The following extracts and articles from the Fort
Fort
Fort William, 23 Mar, 1916 Both "A" and "B" companies paraded in
Fort William, with the bugle band. From an article, "We hate to say that there
are a number of young men in Fort William who would look better in khaki. "The
make up of a battalions separate units is 4 Sections to a Platoon, 4 Platoons to
a Company and 4 Companies to a battalion. There are 16 Signalers and Stretcher
Bearers attached to Headquarters.
The "Kit" shown in the Recruiting office window consists of: one great coat, one
serge coat, one pair pants, one pair shoes, one pair canvas shoes, three pair
blankets, one sweater, one balaclava hat, one peak cap, one pair overalls, three
top shirts, one pair overshoes, one pair braces, one pair puttees, two suits
underclothing, two pair socks, one pair mitts, one housewife, one knife, one
fork, one spoon, one cup, one plate, one box dubbing, two brushes, one razor, one
shaving brush, one tooth brush, one comb and two towels. To this outfit is added
the rifle, bayonet, ammunition, water bottle, knapsack, etc, making in all, over
sixty pounds of equipment.
Fort William, 24 Mar, 1916 David Monteith and George I.
Cooper of Slate River have enlisted. There is a gas helmet as used in the
trenches on display at the Fort William recruiting office.
Kenora, 25 Mar, 1916 Recruiting efforts have shown that local men
have a strong sense of responsibility in the Empires time of trail and are
willing to do their bit. Recruiting here has been totally devoid of the blaring
methods adopted in other places, both east and west.
Port Arthur, 29 Mar, 1916 Public asked to send in names of
possible recruits to the Recruiting Association. Letters were received
containing 107 names who will be contacted by the Association. 8 recruits
arrived from Schrieber.
Fort
Reported Change in Commanders of 94th.
It is reported that Col H.A.C. Machin, who has been so successful in
recruiting the
Port Arthur, 1 Apr, 1916 Battalion is within 50 men of full
strength. Indications are that it will probably go to Camp Sewell in Manitoba
for final training as it is a part of the 10th Military District. The CO would
prefer that it go to Val Cartier as it is closer to England and would save a
great deal of travel when it was sent overseas.
Port Arthur, 5 Apr, 1916 Only one man needed to bring unit to full
strength. 215 men from Fort Frances and Rainy River move to Port Arthur.
There was great stir and activity in town on
Tuesday morning at 9 o’clock the occasion being the departure of the local
unit of the 94th Battalion for
where they will join the main body. The boys were escorted to the station by the officers and staff of the 141st Battalion and the full regimental band with “A” and
“B” companies marching four deep. It was
an inspiring sight and was a practical illustration of what the
uphold liberty and freedom. There is no finer body of men than in the 94th and we are proud of them.
This leaves the 141st Bull Moose Battalion now alone in the field and as
soon as
going overseas
Arthur
with the 94th Battalion.
khaki.
Fort William, 6 Apr, 1916 The 94th is now at full strength of 1155
officers and men, but recruiting will continue. Will the 94th go to Summer Camp
at Val Cartier? It would cost the army $16,000.00 less to send it there than to
camp Sewell in Manitoba.
Port Arthur, 6 Apr, 1916 Sydney Walter of 1218 Victoria Ave Fort
William is recruit number 1155, bringing the unit to full strength. The troops
from Fort Frances and Rainy River have been quartered at the Steel Plant in Fort
William. The unit will not go into camp at Gresley Park in Port Arthur.
Port Arthur, 10 Apr, 1916 Battalion gives a concert for soldiers
who have returned from the front at Playfair Hall. Unit is now over strength.
Kenora, 12 Apr, 1916 The local unit has been using Rideout Park as
a parade ground. The 94th soccer team has issued a challenge to any organization
in the district. The boys require a new football, a bat, a baseball mask, mitts,
etc and will cheer any person who produces the goods.
A target has been erected and as a supply of rifles and ammunition is on hand,
practice will be started at once.
“Railwaymen’s Platoon”.
Kenora, 15 Apr, 1916 The 94th wants 20 more recruits here. This
will bring the strength up to 174 officers and men.
Kenora, 19 Apr, 1916 The 94th is now a number of men over strength
and is ready to go under canvas for summer training as soon as orders are
received. A baseball and mitts have been given to the local unit. A Baseball and
Football game will be held in the local park on Good Friday for the benefit of
the Regimental Fund.
Kenora, 26 Apr, 1916 The strength of the 94th is now 1,279, 72 men
over the prescribed number.
Fort William, 27Apr, 1916 No official word as yet as to where the
94th will go, but Maj Gen John Hughes says that it will go to Val Cartier if he
has any input. Rumours say that it could go directly overseas for training.
Port Arthur, 27 Apr, 1916 Battalion is to go to Val Cartier.
Port Arthur, 28 Apr, 1916 Battalion holds a Grand Military Dance
at the Port Arthur Armouries.
Fort William, 3 May, 1916 McCartney and Burkes Jewelers rings and
badges for the 94th on sale.
Kenora, 3 May, 1916 Kenora unit will move shortly. M. Gen John
Hughes says the 94th will train at Valcartier.
Fort William, 4 May, 1916 The entire 94th went on a 21 miles march
through Fort William and Port Arthur., Col. Little, the Commanding Officer of
the 96th Lake Superior regiment took the salute in Current River.
Port Arthur, 5 May, 1916 Battalion holds a display for the public
at the Port Arthur Armouries. The program included a Band Concert, Boxing,
Physical Training, and Bayonet Drill.
Kenora, 6 May, 1916 The Women's Christian Temperance Union
entertained the Officers and men, their mothers and wives at Zion Methodist
Church last Friday.
Fort William, 8 May, 1916 The band and unit members from Hymers
attended a concert in their home town. The concert was sponsored by the Hymers
Women's Institute.
Port Arthur, 10 May, 1916 Major General John Hughes inspected the
Battalion at Current River Park. 1000 men in three companies were on parade and
marched from the Port Arthur Armouries to the Park. Gen Hughes said that he was
very impressed with the men. The General said that the Battalion would probably
be in Val Cartier in a month.
Kenora, 13 May, 1916 Local unit now has 180 officers and men. The
94th band was presented with new instruments at the Port Arthur Armouries by
Mrs. Machin. They cost $1,856.00 of which $1,400.00 was paid for by donations.
Port Arthur, 15 May, 1916 Battalion held a Drum Head Church
Service in Fort William Baseball Park.
Fort William, 23 May, 1916 The concert at the Lyceum Theatre was a
huge success and will be repeated at the Corona Theatre on Thursday,
Kenora, 24 May, 1916 The local unit of the 94th is anxiously
awaiting orders to move to Port Arthur. It is likely they will leave in a few
days. The 94th is 107 men over strength.
Fort
spent a few days in town on a visit to his parents, Mr. and Mrs. James
Wallace,
Fort William, 25 May, 1916 The entire 94th is now to be
concentrated in the Lakehead. "D" Co., from Kenora and Dryden, with 251 men
under the command of Major Schnarr will detrain at the Port Arthur Station and
march to the Armouries which are now over crowded. To relieve this, the band and
the Machine Gun Section will move to the barracks in West Fort William. They
will remain there until the move to Val Cartier. The strength of the battalion
is; "A" Co - 262 officers and men, "B" Co - 263, Headquarters - 144, "C" Co
(Fort Frances and Rainy River and now in Fort William) - 262, "D" Co. (Kenora
and Dryden and now in Port Arthur) - 234, Machine Gun Section - 33, Buglers -
25, Band - 35, In Training - 28, Total - 1303, Absent Without Leave - 41, Parade
Strength - 1262
Fort William, 26 May, 1916 There is still room for recruits in the
94th. The officers of "D" Co. are, Commanding Officer - Maj R.H. Neeland (Fort
William), Capt. J.B. Thompson (Kenora), Lts. J.E. Jenkinson (Port Arthur), R.
Bateman (Kenora), J.A. Horan (Dryden), S.L. Switzer (Port Arthur), A.E. Smith
(Port Arthur).
Port Arthur, 26 May, 1916 249 men from Kenora and Dryden arrive
completing the concentration of the battalion.
Kenora, 27 May, 1916
KENORA UNIT 94TH LEFT THURSDAY
---------------------------------
AN IMMENSE CROWD GATHERED AT STATION TO SAY GOODBYE
WILL REMAIN IN PORT ARTHUR FOR SHORT TIME
The Kenora detachment of the 94th Battalion left Thursday morning in command of
major Schnarr in a special train. The boys in Khaki assembled at the Armouries
and headed by the combined bands of Kenora and Keewatin paraded to the station
followed by an immense throng of citizens. The men presented a splendid
appearance ant it was the general expression that they compared very well with
any of the other contingents that have left here for overseas service. The men
entrained as soon as they arrived at the station. As the 94th is expected to
leave for Valcartier in the course of a couple of weeks, and none of the men
will likely have the opportunity of visiting their home here again before going
overseas, there were many affecting scenes of farewell. It was marvelous,
however, to see the manner in which the mothers, wives, sisters and sweethearts
bore up when saying goodbye. They did all they could to cheer the men rather
than depress them reserving for themselves the culmination of departure until
after the train had left. In fact many of the wives and relatives of the men
refused to go to the train, the parting scenes being held in the sanctity of
their own homes. How nobly the women of Kenora and Keewatin are meeting the
sacrifice has been amply evidenced on the occasion of the departure and anyone
who was at the station on Thursday could never for one moment question the duty
owing to the dependents of these gallant fellows.
Frances
. He recently got a few days off for seeding and to
his surprise found that his house had been burglarized.
Fort William, 1 Jun, 1916 Maybee's
Jewelers, 810 Victoria Ave,
Fort William are selling military watches, guaranteed to be waterproof and to
stand up to hard usage.
Fort William, 2 Jun, 1916 This will be the last local march of the
94th so it probably is the last time for residents to see the troops on parade.
All Companies will march through both the cities.
Port Arthur, 6 Jun, 1916 Dan McCartney of Port Arthur, a deserter
from both the 52nd and 94th Battalions was arrested as he tried to join the
"Bull Moose" Battalion. When the 94th had been ordered to Val Cartier, he had
reported sick and was taken to the hospital, but returned to the Armouries under
guard. He escaped during the night.
Fort William, 8 Jun, 1916 The advance party of the 94th will be
leaving for Val Cartier today under the command of the Quarter Master, Captain
Kerr.
94th SAYING FAREWELL
TO HEAD OF THE LAKES
Advance Guard Under Capt. Coldwell with Quartermaster Capt. Kerr Leave Early
Today
-----------------
BATTALION IS INSPECTED
BY BRIG. GEN. H.N. RUTTAN
-------------------
Final Route Marches takes Place early Tomorrow Morning In The Two Cities.
A small crowd of several hundred people bade farewell to the advance guard
of the 94th battalion which left Port Arthur for Val Cartier shortly after
eleven o'clock this morning on the delayed Canadian Northern Toronto express.
Two special coaches were assigned for the soldiers and at 10:45, Lieut J.E.
Griffiths gave the order for the bugler to sound the "Fall In". The men drew up
along the Canadian Northern station platform and spent the last few moments of
their stay saying farewell to their relatives and friends. "Kiss the baby
George", said one mother with tear dimmed eyes as she held a tiny tot for a
stalwart soldier to kiss. And when this farewell was over the burly soldier was
seen to pass his tunic sleeve furtively over his eyes.
Touching Scenes
There were three generation down at the station, in at least one instance, to
see a soldier boy off -- a white haired mother, the young wife and two lisping
children. "Goodbye daddy", "Goodbye Will", "Goodbye my son", came simultaneously
from the baby girl, wife and mother.
The men were in charge of Capt Coldwell and Capt Adjutant Douglas Kerr, and
about 50 men came over from Fort William where they entrained.
His Second Attempt
"Make a good job of it this time Cuddy." said two or three friends to Private
Frank Cuddington who was busy shaking hands with his friends as he leaned out
the car window. "You bet; I will try to get to the front this time." was the
reply. Cuddington went to the front with the machine gun section soon after the
war broke out, but was invalided home after going through the trying experience
of camping on Salisbury plain.
The Boys Sang
And what was the song that some of the boys sang as the train pulled out?
"One, two, three,
Who are we?
We are the boys of "A" Company.
Are we ready?
We should smile. We've been ready For a ---------- of a while."
"Are We Downhearted?"
"Are we downhearted?" yelled out one brawny fighting man as he leaned with ruddy
face, out of the car window. "No", was roared back from a hundred lusty throats.
Then the strains of Tipperary floated out on the summer air and a man with a
concertina made music for a while. But then "All Aboard" was called and the last
goodbyes were said. Though the boys left with a laugh on their lips and hearty
cheers there was a seriousness about their departure which did not mark the
leave taking of the first contingent. "I have one son wounded with the ----
battalion.", said one woman whose eyes were red with weeping, " and jack is on
that train going with today's crowd. Now the little boy is crazy to go even as a
bugler. And I am having hard work to keep my husband from going.".
"Pretty tough seeing all those boys go and we know that some of them will never
come back.", said several people -men at that - in the crowd, as they watched
the train steaming away in the distance. That remark was never heard when the
first drafts went away. The boys have gone to prepare the camp at Valcartier for
the rest of the battalion, who will follow later. 112 men in all left this
morning.
The last route march of the 94th battalion will take place tomorrow morning in
Fort William and Port Arthur. As large a crowd as possible should turn out to
give the boys as good a demonstration as possible.
The Inspection Today
Arriving on the morning train from Winnipeg, Brigadier General H.H. Ruttan of
Winnipeg, commanding military district number ten came to the head of the lakes
today for the purpose of inspecting the 94th battalion before it leaves the
cities. A guard of honour, commanded by Capt W.T. Dennison and Lieuts Shelly and
McCutcheon met the train at the station in Port Arthur. The guard consisted of
about 100 men.
The Brigadier General first inspected this guard and then breakfasted at the
Prince Arthur Hotel. Accompanied by Col. Little of the 96th regiment and some
Port Arthur officers of the 94th battalion, the western officer arrived at the
McKellar ball park in this city shortly before 10 o'clock, where the whole
strength of the battalion was drawn up for inspection. Here several hundred twin
cities people gathered to see the soldiers on what is likely to be one of their
last public appearance before departing for the east. Platoons and companies
were put through numerous maneuvers, the brigadier general taking the salute as
each company marched past the reviewing position. While the inspection was in
progress, the Canadian Northern express bearing to the east Capts Kerr and
Coldwell and a section of about 50 men passed the inspection base. The soldiers
rent the air with their hurray's of farewell to which the boys on the train
replied.
Citizens Turn Out
At the conclusion of the inspection the 94th band marched to the corner of May
and Victoria avenue where a number of splendid selections were rendered by the
band which seems to be improving hourly. There were hundreds of interested
citizens on the street and in the ballpark, the grand stand and all standing
room in the park was occupied.
Is Greatly Pleased
"I am extremely pleased with my inspection of your battalion, and I consider
that, taking into consideration the opportunities that you have had of training,
you have attained an excellent pitch of proficiency. You will shortly be going
to Valcartier where you may not remain for many weeks; how long your stay will
be will depend upon yourselves, but from the intelligence received, it is likely
that it will not be for long. Upon you own discipline and behavior will also
depend whether you are to be kept as a unit or scattered as reinforcements among
other units. Your colonel informs me that he has arranged that you be allowed
off on a holiday this afternoon and I may add that I think you have the very
best of commissioned and non-commissioned officers. I now wish you Godspeed on
your noble undertaking and also a safe return to your homes."
In the above words general Ruttan addressed the officers and men of the 94th
battalion after a long and thorough inspection at McKellar park this morning
during which the various were put through a severe test of their efficiency,
coming out with flying colours. At the close of the parade the whole battalion
was drawn up before the general and he bade them farewell.
Speaking of the inspection after dismissal, general Ruttan said that he had
little to add to the words of praise which he had given the men on the field. He
had rarely seen a better set up body of soldiers and he was especially struck
with the fine bearing and physique of the majority of the members of the
battalion.
Fort William, 09/06/16 94th Battalion leaves for Val Cartier.
TOUCHING SCENES WHEN
94th ENTRAINED TODAY
Citizens of Two Communities Turn Out En Masse To Give Boys Send - Off
---------------------------------
LONG WAIT AT PORT ARTHUR
The City of Fort William was astir betimes this morning, for it was
known that the boys of the 94th, which has become possibly more with the city as
it's own particular battalion, than any previous unit, were to leave, and to
entrain sometime about seven in the morning at the siding by the steel plant
barracks and would be held over for a few minutes at the station on Victoria
Avenue for the last fare-wells.
And they are indeed, closely associated with Fort William, for in the ranks of
the officers are men who have held all manner of positions in the city before
they acquired a military handle to their names. There was W.J. Hamilton, Harry
Neeland, Bruce Boreham, Douglas Kerr, Gordon Colville, Harry Walker who we all
knew before they were Majors, Captains or Lieutenants. While among the non -
coms and men there were to many well known boys to mention, thought the two big
policemen, McLean and Ingram were to noticeable to miss, and there were dozens
of old-timers, like Billy Higgins the iron-worker, who were leaving homes and
families to fight overseas and there is hardly a shop or business in the city
that has not got it's representative in the "Pride o' the North".
Crowds See them Off
So it was not long after seven that the crowd began to accumulate on Victoria
Avenue, streaming in from every direction to the centre of the city, mothers,
sisters, wives and best girls laden with little tokens of love to give to the
boys as they said goodbye. It was a quieter, more sombre crowd that waited for
the 94th, than the cheering throng that bade Godspeed to the earlier battalions.
The realities of war have come home closer to Canada since it's overseas
contingents have met their enemy on the field, and while the stern resolve to
win and to send the best of the Dominion to help in the victory, is none the
less apparent, yet tears today mingled more frequently with cheers, and the
pride and the pride that gleamed in the eyes of the women who kissed their men
goodbye shone through windows dimmed with moisture.
"My Boy! My Boy!"
Shortly before eight the cry arose that they were coming, and the city band,
which had marched down sometimes before, playing "Soldiers of the Queen",
greeted the slowing train with music. Then came a rush to the doors and windows
of the cars, and the last embraces, little children held up to the windows of
the cars gave daddy the last kiss, while weeping women clung till the last
moment to the hand of the lad whom they were sending to war. One Spartan mother
from Rainy River, who had come down to see her boy off, could not withhold her
pride, and caught hold of bystanders pointing to the smiling face of her son,
crying, "There he is, that's my boy, my boy."
There was scanty time allowed for bidding them farewell in Fort William, where
the train only stayed for a brief quarter of an hour, while in Port Arthur there
was a full hour of waiting, and is seemed as if not half that ought have been
said had passed between those that went and those that stayed, when the wheels
began to move and the trainload of cheering soldiers sped from sight.
At Port Arthur
With tear dimmed eyes yet with many a hearty cheer the citizens of Fort William
and Port Arthur this morning bade farewell to the boys of the 94th battalion who
left for their summer camp.
The first train, a special of 14 cars which conveyed the boys from the steel
plant, west Fort William passed through Port Arthur shortly after nine o'clock
and the crowds of people gathered at the depot and in the vicinity cheered to
the echo the brave boys.
Long before the hour of departure the Canadian Northern platform, north and
south Water street, the Canadian Pacific railway station square and east Arthur
street were crowded with solid blocks of people eager to say goodbye to the
boys. It is estimated that even at the early hour of eight o'clock there were
over 3,000 people out to see the last of the soldiers. Nearly everybody carried
a parcel. In many instances more than one, and homemade cooking, candy, fruit,
cigars, cigarettes, chewing gum, papers and magazines were pressed into the
hands of the soldiers.
The Port Arthur Boys
At eight o'clock the Port Arthur detachment of the 94th left the armouries and
the lilting strains of the music of the fine brass band could be heard as they
led the companies down the street. The contingent, headed by Col Machin, made a
gallant showing. The men were all carrying full service equipment, weighing 73
pounds, but so evenly distributed that the weight was not burdensome. All were
merry and bright. As soon as the men were drawn up on water street and ordered
to "stand at ease", it was with difficulty that the ranks were kept, so eager
were relatives and friends to have the last word and handshake. At nine thirty,
the long special train came in, and the boys were speedily entrained. All the
local boys in the 94th are very well known in the twin cities, so are the
officers. In many cases this that have mobilized here from other points have
made friends, so that every soldier had friends in the crowd, and everybody on
the crowd knew one or more --- generally more --- of the soldiers
Popular Officers
Colonel Machin came in for a great ovation as he stepped aboard the train, so did Canon Hedley and captain W.T. Denison, Lieutenants Shelley and
Griffiths and others. It is not so long ago since the hearts of were saddened by the departure of
another well known local battalion, but never have such scopes been enacted in
Port Arthur as were witnessed today when the gallant boys of the 94th left for
their summer camp, shortly to go overseas.
Pathetic Farewells
Pathetic scenes were witnessed. One very prominent young business man of Port
Arthur, his eyes filled with tears, stated to the Times Journal that he was
overwhelmed with sympathetic sorrow at the sorrowing leave taking's that were
being enacted on the platform. Louis Northern, 155 Pine Street, Port Arthur, was
the centre of a very pathetic little home group. Round him were gathered his
wife and nine children ranging from a little babe in arms to grown up daughters.
None made any attempt to conceal their emotion, except the father, who was the
bravest of them all, and "kept a stiff upper lip". All along the line were
pathetic scenes. Girls who had known some of the boys from their childhood were
there to say and kiss them goodbye. Everyone in town knew one or more of the
boys, and by the times ten o'clock had arrived and the long special was still in
the vicinity of the station, packing the platform suffocation, crowding and
completely blocking the streets, filling the verandas of the Mariaggi, the
windows and office spaces of the freight office, the publicity pagoda steps and
even the Canadian Pacific Railway platform. So dense was the crowd that it
extended up Arthur street to Cumberland. But it was an orderly crowd. The people
had all to an individual only one object in view - to say goodbye to the boys.
Three Boys From One Family
When the last well know battalion went away from the head of the lakes it will
be remembered that coming down the street to the station was a young Port Arthur
man with a basket full of good things, for his brother who went away with the
battalion "pasties for Tom" he shouted out with glee, and today that same
brother and yet another brother went with the 94th making three brave brothers
in all from one family. The parents and sisters were down at the train this
morning to see the brothers off and bore up bravely when the time for parting
came. The brothers were not forgotten, thought, by many friends and three
luscious fresh pastries found their way into the boys bundles.
Just before leaving a message was flashed down the cars that the Austrians were
reported by bulletin this morning to have lost 200,000 men in the last few days.
This was greeted with cheers, and one brawny soldier shouted out, "Never mind
that; it's the Kaiser we're after.".
The Fort William Men
The Fort William contingent arrived at Port Arthur at 9:20, and stayed nine
minutes to allow some heavy baggage being loaded. As they pulled to the cheers
of the assembled populace, the 94th band played "Auld Lange Syne" and "God save
the King". Then came the long line of empties for the Port Arthur boys. Sentries
were posted at each door and the men entrained in a wonderfully orderly manner
wending their way through the crowds without any pushing aside of women or
children, in spite of the heavy equipment they were carrying. It was 10:15 when
the special left the Port Arthur depot. Slowly, apparently almost with
reluctance, and the crowd was just as loathe to let the boys go. But they have
gone, and they have left behind them memories of dutiful sons, loving husbands
and affectionate fathers, and the prayers of thousands of anxious relatives and
friends will go up that they may have a safe and victorious return. The Port
Arthur city band which had played this morning at the station in Fort William
having been off on duty with the band since 7 o'clock played the train out of
the station to the strains of "God Save The King". The familiar music of Auld
Lange Syne warned the crowd that the time for departure was at hand. Cheer upon
cheer rent the air as familiar faces were seen at the car windows. On the front
of the caboose, alone, stood the chaplain, Reverend Canon Hedley, for 11 years
rector of St Johns church and a roar of cheering broke out as his solitary
figure was drawn up at the salute.
Port Arthur, 9 Jun, 1916 The advance party of the battalion left
for Val Cartier, commanded by the Quarter Master, Captain Kerr and Captain
Caldwell. In an interview, Lt Col Machin thanked the News Chronicle for the help
it had provided in recruiting.
ADVANCE PARTY NINETY - FOURTH IS AWAY TO CAMP
Today on First Step of Journey to the Firing Lines
"Is there any man who doesn't wish to go with this party?". It was the voice
of the Sergeant speaking to the first men of the Ninety - Fourth Battalion drawn
up to await the train for departure on their way to meet the Germans.
"A period of silence followed. Then one man from the ranks said, "No chance.".
It is customary to give the men a chance to withdraw before going to meet the
enemy, but this practice, which reflects the true spirit of voluntarism by which
Canada is adding half a million men to Britain's volunteer army of five million,
loses very few men to the forces. On the other hand, it shows the spirit in
which Britishers go to war. It is the spirit of the Ninety Fourth as of the
Battalions which have gone before.
Many Said Goodbye
Several hundred Port Arthur people were at the depot this morning to see the
advance party of the Ninety Fourth battalion off to summer camp. Many more would
have doubtless been present, but it was not generally known when they would
leave. From 9.20 when the train was due until 10.50 when it arrived, the
platform was crowded with wives, mothers, sisters, sweethearts and friends of
the boys, who left under command of Capt. Kerr, Quartermaster and Capt.
Caldwell.
For about thirty minutes after their arrival at the depot the soldiers were
allowed to bid a last farewell to their relatives and friends. Quite proudly did
the wives, mothers and loved ones bear up under the strain. Although many eyes
were swollen, there was no weeping at the station. Instead all wore a smile of
pride for the brave boys who are going to fight the battle of humanity against
the Huns.
Good Things To Eat
The soldiers were not forgotten by the townspeople who were there to present
them with many delicacies to add to their meals on board train, and plenty of
reading matter.
The detachment, which was composed of the pick of young Canadian manhood, went
away with full kits, haversack, water bottle, belt and pouch, blankets rolled in
rubber sheet and kit bag. They left amid an outburst of cheering and shouting,
and replied with three hearty cheers for Port Arthur.
Port Arthur, 09 Jun, 1916 94th Battalion leaves for Val Cartier
from the Canadian Northern Station at 1000AM.
PORT ARTHUR SAYS GOOD BYE TO THE 94TH BATTALION
MANY TOUCHING SCENES AS MEN
STAND WAITING TO BOARD TRAIN, AND SAYING
THEIR FAREWELLS
THOUSANDS OUT TO WISH THE BOYS GOOD LUCK.
Cheering Of The Early Days Of The War Has Given Way To Quiet Sincerity
Which Is Even More Impressive In Reflecting The Patriotic Spirit.
Port Arthur residents turned out en mass this morning to bid the members of
the Ninety - Fourth battalion good-bye. As early as seven o'clock the platform
of the C.N.R. station was crowded with people. The pupils of the city schools
were given a half day holiday to allow them to be there and by ten o'clock, when
the train pulled out, there was one of the greatest throngs of people gathered
together that has ever been seen by any event in the city. The number is
variously estimated at from six to eight thousand.
When the local companies marched down from the armouries headed by the battalion
band, they were greeted with great outbursts of cheering. On arrival at Water
street the men were allowed to break ranks to bid one last farewell to the loved
ones they are leaving. Although they endeavoured to bear up proudly under the
strain and send their men off with a smile and good cheer there was many a
handkerchief in evidence amongst the mothers , wives, sisters, daughters and
sweethearts of the men who are going to fight their battles for them against the
common enemy of humanity.
The train bearing the Fort William detachment stopped long enough at the station
here for people to bid farewell to family friends they had on board and
immediately following it's departure a train of fifteen coaches was boarded by
the local detachment. Following the entrainment of the troops sentries were
posted at all the doors and the last handshakes were given through the car
windows.
At ten o'clock amidst cheers and the and music from the Port Arthur city band
which had gone to Fort William and accompanied the Fort boys to Port Arthur, the
train pulled out. Amidst the throng were many pathetic scenes but probably there
were no more so than that of Private Lewis Northern of 155 Pine street who was
bidding farewell to his wife and nine children, the youngest of whom is a mere
infant and not yet able to realize anything except that "Daddy is going away for
a long time."
Leaves his bride
In another corner could be seen Private Lemuel Storey, formerly a driver for A.
Ferguson, who had decided to join the battalion on Wednesday evening, saying
good-bye to his wife who is a bride of only eighteen hours, having been married
at six o'clock yesterday afternoon.
The ladies of the churches, who have been making baskets up for the boys were
down to present them with some homemade delicacies to add to their meals on the
train. These stalwart, soldierly looking men were also remembered by their
friends and all of them carried boxes of eatables which were given to them at
the station and many large supplies of tobacco and cigarettes for the smokers.
Kenora, 10 Jun, 1916
94TH BATT. OFF TO VALCARTIER
WILL SPEND A PERIOD IN TRAINING THERE BEFORE GOING OVERSEAS.
The 94th overseas battalion in command of Lieut. Col. H.A.C. Machin left
Port Arthur yesterday morning for Valcartier where they will spend a portion of
the summer in training prior to going overseas. They were given a magnificent
send off by the people of Port Arthur and Fort William and many affecting scenes
were witnessed at the station as the train pulled out. The men of the Kenora and
Rainy River Companies had been through the parting scenes before and were
enabled to keep up a brave front and cheer their comrades who were parting from
friends at Port Arthur
It had been thought during the past week that it was likely that the 94th would
proceed overseas at once and complete their training in England. The fact that
the battalion is already one of the best trained in Canada and the men in
splendid condition physically gave credence to the belief that they would move
early to the front. However there are a great many battalions that were
organized before the 94th and it would seem that they are to be sent first.
Fort William, 12 Jun, 1916 94th Battalion arrives at Val Cartier.
Kenora, 14 Jun, 1916 The 94th Btln has arrived safely at
Valcartier Camp.
Fort William, 16 Jun, 1916 A telegram received by the Times
Journal from the Commanding Officer of the 94th. Lt Col Machin, states that all
officers, save one in the hospital are on duty..
Port Arthur, 17 Jun, 1916 Unspecified rumours which adversely
affected the honour of the officers of the 94th were being spread in the cities.
Lt Col Machin asked that they be investigated.
All infantry units now being recruited in Canada will be broken up in England.
All senior officers arriving in England will have to undergo a stiff course and
examination and there is little chance of them going to France with the rank
they held in Canada. There is a steady demand for junior officers to replace
casualties.
Fort William, 18 Jun, 1916 The following is a letter received from
Cpl. H. Stanworth.
94TH BATTALION
QUITE AT HOME
-----------------------------------------------
A member of the Times Journal staff has received the following
interesting letter from 199151 Corporal H. Stanworth, "A" Company, 94th
Battalion, Valcartier. The letter dated June 12th is as follows in part:- "Just
a few lines as I promised you. We arrived at camp at 800PM Sunday night after a
very pleasant journey indeed. We had marches at North Bay and Joliette, a French
Canadian place and there wasn't a cheer to be heard. The food on the train was
splendid. As to the camp itself, I think that it is first rate. I have got a
bunch of fellows in our tent who are all right. I have Ted Leake, Art Merrix,
Butcher Teddiman, Bold and Gray. You may not know all of them but they are all
right.
I told you how pleased we were with our send off from Port Arthur. We had a
dandy time coming down on the train. I think that C. N. R. Route east is fine.
There is some lovely scenery all the way. The trip through the Province of
Quebec up to Valcartier is along the St Lawrence nearly all the way and was
enjoyed by all of us. From what we can gather we have not very long to stay
here, although when we are going overseas is a secret.
I consider Valcartier a very well appointed place. It is some size I can tell
you, almost like a city, good roads, electric lights, running water, picture
houses, etc. The 94th is the senior battalion here so we shall be the first to
move. We are of course the only western battalion here too.
We are not doing very much the first day. It will take us all day to get
properly settled etc, etc.
Port Arthur, 18 Jun, 1916 A letter from Harold Boothe states that
Major Schnarr is one of the best liked officers in the battalion. He says that
he is indignant over certain rumors that merely originated in Major Schnarr's
German name and characterizes them as a lie.
Fort William, 19 June 1916 Letter from Dental Corps Officer
attached to the Battalion
94TH WAS THE FINEST
OUTFIT AT VALCARTIER
SAYS RETURNED OFFICER
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dr. J.G. O'Neill returned last night from Valcartier Camp, whither he had
accompanied the 94th battalion as a member of the Canadian Army Dental Corps,
having received instructions to accompany the battalion in his official
capacity. His time was fully occupied at Valcartier, and a few days ago he
received a telegram instructing him to report to Ottawa and from there he had
orders to go to Camp Hughes. He will leave for the west tomorrow. Dr. O'Neill
said the 94th left Quebec Monday by Intercolonial railway for Halifax. The 94th
battalion had the reputation of being the best battalion at Valcartier camp, and
Col. Machin was the most popular officer commanding of any battalion camping
there. "All those stories about spies and major Schnarr," said Dr. O'Neill
indignantly, "are absolutely untrue. Major Schnarr is becoming the most popular
officer in the battalion, and is a fine loyal fellow all through."
"On two occasions," continued Dr. O'Neill, "the 94th band was chosen to escort
incoming battalions into the camp/ - one being the 199th Irish Fusiliers from
Montreal, and the other the 105th from Prince Edward Island."
Dr. O'Neill said that the final medical examination, which caused the return of
over 40 men from the 95th and the 94th was very severe; indeed Colonel Machin
characterized it as the most rigid medical examination he had ever witnessed
during his whole military experience. Four medical men conducted the examination
which, though severe, said Dr. O'Neill, was just.
Dr. O'Neill is naturally disappointed in having to leave the 94th and go to Camp
Hughes, as he was anxious to get overseas at once and wished, if possible, to
stay with the 94th, but he was told that the dental members of the dental corps
were needed much more in Canada than they are in England, and so he will go west
tomorrow and be attached to one of the battalions now spending the summer at
Camp Hughes.
Port Arthur, 21 Jun, 1916 W.F. Longworthy has visited the troops
in camp at Val Cartier and he reports them to be both happy and healthy.
Port Arthur, 24 Jun, 1916 Dan McCartney sentenced to one year in
prison for desertion.
Port Arthur, 26 Jun, 1916 The Battalion is reported to be off for
England
PORT ARTHUR BOYS HAD A FINE
TRIP ACROSS ATLANTIC
--------------------------------
WEATHER WAS FINE ALL THE WAY AND TRIP WAS ENJOYABLE FRED STANWORTH TELLS OF LIFE
ON BOAT
---------------------------------
Bandsman Fred Stanworth writes of the trip across the Atlantic as follows
I promised you that I would tell you about the trip across the Atlantic. We went
aboard ------------- at 12 o'clock on Wednesday noon and stayed on the boat till
8 o'clock Thursday evening. We left port and were escorted out till we got out
of the sight of land. We went to bed at 9 o'clock and everybody was given a life
belt and at ten P.M. lights out. This is a fine boat and I can't tell anything,
for we have had orders that all letters will be destroyed if we mention any
names or places or anything like that. There are a lot of troops here and it is
a fine sight to see so many soldiers. We got up Friday morning at 6 o'clock and
the fog horn went off every minute, and it seemed to shake the whole ship. We
went on deck and were told we were just off the banks of Newfoundland and the
boat was going at half speed.
At morning parade we were told life belts had to be worn throughout the journey.
After dinner the fog lifted and the sun came out ant it was a nice bright day.
The gun crews were put on different parts of the ship, and were to be there on
guard ready for action. At three o'clock we had a general alarm. It went off
fine. The ship's siren went off in short blasts, and all the officers blew their
whistles, and all the soldiers looked fine in their life belts. In the evening
we passed another boat about twenty miles away. The boys were playing all kinds
of games and boxing was the sport that went well with the boys. Just before
sunset on the deck every evening Canon Hedley holds a service for the troops. We
got up Saturday morning, and it was a little dull; the boat slowed down again
and later in the morning when it was nice and clear again, we passed another
boat about seven miles away. We are now going full speed and say can she travel.
I am just thinking what the people of Port Arthur are doing as it is Dominion
Day. There are a few bands on the ship and we play every day in our turns. The
purser is a busy man as most of the troops are getting their Canadian money
changed into English money. As we were playing this afternoon from 3 o'clock to
5, all the troops rushed to the side of the ship. About half a mile away there
were two whales spouting water, and we could see them quite plainly. After
supper some of the boys, including myself, thought we would have a swim, so we
went to the swimming bath and stayed there for about an hour.
Ship Swimming Pool
The water is fine, salt of course and just warm. The pool is about as big as the
YMCA pool in Port Arthur. Some of the boys were practicing with life belts and
we had a lot of fun. When the boat rolled, the water in the pool would be just
like a rough sea. A clean towel is provided for 25 cents. It is now Sunday and
raining but we are going full speed. We have had a church service on deck and
our band played till diner time. We saw a whole bunch of dolphins trying to
follow the boat. I cannot tell you what we have for our meals because it would
take to much time, but all agree the food is fine. We did not do bad for Sunday
dinner. We had soup, chicken, potatoes, green peas, plum pudding, apples and
oranges. Our band gets guard duty one hour each. The ship is guarded by men all
over it, and in case of alarm, those on guard have to close the water tight
compartments. On Sunday afternoon some of the band boys and myself were
snoozing, when all at once the general alarm was sounded by the ship's whistle
and bugles. It was a big surprise and everybody made a grab for life belts. I
forgot to tell you where we sleep. Our battalion was the first on board the boat
and some are down in the bottom. All the bands are together in the first class
lounge and I have a nice cozy corner right on top deck A, and it is fine. Most
of the boys sleep in hammocks. Now it is Monday morning and a fine clear day.
The sea is calm and just like a mill pond. We have just finished playing a
couple of hours until dinner. As we are on deck this afternoon there are two
sailing vessels, with full sail up, passing us and they look splendid. We get
the war news by wireless every day. This afternoon we had another general alarm;
we never know when they are going to surprise us. We have just been watching the
gun in action, the gunners firing at floating objects.
There is a Jap platoon in one of the battalion on board. It is now Monday and we
are about to enter the danger zone and a sharp lookout is kept. No bands are
playing today. Tuesday morning and all are excited, no more alarms for the next
one will be the real thing. Well this is the last night at sea. I am not going
to pull off many clothes. Nothing like being ready, eh? One has a chance then. I
am not going to sleep much and I am doing a little reading. Got up Wednesday
morning at 3.30 and saw a beautiful sunrise; only fifteen on deck. I went to
wake up some of the pals in another part of the ship. We met our escort and it
is comforting to see the destroyers guarding the big ship. It is fine now. We
are in sight of land, Ireland on the right and Scotland on the left. It is
beautiful. We are just passing the Isle of Mann and it looks good to me. Now we
have entered the river and the mountains of Wales in the distance look
magnificent. Well the trip is now over and you should see all the tugs and hear
their whistles scream. There a lot of ships to, and talk about cheers. The
people crossing the river on a ferry going over to ----------- were generous
with their hurrahs. You can see the tower on the other side of the river. Well
the trip is just the one that I should like to have if I cross again. It was not
rough at all. I never felt better in my life, had every meal on the boat and
there were not many who were sick. We landed at ----------- near my old home
town, 2.30 Wednesday afternoon and left at 5.20 in the evening. We were on the
train all night and at 2.30 found ourselves in the south of England at
---------- camp. We passed London in the night and could not see much. There is
no parade this morning so I am finishing getting settled in.
Port Arthur, 29 Jun, 1916 94th is no longer a unit.
Deserters from the 94th have been given until June 30th to report to the 141st
Battalion. Those that do will only be charged as being Absent Without Leave, not
desertion.
Kenora, 01 Jul, 1916 In a letter written by Capt. Thompson prior
to the departure of the 94th Battalion from Valcartier he says:
"Probably before this letter reaches you some of our Kenora boys will have
returned home through no fault of their own. Our physical examination prior to
embarkation was held a day or two ago and was very strict, there being seven
Medical Officers on the job. Last night the boys that were rejected along with
those from other companies left us and it was surely a sad parting. They were
all rejected for very slight defects such as we had never dreamed of and they
all felt worse at leaving the battalion than we did, most of them practically
breaking down. The colonel was particularly sorry to part with the Kenora and
Keewatin boys and I personally would hate to admit how near I came to being in
the same state as they were when they went as in the six months I was with them
I came to know the sterling qualities possessed by the majority. They stood by
me and the battalion from the start to finish and if we had our way they would
be with us today."
Kenora, 7 Jul, 1916 Cables from members of the 94th were received
stating that the battalion had arrived safely in England and all were well.
Ottawa, July 7 - It is officially announced through the chief press censor's
office that the following troops had arrived safely in England:- Eleventh
C.M.R., Thirteenth C.M.R., Ninety Fourth Battalion, One Hundred and First
Battalion, One Hundred and Fourth Battalion, No. 4 A.S.C. Train, A.S.C.
Ambulance Workshop, R.C.R. Draft Halifax, Fifty Seventh Howitzer Battery Draft
Quebec. Total of 5,992.
Kenora, 20 Jul, 1916 94th men like old England. The following
letter from Pvt. J.P. Caron to D.B. Valentine gives an account of the 94th
Battalion's trip to England.
Dear Friend Dave, It is a pleasure for me to be able to snatch a few moments
this afternoon to tell you a little of our new home and country. I must say that
we had a very nice trip which we all enjoyed very much, the trip on the train to
Halifax did not seem tiresome to us and we were well fed, and the boat ride
across the ditch was all we could desire. The sea was remarkably calm all the
way and we made fast time, we pulled anchor at Halifax on June 28th at 800PM and
landed at Liverpool on July 5th at 400PM. We boarded a train from there for a
nine hour ride from Liverpool to East Sandling where we are stationed. Believe
me, the little engine they have here can cover a lot of road in nine hours, the
telegraph posts looked like a picket fence. Say David, you ought to see Ireland,
when I saw it we sighted the north coast of the island at 300AM. I was on duty
on the top deck that night when we first saw it. I thought it was a great big
checker board, he soil is red and all fenced in squares, some patches are green,
some of the fields just plowed are red. I never saw a prettier scene. Now
another thing, whenever you hear an Englishman blow about his old country, why
let him go to it, they have something to blow about. I wish you could see it,
everything is so clean, farms so well cultivated and the cities are built so
different from ours. Every house is alike, mostly all brick, the roads are the
best I have ever seen. The railroads are just as clean as any street, green
edges on all bridges and roads; but of course it is an old country and it took
years and years to get it where it is. Our country is only a baby. But England
with all it's beauty spots, beautiful cities and scenery is not enough
inducement for me to live here any longer than the duration of this war. Baby
Canada is for mine when I am discharged. Now a little about the force. We did
not do any duty from the time we left Valcartier until we got aboard ship. The
boys are all in good health.
Your Old Friend,
J.P. Caron,
No. 199162
Port Arthur, 03 Jul, 1916 Word has been received that Col Machin,
Major Schnarr, Major Hamilton, Captain Conway, and Captain Kerr of the 94th are
returning to Canada. The adjutant, F.Y. Harcourt has joined the Engineers corps.
Fort William, 18 Aug, 1916 Report from England.
94TH GOES TO FRANCE AS UNIT
-------------------------------------------
Unofficial information has reached the Times Journal that the 94th
battalion, now in England, is not to be broken up and sent to the front in
drafts, as was first decided, but that a later decision has been made to send
the crack northern battalion to France as a unit. While this information cannot
yet be given as absolutely accurate, it will be welcome here if true. The story
is that the commanding officer, Lieut. Col. H.A.C. Machin went direct to General
Sir Sam Hughes, Canadian minister of militia, while the later was in London and
appealed to Sir Sam to have his battalion go as a unit and that through Sir
Sam's action, orders were issued that the 94th be reorganized and sent to France
as a distinct unit.
Kenora, 19 Aug, 1916
94th May Go To The Front As A Unit.
Important information has reached the Times Journal that the 94th
battalion, now in England, is not to be broken up and sent to the firing line in
drafts, as was first decided, but that a later decision has been made to send
the crack northern battalion to the front as a unit. While this information
cannot be given as absolute accurate, it will be welcome here, if true. The
story is that the Commanding Officer, Lieut. Col H.A.C. Machin went direct to
Gen Sir Sam Hughes, the Minister of Militia while the later was in London and
appealed to Sir Sam to have his battalion go as a unit and that through Sir
Sam's action orders were issued that the 94th be reorganized and sent to France
as a distinct unit.
Kenora, 26 Aug, 1916
94TH BATT. WILL NOT GO AS UNIT
LIEUT. COL, MACHIN HAS BEEN GIVEN A STAFF APPOINTMENT.
A DRAFT FROM THE BATTALION IS NOW IN FRANCE.
Information received from England last week indicated that the 94th Battalion
would be reunited and go to the front as a unit. This however will not be the
case, as a cable received on Wednesday by Mrs. Machin from her husband Lieut.
Col Machin states that the battalion has been broken up and placed with various
reserves. Lieut.. Col. Machin has received a staff appointment and will likely
go to the front attached to one of the new Divisions.
It will be generally regretted that the 94th has been broken up, particularly as
so many of the officers and men were from Kenora. According to advices received
in Port Arthur, some of the members of the are now in France. It is understood a
draft of the best marksmen was sent across the channel.
Kenora, 31 Aug, 1916
HOW THE 94TH HAS SCATTERED
BATTALIONS TO WHICH SOME OF THE KENORA AND KEEWATIN BOYS HAVE BEEN ATTACHED
INTERESTING LETTER FROM SGT. CORNELL.
The following interesting letter from Sgt Cornell of the 94th Battalion give the
various battalion to which the Kenora and Keewatin boys have been transferred,
together with the names as he has been able to locate them:
E. Sandling, Kent, Aug 31, 1916,
Editor Kenora Miner and News,
Kenora, Ontario.
Dear Sir, -- Just a few lines to let you know where some of the boys of the
Kenora Detachment, 94th Overseas battalion are now. They have been drafted to
various battalions and are pretty badly separated.. There are very few of us
left now, but we hope to see some of them very soon. The following are the names
I can find now:
(Names are listed in the Nominal Rolls.)
There will be other drafts going in a short time and I will endeavour to
find out where they have gone and will let you know as soon as possible.
SGT F.C. CORNELL
Kenora, 16 Sep, 1916 After the 94th Btln was broken up, Lt Col
Machin was transferred to the Corps Pay Office.
Kenora, 27 Sep, 1916 Following are extracts from a letter from
Lieut G.C. Hay, formerly Town Clerk now at the Canadian Base in France:
"As the weeks go by I gradually get nearer the firing line, which is our only
ambition. I came over from England a week ago today and am still here awaiting
further orders to proceed to the front, which can not come to soon. I can assure
you. There seems to be a feeling in the air tonight that a bunch of us are going
up to the line tomorrow night. I hope the rumour proves correct.
"All Canadians pass through the depot here before proceeding to the front and
are then sent along in drafts, their course of training is finished here and one
sees more and learns more of what is actually taking place. The men consequently
it and appear happy and content under strict discipline. "No buttons to shine
here.", is the slogan. I can assure you my dear J.P. that this talk so prevalent
in Canada about "Red Tape" as regards to saluting and forming fours is all a
means to a necessary end which is "discipline". " I see some of the Kenora men
daily as I pass through the lines, and as I look at some of them, mere kids when
I first went to Kenora, not yet born when you did, I begin to feel that I am
getting along in years. I was talking to young McLeod (C.W.s son) today. He is
in kilts and his only complaint is that he did not go up with the draft which
went forward last night. Our Kenora boys are a splendid bunch of chaps of the
proper ilk and if the buoyancy of their spirits and their desire to do their bit
are any criterion of their wisdom in warfare and their fighting ability, the
splendid reputation made by the Kenora men who have gone before may be left in
able hands and will be well lived up to, I can assure you. Gallant chaps, all of
them, of whom Kenora will have just reason to be proud of.
"Bordering on the parade ground is a German prison camp. They are a contented
lot indeed, their choice occupation being getting their meals. Fed very well,
any work they do is voluntary. What a striking contrast to the treatment meted
out to our chaps in German prisons. And there is nothing to be done other than
by neutral influence, for retaliation makes matters worse. However," it is a
long lane that has not a turn in it somewhere.", and the day of reckoning is, I
think, approaching when revenge will be sweet indeed. And when "Der Tag" does
come, let our diplomats see well to it that not one iota in the account is
overlooked. Let the price be high and exacted to the last farthing, form if such
is not done and our diplomacy or negotiators fall down, then, Mr. Mayor, the
lives of every British soldier will have been given in vain. I appear to be sort
of wound up but just to see these fellows taking things easy makes your blood
boil. "Pon my soul.", it "Gets my goat." as Tommy would say and, joking aside,
whenever I pass the stockade, I can positively feel the hairs rise, it makes you
feel like going in and cleaning up the works."