Results for ‘General News’
[The Welland Tribune and Telegraph, 8 February 1923]
“Yes, I remember when the piece of property you referred to in the last issue, in connection with Moses Betts, was nothing more than a vacant commons,” stated John H. Crow to the Tribune and Telegraph yesterday.
“Way back in ’72 when I was a boy my home was at Fenwick,” stated Mr. Crow. “I remember coming all the way to Welland to attend a circus on that property between North Main street and the High School, West Main and the creek. VanAmburghs Golden Menagerie was the name of the show and I remember it quite well. That would have taken place just this side of the high school.
But circuses were not the only events that occupied the commons in those days as now Welland had a cracker-jack baseball team and it was there where their big games were played. Some of the players were Cyrus Handcock, C.B. Crow, and Frank Rounds. Some of the players were heavy hitters and the ball on various occasions nearly went into the creek.
There was also another ball park on the east side of Hellems Avenue, south of where the new packing plant has been erected. It was there where all the grand cricket-matches were staged.
I also remember A.G. Hill quite well. He must have been about 35 when an exciting hitch-and-kick contest was staged on the cricket grounds, and to which Mr. Hill was an interesting spectator. After watching the contest for some little while Mr. Hill decided to try his hand, or rather his kick, and in a valiant attempt beat out his contestants.”
Dances and Sleighride Parties of Sixty Years Ago
[The Welland Tribune and Telegraph, 16 January 1923]
Back about sixty or sixty-five years ago before the advent of automobiles, there used to be good sleighing nearly all winter with plenty of snow.
There used to be a fine friendly community spirit among the people of those days both in the towns, and in the country. It was not necessary to belong to “our church” to be a “Daughter of Rebecca” or “Son of a Gunn,” in order to get an invitation to attend those gatherings.
The people of those days in this part of the country were all respectable Canadian farmers and business men. There was among us also a few Americans about the same class of people as our own, nice congenial jolly folks.
Winter was a season of enjoyment and pleasure. It was not an unusual thing for the young folks to drive off as far as sixteen or eighteen miles to attend a party at some private house where they were always welcomed and on departure were told “hope you have had a good time, and be sure and come again whenever you feel inclined to, only let us know just a few days ahead.”
Blind Oliver Clark and Jimmison (Jamieson) generally furnished the music on such occasions around here and Wooliver and Laribee and sometimes Uncle John Hardison in Bertie.
At larger parties held in halls and hall rooms, Mr. Weeks orchestra from Thorold or musicians from the cities furnished the music and the following is what we used to dance. (Round dances, the Waltz, Polka, Danish Polka, Polk Redowna, Polka Mazourka, the Gallop, Rochester Schottische, Highland Schottische and Varsourivenne, (Contra dances), Money Musk, Sailor’s Hornpipe, Spanish Dance, Opera Reel, Sir Roger de Coverly, Sicilian Circle, and Virginia Reel, Square Dances, Quadrilles, Lancers, the Kenbal Lancers, Saratoga Lancers, Basket Cotillion, Pop goes the Weasel, Scotch Reel and the Jig, “Hands-All –Round,: eight bars and you know the rest.
With a spanking good team or road horses, lots of sleigh bells, a good big sleigh load of young people with plenty Buffalo robes, and several sleigh loads following, those were cheery times and with cheery sons and laughter on our road home after a good night of innocent amusement we were a happy lot of young people.
The good sleighing at present reminds me of those days but the people now are different and they do not appear to have that kindly jolly community spirit that they had in them days.
These thoughts just remind me of a piece of poetry that appeared in a paper published in Fonthill about sixty years ago by Hosmer L. Stone, I think the paper was called The Acorn, it contained a number of verses only a few lines of which I remember and it struck me when I read them as being very amusing. Should any of your readers recognize the verses which I quote perhaps they might give you the whole of the poem which is as follows as near as I can remember.
Sweet Susie Brown, my pretty one
I suppose you must remember
If not for love, at least for fun, the sleigh rides of December.
When all the belles and all the beaux
In spite of frost would go forth
And squeeze beneath the Buffaloes, each other’s hands etc.
And don’t you mind the village inn, the supper and the revel,
And how Cupid all at once shot his arrow level,
And don’t forget how Harry Kidd embraced you in the buttry
You kissed his lips I know you did and he kissed yours, etc.
And don’t you mind the forfeit game how one old maid resisted
Until the others all cried out a prude they all detested.
“Desist!” she cried this ancient Ann,
Her modesty to show forth
“I’ll never yield to any man my virgin lips, etc.”
An Old Port Robinson Boy
[Welland Tribune, 20 April 1894]
A Welland Newspaper of 1854
Thanks to Mrs. Geo. Jamieson, we have before us a copy of the Welland Herald (of which the TRIBUNE is the lineal descendent) of date of Dec. 21, 1854-almost 40 years ago. A glimpse through its pages will be interesting to our readers, especially to those-alas too few-whose memories extend back to that time. The copy of the Herald referred it is numbered 29 of vol. 1, which would make the date of first publication about June 1, 1854. It was published at Fonthill, then a place of considerable importance comparatively. The place now known as the town of Welland was then a small cluster of houses, known as “Merrittville.”
The Welland Herald in 1854, as we note from its columns, was published by the “Welland Printing and Book Company”-Capital stock, £500, of which Issac P. Willson was secretary and Alfred Willett treasurer. J. G. Judd was editor of the paper.
The Herald’s columns remind us that at that time the Crimean was in full blast-the issue before us containing a four column account of the Great Battle of Inkerman, of which the head line says-“Another great Victory, in which 8000 English and 6000 French opposed 60,000 Russians, and after a severe battle of 8 hours, defeated them, the Russians losing 15,000 men in killed, wounded and prisoners.”
Considerable space is also devoted to the report of the “Provisional Council of Welland,” (now called the “County” Council) which met in council in Hoover’s Inn at Merrittville, (Welland) Dec. 12, 1854, there being present the warden (Elias S. Adams of S. Catharines) and Messrs. Dell, Frazer, Matthews, McMicking, Smith, Graybiel and Vanderburgh-all alas, we believe, now numbered with the silent dead. The principal business which occupied the council then, (and for twenty-five years after) was the purchase of the marsh lands tract, for which an act to raise by way of loan the sum of five thousand pounds was moved by Mr. Hobson, seconded by Mr. Matthews, and adopted, with Mr. McMicking, only, voting nay.
“Two more of the gang caught,” is the heading to an item relating to the capture of George King and James Smith, two of the Townsend gang, in Saltfleet township.
A great sale of “town lots” in Port Colborne is advertised, and the public are editorially assured that the speculation is a safe one, as the lots “must in the very nature of things treble in value in five or six years.”
An interesting political reminiscence is quoted from MacKenzie’s Message, as Wm. Lyon MacKenzie’s opinion of Dr. Frazer, thus:
Dr. Frazer leaves today for Welland county. I’m sorry for it. Few men in the house have acted with equal courage, honesty and consistency as Dr. Frazer. He was a blessed exchange for the money-making, financering Street, whose election over that good-humored reformer McFarland astonished many.”
The subscription price of the Herald was on a sliding scale, to wit: “Two dollars per annum if paid in advance; two dollars and a half if paid before the expiration of six months; and three dollars after the expiration of six months or at the end of the year.” The following are given as the local agents for the Herald in their respective localities:
Mr. Ralph Disher, Point Abino (now Ridgeway)
P. Hendershot, Stevensville
John W. Lewis, Fort Erie
Burch Baxter, Fort Erie
James Weeks, Point Abino
Charles Park, Wainfleet
Michael Graybiel, Marshville
Wm. Dunn, Fork’s Settlement
Chester Kinniard, Wainfleet
Luther Boardman, Crowland
This was before the days of postcards or cheap postage, and instead of returning receipts by mail for monies received, remittances were acknowledged through the columns of the paper.
At that time preparations were being made for the World’s fair at Paris, and the Fonthill Mechanics’ Institute publish up offer to forward articles for exhibition.
It may be consoling to Mr. Anson Garner and others to know that assessment affairs were in quite as satisfactory a state forty years ago as now, so the Herald has a solid 21/2 column article complaining of the Wainfleet assessment.
“More money for the Coalitionists,” is the heading under which the members of parliament are raked over the coals for increasing their pay from $4 to $6 per day, the Herald declaring that many of them “are really overpaid at $4 a day.”
Among the advertisements we note:
S.N. Pattison (Nolse) Stevensville, C.W. licensed auctioneer and wholesale dealer in ninety-five percent, alcohol (for burning fluid), proof spirits and rectified whiskey.
Dr. M.F. Haney, office opposite the foundry, Petersburg, C.W. (now Stonebridge) is one of the three or four persons whose names are mentioned in this paper who are still in the land of the living.
Other advertisers are:
Hamilton & Raymond, Barristers, St. Catharines.
Dr. T. Clarke, Mansion House, Port Robinson.
Zenas Fell, land surveyor, St. Johns.
Macdonald & Rykert (Rolland Macdonald and John Charles Rykert), law, chancery and conveyancing, St. Catharines.
Thomas McGivers, hardware, groceries and liquor, Thorold.
New firm, new goods-at the Gothic store, Merrittville, (now H.A. Rose’s stand), Griffith & Kinsman.
Dewitt C. Weed of Buffalo, advertises the “Old Hardware Store.”
Lumber, plaster-Andrew Murray, Port Robinson.
Winter and Fall clothing, for sale by Henry D. Lock, Fonthill.
Basin store, Port Colborne, by Daniel Stoner.
Ploughs, ploughs, ploughs-Haun & Dobbie, Stonebridge foundry.
“Morley’s Patent Ploughs”-John Morley, Thorold.
Among the patent medicines notices are some wonderful cures related by Dr. Halsey’s Forest Wine and Morse’s Indian Root Pills.
An interesting time table of the Buffalo & Brantford railway is published, in which it is stated “the freight and the construction trains must keep out of the way of mail and express trains,” and that “down trains will wait fifteen minutes for the up trains and then proceed.” Wm. Wallace, superintendent, Buffalo.
The St. John’s machine shop and foundry is advertised for sale to close up the estate of the late Russel Rich.
P.M. Cushing advertises suspension carriages and Murgatroyd buggies.
Winter fashions for 1854-J.A. Munro & Co., Thorold, Canada West.
Fonthill boot and shoe store-James Reilley.
A.E. Wilson & Co., Port Robinson, and J& M Graybiel, Marshville, were among the Herald’s most liberal “double column next to reading” advertisers.
Space will not permit of further reference here, but enough has been said to show that the Fonthill Herald of 1854 was a genuine wideawake newspaper. Indeed it compares very favorably with the better class of country papers of to-day, and in point of proof reading is away ahead of the average paper of the day in either town or country.
[People's Press, 16 June 1908]
They were congratulating Sir Wilfrid Laurier, our first citizen, the other day on his improved health.
“What is the secret?” one man asked. “No drugs, plenty of rest and simple food,” was the reply.
It is within easy recollection when Sir Wilfrid was in poor health. He sought the attendance of the most eminent physicians in Canada, Great Britain and France.
They all told him the golden secret as recorded- “No drugs, plenty of rest and simple food.”
That doesn’t mean at election times, however, or on wedding occasions.
However, Richard Moore, (Welland citizen), who has been troubled with rheumatism, says that in the excitement of the recent campaign, he forgot all about his rheumatism and threw away his cane.
He says that if the Dominion election was to come off right away, he believes that when it was over, he could run a hundred yard race at the close.
[Welland Tribune, 3 September 1874]
ENTHUSIASTIC WELCOME TO LORD AND LADY DUFFERIN
Address and Reply
HIS EXCELLENCY VISITS THE AQUEDUCT
Friday last, the day named for the Governor’s visit to Welland, was all in the way of weather that could have been desired, and long before the appointed hour large numbers of people came pouring in town from the surrounding villages and townships, desirous of participating in a right hearty loyal welcome to her Majesty’s representative in the Dominion and Lady Dufferin. Hours before the party was expected to arrive at the Welland Railway Station; its grounds were thronged by an immense crowd, estimated at about three thousand persons, all anxious to secure a position from which a favorable view of the features of the occasion might be had. The north end of the station platform had been embowered with maple branches, affording a pleasant shade from the sun’s rays, and which, being raised, would be seen to advantage from all sides. The Welland Band was present and at intervals relieved the monotony of waiting by discoursing choice music. The Welland Cavalry Troop under Capt. Buchner was formed in line in the rear of the platform in readiness to give the accustomed salute to the Commander in chief of H.M’s forces in the Dominion, and act as an escort to the party whilst driving through town.
THE ARRIVAL
At a few minutes past three o’clock, the special train conveying His Excellency and suite came up to the station, having switched from the Southern to the Welland Railway at the Junction. The locomotive attached to the special was one of the G.W.R. Co’s., and was very handsomely decorated with evergreens and miniature flags. Surrounding the dome were the words of Lord Dufferin’s motto,-“Per Vias Rectas.” As the train came in, the band played the national anthem, and upon the appearance of His Excellency and Lady Dufferin upon the platform they were greeted with enthusiastic cheers. Besides his Excellency, there were upon the platform both the members for this County-Messrs. Thomson and Currie-besides the town council and many of the prominent men of the town and county. Lady Dufferin was seated on the platform and His Excellency and J.H. Price, Esq., stood in front, when the latter read as follows:
THE ADDRESS
To His Excellency Right Honorable the Earl of Dufferin, Governor-General of the Dominion of Canada, &c., &c., &c., &c.
On behalf of the inhabitants of the village of Welland, we now beg to render to Your Excellency and the Countess of Dufferin hearty and loyal welcome, and to thank you for this opportunity of expressing our attachment to Your Excellency as the Representative of our Sovereign, and our esteem for yourself as a nobleman, preeminently an ornament to your order.
When we remind Your Excellency that you are now within the borders of the County which was the scene of the battle of Lundy’s Lane and others of 1812, and that many now in Your Excellency’s presence are the descendents of the heroes of those memorable battles, fought by Canadians upon Canadian soil in defense of British Connection; and that a few of the veterans of that period are still amongst us, we need hardly assure Your Excellency that you are in the midst of a people whose loyalties to the Queen and attachment to the Mother Country is not excelled in any part of her Majesty’s Dominions.
Situated as we are, upon the great thoroughfare between the East and West, and having within the limits of our Village one of the greatest architectural works of its kind in the Dominion, Your Excellency will pardon our honest pride in stating that we are prosperous and happy in the enjoyment of our many privileges and rights as citizens of this Great Empire.
We regret that Your Excellency’s time will not permit a longer stay amongst us that we might testify more fully than by words our appreciation of the honor which Your Excellency has conferred upon our Village and County, and we trust that before returning to Ottawa you will find an opportunity to visit the scenes of interest within the County; and that your tour through this Province may be as satisfactory to Your Excellency and the Countess of Dufferin as it is gratifying to the inhabitants of these localities honored by your visit.
In conclusion allow us to express our sincere wish for the continued happiness of Your Excellency and that of the Countess of Dufferin and family.
| E.R. HELLEMS |
J.H. PRICE |
| Clerk |
Reeve |
|
Immediately upon the conclusion of the reading of the Address, His Excellency, speaking in a tone distinctly audible to all, in response, said that he was extremely gratified by the kind and cordial welcome which had been prepared for him. He was well aware that in coming to the County of Welland he was visiting a locality which had been rendered illustrious by the warlike deeds of the forefathers of many of those present, and he rejoiced to think that it would be his privilege to make the acquaintance of some at least of the surviving heroes of those glorious days. Happily, however, the deeds of those days were reminiscences of the past, and we might confidently look forward to enjoying, uninterrupted by war or other disastrous circumstances, the independence and security which those who fought for the Crown in those years secured. He sympathized with them in the satisfaction with which they alluded to the fact that in that locality a system of works was about to be inaugurated in which both the inhabitants of Canada and the United States were equally interested, and which could not fail, when completed, to prove a source of additional wealth to both peoples. In conclusion he thanked them for these expressions in the address personal to himself and Lady Dufferin, and assured them that it gave them the greatest satisfaction to find themselves in the picturesque County of Welland. (Applause.)
A number of gentlemen were then presented by the reeve to His Excellency amongst whom were the town council and clerk; Judge Macdonald, Mr. E.V. Bodwell, Dr. Frazer, Sheriff Hobson, L.D. Raymond, the various clergymen of the place; Messrs. Issac Kelly of Thorold, John Foster of Wainfleet and Jesse Yokum of Crowland, veterans of 1812, and several other gentlemen. His Excellency took much interest in making the acquaintance of the veterans, engaging in conversation with Mr. Kelly as to whom he served under, what battles he fought in, the particulars of the death of Gen. Brock, and other reminiscences of the war of 1812.
An invitation was then tendered to the vice-regal to take a drive through the town, and to the Aqueduct which was accepted by Lord Dufferin, who, accompanied by Messrs. Thomson, Currie and the town council, proceeded to the Aqueduct. Lady Dufferin and other members of the party were too much fatigued to accept of the invitation, and retired to the superb palace car in which they were travelling.
THE DECORATIONS
In coming down Main street, the party passed under the three handsome arches, trimmed with evergreens and ornamented with printing and mottoes erected under instruction of the town council. The first of these was situate at the Junction of Burgar and Main street, and bore the Irish motto-“Caed Mille Failthe”-(a hundred thousand welcomes) upon one side and “Farewell” upon the other, the later motto to face the party when driving back. The second arch was in front of the Dexter House, and bore the mottoes “Peace and Prosperity” and “God save the Queen.” The third arch was near the canal and upon it were placed the appropriate mottoes, “Trade and Commerce” and “The Welland Canal-the Eastern and Western connecting link.’ The street presented a gay and busy appearance, the stores being all open and with wares displayed to the best advantage, besides which many of the places of business were handsomely decorated with evergreens, flags, &c. Conspicuous amongst these were the Dexter House, Commercial Hotel, City Hotel, Post-office, McConachie’s, Teskey’s, Morwoods’s, and other stores. Mr. T.F. Brown’s store had a distinguishing national badge- a representation of the ‘harp that once thro’ Tara’s halls”- placed in front of the second story, besides being otherwise handsomely decorated. The streets were lined with people who repeatedly cheered the party in passing, which His Excellency graciously acknowledged from time to time.
AT THE AQUEDUCT
Arrived at the Aqueduct, the party alighted to and examined it at considerable length, His Excellency appearing much interested in the noble piece of engineering and mechanical skill by which the waters of the Canal cross those of the Welland River. Upon expressing a desire to know how the Aqueduct would be adapted to Erie level, His Excellency was referred to W.G. Thompson, Esq., resident engineer at this place, who was present, and who stated that the matter was at present under consideration of the Government. Three prepositions to overcome the difficulty had been proposed,-1st, to deepen the present Aqueduct; 2nd, to construct a new one; and 3rd, to lock around. Of these as yet none had been adopted. Having satisfied their curiosity in respect to the Aqueduct, the party returned to their carriages and were driven to the train, accompanied by the cavalry as an escort and the band, which had accompanied the party through the town.
INCIDENTS &c
The plain, unassuming style of Lord and Lady Dufferin agreeably disappointed many of our country folks who are more accustomed to the “snobcracy” or sham than genuine aristocracy, and won for them golden opinions.
Upon their entry upon the platform Mrs. Stewart Lamont presented Her Ladyship with a bouquet. Both Lord and Lady Dufferin, upon learning that Mrs. L. was from and familiar with the same county in Ireland as Lady Dufferin, shook hands with her and entered into friendly conversation.
The people of Crowland put in an appearance in force, headed by a large wagon in which was displayed the Crowland Reform flag. Good for “Skinner’s Corners.”
His Excellency, we are informed, remarked upon the address that it was one of the best and most appropriate that he had received; also, whilst being driven through the street, he referred in favorable terms to the enterprise of the place in gravelling the streets.
Before closing our report we think it but just to compliment the town council upon the very satisfactory reception accorded the vice-regal party. The reception was certainly better carried out than could have been expected, considering that this place was not down in the official programme as of those to be visited, and the consequent short time to prepare. With the one exception of the want of a guard on foot to surround the platform to prevent crowding, the arrangements were the best that could have possibly have been made in the brief time allowed for their perfection. Indeed, we are informed, His Excellency and others of his party, expressed themselves as most agreeably surprised with their reception at Welland.
[The Welland Tribune and Telegraph, 6 April 1922]
Back in 1874-Governor-General was Given Royal Welcome
It was a gala day in the village of Welland. A large rosy sun climbed up in a clear sky early in the morning and for miles around at that hour scores of farmers were washing buggies, horses and in many other ways busily preparing to spend the day in the village.
There was a bustle of excitement in the precincts of Welland itself-for at three o’clock on that afternoon of Monday, August 28th, 1874, the Governor-General , Lord Dufferin and Her Excellency, Lady Dufferin, were due to arrive to pay a vice-regal visit.
Long before the special train pulled in with its engine gaily arrayed with evergreens and numerous flags, hundreds of people of Welland county were gathered at the Welland railway station, anxious to get the first look at the representative of the Queen. The Welland Brass Band was there and a troop of cavalry commanded by Captain Buchner. At three o’clock three thousand loyal citizens were on the scene.
As the train pulled in, the band struck up the National Anthem and the populace lifted their hats and cheered lustily. The cavalrymen gave the royal salute as Lord and Lady Dufferin stepped on the platform.
Their Excellencies were met by the notables of the village and county. And J.H. Price, the reeve, read an address, in which the Governor-General was reminded of the Battle of Lundy’s Lane and others of 1812 which were fought within the borders of the county, and that many veterans of the war were present.
Loyalty Not Exceeded
“We need hardly assure your Excellency that you are in the midst of a people whose loyalty to the Queen and attachment to the mother country is not excelled in any other part of Her Majesty’s dominion,” the address read.
“Situated as we are upon the great thoroughfare between the East and the West, and having within the limits of our village one of the greatest architectural works of its kind in the Dominion, Your Excellency will pardon our honest pride in stating that we are prosperous and happy in the enjoyment of our many privileges and rights as citizens of this great empire.”
Replying, Lord Dufferin declared that he was well aware that in coming to the County of Welland he was visiting a locality which had been rendered illustrious by the warlike deeds of the forefathers of many of those present, and he rejoiced in his privilege to become acquainted with some of the surviving heroes of those glorious days.
After which many of the prominent men were presented to their Excellencies and Lord Dufferin spent some time talking with the veterans of 1812.
The vice-regal party then took a drive through town, where three arches had been erected. On the first was the Irish motto: “Cead Mille Failthe,” which meant a hundred thousand welcomes; on the second was “Peace and Prosperity,” and on the third, “Trade and Commerce” and “The Welland Canal, the Eastern and Western Connecting Link.”
The aqueduct was inspected and the party then returned to their carriages and were driven back to the train accompanied by the band and the cavalry escort.
[The Welland Tribune and Telegraph, 6 July 1922]
After Long Absence, Former Resident Almost Lost Himself
‘Twas Harry J. Gibson
Sold Main Street Property for One Twentieth of Present Cost
After an absence of fifteen years from his home town, Harry J. Gibson, now a resident for the windy city of Chicago, blew into Welland last Friday to greet the old chums of boyhood days.
Harry, in relating his arrival to an old comrade, said, “I have been to London, England, Paris, France, and in nearly all the principal cities of the United States, but it is unique to relate I became lost in the old town where I spent my boyhood days and where I supposed I knew every street and alley in the place.
But things had changed. He had to enquire where he was, and was told that he was on West Main Street, Welland. He recognized the home of D.D. Hoover, and then he knew where he was.
He met many of his old chums, but was sorry to learn that many had passed to the great Beyond, and others, like himself, had gone to other lands. He was much impressed with the change in his native town and pronounced it a beautiful little city-the beautiful park on the banks of the canal being one of the most notable changes-where Merritt Park now stands, being but a big frog pond (and where the bullfrog was master of all he surveyed), on his last visit here. Another very notable change were the paved streets, beautiful residences and well kept lawns; the beautiful and modern theatre for a city of its size and a fire hall and equipment such as Welland should be proud of, and the large number of industries-many new ones since his last visit-and the grand school buildings which certainly showed prosperity in the city.
Mr. Gibson related another story on the city’s property and his farsightedness. On his departure from Welland, he sold his property-now occupied by Lee Ott’s laundry on Main Street-for $1,300, and he understands the present proprietors refuse $20,000. Some turnover. His last words on bidding goodbye to his old friends were, “I can hardly realize that I am in my old boyhood town, where I spent my boyhood days.” Harry’s many friends were pleased to learn that he and his good wife have prospered since going west and are now enjoying the benefits reaped by thrift and industry. He likes his old home town and may return some day to reside with us again.”
When the Old Aqueduct Was New-Bursting of the Cannon
[Welland Tribune, 15 September 1910]
There is a visitor in Welland who has more than ordinary interest in a certain locality here, and which recalls what was practically the laying of the foundation for Welland’s present day greatness.
The person in question is Miss Duff of Toronto, who is a guest at J.C. Crow’s. She is the only surviving daughter of the late Alexander Duff, there being also one brother yet, living in California.
It was about the year 1850 that the event occurred which fixed Miss Duff’s interest in Welland. The opening of Welland canal aqueduct was being celebrated, the Governor General, Lord Elgin, taking part in the ceremony. Miss Duff’s father was at that time a member of Dundas field battery, and that battery was brought here to fire a salute. When Mr. Duff was ramming a charge home, the cannon burst. He was blown some distance in the air and badly injured, including the loss of one eye. This accident will be remembered by some of the older residents, and Miss Duff has been shown the spot where it occurred. After the accident the injured man was taken to the Hagar house now standing on North Main street.
Later Mr. Duff was conveyed to his home at Dundas, where he remained in bed for a year. His misfortune was recognized by the government, not by a pension, but by an appointment to the island revenue department in 1851. He occupied the position of gauger and locker in Toronto until 1886, when he was superannuated. His death occurred six years go.
A NOTE by WellandHistory.ca: We found this article and photos in the Dorset museum. Roy Shrigley was borne in Pelham, County of Welland in 1835.
Its Growth From the Year of Inception 1788 to the Present Date-Its General Advancement With the Times.
In the early part of the year 1788 the land, now occupied by the progressive town of Welland, was taken possession of by a few of the United Empire Loyalists, who were a class of men suitable to wrestle with a wooded country. Men who came to make themselves a home in the garden of Canada, and if any one feels inclined to ask, did they succeed? For reply, they must take a look at the beautiful farms, immediately surrounding the town, the fruitful gardens, and the velvety lawns to be seen in all parts of the town, all at that state of perfection, that can only be got by laborious work and long years of toil.
In 1829 the town, then a populous village was known as the Aqueduct, but it was not until the year 1842 that it began to go ahead. In that year the government started the enlargement of the canal, and built the first stone aqueduct. This was considered a great engineering enterprise, and in honor of the event, the name of the village was changed to Merrittsville. On the 24th of July 1858, the village was incorporated under the name of the municipality of the village of Welland, and on the 7th day of the same year the present Crown Solicitor, L.D. Raymond, Esq., was appointed returning officer for the first election of members for the council, which took place on the 16th of September 1858. The following members constituted the first board: Messrs. D. McCaw, the only present survivor, M. Betts, Chester Demare, W.A. Bald and N.T. Fitch. At the first meeting of the council the present respected and esteemed clerk, Mr. E.R. Hellems, was appointed clerk, a position that he has nobly and faithfully filled ever since, with the exception of one or two years. Mr. D. McCaw is the pioneer reeve, and although past taking an active part in municipal affairs, it must be with pride that he looks back and sees how his foster child has grown.
In 1878 the village of Welland was incorporated as a town, and Mr. A. Hendershot was elected the first mayor. The town has been making healthy strides ever since. At the present day it can be well asked, what have these workers left behind as monuments of their ardor, zeal and loyalty to their town? The reply must be given briefly, as space will not permit a full description that each and every object rightly deserves. First there are the schools of which Welland might justly feel proud. The High schools are situated on West Main street, and at the present, time occupies a creditable position among the High Schools of Ontario. The public schools are on Hellems Avenue, and although capable of holding a large number of children, the managers are just now debating as to the advisability of providing additional rooms. The county buildings are an ornament in any town. The walls being of solid stone gives it what it is a thorough substantial appearance. The jailor’s and turnkey’s residences are worthy of special notice, and great credit is due the architect, Mr. Geo. Ross, Esq., P.L.S., for the style and finish of the same. Orient Hall is another handsome structure, the corner stone of which was laid on the 14th of August 1877. Next we come to the various churches, all of which are well attended, receiving liberal support. The Episcopal church is situated on Division street, Methodist church on Muir street, Presbyterian on Bald street, Roman Catholic, Disciples and Baptist on Church street, Lutheran on Griffith street and the Salvation Army barracks is to be found on East Main street. There are several lodges in the town and all are in a flourishing condition. Last year was the brightest in the history of Welland, as on the date of January 1889, Welland was able to boast of having the finest water works system in Canada. The water works committee of which D. Ross, Esq., was chairman, worked hard in pushing the work along against many difficulties and opposition and today they must feel that they have been well paid for their labor, in the grand success of the work. Following this great enterprise, Mr. C.J. Page with indomitable pluck procured the electric light system, using the water which is procured from the raceway, to drive his machinery, which makes the light of the very best, being much steadier than when the machinery is run by steam.
Welland is now in a position to offer any manufacturing firm advantages to open a factory here not procurable in any other town of its size. There are two lines of railway, another building, besides the canal. Water power can be had suitable for any manufacturing purposes, and the natural gas will be piped here from Port Colborne early in the spring of next year. In closing our few remarks we cannot do better than to ask the readers of the TELEGRAPH to follow the above sketch by reading carefully the brief biography of some of Welland’s leading merchants which will convey to the reader an idea of the rapid growth that the town has made during the past few years:-
BURGAR & DOUGLASS
A business which is too well and favorably known to need any extended mention in reviewing the town in the popular drug store carried on by Messrs. Burgar & Douglass. This business was founded by the senior member of the firm about 23 years ago. It is now about 6 years age since Mr. Douglass became a partner. The business is still at the fore doing a large and increasing trade, and it is unnecessary for us to say is in the best position to meet the wants of the public. The store is as complete as experience and a thorough knowledge of the business can make it, everything being on hand here to be found in a first-class drug store in pure drugs, Family and patent medicines, druggists’ sundries etc. Mr. Burgar is one of the most active and public spirited of our citizens, and takes a deep interest in matters pertaining to the welfare of the place. He has succeeded in almost every capacity of municipal life.
MRS. R. COOPER
The millinery business carried on by Mrs. R. Cooper has been longer before the public than any other concern of a similar nature in the county. To retain custom year in and year out-good seasons and bad bespeaks a talent for pleasing the public. This talent it is universally agreed is possessed in a high degree by Mrs. Cooper. Every attention is given to the careful selection of suitable goods for her customers. The leading Canadian and American houses are called on to supply her stock which is never permitted to run down. Thus by handling superior goods and courteously dealing with all, Mrs. Cooper conducts a successful business. Her efforts, we are pleased to say, are appreciated by the public with whom Mrs. Cooper is deservedly a prime favorite.
THOS. CUMINES
In the drug branch of our mercantile industry a popular and successful business which we deire to give prominence to here is that carried on by Mr. Thos. Cumines. The success this business has met is evidenced in its large and satisfactory trade, and the deserved popularity it enjoys is the result of capable management and offering many possible advantages to the public, an essential feature of a drug store, and one for which this business is noted, is the knowledge to discernment in pure drugs. Every ingredient which enters the composition of drugs here is subjected to the most careful examination before using. The stock is noted for its excellence and embraces pure drugs of all kinds, druggists’ sundries, the leading patent and family medications. Prescriptions are carefully compounded. The business well merits its large trade.
A.R. FINDLAY
Mr. Findlay has only been in business in Welland for a few months, but during this comparatively short time he has laid the foundation of a well deserved success. He purchased the bakery and grocery business formerly carried on by Mr. Geo. Philips, and occupies the old stand on East Main street. Mr. Findlay is well qualified by experience and ability to make a success of his business. The products of the bakery are of a very superior quality, the finest bread, pastry, etc., being turned out. He has always on hand a choice stock of baker’s sundries, confectionery, fruits, etc. The business is steadily going forward. Mr. Findlay recently started a wood yard and is doing a good fuel business.
W.N. GARDEN
An important place on our list of business is occupied by the store of W.N. Garden, Esq. Mr. Garden was one of Welland’s first business men, and has always occupied a prominent place in their ranks. His stock comprises a complete assortment of groceries, hardware, etc. It is worthy of note that Mr. Garden has a widespread reputation for never handling anything but first-class goods. Groceries purchased from him are always fresh and good, and his other lines are of the highest order of excellence. The office of the C.P.R. Telegraph Co. is in the store under the management of Mr. W. N. Garden.
THOMAS GRIFFITH
In our list of business men Mr. Thos. Griffith deserves special mention. He is one of the pioneers of the town and his business has witnessed the growth of the place from an early date in its history, and has, we may say, kept in the van of progress, while he has done a full share in the line of substantial improvements. The store is located in the eastern part of the block owned by himself, and is known far and wide as “China Hall.” That it is a business creditable to the town, and the enterprise of the proprietor no one will deny. It is always a pleasure to visit the store and inspect the really excellent display of goods seen here not surpassed in the whole Niagara Peninsula. Chinaware, glassware, crockery, etc., in all the latest styles from the best foreign and domestic markets are here. There is also in connection a well equipped grocery department. As it is impossible to fully describe the goods, we would advise our readers to see for themselves. Mr. Griffith is a life long member of the Methodist church and one of the most active temperance workers in the county.
O.H. GARNER
One of the most active and successful of the business young men of the town is the gentleman named above. His store is creditable to his enterprise, and to the town, and is in possession of a large trade. It is not surpassed in point of general equipment, excellence and completeness of stock etc., in the whole Niagara Peninsula. It is now some 13 years ago since Mr. Garner came to Welland, commencing as clerk in the business he is now proprietor of. His success has been the result of push and business ability. His store offers many advantages to purchasers. He is a competent buyer and handles none but first-class goods. It would be impossible to innumerate here all the different lines handled. Books, stationery, school supplies, fancy goods, wall paper, etc. In short everything to be found in an establishment of the kind is here. Mr. Garner is manager of the G.N.W. Telegraph Co. at this place. Agent for a number of the leading ocean steam boat lines, and Grand Trunk ticket agent, in connection with which he runs a bus and baggage transfer. We would note also that all information about travelling is always cheerfully given, and it will pay to obtain tickets from him. Taking all in all Mr. Garner is a hustler and deserves his success.
J.H. HODGES
The excellently equipped store of the enterprising grocer named above, deserves special mention in our business notices. To those of our readers who may not be customers of Mr. Hodges we would say just give his place a trial. It is evident that he neglects nothing that would in any way benefit his patrons. He buys carefully, handles nothing but first-class goods, and his stock is always found fresh and complete. The grocery side has everything in the line of fine family groceries, provisions, fruits, etc., and the crockery department contains a splendid display of china and glassware, crockery etc. Remember fair dealing is the motto of this business.
S. HAYS
To make a good photographer a man must have both natural talent and wide experience. These two qualities are admirably combined in Mr. S. Hays. Some years ago Mr. Hays located in Welland and gave good satisfaction to all his patrons. But he was satisfied with nothing short of absolute perfection, and determined to continue professional studies in some of the most modern and improved studios in the west, in St. Paul and other places. He returned to Welland about three years ago and immediately resumed his old position as the people’s favorite photographer. His products are of all sizes and descriptions, but are alike in one thing, and that is the excellence which uniformly distinguishes them. In competition he has always come out far ahead of his rivals and easily stands at the head. Mr. Hays is an enthusiast in his art and well deserves his success. Further we would call attention to Mr. Hay’s specialty which is a magnificent production and hardly ever obtained outside the cities. Being taken from the original it is much superior to an enlarged picture and is of a size very suitable for framing in a 16×20 frame.
G.B. KNOWLES
Next in our review we will denote space to a reference to the popular business of Mr. G.B. Knowles. It is now about four months since Mr. Knowles established, and judging from the staff that has been made he will be successful in building up an extended patronage. Mr. Knowles is thoroughly practical and experienced, and is in the best position to meet the wants of the public. He has on hand an excellent stock which is well and carefully bought. Anything obtained here is genuine, and he is determined not to be undersold in the county. The stock embraces fine gold and silver, watches, clocks of great variety, jewelry of all descriptions, fancy goods etc. Special attention is given to repairing. The business is deservedly popular. Spectacles is a specialty.
D. McCAW & SON
Our review would be very incomplete without reference to Welland’s oldest established boot and shoe business. Mr. D. McCaw commenced business here over 40 years ago, and consequently has seen the rise and growth of the town. The present successful condition of his business is owing to the careful attention he has given it, and his thorough knowledge of the same. The firm of D. McCaw & Son was formed about 10 years ago. The store is noted for its substantial bargains. To be convinced of this we would advise our readers to inspect the stock for themselves.
L.H. PURSEL & CO.
The head of this well-known tailoring and gent’s furnishings establishment, Mr. L.H. Pursel has been an active and successful business man of Welland for the last 7 years. The present firm and successors to Pursel Bros., the change having taken place about a year ago. The steady growth and advancement of the business since its inception shows what can be accomplished by energy and a thorough knowledge of the business conducted. At this store the public find every advantage. It is always up with the times and customers are assured of getting the best value. The large and excellent stock of imported and domestic goods will suit the taste and means of every patron, while the mechanical department is kept to a high standard, Mr. Pursel being a cutter of more than ordinary ability. It is a magnificently furnished store throughout. The stock of gent’s furnishing goods, hats, caps and furs, is very complete and well selected.
C.J. PAGE
One of the largest businesses in the town is Mr. C.J. Page’s store in Orient Block. It was in 1875 that Mr. Page made a start for himself in the grocery line, and by his business thrift he soon pushed himself to the front. As time advanced he kept adding to his stock until today he carries one of the heaviest and best assorted stocks in the county. His lines include groceries, hardware, glassware etc. The goods are all of superior quality being selected from both home and foreign dealers by Mr. Page himself. It is however not only to the quality of his goods, but also to his courteous treatment of all, that we may assign the flourishing state of his business. Personally Mr. Page is well known in the vicinity, and has done much to advance the interest of the town. It is entirely owing to him that we have electric light, and he was one of the first agitators for waterworks.
PITTS’ WOOL DEPOT
Mrs. E.A. Pitts is the owner of a flourishing woolen mill at St. John’s and conducts in this town a branch store, and also a store in St. John’s, where the products of the mill are sold. It always means a saving of money to buy here. The goods are of known excellent quality, and embraces all kinds of woolen goods as flannels, blankets etc. The business it is needless to say is largely patronized.
PURSEL & GORDON
Messrs. Pursel & Gordon who are among our foremost merchants established the general dry goods business now carried on by them about a year ago. Both members of the firm had been long and favorably known to the community which probably accounts in some degree for the cordial reception which the advent of the firm has met from the public. Mr. D.R. Pursel had seen much business life in various parts of Ontario, serving five years in a large wholesale house, giving him great experience as a close buyer. He was for a number of years a member of the firm of Pursel Bros. He is an energetic capable merchant. Mr. T. Gordon has also valued mercantile experience and is well known in this vicinity through long connection as head salesman with Messrs. Ross & Co. The firm are eminently capable of meeting the wants of the people. Their store is creditable to themselves and to the town. It is equipped with a large and well selected stock, bought direct from the manufacturer and leading wholesale houses, and the aim is always to handle a first-class stock, embracing everything in the line of staple and fancy dry goods, paying particular attention to dress goods and ladies’ wear of all kinds. Also carpets and house furnishings. Every department is always found complete, and it pays to inspect the stock. This store is the only one furnished with cash carriers.
C.H. REILLY
The gentleman whose business is the subject of this sketch has been established in Welland about 10 years. Engaged in the boot and shoe trade, he has by every possible effort endeavored to raise his business to the highest standard of excellence, and we believe it is only simple justice to say, that he carries one of the best assorted stocks to be found in Welland county. Mr. Reilly during his many years of experience has made himself acquainted with the best makers, and handles nothing but first-class goods. All the latest styles and most approved makers of boots and shoes from the ladies finest French kid to the mens’ and boys’ heavier wear is here. The business has thus built up an enviable reputation and so long as Mr. Reilly continues to conduct his business in its present manner he is sure of a large and increasing patronage.
ROSS & CO.
In putting before the public an edition of the TELEGRAPH descriptive of the business interests of Welland, a business that will come in for a prominent mention is the well known and popular general store of Messrs. Ross & Co. During the long period this business has been before the public, it is unnecessary for us to say it has had extensive dealings with the people of the surrounding country, and it has merited a marked influence in stimulating the volume of business, and in drawing trade to the town. In this establishment the citizens of Welland and people of the section generally, have the advantages of a general store, which offers to the public all the advantages to be had in the cities. The business has been before the public 15 years. It is conducted with the aid of wide mercantile experience. The large stock which fills the store is bought direct from the manufacturer and best foreign and domestic markets. It affords many inducements in rarity and selection of goods and the reputation of the firm is a sufficient guarantee that nothing is handled but reliable goods. We have not space to describe the various departments which embrace staple and fancy dry goods, ready made clothing, hats and caps, gents’ furnishings, carpets, lace curtains and general house furnishings, boots and shoes, etc. Every department is complete. The annual turn over of goods is extensive. Mr. Ross is one of those self made men who by industry and honesty has forged his way to the front. When he landed in this country at the age of 13, his capital was 50 cents. He came to Welland 15 years ago. He is now mayor of the town, and one of the most substantial business men of the county.
H.A. ROSE
A business which has for a number of years occupied a foremost position in the mercantile interests of Welland is that of the above named, well known gentleman, general merchant. By offering to the public the advantages which this store affords, there is no doubt but it has exerted a marked influence in drawing trade to the town. The public find here one of the largest and best assorted stocks in the county. It is purchased from the best foreign and domestic markets. An experienced merchant well acquainted with the leading, wholesale houses of the Dominion, Mr. Rose keeps himself well posted in the changes of the market and buys to an advantage. Our readers are too familiar with his establishment to need reference here. The commodious double store is completely filled on the west side with staples and fancy dry goods of all kinds, carpets and general house furnishings, as floor oil cloths, window shades, wall papers, etc. The east side is devoted to the following lines: mens’ and boys’ clothing, hats and caps, gents’ furnishings, trunks, valises and a large and well selected stock of groceries, farm produce, bought and sold. This department is in charge of Mr. N.C. Morgan, who is well and favorably known. The business is deservedly popular.
W.F. SECORD
The above gentleman is one of the most recently established of our business men. A few months ago he bought the liquor store formerly carried on by Mr. H.A. Willett, and is conducting it in a manner as to merit the patronage of the public. Mr. Secord gives particular attention to one thing especially, and that is, to selecting nothing but genuine goods in the purchase of his stock. One can always rely upon anything obtained from him. Wines and liquors of all kinds are handled, and a superior is kept for medicinal purposes.
MRS. JAMES TUCKEY
The long established, well known and popular jewelry business of Mrs. James Tuckey has for a number of years represented this line of business in Welland. It has always engaged a large patronage, and the high appreciation entertained of it by the public is the result of its competent management and reputation it has acquired for offering substantial bargains. The business is well known in respect of handling reliable and superior goods. Snide jewelry is not cheap at any price, and never finds a place in this stock which is bought direct from the importer and leading wholesale houses. The customer finds here fine gold and silver watches of the best makes, clocks of greatest variety, jewelry of all descriptions, fancy goods etc. Mr. W.R. Parker, by whom the business is managed, has had long experience in the jewelry line, both in the wholesale and retail branches. He is a very competent workman and satisfaction is guaranteed on all kinds of repairing.
J.B. TAYLOR
To deal at a grocery store like that of Mr. J.B. Taylor’s is an indication to say the least of good taste. We are led to say this from the fact that a neat, well supplied and attractive store should have the preference. A customer here feels more assured of getting choice goods. This accounts for the large patronage which Mr. Taylor’s business enjoys. It is in every respect a model grocery, and always leads in the matter of being up with the times. It is Mr. Taylor’s chief case to have his business all that could be desired. The stock is selected by him so that it may be relied upon. Choice family groceries of all kinds, provisions, fruits, vegetables, crockery, glass and chinaware, etc., fill the place.
M. WHALLEY & CO.
A tailoring establishment that always gives satisfaction is a credit to its manager. Mr. Whalley may be pardoned for any pride he feels in that line. His stock comprises the pick of direct importations and the leading wholesale dealers. Every conceivable kind of cloth may be found on his shelves. He turns out such pants, coats, vests, overcoats, etc., as you may see turned out by the tailors of the leading cities. Then he shows you a stock of gents furnishings that will almost make a well dressed gentleman out of you in spite of yourself. Everything is here, the latest tie, a new wrinkle for a collar, the fanciest of silk handkerchiefs, the best of braces, the finest hose, anything you need to be well dressed. Now all this could not be done unless Mr. Whalley were a man of exceptional good taste. That is just the case, and that is why he enjoys so large a share of patronage. He has been in Welland several years, and at present enjoys the results of steady growing popularity.
Welland Telegraph
8 August 1890
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