afterwards. Lieut. H.R. Selfe, head signaling officer of the district, with a squad of signaling instructors, will attend this camp, and also Lieut’s. G.A.B. Hall and Raynor, of the A.M.C. for purposes of instructing the signalling and ambulance units of the regiment. The regiment will break camp and march back into the city on Wednesday evening about 7 o’clock. June 28, 1914 SUCCESSFUL FIRING BY 5TH REGIMENT No. 2 and 3 Cos. Fire in Competition Series at Macaulay Point Yesterday The work of the 5th Regiment, Canadian Garrison Artillery, culminated yesterday, as far as two of its companies were concerned, in their series of competitive firing, the results of which will determine their position against all the other regiments of their corps in the Dominion with all the honors and prizes attached to success. No. 2 company, commanded by Major Woolison, was timed to begin its firing from the Macaulay Plains fort with the big guns at 2 o’clock, but owing to a delay on the part of the tug, which was to tow the targets, in getting on to the right ground and then to a series od small craft crossing the line of fire, it was nearly two hours later before the right hand gun fired its first shot. The public are, of course, not admitted to the fort itself, but an admirable view was obtainable from the rocks behind one gun and every shot was followed with the keenest interest. The range was estimated at between 3,000 and 4,000 yards and twenty rounds were fired. At each shot the flash of the discharge and the disappearance of the gun were almost simultaneous and it required a very quick eye indeed to follow the projectile as it went moaning on its way, to raise a column of water high in the air far away in the straits, and a second later from the ricochet yet further beyond. Official results were not available at the conclusion, but it was understood that the company made nineteen hits out of their twenty shots. Then insued another long wait between six and seven o’clock, when No. 3 company fired their rounds in the competitive series with their 12 pounders. The tug again seemed to be the cause of the delay, taking an indertimable time to tow the targets in and bring out the one to be anchored for the second firing, and a number of the spectators went home in despair. Major Harris took charge of his guns for the first half, and after finding the range at 2150 with a 12 ½ second fuse, some excellent practice was made with shrapnel which burst all around the mark. Captain Stern took direction of the battery for the second half, after the range had again been tested, gave the same distance, namely, 3150 yards, and the same fuse. Again the guns gave an excellent exhibition of skill, Major A.T. Ogilvie, R.C.A., was in charge of the whole competition. After dinner, No. 2 company were put through manoeuvres on the plains with their horsed guns. Today all clothing will be inspected at the muster parade in the morning and service will be conducted in the open if fine. In the afternoon both the 5th and the 50th will be at leisure to receive their friends. On Monday, No. 1 company fires its competitive series at Esquimalt. July 1, 1914 SHAM ENGAGEMENT Highlanders Will Defend and Attack Drydock in Today’s Instructional Execises Members of the 50th Gordon Highlanders of Victoria spent a busy day at their camp at Macaulay Plains yesterday. There were field exercises in the morning, a parade at 2 p.m., a repetition in its main features of the morning’s programme in the afternoon, and a march past at 7 o’clock in the evening. The training was participated in by the majority of the corps, there being exceptionally few absentees and those excused being only those who found it absolutely impossible to be present. The corps will be exceedingly active today from early morning. The day is to be devoted to instructional exercises, which will take the form of an engagement between the two half battalions of the regiment. Major Lorne Ross in charge of one will be required to defend the Esquimalt drydock, while Major Hughes in command of the other, will endeavor to force a way across the Gorge and capture that important strategical point. The frontiersmen will be evenly divided between the contending forces and will act as scouts. The invaders will be distinguished by the display of white on their helmets. Camp will be broken in the evening, the regiment marching through the city to its temporary quarters. July 5, 1914 CADETS MARCH INTO CAMP TOMORROW Central School and Esquimalt School Corps Tomorrow the big cadet camp of the Province opens on Macaulay Plains, where preparations have been made by the Engineers at Work Point Barracks for 1,000, a number which would have been considerably greater but for reasons which nobody could control, and which have prevented one or two corps from attending. Lieutenant Colonel R.G.E. Leckie, the camp commandant, arrives with the mainland contingent of the cadets by the Vancouver boat at 2:30 p.m. tomorrow. These include 411 of the Vancouver City …. South Vancouver … from the North Vancouver and the Seaforth Highlanders Cadet Corps, 100 strong. They will be marched down to camp through the city, headed by a combined band of forty members and that of the Seaforths. The Victoria cadets muster earlier, and will be already in camp by the time the others arrive. The Esquimalt cadets parade at the Lampson Street School at 9 a.m., and the Central School cadets at the Central School at 9:30 a.m., the unattached boys will place themselves under the direction of Mr. Ian St. Clair and Mr. S.J. Willis. Cadet’s baggage will be transported from the schools to the camp free of charge. Unattached boys are expected to wear black or blue jerseys. From the Central School 150 are expected, 50 from Esquimalt and 70 unattached, making the mainland cadets a total of about 941. Colonel Leckie will be assisted by the following staff: Capt. Harley, D.A.A.G. and Q.M.G., Major W.H. Belson, inspector of cadets as chief staff officer, and Lieut. A. Mulcahy as chief instructor, with a force of non-commissioned officers from the permanent force. The period of training will extend to the end of the week. Fifty-five school teachers of the Province are also expected to camp tomorrow, who come in for a six weeks training to qualify as instructors of the cadet corps. Photo: GUNS OF NO. 3 CO., 5TH REGIMENT, AT MACAULAY PLAINS COLONIST PROMOTED IN 88TH Major Byng Hall Saw Service With Indian Regiment in China Major Byng Hall, D.S.O., whose promotion to his present rank was gazette just before he took the 88th Fusiliers up to Ladysmith last Sunday, saw his first service when a Lieutenant in the 35th Sikh Pioneers, in China, under General Sir Moore Creagh. He was mentioned in dispatches and received the Distinguished Service Order as result of that campaign. Major Byng Hall joined the 88th on its formation here as Captain, and distinguished himself in the first field manoeuvres held by the regiment last summer, when, in command of 19 men, he fought a rear-guard action against the whole of the Highlanders along side of Elk Lake so successfully that they were obliged to choose another route for their advance to Victoria. PRE WORLD WAR 1 SCRAPBOOK See February 9, 2012 for a scrapbook from February 20, 1913 to July 11, 1914. July 12, 1914 MILITARY ACTIVITY IN VICTORIA Whatever may be thought or said in political circles concerning Canada’s contributions towards Imperial defence on sea, it is quite certain that the young men and veterans of Victoria have not the slightest intention of laying themselves open to the charge that they are not alive to the duty of doing their utmost to be ready to defend their country should the unfortunate necessity ever arise.
Volunteering in Victoria has lately received an astonishing impetus, and we are now the headquarters of a force of artillery and infantry, the first of long establishment and very highly creditable record, and the other advancing quickly on the way to make itself as efficient in its line as the senior branch. In the last week or two this fact has been very forcibly brought home to Victorians. The sound of pipe and bugle and the sight of marching troops, now in full dress uniform for a church parade, and now in workmanlike khaki, on the march to camp or field manoeuvres, has been an almost everyday occurrence. At one time a crowd had formed to watch the fine looking body of men, proud in the privilege of wearing the uniform of the glorious Gordon Highlanders, as they marched out for the first time in their full splendor of scarlet and tartan, and again the strains of the popular 5th Regiment Band has attracted the attention of sightseers to the sight of the crack volunteer artillery regiment of Canada, marching with the horsed field gun battery in the lead, to their camp at Macaulay Plains for their annual training and work on the big guns of the coast fortifications.
A pleasant break in the routine work of this regiment was afforded as usual by their athletic sports meeting, when some good work was seen in the various events by a large crowd, including a big percentage of the lady friends of the regiment, with whom the soldiers are always popular.
This is the first summer since the formation of the Victoria regiment of Gordon Highlanders, but their energetic Colonel, who brought the “Fighting Fifth” to such a high state of efficiency when they were under his command, has taken all his energy and enthusiasm to his new command and was able to arrange a few days in camp with his men, and as they turned to and had a spirited and well fought engagement among themselves. The ranks of the 88th Fusiliers having been somewhat split up by the necessity of keeping a civil force in the Nanaimo district, those of the regiment who are left in Victoria satisfied their martial ardor by invading the territory of their brothers in arms and making a raid on their base of supplies in Nanaimo, so that, although there is no brigade camp held on Vancouver Island this year, all the regiments were able to get in some useful training. The younger generation are not to be outdone by their elders, and, now that the camp has been vacated by the troops, it has been peaceably taken possession of by a large body of smart cadets who are busily engaged in drilling and manoeuvring in true military style and under strict military discipline. There are over eight hundred of the boys in camp, six hundred odd coming over from Vancouver, while the island districts have contributed over two hundred to the number.
Altogether, volunteering in Victoria seems to be in a very flourishing condition. The 5th C.G. Artillery are old friends, and none the less good friends for that; the 88th Fusiliers have not been established very long, but in the short period of their existence have shown themselves to be possessed of unbounded enthusiasm and a great capacity for hard work, and have earned great praise from high authorities in consequence. The 50th Gordon Highlanders are the youngest of our military forces, but they seem to have no need of any advertising campaign to help their recruiting, and are a fine looking body of men, among whom are many old soldiers, and, after they have had more training, and plenty of drill, their marching and military bearing will doubtless be as excellent as their keenness and anxiety for military distinction whether in peace or war. They were fortunate in the munificence of their Honorary Colonel, Mr. Coy, a munificence which surely has the gratification of being justified by results. July 19, 1914 In Camp with the Cadets at Macaulay Plain The training camp for the cadet corps of the Province in 1914 was situated on Macaulay Plains, near Victoria, and lasted from July 6 to July 11. Over 800 cadets came in all of whom except thirty five were members of organized cadet corps and in uniform, a great advance on last year’s camp at Sidney. Vancouver sent some 600, Cowichan and Nanaimo thirty five each, and Victoria and Esquimalt the rest.
The absence of the High School cadet corps of Victoria and of the University School cadets lessened the numbers from the island considerably, but a case of illness (measles) among the latter was the cause of their unavoidable absence, much to their own regret. A special word of commendation is due to the corps sent down from Cowichan and Nanaimo, which showed themselves as smart as any other in camp, and in the march past on review day. For the second year in succession the Camp Commandant was Lieut. Col. R.E. Leckie, the commanding officer of the 72nd, assisted by the following staff: Staff Officer, Major W.H. Belson; Officer inspector of Cadet Corps for the District, D.A.A. and Q.M.G., Capt. R.V. Harvey, 88th Fusiliers; Transport Officer, Captain Dowling L.F.; Chaplain, Hon. Captain the Rev. and hon. T. Heneage; Chief Instructor, Lieut. Mulcahy, R.C.G.R., and Medical Officer Hon. Lieut. Dr. Brydon Jack. The cadet instructors in camp were: Lieut. H.O. King, R. Straight, H.W. Brown, D. Armour, L.B. Code, T.W. Woodhead, John Dunbar, A.C. Bundy, D.P. McCallum, F.A. Jewett, J.M. Thomas, S.J. Bryant, J.W. Mullin, P.M. Archer, R.P. Steeves, John R. Gale, J.R. Pollock, Owen J. Thomas, H.W. Creedman, D.A. Boyd, H. D. Herd, A. Francis, V.Z. Manning, W.J. Wilby, P.R.M. Wallis, A. Grahame and George R. Coombs. The camp was pitched on a slope close to the sea, which afforded every facing for bathing parades, while the broken plains around, with every variety of outline, provided excellent ground for manoeuvring and sham fights. The camp was well provided with music, the Seaforth cadets bringing their own pipe band and bugle band, and the Vancouver schools organizing a combined brass band between them.
All arrangements for the camp had been carried out by the engineers of the permanent force at Work point barracks with the greatest skill and thoughtfulness for the comfort of the boys. During the week the D.O.C. of the 11th District, Colonel A. Roy, paid several visits of inspection, and on Thursday accompanied the Premier of the Province, Sir Richard McBride, in a review of the whole force, when the march past was marked by unusual steadiness and smartness, Sir Richard and Colonel Roy both congratulating the cadets, on their appearance and drill.
The following day, the last of the camp, was occupied with a sham fight in the morning, in which all ranks, acquitted themselves with great credit, giving evidence of the intelligent manner in which their camp instruction had been given and received. In the afternoon the cadets and instructors competed in an interesting programme of athletic sports for a number of handsome prizes.
Fifty school teachers of the Province remain under canvas on Macaulay Plains, where for another five weeks they will undergo training with a view to obtaining certificates of proficiency as cadet corps instructors in the schools of British Columbia.
This is the second year this annual camp has been organized, and already, as Colonel Leckie pointed out when speaking of the cadet movement, last week, the increased efficiency of the instructors is being reflected in the increased efficiency of the camp.
Lt. Colonel Leckie was most emphatic in the remarks he made upon the improvement in discipline and in the work done last week when compared with that of the first camp he commanded at Sidney a year ago. Then a majority of the boys came in as an unorganized mass, and were proportionately harder to reduce to the order necessary to any serious work being attempted in the way of drill. This year, he said, nearly all came in as members of organized corps, nearly all, were in uniform, and the work was taken on straight from where it was left off last year. For this, in great measure, he attributes the credit to the enthusiastic manner in which the cadet instructors in the public schools have in many instances identified themselves with the movement, and studied their end of the task, namely, the instructional duties of officers in command. The 50th Regiment (Gordon Highlanders) publication by Jack Drysdale Of the total strength on the preceding page (332 all ranks), all but twenty-nine other ranks attended and were paid for the five days of Camp Training. In other words, 303 out of 332 officers, NCO’s and men were under canvas at Camp Macaulay – a credit to the rank and file, the NCO’s and the officers. Not bad for a unit less than a year old. Jack Drysdale / Jack Fawcett ESQUIMALT MUNICIPAL COUNCIL MINUTE BOOKS Councillor Mesher drew attention to the fire on Head Street, and after some discussion it was resolved: “That the sum of $10.00 be handed to Councillor Mesher to give to the Soldiers who so ably helped in extinguishing the fire.” 5th (B.C.) Regiment C.G.A. At the breakup of the annual camp of the 5th Regiment at Macaulay on the 30th June, 1914, little did anyone dream that eight years would elapse before another such camp would be held, or that within five weeks there would be a call to arms throughout the British Empire to fight in the greatest war of modern times. Although war was not actually declared between Great Britain and Germany until the 4th of August, 1914, the 5th regiment was mobilized prior to that date and various detachments were allotted to man all the forts constituting the Defence of Esquimalt and Victoria. On August 2nd the first detachment of 4 officers and 54 N.C.O.’s and men proceeded to Esquimalt; on August 3rd a second detachment of 1 officer and 51 N.C.O.’s and men proceeded to Work Point Barracks; and on August 4th Headquarters and the remainder of the Regiment, including the band, proceeded to Macaulay. On this day also another detachment of 2 officers and 52 N.C.O.’s and men from duty with the Civil Aid Force at Ladysmith, with 1 field gun, proceeded to Work Point Barracks. Immediately after the declaration of war the Canadian Government offered to raise immediately and send overseas a contingent of approximately 20,000 troops, which offer was gratefully accepted by the Imperial Government. The call for volunteers met with a ready response from Victoria, as elsewhere throughout the country, and on August 26th the first detachment from the 5th Regiment consisting of 68 officers, N.C.O.’s and men, left Victoria for Valcartier to join the first Canadian Contingent for overseas service. Continued. Lt. Col. FA Robertson - January 31, 1925 Daily Colonist Articles from The Daily Colonist Regarding the German Cruisers in the Pacific There are three boats: the Leipzig, the Landsnacht, and the Nuremburg, all possibly stationed at the German colony in China, Tsing Tao, or in German Samoa. 1914-08-03, p. 2: Armament of Leipzig. German cruiser on Pacific Coast is smaller than the HMCS Rainbow. 1914-08-03, p. 2: German Cruisers, Leipzig relieves Landsnacht, which was directed to return to Taing Tau [Tsing Tao]. Off Mazatlan. Two English cruisers at San Diego. 1914-08-06, p. 1: German Cruiser Leaves Mazatlan. Leipzig. Presence caused much anxiety. Whereabouts of Nuremburg not known. Last cleared from Honolulu, headed for German Samoa. 1914-08-13, p. 2: Cruiser Leipzig seeking refueling of coal at San Francisco. 1914-08-14, p. 2: San Francisco Examiner violate neutrality by offering assistance to Leipzig. 1914-08-15, p. 3: Leipzig Turns to Southward. Reported last night off San Francisco, which port she may enter. May look for coal carrier. After a northerly course to the Mendecino Coast, the German cruiser Leipzig has turned ... and is cruising slowly towards this port [SF] .... At 1.20 today (Aug. 14) the Leipzig was off Point Reyes .... No further reports (checked to 1 Sept. 1914) Transcribed courtesy of Charles Tolman – Armament of Leipzig. German cruiser on Pacific coast is smaller than the HMCS Rainbow. August 3, 1914 FIFTH REGIMENT RESPONDS TO CALL Large Parade at Short Notice at Drill Hall Yesterday Furnishes More Yesterday was spent by the naval and military authorities in perfecting still further the arrangements to protect this port and the sea coast of the Province. The 5th Regiment responded promptly to the summons for a parade, published in these columns yesterday morning. Their commanding officer, Lieut. Col.W.N. Winsby, when he arrived at the drill hall yesterday afternoon at 3 o’clock, found some 205 men of the regiment awaiting him. He informed them that the occasion of this sudden call was to furnish a number of men for certain duties connected with coast defence. It might be that the services of the whiole regiment would be required before long, but at present he had only to ask for fifty men. At once there was almost a general move foreward on the part of the men on parade, and over sixty volunteered. After instructions had been received the parade was dismissed. The longest interval was taken in the proceedings of the afternoon by a large crowd of spectators. Among them seen at the hall were Lieut. Col. A.W. Currie, the commanding officer of the 50th Highlanders, Major Ridgeway Wilson, an old 5th officer, and many friends and relations of the men of the regiment. Later, supplies and extra kit were issued to the detachment selected for duty from the Work Point Barracks. Naval Volunteers in Barracks The whole of the Victoria Company of naval volunteers reported yesterday morning at the dockyard, and returned in the afternoon to take up their quarters there. Drill will be carried on steadily, and as new recruits come in, this excellent opportunity will be taken advantage of to put the whole of the men on shore through a course of training in all of the duties the naval volunteer will be called upon to perform. The other militia regiments are waiting anxiously for some idea of when and where their services will be required. Large numbers of men are available who will join if any assurance is given that, in the event of war, men already members of a regiment will be given the preference in case a volunteer force from this Province forms a part of any contingent sent across the Atlantic by Canada. REGIMENTS IN READINESS Prepared to Fulfill Orders – Recruiting Offices Open Two More Companies for 50th With the expectation that at any moment the militia regiments of Victoria may be called upon for service, commanding officers are straining every nerve to ensure that any such demands by the Government may be amply and sufficiently met. Lieut. Col. A.W. Currie stated last night that the 50th Highlanders were ready for any duty that the government might require of them, and that the organization of two more companies would be proceeded with at once. The 88th Fusiliers recruiting office will be open tomorrow after the parade and numbers of men are understood to be waiting for the outbreak of hostilities to sign on. Lieut. Col. W.N. Winsby announced last night that a limited number of recruits were wanted for the 5th Regimnt, and that applications might be made at the drill hall each night between the hours of 6 and 10. GOLD THIEF CAPTURED Frenchman Who Got Away With $4,000 Near Telegraph Creek Has Been Arrested The recovery of the bullion and the arrest of the thief who purloined $4,000 worth of gold from a guard on the trail between Telegraph Creek and Deace Lake on Saturday was reported to Suerintendent Colin Campbell, head of the Provincial Poilce Department by wire from Telegraph Creek last evening. The message stated that a Frenchman, named De Forrest, was captured on Saturday at a point twenty-six miles afrom Telegraph Creek, and the prisoner had been brought into that place. All the gold was recovered. De Forrest had about seventeen ounces on his person when arrested, and the balance was found at a spot where the prisoner had cached it following the robbery. MOUNTED INFANTRY ORGANIZE TODAY Many Applications Already Received for Victoria Squadron Numerous inquiries are being received by Dr. Bapty relative to the Squadron of Mounted Rifles, which is now being enrolled in Victoria. A large number of enthusiastic men, all of them able to ride and shoot, and many with previous service, have already placed their names on the service roll and all are eager to defend the flag in any part of the Empire. The advantage of Mounte Rifles in the foeld is due to the rapidity with which they can move from palce to place and take up positions in short time. In a general engagement they are of great use in turning an enemy’s flank and harassing them in pursuit. Consequently they see much action when other branches of the service may be inactive. Scouting is also one of their duties, thus it will be seen that good riders and shots only are required, and it cannot be expected that recruits will be taught riding and shooting at the eleventh hour. Victoria is fortunate that the large number of her citizens who have learnd self reliance in the mountains and plains of Canada and who have the makings in them of the finest mounted troops in the world. The officers of the new squadron will be busy tonight at the drill hall enrolling members. Drill will commence tomorrow night at a lace yet to be decided upon. All applicants must come up to requirements and be willing to undertake any service. REGIMENTAL ORDERS 50th Highlanders of Canada By Lt. Col. A.W. Currie commanding: Headquarters 1175 Fort Street, Victoria, August 3, 1914. All members of the 50th Regiment will hold themselves in readiness to parade at headquarters at a moments notice. Dress, field service order. All officers, color sergeants and section commanders will report to headquarters twice each day, between 10 and 12 in the morning and between 2 and 5 in the afternoon. 88th Victoria Fusiliers Regimental orders by Major Byng Hall, D.S.O., commanding. Headquarters, Belmont House, Victoria, B.C. August 3, 1914. Parade – The regiment will parade at the drill hall tonight at 8 p.m. Dress kharki, greatcoats (rolled), haversacks and water bottles will be carried. Men having rifles in their possession will bring them. Any man having more than one rifle in his possession will turn the others into store tonight. Men in possession of the service kit will bring it with him. No leave will be gratntd from this parade. The drums and fifes will attend. All NC.O.’s and men of the 8th Fusiliers will report daily at the Regimental Institute, cornr of Fort and Langley Streets for orders. V.H.C. McDowell Note: Any man wishing to join the 88th Regiment can apply at the drill hall tonight. FOR ACTIVE SERVICE Chaplain of thr 50th Regiment States His Determination If the 50th Regiment, Gordon Highlanders, is called to service, it will be accompanied by the chaplain, the Rev. Dr. Campbell. Dr. Campbell stated to his congregation last evening that, if the regiment with which he is connected was summoned to active service, he was determined to accompany it. In that event, another minister would have to be appointed by the Presbytery to take charge of the Erskine Church congregation. NAVAL VOLUNTEERS New Appointments of Officers and Acting Officers Made Yesterday It was learned last night that yesterday several new acting appointments of officers were made to the Naval Volunteers. Dr. G.H.Lifton is appointed as acting lieutenant, Mr. H. Edwards an acting sub lieutenant, and Mr. G. Ogden acting assistant paymaster. The appointment of Mr. Herbert Mock to be a lieutenant in the force in the event of hostilities was confirmed from Ottawa yesterday. H accordingly joined the force in the dockyard last night. THE WORLD (Vancouver) Transcribed courtesy of Charles Tolman - Pages 1 & 2 - Articles on German Cruisers off the east coast of Canada.
Daily Colonist THE CALL TO COLORS FINDS 5TH READY Regiment Again Answers to Sudden Call for More Men – Has 150 Men on Service “I regret” said Lieut. Col. W. N. Winsby, addressing the 5th Regiment on parade at the drill hall yesterday “having to summon these repeated parades. The 5th regiment is already supplying some sixty mento the Civil Aid Force at Ladysmith; yesterday it sent another detachment on duty and, no doubt, we all wold prefer to see the whole regiment called out to serve together. The suspense is trying, alike to officers and men, and under the conditions existing you will realize that our duty is to hold ourselves ready to perform whatever duties be laid upon us.” The Fifth responded in the most practical way to their commanding officer’s support for a further detachment by lining up more than the required number of men immediately. They were ordered to report for duty at Work Point Barracks. As the men moved forward at Colonel Winsby’s request, the feelings of the large numbers of spectators who lined the galleries and the floor of the drill hall would not be denied, and there was an outburst of applause that left no doubt of their appreciation of the spirit manifested by Victoria’s oldest Militia Regiment. The Fifth go on duty now in the smart new Wolsely service helmets, which look smart with their whitepugarees and brass spikes. They will be covered with khaki for field work. At a late hour last night Lieut. Col. W.N. Winsby sounded an order for the mobilization of the whole of the 5th Regiment who have not yet been called out. The regiment, including band and staff, will parade this morning at the drill hall at 10 o’clock. SQUADRON OF HORSE OVER RECRUITED Double the Number of Men Required for War Footing Signed Application The Victoria Squadron of The B.C. Horse received applications last night at the drill hall for nearly twice the number of men required to put the squadron on its war footing of 146 men. From 7:30 a huge crowd of applicants besieged the door of the orderly room in which the officers recommended for commission were recording names. Many of those applying had medals and discharge papers showing years of previous service and many had seen active service. The final count showed the number applying to be in the neighbourhood of 250, but of these only 120 were accepted. The next stop will be put candidates through tests for riding and shooting. This will be strictly insisted on in all cases. The riding test takes place this evening at the Willows. The officers of this squadron, whose names have already been submitted to Ottawa are: Commanding offier with rank of Major, Dr. H. Bapty; Captain W.W. Foster and Messres. J.C. Heineman, Bruce Irving, N. Rant and A.F. Nation; Squadron Sergeant Major R.A. Meakin. The headquarters of the force are in the basement of the Belmont Block, reached by the entrance at the corner opposite the Union Club. Information may be obtained there, or applications to join received throughout the day. An offer was made to the squadron yesterday by Mr. Le Lievre, a Montana rancher, to supply them with up to 2,000 horses. Mr. Le Lievre is a Canadian, and is at present staying near Royal Oak. He stated that the horses were available at a moment’s notice. It is understood that the uniforms are already in stock at the barracks here, and that no delay on this account need be anticipated. 88th FUSILIERS’ ALL NIGHT VIGIL Orders Received Late Last Evening to Stand by Through Night at Drill Hall The 88th Fusiliers held a battalion parade in the drill hall at which their full service kit was inspected and completed. The new drum and fife band provided the music for the evening under Bandmaster Bainford. During the evening a large number of recruits were enrolled and others have been coming in well during the last few days. Before the dismissal of the parade orders reached the commanding officer, Major Byng Hall, that the regiment was to stand by at the Drill Hall all night in readiness for further orders, and as these, up to the time of going to press had not been received, the regiment prepared itself to spend the night in the hall. REGIMENTAL ORDERS 5th Regiment C.G.A. Regimental Order by Lt. Col. W.N. Winsby, Officer Commanding, Drill Hall, August 4, 1914. The whole of the regiment will parade at the drill hall, Tuesday, August 4, at 10 a.m. All ranks including staff and band must attend. (Sgd) R.P. CLARK, Captain and Adjutant 50th Highlanders of Canada Regimental Orders by Lieut. Col. A.W. Currie commanding.
R.T. Townsend Independent Squadron of B.C. Horse Regimental Order by Acting Major W. Bapty, commanding. Headquarters Belmont House, Victoria, B.C. August 4, 1914.
(Signed) W. Bapty COLONIST FUSILIERS COLORS ARRIVE Mrs. Henry Hannington announced yesterday that the colors for the 88th Fusiliers, which are to be given to that regiment by the Imperial Order of Daughters of the Empire of Victoria, have now arrived, and can be seen at the Alexandra Club. It had been the intention that H.R.H. the Governor-General should be asked to make the presentation to the regiment while on his projected visit here. Daily Colonist EXTRA 12 NOON AUGUST 5th On behalf of the Dominion Government and with their concurrence, Sir Richard McBride, representing the Province of British Columbia, some days ago completed the purchase of two submarines, which are now lying at anchor in British waters ready for action, under the command of Lieut. Jones, R.N., submarine expert. Lieut. Jones is a recognized submarine expert, in fact his knowledge of submarine warfare is not excelled in the Empire. Every preparation necessary for naval warfare is complete. The submarines are newly built and said to be of the most destructive class. Ottawa has been advised of the action of the Local Government and the vessels now form part of the national forces. GUN GERMAN CITIZENS A local feature of the present situation is that we have living with us and playing an honorable part in our civic, business and national life a large number of Germans, whose sympathies may not unnaturally be with the country of their origin during these times of stress. We are sure that they will wisely refrain from any expressions that may be consrtued as offensive, and we are equally sure that our citizens of British origin will be careful to avoid anything that may tend to make their presence here uncomfortable. Although their Fatherland may be at war, they are yet our friends and trusted neighbours and business associates. REGIMENTAL ORDERS The 50th Highlanders Lieut. Col. A.W. Currie, commanding.
(Sgd) Lieut. R.Y. Townsend 88th Regiment, Victoria Fusiliers Headquarters, Victoria, B.C. August 4, 1914. By Major P. Byng Hall DSO Commanding 402. Discharges – The following men are granted their discharge, this date: E Company, Ptes. W.A. King, C.T. King, C.J. King. 403. Special Duties - The following NCO’s and men have been detailedfor special duty: Col. Sgt. F. Barkshire, Lnce. Cpl. Gray, Ptes. Beckton and Kent. 404. Appointments – Sgt. Morton to be acting color sergeant of C Company during the absence of Col. Sgt.Barkshire on special duty. 405. Promotions. The commanding officer has been pleased to approve of he following promotions: E Company, Cpls Coton and Andrews to be sergeants effective August 4, 1914. 406. Drums and fifes – The drums and fifes will parade at the institute at 12:30 p.m. tomorrow, August 5. Dress, drill order. Music must be carried. 407. Duties – Sgt. Shadwell and Lnce. Cpl. Morton will report at the institute tomorrow, the 5th inst. for duty. N.C.O.’s and men will report daily between the hours 12 and two daily at the institute for orders. Dress, muftl. 408. Enlistments – The following men having been duly attested, are brought on the dtrength of the regiment, and are posted to companies as under: D Company, Pte. B.H. Harvey. C Company, Ptes. G.W. Lawrence, P.A.G. Fry, J.S. White. E Company, A.F. Jackson, G.W. Roughton, M. Cox, J.H. Bryne, G. Howard. F Company, E. White, C. Hall, A. Stark, L. Everett, A.J. Baker, J. Davey. G Company, L.R. Salmon, R.C. Winter, C.J. Deacon, C.W. Holden, J. Carter, G. Mellows. R.C.V. MacDowell Lieut. Victoria Squadron of B.C. Horse Regimental Order by Acting Major W. Bapty, Commanding. Headquarters Recruiting will be carried on at the drill hall this evening, Wednesday August 5, at 7:30 o’clock. By Order R.W.F Rant Click to view PDF image of Goldstream Hotel before the 1923 fire, courtesy Eric Tolman. MOBILIZATION OF 5TH REGIMENT Regiment Welcomes Back its Men From the Civil Aid Force and Serves The 5th regiment completed its mobilization yesterday at the drill hall and was joined by the sixty men who have been serving with the Civil Aid Force now for nearly a year. These latter are being replaced at Ladysmith by a detachment of the Seaforth Highlanders from Vancouver. Being specially a corps for coast defence work, it is only natural that the 5th should receive the first call to take the field and the colonel and officers have every reason to be proud of the strength of the regiment on parade and their readiness for service when summoned. The other regiments are determined that no call shall find them unprepared. The 88th, in addition to obtaining many recruits, saw that they put in a good hour and a half of drill at the drill hall. A telegram from Nanaimo stated that seventy men joined the 88th Fusliers during the evening. All the new recruits are being supplied with kit a savailable, and the whole regiment is ready and waiting for orders. The Highlanders held a march out through the streets last night in service dress. Coming down town just after the bulletin had been posted telling of the declaration of war by Great Britain, they met with a great reception by the crowds. Lieut. Col. A.W. Currie stated last night that during the last two days nearly fifty new recruits had come in and that it was his intention to form the last two companies which the original scheme of an eight company regiment included. The candidates for the Victoria Squadron of B.C. Horse were put through their riding tests last evening in the horse show building at the Willows. Over 100 were examined by Acting Squadron Sergeant Major Meakin. So excellent was the type of man who had applied that Major Bapty was able to announce later in the evening that over 100 candidates had passed. The date for the shooting tests will be announced later. Horses for these riding tests have been supplied by the proprietors of the riding schools at the Willow, Mrs. Cox and Mr. J. McCleave and other owners. The scene last night around the ring as the men, in sections of sixteen, were put through their paces was as animated as on a big show night. Three or four hundred people were present. Recruiting for the remaining vacancies will be conducted at the drill hall from 7:30 onwards. VOLUNTEERS Wireless operators urgently required for sea service. Report Esquimalt Dock Yards. TIMES MEN OF 88TH SEE COLORS Daughters of Empire Show Fusiliers Beautiful Banners Just Arrived From England To inspire the men of the 88th, who marched to Esquimalt at 2 o’clock from the Regimental Institute at Fort and Langley streets, the Daughters of the Empire brought out from their headquarters in the Temple Building across the road the regimental colors which have just arrived from England. The colors could not be presented because there is a special ceremony prescribed, and the men were too busy, but it was thought that the sight of the colors would inspire the men to a higher pitch of enthusiasm. A great crowd gathered to view them, and the gorgeous hand woven design evoked many expressions of admiration. The colors will be kept in the Daughters of the Empire rooms until an occasion presents itself for their formal presentation. The work was done by the Royal School of Art and Needlework, London, England, to the order of the Municipal Chapter. I. O. D. E., with Mrs. Henry Croft as president and Mrs. H.C. Hannington, secretary of the flag committee. It is hoped that an opportunity for their formal presentation will occur during the day, when they will be borne to the Cathedral for consecration and left there while the regiment is on active service. August 6, 1914 ARE NEEDED AT HOME Northwest Mounted Police Not Likely to be Included in Canadian Contingent Ottawa, Aug. 5 – It is stated that there is little likelihood of the Royal Northwest Mounted Police being included in the Canadian Contingent. At least that is not the present intention of thegoernment. The force will be slightly depleted, however, because it contains fifty four army reservists and one naval reservist. These fifty five men will have to drop out and proceed to England. The govermnt realizes that under existing circumstances it will be actically impossible to secure new recruits for for the force, and e if it were, the men who would elist would not be capable of doing patrol work. It is felt that the patrol work in the far north and the new districts must be maintained. The force at the present time is up to full strength of 700 men, 260 of them being in the Yukon. It is believed that the Canadian contingent will consist almost entirely of artillery and infantry corps and that the numer of cavalry to b set will be comparatively small. FOR FOREIGN SERVICE The Minister of Militia announces that a Canadian force of 20,000 men will be forthwith raised for service abroad. There are already 100,000 men who have signified their readiness to go. For various reasons we suppose that the force will be recruited from points at some distance from seaboard. It is not desirable at present that our coast defence should be weakened in any way, although we suppose a number of men could be spard from British Columbia. THE PREMIER’S ASSISTANCE It will be a matter of great satisfaction to the people of British Columbia to learn of the part which Sir Richard McBride has taken during the past few days in placing his personal services and those of his government at the disposal of the naval and military authorities. What he has done towards securing the two submarines which arrived here yesterday involved the devotion of more time and energy than can be very well told. Night and day, at all hours, he has been in touch with the naval authorities. By advice and assistance he has helped them in every way that lay in his power. His efforts have not ended here. It was only natural that all sections of the community should consult with him when a period of suspense such as now exists arose. His counsel has always been available, given cheerfully, and he has moreover been in a position to assure those who may have entertained any feeling of uncertainty about the prent situation. The duties in this regard that have fallen to his lot are new ones to him but the manner in which he has discharged them is above praise. In the face of a commom danger politics have been swet aside. Patriotsm is the prevailing feeling and it is to Sir Richard as a patriot that these few lines are directed. PROMPT ACTION The Dominion Government has acted with exemplary promptness in the purchase of the two submarines. The purchase was made through Capt. W.H. Logan, acting under the direction of Sir Richard McBride. These vessels are a highly important addition to the defences of the coast, and fortunately one of the best experts in submarine navigation is on hand to take charge of them. The purchase of these craft shows how keenly alive Sir Robert Borden and his colleagues are in the necessity of instant action. The southwestern part of the British Columbia coast is now very well provided for in the matter of defence. In deference to the wishes of Ottawa we shall not enter into any details as to the nature of these preparations but we can assure you that nothing has been left undone that ought to be done or that can be done with the available facilities and that these are quite sufficient for defence against any probable enemy. COLORS OF FUSILIERS Regiment Had First View of Colors Yesterday – Will be Formally Presented Shortly A picturesque incident yesterday was the informal showing of their new regimental colors to the men of the 88th Fusiliers by the Daughters of Empire as the troops passed their headquarters in Langley street on their way to Esquimalt. They were received with utmost enthusiasm and admiration. The number of colors per regiment, which formerly corresponded with the number of companies, was reduced in the reign of Queen Anne to two, vis., the Royal and the Regimental colors. The pair of colors presented to the 88th Fusiliers are beautifully embroidered on rich silk, the one being the Union Jack with the regimental arms in the centre, and the other bearing the medallion enclosed in a wreath of maple leaves on a field of dark blue. The work was done by the Royal School of Art Needlework, London, to the order of the Municipal Chapter, I.O.D.E., with Mrs. Henry Croft as president and Mrs. H.C. Hanington, secretary of the flag committee. It is hoped that an opportunity for their formal presentation will occur during the day when they will be borne to the Cathedral for consecration and left there while the regiment is on active service. August 6, 1914 (5) REGIMENTAL ORDERS 88th Regiment, Victoria Fusiliers Legion of Frontiersmen Victoria Sub – Unit. Orders by Captain G. Gray Donald, commanding. All Frontiersmen in Victoria and outlying districts of Vancouver Island are requested to report personally or by letter to headquarters, 409 Belmont House, Victoria. Frontiersmen resident in Victoria are to make their whereabouts known daily at headquarters between the hours of 4:30 and 6:30 p.m. Phone 1905. The name of E.N. Pollard has been removed from the roll of the Legion. August 7, 1914 ENROLLMENT OF CANADIAN FORCE Organizing Machinery Is Formally Put In Motion – Proclamation Ottawa. August 6 – The machinery of organizing the enrollment of an emergency division was formally put in motion today, when an extra edition of The Canada Gazette declaring the Dominion to be “in a stae of war” was issued. This having been done, the commanders of all militia units throughour the country were formally notified by telegraph of the conditions of enlistment, as set forth in the mobilization orders issued by the Militia Department yesterday. This notice was sent by the Militia Department to the officers commanding the various militia districts, who, in turn, notified all the officers of the military units coming within their individual jurisdictions. It is said that it is a matter of several days before enrollment can be completed and sent to headquarters in Ottawa. All volunteers who are able to pass the physical and medical tests will be accepted and enrolled. Many thousands more will then be required to form the division, it is expected, will enroll, and the work of weeding out and selecting the men to be sent will be done at headquarters. The complete list will probably be in Ottawa by the middle of next week, and from it the units to be organized will be drafted. Composition of Force Three brigades of artillery, of three batteries each, will be included in this division to be formed, it is understood. However, it will be made up largely of infantry and artillery, as it is not the intention to send much cavalry. That Canada is in a good position to supply a large number of remounts for British Cavalry regiments is assured today. A Canadian who served in South Adrica and who is now farming on an extensive scale, offered to supply the department with 1,000 horses on short notice. No arrangements have yet been made for transports to carry the Canadian troops abroad, as there is no necessity for such steps being taken until it is known definetly that Canadian troops will be required. The military authorities are confident of their ability to be prepared to equip as many troops as Canada is likely to be called upon to send. The announcement that the Royal Northwest Mounted Ploice will not be sent out of the country is confirmed.It is felt that the presence of this force is required in the districts of the west. Only such members of the force as are named on the army reserve list will be allowed to go. For Serious Business The opening of parliament on August 18 is not to be a social event, as usual. More serious business characterizes the assembling of the Senate and the Commons this time than ever before, and no special invitations are likely to be issued. The British Government has formally accepted Canada’s offer to send an army division to her assistance. This means that one, and perhaps more, Canadian contingents will go. It is probable that the Candians will be held for a fortnight in England for additional training before being sentto the continent. COLONIST PRESENTATION OF COLORS Picturesque Ceremony to Take Place This Morning A picturesque ceremony of much significance, and special interest to the general public will take place this morning. A company of the 88th Regiment, who are parading at their headquarters at the corner of Fort and Langley Streets, have been authorized to fetch their colors from the office of the Daughters of Empire in the Temple Building at 11:30 and march with them to Christ Church Cathedral. There they will be handed to the churchwardens for safe keeping. The Ven. Archdeacon Scriven, the Rev. William Barton and other clergy will be present, and a short choral service will be held at 11:45, after which the colors will be hung in the chancel to await the return of the Bishop of Columbia, the chaplain of the regiment, and an opportunity for consecration and presentation. The Dean of Columbia, who is also absent on a holiday and had not proposed returning till Saturday, is coming back tomorrow evening, but cannot return in time to participate in the ceremony. TIMES COLORS AT CATHEDRAL Company C Color-Bearers Attend Special Services at Christ Church This Morning Company C of the 88th regiment this morning paraded in front of the I. O. D. E. headquarters , Temple Building, and conveyed their new colors to Christ Church Cathedral. The colors were handed over by the flag committee to the color-bearers, consisting of the two youngest subalterns in the regiment, two color-sergeants, and a guard of sixteen men, a large crowd collecting around the entrance to the building and joining heartily in the singing of the National Anthem before the company proceeded up Fort Street. At the cathedral, which was nearly filled with interested witnesses of the ceremony, the colors were received by the Archdeacon Scriven in the absence of the Dean of Columbia, and a special service was conducted. Hymn 335 and the National Anthem being sung in connection with the rite, and the colors sheathed and placed in the chancel for safe keeping until the formal consecration takes place at some date to be fixed later. COLONIST COLORS WERE PRESENTED Impressive Ceremony at Cathedral The colors of the 88th Fusiliers, which, since the beginning of the week, have rested in the I. O. D. E. headquarters in the Temple Building, were handed over by the flag committee to Company C of that regiment yesterday morning at 11:20 o’clock, and borne by them to Christ Church Cathedral The company, consisting of two color bearers, two color-sergeants and a guard of sixteen men, was cheered heartily and the national anthem was sung before they proceeded up Fort Street. The men were accompanied on their way by a number of interested spectators, and a crowd awaited them at the entrance to the Cathedral, where the colors were handed over to church wardens. Inside the Cathedral a large congregation had assembled to take part in the ceremony and offer prayers for the success and safety of the troops. The colors were received by Archdeacon Scriven, who, assisted by the Rev. Wm. Barton, accepted the care and guardianship of the standards. A short service was then conducted, special prayers being offered and the national anthem sung. The colors were afterwards sheathed and placed in the chancel until the opportunity occurs for their formal consecration.
TIMES HIGHLANDERS GO INTO CAMP to AWAIT DUTIES’ CALL To be ready to respond to a call for duty, the 50th Highland Regiment, has been ordered to parade at 9 o’clock tomorrow morning at the Central school grounds, whence the battalion will march to the exhibition grounds and go into camp indefinitely. Colonel Roy stated this morning that this was a precautionary measure. He also thought it was better to have the men together than to have them parading every few hours for orders. Orders to the 50th Highlanders were issued last night. The order is not mobilization, but the men are to parade with exactly the same kit they would bring on a mobilization order. Recruits were reporting at headquarters all day, drawing a complete outfit of kit in order to be ready in the morning. The men will sleep in the exhibition buildings. Commissariat arrangements are being made today. About 600 men will go into camp, it is estimated, including both regiments. There will be many more of the 50th than of the 88th, as several companies of the latter regiment are at Work Point and another detachment is at Nanaimo on the civil aid force. The men will parade in khaki with aprons and with the following equipment to be carried: Rifle, belt, pouch, bayonet, haversack (containing knife, fork and spoon), water bottle, great coat, clasp knife. To be brought in kit bag: Trews, two pairs socks, one change of underclothing, towel, shaving tackle, toothbrush, comb, housewife, handkerchiefs, soap, shoe laces, braces, mess tin. August 10, 1914 This day my father enlisted as a bugler in the 50th Regiment (Gordon Highlanders) in Victoria.
My Diary (The Adventures of a Pioneer Infantryman)
News of war
Note: Our family sailed from England on the “Grampian” of the Allen Line. This was in April 1912. The Titanic also sailed about this time, and she struck an iceberg and sank. Our ship was about a day ahead of it and we heard about the disaster on reaching Halifax, N.S. We had passed thru the same area where she went down and the sea was covered with icebergs. Date unknown, possibly 1964. Victoria Times LOCAL VOLUNTEERS NUMBER 470 MEN All Names Sent to Ottawa Today; Major G.B. Hughes Appointed to Staff MILITIA OF PROVINCE HAS BEEN MOBILIZED Prince Rupert Protected; Guard is Being Formed in Victoria While no big event occurred in military circles during the past 24 hours, the work of preparing for the defence of the coast in case of a German attack is proceeding at full speed. The Militia of the entire Province is now under arms, and is being utilized at various points for guard purposes. The civil aid force at Nanaimo has been abandoned. Mayor Newton, of Prince Rupert conferred with Colonel Roy yesterday, and it is understood that a battalion from the 23rd infantry brigade will be sent to the Grand Trunk terminal with a couple of machine guns. The battalion will probably be sent from Vancouver. The formation of the town guard in Victoria under the auspices of the British Campaigners is well under way, and already a detachment of these veterans is engaged in guarding one of the E&N railway bridges. The grant has been recognized by the D.O.C. and is acting under his orders. There is a report that a brigade will be formed of the forces on the island in which case Lt. Col. Hall of the 88th regiment will act as Brigadier. Col. Roy stated this orning that the forces were acting as units so far, and that was ample time for forming a brigade. Major G.H. Hughes, of the 50th Highlanders, left at 2:30 this afternoon for Ottawa, where he has received an appointment on the staff of the officer commanding the Canadian contingent at Valcartier. Major Hughes isa son of Colonel the Hon. Sam Hughes, minister of militia, and has had a first class military training which makes him pre-eminently the one suited to be the Victoria representative on the staff. He was in Mexico when the revolution broke out, and has been under fire. The final lists of the volunteers for the Canadian contingent have been dispatched to Ottawa. Of the 5th regiment 100 men and 5 officers volunteered. Of the 50th Highlanders 202 names including 17 officers were forwarded. The 88th sent the names of about 60 men and officers. The men chosen from the 5th Regiment, which is at war strength of just over 300 men will have to be replaced at once in order to maintain efficiency on the batteries. The following message from the British war office was received at Work Point barracks today: “Oficers of the Imerial Army, Special reserve, or Territorial Force who have been called out and produce proof of summons will be issued with transportation warrants to Quebec on application to the district staff adjutant at Work Point barracks. The district staff adjutant thinks it is the plan to have these officers go from Quebec with the Canadian contingent. Non-commissioned officers and men of the above forces who are required to return will receive their transportation by mail from the war office in exactly the same manner as they receive their pensions. These passports for the men are expected in about six days now. The 88th Regiment has been split up into innumerable detachments on guard duty. Some of these are as far away from home as Comox. Those in camp at the Dockyard are performing the guard duties in and about Esquimalt. On the parade ground at Work Point barracks and in the enclosure at the race track squads of from 6 to 20 men are being drilled by corporals and sergeants of experience. The recruits will soon be in a high stae of efficiency. Some 150 names have been enrolled to date on the town guard, and the organizers from the British Campaigners association desire to see it embrace every citizen who can spare a few hours daily out of the stress of his occupation for patrol work. The larger the number who sign up, the less duty will be required of individuals naturally, therefore a general response is urgently desired. The association will also, from the guard, undertake to supply men for civil positions where the staffs are seriously depleted by the militia calling out men for service with the colors. It is distinctly understood tht the signature of the form, which may be obtained from the daily newspaper offices, from the following officers of the Campaigners association, Beaumont Boggs, vice-president; E.C.B. Bagshawe and W.J. Edwardes, secretary of the Veteran’s association, will not imply any liability to military service, nor will the men be sworn in like special police until that step is felt to be desirable in the public interest, should the guarding of prisoners arise in tis community. The movement has received the approval of the D.O.C., and Col. Roy will look to the Campaigners association for responsibility for its management. Daily a list of names will be sent to Work Point barracks, and from them selections will be made as emergency arises for sentry and patrol work. Those who understand the use of arms will be supplied with rifles, the idea in making the list as complete as possible being the wish to give the militia authorities power to order the necessary ammunition. No decision has been reached whether the men will be drilled, or even if this course is necessary. The first service to which the guard has been put occurred yesterday when the association had a call from the Esquimalt & Nanaimo railway for a number of men to patrol the bridges and crossings of this railway. Other calls of a similar character are expected in the immediate future. _________________ FIRE BIG GUNS AT 6 Test rounds on the 9.2 inch guns at Signal Hill, Esquimalt, will be fired by the 5th Regiment, C.G.A. at 6 p.m. today. People living in the vicinity of the battery have been warned to open their windows and take precautions against damage from the concussion. Ths will be the first time the big guns have been practiced by the 5th regiment. Daily Colonist VOLUNTEER’S NAMES ON WAY TO OTTAWA Nearly Five Hundred Supplied by Victoria’s Three Militia Regiments The list of volunteers from the different Victoria regiments for service in Europe are now on the way to Ottawa, and their numbers have been cabled there to inform the military authorities of the British Columbia forces at their disposal. The 5th sent the names of 8 officers and about 100 men; the 50th Highlanders 240, including 17 officers; and the 88th 180, also including many officers making a totl of just over 500. The militia department will make its selection today and will then notify the D.O.C. Col. A. Roy, of the number they require for this first contingent and on what date they are to entrain for the Quebec camp. One Victoria officer, Major Garnet Hughes, of the 50th Highlanders, who has received an appointment on the staff at Valcartier, left for Ottawa yesterday afternoon. Notices to all reserve officers of the Imperial army have been mailed from Ottawa and should be here by the end of the week. These include offices of the Imperial army, the Special Reserve and the Territorial Force. Similar notices are being mailed to the reservists in the ranks. All those notified will be supplied with transportation warrants on application to the District Staff Adjutant at Work Point Barracks, when they will also be informed of the date of their departure. COLONIST HIGHLANDERS CAMP AT FAIRGROUNDS 50th Regiment Furnishes 240 Volunteers The 50th Highlanders are congratulating themselves on their quarters at the Exhibition grounds. Large airy rooms, plenty of room and dry, springy planks for beds are not to be despised on campaigning, and the big open spaces, which they have all to themselves after excellent opportunities for every species of drill and training. The officers mess, at the top of one of the new buildings, is open to the air on two sides and makes the most delightful sitting room possible. The strictest discipline prevails and the orderly room is besieged from one end of the day to the other with a constant stream of officers and men, coming for instructions, new men applying to be enlisted, and a hundred and one details which have to be settled are brought in hourly. Lieutenant-Colonel Currie is well satisfied with the way the regiment is settling down to the real hard work. The regiment is handling its own commissariat, and the whole machinery of the management is beginning to run with smoothness and efficiency. The names of the 240 volunteers for service to Europe have been sent back to Ottawa and the numbers cabled there so that a reply stating definitely how many will be required to go down to Valcartier should be received here in the next couple of days. If a Highland Brigade should be formed for Canada the 50th may be able to take the field in their highland dress, otherwise they may have to be re-uniformed at the Quebec camp. British Columbia Horse Along side the highlanders are quartered the Victoria squadron of the B.C. Horse, under Acting-Major W. Bapty, who has now been joined by Acting-Captain W.W. Foster. Major Bapty has his full complement of 78 men and officers (peace footing). The squadron was paraded yesterday to listen to the instructions received by the D.O.C. from headquarters as to calling for volunteers for Europe. These were to the effect that any of the B.C. Horse might volunteer, but must do so as infantry. The squadron, however, while ready and willing to volunteer for active service, decided to do so only as mounted men, so that at present no names are being sent to Ottawa. 50th GORDON HIGHLANDERS Click to view image of 50th Gordon Highlanders on parade at the Willows Fairground (PDF). Victoria Times LT. COLONEL CURRIE NAMED A BRIGADIER Major Ross New Commander of 50th; Infantry Company Added to Garrison Lt. Col. A.W. Currie’s appointment as commander of one of the four infantry brigades of the Canadian contingent is the most interesting item of local news of the past 24 hours. The selection of a Victoria man for this important position is an honor for this city when it is considered how many officers throughout the whole Dominion, especially in the big cities of the east, will be eager to gain one of these appointments. The splendid record of the 5th regiment, C.G.A., under his command, and the rapid organization of the 50th Highlanders into one of the smartest regiments in the west, are facts which undoubtedly influenced the minister of militia in this selection. Major G.B. Hughes having already gone to Ottawa to assume a position on the staff, the command of the regiment will now devolve upon Major Lorne Rossby automatic promotion. Lt. Col. Currie has reeived no orders to report as yet, however, and it is considered probable, that he may assume command of the transportation of the western detachments to valcartier. The appointment as brigadier will probably include a promotion to the rank of full colonel, as most infantry brigadiers in the British regular army hold that rank. He will command four battalions or over 4,000 troops. Col. Roy, D.O.C., announced this morning that a company of infantry has been added to the permanent garrison at Work Point, and applicants will be examined at the barracks from now on. Capt. Smith, of the Royal Canadian Regiment, who happens to be at Work Point at the present time, is in temporary command of the company, which is attached to his regiment, whose headquarters are at Halifax The company will be 100 strong, and is designed to give employment to the men of the civil aid force who lost their positions through being stationed at Nanaimo. Members of this force will naturally be given preference as the enlistment goes on. This will make the garrison strength consist of a company of R.C.G.A., the nucleus of an engineer’s company, and a full company of infantry. The Highlanders went out through the Uplands this morning practicing manoeuvres, such as they would be called upon to perform on service. Word has now been received that enlistment in the Canadian contingent will be allowed right up to the moment of mobilization. Indirect information is to the effect that this order will probably be issued on Sunday. Men, therefore, whose affairs have not permitted them to make up their minds yet have still a chance to volunteer. Now that it is practically certain that the British Columbia militia will act on the coast for defensive purposes, the organization of the forces into brigades will be gone ahead with, although nothing definite can be done, states Col. Roy, until the detachment for Valcartier has left. There is a growing doubt that any of the men from the 5th regiment will be taken to a foreign country, as the real work of efending this coast will fall on that regiment. The men from the big guns can certainly not be spared and the volunteers are over 90 percent from the moveable armament company and all are experienced and efficient gunners. The field guns, however, are very important in coast defence to repel a landing at any place not covered by the big batteries. The field gun men of the 5th are in such a high state of efficiency, however, that they would be a valuable addition to the Valcartier contingent. Firing practice was held by the local squadron of B.C. Horse today and Major Bapty was well pleased with the skill of the men in handling their weapons. The horsemanship of the whole squadron is also of a high standard. The forwarding of mail to members of the 88th regiment stationed on guard duty up the island is being handled at the regimental headquarters. The 14 days notice to german vessels to leave Canadian ports is now withdrawn and vessels of too small tonnage to come within the law of prizes must leave at once or as soon as any contraband cargoes have been discharged. Vessels above 5,000 tons are liable to seizure. There are no German vessels in British Columbia ports, however, and none are expected. The provincial executive has decided to show every consideration to civil servants eengaged on military duties, although what steps will be taken to protect their positions is not announced. Lieut. H.C. Schulthess of the Army Service Corps, Switzerland, who has been in business here, has left for New York, where he is able to rejoin his regiment. Photo: Lt. Col. A.W. Currie Daily Colonist Recruiting Company – Capt. Seely Smith, setting under instructions from the Adjutant General, has taken up quarters at Work Point Barracks and is proceeding with the recruiting of a local company of the Royal Canadian Regiment. He announced yesterday that 100 men were wanted for service. While preference is to be given those who have had military experience, he wished all desirous of becoming identified with the corps to make applications at the barracks without delay. August 16, 1914 Garrison Augmented – Yesterday morning the defences of this port were augmented by the arrival from Cobourg, Ontario, of half a battery of heavy artillery armed with 60 pounder guns, with 50 men under the command of Lieut. McKinnon. The commanding officer, Major J.W. Odell, remains with the other half of the battery in Vancouver. The Victoria half of the battery arrived on the early boat yesterday morning, and at once marched down to their destination. Doing Their Share – Lieut. H.R. Selfe, the district signalling officer, and also one of the scoutmasters of the city has five scouts on duty at Work Point Barracks who, during the last week have been doing most useful work as orderlies and carriers of messages. The scouts comprise five from 3rd troop, under the charge of scout corporal E. Hall and two from 8th troop. The names of the 3rd troop scouts are: C.J. Wrigglesworth, R. Campbell, C. Munro and E. Frampton. August 16, 1914 (7) LOCAL VOLUNTEER WAIT INSTRUCTIONS No Word Yet as to When Contingent of Highlanders and Fusiliers Leave City August 18, 1914 88th REGIMENT VICTORIA FUSILIERS
TIMES REGIMENTAL ORDERS 88TH REGIMENT FUSILIERS Extract from regimental orders dates August 24:
August 25, 1914 (3) DATE OF DEPARTURE IS STILL UNCERTAIN Victoria Volunteers for Active Service Not Likely to Leave Until End of Week COLONIST There will be a parade of the 88th Fusiliers’ band at 8 p.m. today at the Esquimalt drydock, and it will be continued every evening until further notice. Fusiliers’ band concert — The 88th Fusiliers’ band, under Bandmaster Rowland, played a delightful programme at Beacon Hill Park, on Sunday afternoon. The crowd was by far too large for the number of seats available and many stood right through the splendid programme, giving the band abundance of applause for its fine work. Especial mention should be made of the overtures to “William Tell” and “Zampa” and a selection of “Rule Brittania” by the same brass quartette attracted great attention the artists having to repeat it. This evening the band gives a concert at the dockyard, Esquimalt, and tomorrow evening at Central Park. August 26, 1914 (1) TROOPS LEAVE BY TODAY’S BOAT 5th Regiment Volunteer Contingent Receives Instructions to Start Journey TIMES Band Concert — The band of the 88th Fusiliers gave a concert at the drydock last evening for the men of the regiment in camp there. COLONIST LOCAL VOLUNTEERS WAIT INSTRUCTIONS No Word Yet as to When Contingent of Highlanders and Fusiliers Leave City OPCMH August 27, 1914 (1) TROOPS GIVEN HEARTY SEND-OFF Victorians Throng Streets and C.P.R. Dock to Extend Farewell to Departing Volunteers CANADA’S TROOPS TO LEAVE SOON Ottawa, Aug. 26 - There is every likelihood that the Canadian Expeditionary Force will be sent overseas earlier than was originally expected. The scheduled date of departure will be adhered to, but in view of the situation in Europe every endeavor will be made to avoid delay. There will be no unnecessary waiting. The men will leave Canada as early as possible. Six thousand volunteers are proceeding in fifteen special trains from Western points to the Valcartier camp. By the end of the week it is expected that the majority of the recruits will be in camp. Arrangements are now being made for the transport of the troops to Europe. Twenty vessels at least will be required to convey the men across the Atlantic. They will be convoyed by British cruisers. The Valcartier camp will be maintained at any rate during the continuance of the war. Princess Patricia Light Infantry Definite information has been received by the officers of the Princess Patricia Canadian Light Infantry that these troops are to leave Ottawa for the front on Friday afternoon. Two trains will be required to move the battalion. The first will leave the Central Station at 3 o’clock and the second an hour later. Each train will carry more than 500 men. The regiment is practically up to strength, a detachment of about fifty men arriving from Western Ontario this morning. About 1,050 will entrain on Friday, all outfitted for service. The regiment will sail on the Megantic on Saturday. It is understood that the Megantic will be convoyed by a couple of British cruisers. It is thought likely, although nothing official has been announced, that the Niobe, which is now almost ready for service, may accompany the Megantic for the final part of the voyage. August 27, 1914 (7) BALANCE OF TROOPS TO LEAVE TOMORROW Volunteers of 50th Highlanders and Fusiliers Will Take Boat August 28, 1914 (10) PRINCESS SOPHIA TAKES SOLDIERS Skagway Liner Will Act as Troop Ship The second contingent to leave Victoria for Valcartier will leave on the Princess Sophia on her outward trip to Skagway, via Vancouver, this morning at 10:30 o’clock. The vessel’s sailing hour was set forward in order that she might act as troop ship for the local volunteers. The Princess Sophia departs for the north from Vancouver tomorrow night, as per schedule, and Victoria passengers will take the vessel there. In order that the departing soldiers may be seen to the best advantage aboard the ship as she pulls out this morning, it has been arranged that the vessel will leave from the slip on the inside of the main pier, giving the spectators vantage points on either the inner or outer piers. The entire space of the C.P.R. premises will be thrown open to the public who wish to see the ship depart from the best possible point of view. August 28, 1914 (13) VOLUNTEERS FOR FRONT Soldiers of Volunters From 50th Highlanders and 88th Fusliers Who Leave Today REGIMENTAL ORDRES – Lieut. Col. J.A. Hall, commanding, Headquarters, Esquimalt, B.C. August 28, 1914. The Band will parade at the drydock at 3:30 Sunday, August 30, 1914. All members of the band are ordered to attend. W.G. Cunningham Victoria Times MILITIA STAYS IN CAMP No Change in Routine For Present; Lt. Col. Currie Left For Quebec in Hurry The departure of the volunteer contingents has left the Willows and Dockyards camps rather thinly populated, as almost half of both infantry regiments let for the front. Camp routine was maintained as usual, however, the soldiers drilling in companies and sections with a view to perfecting their work. Colonel Roy stated this morning that the men would be kept in camp indefinitely, but he could not announce any special programmee for the immediate future. Lt. Col. Currie and Lt. Ellis departed for camp yesterday on receipt of a wire from the militia department urging haste. It had been Col. Currie’s intention under previous orders to go to Quebec with the 500 men who left this morning, but the later wire caused him to change his plans suddenly. A few friends heard of his departure and went to the boat to give him a hearty send-off. The Highlanders pipe band gave a conceet in Broad street last night and later drove around in motors with the volunteers who were on leave for the evening. The soldiers shouted and cheered as they were driven around through the streets and everywhere they went the pedestrians answered them with other cheers. Corporal Eden of the 5th Regiment overseas contingent has sent to the Times the following note for publication: “On behalf of the overseas contingent of the 5th Regiment, we heartily appreciate the grand send-off the citizens of Victoria gave us on embarking for the front.” August 28, 1914 THOUSANDS WATCHED VOLUNTEERS DEPART Five Hundred Infantrymen Sailed to Join Overseas Force at Valcartier Camp WHOLE CITY JOINED IN ROUSING SEND-OFF Flowers Thrown as Brave Soldier Boys Embarked on Princess Sophia PPCLI CAP BADGES AND SHOULDER STRAPS FOR THE LIGHT INFANTRY Cap badges and shoulder straps for the Princess Patricia Canadian Light Infantry were issued to the men yesterday afternoon. The cap badge is circular, with a daisy in the centre and surmounted by a crown and the name of the corps at the edge of the circle. In color it is dark brown to conform with the khaki fittings. The shoulder straps have a red field with the letters P.P.C.L.I. in white across. The entire strap is cloth. The battalion will leave this afternoon by the Central Station at 3 o’clock. COLONIST VOLUNTEERS GO THIS MORNING Overseas Contingent of 50th Highlanders and 88th Fusiliers Leave Today – This article covers the details of the departure of the local volunteers for Valcartier and Lt. Col. Currie who left yesterday. OPCMH August 29, 1914 Royal Canadian Regiment – Recruits from now on will be enlisted here for the Royal Canadian Regiment, of which it is hoped to form two or more companies. Applicants must enroll for three years. The work of recruiting will be carried out at Work Point Barracks, where application should be made to Captain Smith. The Royal Canadian Regiment has companies at Winnipeg and Halifax. A detachment from the later point was recently despatched to Bermuda for service there during the war. Daily Colonist BIG CROWDS SEE CONTINGENT OFF Five Hundred Victorian Volunteers Accompanied to Boat by Practically Click here for PDF of Daily Colonist coverage Supplement The supplement provides photos and lists of the officers and men who left to join the first contingent from the 5th Regiment C.G.A. on August 26th; the 88th Victoria Fusiliers, the 50th Gordon Highlanders and No. 2 Foreign Service Co. on August 28th. BC BOOKS VANCOUVER’S CONTRIBUTION TO EMPIRE Click here for PDF of BC Militia Units in August 1914 COLONIST BIG GUN PRACTICE The practice with the big guns at Signal Hill last evening hardly disturbed the city at all. The wind was setting the other way, and but that everyone was on the lookout for the reports, they would hardly have been noticed. October 16, 1914 MEN FROM VANCOUVER Seventy-Five Recruits Coming For Royal Canadian Regiment About seventy-five Vancouver men, who have volunteered for service at Bermuda with the Royal Canadian Regiment, will arrive in Victoria and will proceed to quarters at the Work Point Barracks. As over twenty-five have enlisted for the same purpose from Victoria in a few days, the entire force asked for from the western military district will be available. It will be sent to Halifax, as soon as arrangements are made, to receive the training necessary before relieving those now stationed at the island station. Both the 50th Gordon Highlanders and the 88th Fusiliers are devoting their attention to regular routine drill these days. Yesterday the Highlanders were on the Clover Point range, and the shooting is reported to have been first class. The B. C. Horse are busily engaged in preparing themselves for the call to the front which is looked for at an early date. The majority of the range horses, brought from the neighborhood of Calgary, have been broken in the saddle and make splendid mounts. These, and many others, were the gifts of public spirited citizens. Thirty more horses, it is stated, are required to make the squadron’s equipment, in this respect, absolutely complete. Another satisfactory parade of the Victoria Volunteer Guard was held last evening at the drill hall. On Thursday, October 29th, the battalion will be inspected by Col. Roy, district officer commanding. While the fusiliers were on parade yesterday they were inspected by a number of prominent citizens, who were making an informal call at the dockyard. Among them was Mayor Stewart, who was introduced in the use of a maxim gun. He proved so apt a pupil that the officers permitted him to estimate the range of a selected target and discharge a shot. His Worship was commended on his marksmanship. October 20, 1914 Command of District As a result of instructions received yesterday from the department of Militia and Defence, Col. Alexander Roy, M.V.O. district officer commanding Military District No. 11, has placed the command of the district temporarily in the hands of Major A.T. Ogilvie who is in command of No 5 Company, R.C.G.A. Major Ogilvie, with the local rank of Colonel, will have command of the district, which comprises British Columbia and the Yukon. COLONIST WELCOME NEWS FOR SOLDIERS IN CAMP This article is about the 88th Regiment and its move yesterday to the Willows Camp from the Dockyard in Esquimalt. October 31, 1914 START RIFLE RANGE ON MONDAY MORNING A corps of the Royal Canadian Engineers stationed at Work Point Barracks will start the work of laying out the new Victoria rifle range on Monday morning. All the preliminary office details have been completed and the force is taking the field to do some necessary surveying, etc, prior to the actual commencement of construction. It is impossible to exactly estimate the length of time likely to be occupied in these preparations, but they are to be hurried. As soon as the plans are in shape, workmen will be engaged and the project will be carried through with the utmost dispatch. The undertaking will be conducted under the supervision of Capt. Russell, of the R.C.E. COLONIST A troop of seventy-five mounted men left for England on Friday, October 23, to take part in the war. This body was known as Elliott’s Horse, because Mr. R.T. Elliott took the lead in providing equipment and securing recruits. Several other public-spirited gentlemen assisted. The Captain was Mr. A.G.C. Smith. Their friends and their Province hope the men will prove good soldiers. R.T. Elliott, K.C., of Victoria, B.C., was the founder of Elliott’s Horse – a “free-lance” cavalry unit, composed almost entirely of seasoned veterans, raised in Victoria in the early days of the great War (1914). Elliott’s Horse was composed of five officers and 78 men. The unit departed Victoria on October 23 for Vancouver, then travelled across Canada by train to Montreal, arriving October 29, where they boarded SS Letitia on October 31 bound for Glasgow, Scotland. Arriving there November 9 they then travelled to London. On November 17 the unit entrained for Salisbury Plain where they were welcomed by the Royal Canadian Dragoons and Lord Strathcona’s Horse. November 14, 1914 Esquimalt Rifle Club – The Esquimalt Rifle Association will meet at the Work Point Barracks for practice this afternoon at 2 o’clock sharp, weather permitting. The captain will be on the ground from 11 a.m. to 12 noon and any member wishing to shoot during this hour may do so. 5th Regiment Eleven – The 5th Regiment soccer team for today’s match with the Garrison at Work Point grounds, is as follows: Hewitt, Donald, Davies, Green, Harrison, Wright, Smith, Newbigging, Hughes, Kroeger, Cull. Reserves: McBrady and Popham. The match will start at 2:30 o’clock. November 22, 1914 ESQUIMALT RIFLE SHOOT The weekly Saturday afternoon shoot of the Esquimalt Rifle Association was held at Work Point Barracks as usual. A great improvement in marksmanship has already resulted from the practice and the instruction of Captain Robson and Mr. Stacey. There was a large muster, the following being the higest scorers: Messrs. McAdam and Piper, 5 out of 6; Messrs. Topp, Cave and Cumine, 3 out of 6; Messrs. Pooley, Saunders, Potts, Allen, Williams, Pyrah, Mathews and Anderson also scored a high percentage, many shots being but a fraction of an inch from the bulls-eye. The association numbers over eighty members. December 3, 1914 WORD RECEIVED TO BEGIN RECRUITING Necessary Organizing to Start Immediately and Applications Will be Accepted Word has been received from Ottawa authorizing the commencement of recruiting in British Columbia of two additional battalions for overseas service. The work, according to authentic information, will begin without delay. It eill be necessary first to perfect organization, after which applicants will be received. Those who have the matter in hand, are confident that there will be little trouble in securing the men wanted in this Province. In fact, although the machinery has not yet ben started, there have been a large number of young men make inquiries both at the Willows and at Work Point with a view to enlistment within the past few days. Schools of training for officers are being held constantly at the local headquarters under Capt. Smith. Certificates, it is understood, have been forwarded those Vancouver representtives who tried an examination a fortnight ago and were successful.The Victoria men who went through a course for captaincies have just finished their final test, and the results will be known in a short time. Subalterns now being trained, and the eagerness with which those who hold commissions provisionally are entering into their work is a striking indication of their desire to acquire the qualifications necessary to enable them to go to the front as soon as possible. Nothing outside the usual routine marked yesterday at the Willows camp. There were the usual drills etc., on the part of the 30th Battalion, which is preparing to proceed to England with the second contingent. Apart from this, the Engineers and others were engaged in the preparation of quarters for the mounted infantry who are expected from the interior on Saturday. There will be over 100 of them, and arrangements, it is understood, are being made to give them an appropriate welcome at the wharf. Lt. Col. John. A. Hall, commanding the 30th Battalion, announces that the saloons and bars of the city have been declared out of bounds after 9 p.m. only to the men within his jurisdiction who now are in camp at the Willows. He declares that is was only through a regrettable misunderstanding that this was interpreted as applying to any others. Lieut. Col. Driscoll, commanding officer of the Legion of Frontiersmen, states that Trooper Seymour Rowlinson, formerly a well known businessman of Victoria, has been promotd to be a Lieutenant in command of the Victoria Sub Unit. A number of members of the unit who are now in Engkand with the first Canadian contingent have visited headquarters in London and have testified to the value of Lieut. Rowlinson’s work on behalf of the Legion both in the Yukon Territory and here. The Victoria unit is planning an aggressive campaign of recruiting, and any Frontiersmen in Victoria and vicinity are invited to communicate with the proper officials through any of the following telephones – Nos. 63, 4687, 4325X1. December 25, 1914 NAVAL AND MILITARY FORCES ON HOLIDAY Christmas Enjoyed by Soldiers and Sailors of City – Appreciated Dinners Served Turkey and plum pudding were served on Christmas Day to all those attached either to the naval or military forces of the city. There was not a man who had not the opportunity to enjoy these seasonable delicacies together with other good cheer. Appropriate meals were furnished at the Esquimalt Naval Yard, at Work Point and at the Willows camp. At each place the number taking seats about the festive boards was far less than usual, as the majority had obtained leave and wer participating in the holiday celebrations of their civilian friends. The hour at which the dinner call sounded was the same everywhere, namely, 12:30 o’clock. At the naval station it was a little later, and the good things were partaken of by about half the regular force, namely seventy. In the evening the storeroom officer entertained his fellow officers and their friends at his esidence. Following the time honored custom the canteen at Esquimalt put up the Christmas edibles and that they were appreciated there could be no doubt in the minds of those who visited the men while they were engaged in doing justice to them. It was much the same at the Willows. There was plenty of everything cooked excellently and serve din the best of style. Afterwards a “sing song” took place at the Y.M.C.A. building, which was joined in by practically all who happened to be in camp. December 25, 1914 PATRICIAS EXPECTED TO GET TO FRONT SOON Letter Received by Victorian Gives Account of Conditions on Salisbury Plain The following letter, received by relativeshere from a private in Princess Patricia’s Regiment on Salisbury Plain will prove of great interest at the present time, as the regiment is reported to have left for the front. Dear R----, --- I was so glad to have a letter from you the other day and to learn how you were getting on. I will write to M--- the first time I have a minute to spare. You see we, the P.P.C.L.I. have moved from Salisbury Plain and are now with the regulars, ready to go to the front, although it does not appear to be before the new year. We are still under canvas, which is very disagreeable, owing to the rain and wind. I used to think Canada windy, but this is infinitely worse, and we are up to our knees in mud. Luckily we are near to the town, about ten minutes walk and we get down for about four hours in the evening after “retreat.” My chum, P---, from Calgary, is in my section and we go about together all the time, and also share the same tent, which makes things nicer for us. We have met an old gentleman who has given us an open invitation to go to his house when we like, where we can have a bath and clean up. All the people, in fact, treat this regiment awfully well. We have been inspected by the King and Queen, also Lord Roberts and Lord Kitchener, and they all made flattering remarks about us. On the whole, we have attracte a great deal of comment in England on our appearance, owing to our having so many old soldiers in our regiment, and also on account of our physique. There seems no doubt the Germans are getting the wors of it, especially on th Russian frontier, and we have heard the Russians have captured about 18,000 Germans and that they will have their hands full extricating the balance of the forces around warsaw. Things are very quiet in camp and we have just the same monotonous daily routine to go through. We have been lately supplied with the short Lee-Enfield, which is a great improvement on the Canadian Ross rifle. Colonist FIRST CANADIANS CROSS CHANNEL London, Dec. 24 - The Princess Patricia Regiment, a part of the Canadian contingent, which has for its honorary Colonel the daughter of the Governor General of Canada, has left for the front. The regiment will shortly be followed by the Scottish regiments of the Canadian contingent, which after a course of training in Canada, and on Salisbury Plain, are considered fit to take their place with the seasoned soldiers of Great Britain. The rest of the 30,000 men who came across the continent and the ocean to fight the battles of the British Empire are reaching the concluding stages of their training, and it is fully expected that the whole contingent before many weeks will be on the continent. The place of honor of the first regiment to move across the English Channel fell to the Princess Patricia Regiment as it is made up largely of men who have seen previous service, and who need but a few weeks to renew their acquaintance with the game they are expected to play in the fighting lines. |
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