There were many reasons why Sackvillians voted in favour of incorporation on January 12, 1903. The need for improved streets and sidewalks, a water and sewerage system, fire protection, local policing and the attraction of new industry were among the factors that swayed ratepayers.

Yet, there was another and equally important explanation for the outcome. It was the intervention and political skill of one individual — Josiah Wood. Without his leadership, this achievement might well have been delayed by several years. Wood’s role as the towns founderwill placed in context by a brief biographical sketch.

Born in Sackville on April 18, 1843, he was the son of Mariner Wood and his wife Louisa Trueman of Point de Bute. After attending public school in Sackville, he entered Mount Allison Academy; later becoming a member of the first graduating class of the newly founded university, then known as Mount Allison Wesleyan College. Woods Bachelor of Arts degree (with honours) was conferred on May 20, 1863. In 1866 he was awarded a Master of Arts degree with admission to the Bar of New Brunswick occurring later in the year.

Fate then intervened through the illness and death of his brother Charles Wood. A career in law was put aside, and he entered the family business. As events unfolded, this was a sound move. A natural entrepreneur, Josiah Wood was able to build Mariner Wood & Sons into a successful wholesale and retail operation. In addition, the company became heavily involved in shipbuilding, shipping, farming and lumbering. On his fathers death in 1875 Josiah Wood assumed full control of the firm.

Meanwhile on Jan. 14, 1874 Josiah Wood married Laura S. Trueman of Sackville. Already a man of considerable wealth, he purchased the handsome Georgian style stone mansion near the intersection of Main and Bridge Street in Sackville. Later to be named Cranewood for its first two owners, William Crane and Josiah Wood, the house is today the official residence of the President of Mount Allison University. Over time, Wood became involved in a variety of enterprises such as: banking as agent for the Halifax Banking Company and real estate, including a large farm in Midgic plus the Wood Block in downtown Sackville. To this was later added investments in a variety of enterprises in Moncton.

But beyond these activities, it was his promotion of a branch rail line from Sackville to Cape Tormentine that will always be linked with his name. By 1882 Wood was president of the NB & PEI Railway Company and was able to use his position as a newly elected MP for Westmorland to further the cause of the railway. Readers interested in following the political trail of this railway are directed to an informative article by Dean Jobb inPeople and Place: Studies of Small Town Life In the Maritimes pp. 31 56.

Josiah Wood’s election to the House of Commons on June 20, 1882 was noteworthy because he defeated the incumbent Liberal member, Sir Albert Smith, a former premier and federal cabinet minister. Wood was to be re-elected in the elections of 1887 and 1891. It is significant that the 1882 federal election was not his first political contest. Four years earlier, in the provincial election of 1878, Wood was defeated in Westmorland, when he ran on the Liberal Ticket. Given the widespread nature of his business interests; a conversion to the Conservative party was not too surprising. His biographer Dr. Bill Godfrey has concluded: It was the tariff protection and railway building policies of the Conservative party that drew [Wood] into federal politics.

Throughout Wood’s long public career from 1882 until 1917, as a member of parliament, senator and finally lieutenant-governor, he was often unwilling to automatically follow the party line. This may help explain why he always enjoyed a measure of bi-partisan support. It was also a factor behind his endorsement of the campaign for Sackville’s incorporation.

A political realist, Josiah Wood recognized that support for incorporation crossed party lines. It also followed that any vote on the subject must recognize this situation. On December 18, 1901 he called a meeting in his Sackville office. Attending were the leading Liberal and Conservative supporters of town status. Shrewdly chairing the meeting and first calling for an exchange of views; Wood introduced his guest W. S. Fisher of Saint John, and invited him to address the group. The latter was a co-owner of the Enterprise Foundry and an active member of the Saint John Board of Trade.

Describing the Board of Trade as a businessmans parliament; Fisher went on to explain how the organization cut across traditional party lines in acting for the common good of the community. The bait was taken, and out of this informal meeting, a Sackville Board of Trade was organized. The new organization went to work immediately by establishing a number of working committees. Some examples were: New Industries, Railways and Shipping, Agriculture, Good Roads and Advertising Sackville. This political move on the part of Josiah Wood, helped set the stage for incorporation. Although the concept was defeated in the first round of voting, on Feb, 20, 1902; it was to be approved a year later.

Following the yes vote and the signing of the proclamation by the Lieutenant-Governor Hon. Jabez Snowball on Feb. 5, 1903, a public meeting was held to nominate a mayor and town council. To no ones surprise Josiah Wood was acclaimed Sackvilles first mayor; a post he was to hold uncontested for the next five years. It had been his hope that a non-partisan slate might also be acclaimed for the first Town Council. This did not happen; however, party politics was largely absent from civic elections over the next few years.

Two other incidents may be cited to illustrate an independent streak in the psyche of Josiah Wood. Prior to the federal election of 1896 Wood accepted an appointment to the Senate. For the first few years he kept a low profile in the Upper Chamber. In 1908 a bill came before the Senate calling for a substantial raise in the salaries of MPs and Senators. The matter caught the attention of the press and soon there was a public outcry that the Senate was too expensive and ought to be abolished. Its of interest that this refrain may still be heard today.

On March 24, 1908 Senator Josiah Wood entered the debate. In his speech he mounted a defense of the role of the Senate in Parliament. However, to the dismay of his colleagues, Senator Wood vigorously opposed the proposed salary scale. When the increase was later approved by both Houses, to the amazement of many, he refused to accept the extra stipend. Instead he ordered that the money so earned be invested in a special trust fund for some future worthy cause.

The most striking example of Woods non-partisanship and independence came during his tenure as lieutenant-governor of New Brunswick. On March 6, 1912, he was appointed to this post by fellow Maritimer, Prime Minister Sir Robert Borden. He could be forgiven if he looked upon this honour as a political reward for long time service to his party. Since the Conservatives were in power in both Ottawa and Fredericton, what could go wrong?

As events transpired, Wood soon found himself in the middle of a constitutional controversy. In 1914 a Royal Commission was appointed to investigate alleged fund raising irregularities on the part of the provincial administration of Conservative Premier J.K. Flemming. It found him to be guilty. Considerable pressure was placed on Lieutenant-Governor Wood to put the telescope to the blind eye. Instead, Josiah Wood insisted that under the circumstances the Premier must resign. This action has been described by political analyst, Arthur T. Doyle, as Josiah Wood’s finest hour Wood had a clear dedication to the responsibility of his office… his resolution was as hard as granite.

While these two incidents have nothing to do with civic politics in Sackville, they tell us a great deal about the towns first mayor and founder, Josiah Wood. Incidentally, the worthy cause mentioned in his refusal to accept a Senatorial pay raise was not revealed until just prior to his death on May 13, 1927.

The money was invested in a trust fund at Mount Allison University. Its purpose was to establish a lectureship to bring to campus persons who have contributed to public life. Provision was also made for the publication of their lectures. The first Josiah Wood lecture was given by Dr. Robert Falconer (1867–1943), a Maritimer and long time President of the University of Toronto. Since 1928, 15 other distinguished individuals have been invited to follow in his steps. One of the most recent, was the distinguished Canadian-born American academic, and confidant of Presidents, Dr. John Kenneth Galbraith. In 2003 Sackville has every reason to salute Josiah Wood, who may truly be called founder of the town.

Recently while researching at the Provincial Archives of New Brunswick, I spent some time reviewing the Statutes of the Province along with documents relating to incorporation of towns. In particular, I was interested in checking the legislation concerning Sackville. Dull work it was; however, there were occasional moments of relief…

By way of background, its important to emphasize that the provincial government was encouraging incorporation. Prior to 1896, such legislation was complicated because each incorporation required a special act to be passed by the legislature. These differed widely, and had little consistency one with the other. To streamline the process, in 1896, the government of Premier H.R. Emmerson introduced a Towns Incorporation Act. This legislation consolidated a number of items that would apply to all towns seeking incorporation. It also helps explain a curious phrase Act of 1896 that appears on Sackville’s Town Seal.

Reading between the lines, it’s clear that the province was anxious to off load some responsibilities on the municipalities. On the other hand, many areas considered the achievement of town status a matter of civic pride. As the population of a district reached a certain point, incorporation fever became almost an infectious disease. This was NOT the case with Sackville; as two elections were required before incorporation became a reality. Nevertheless, in the years between 1898 and 1905 eight towns were incorporated: Newcastle 1899, Sackville, Shediac and St. Andrews 1903, Sussex and St. George 1904, Edmundston and Dalhousie 1905.

Section 109 of the Towns Incorporation Act specified the common offenses that were to be the responsibility of local police forces in the towns contemplating incorporation. If nothing else, the following clauses will serve to illustrate how the world has changed, or not changed, over the past century. In the interest of time and space, I will not quote the entire document. What follows is very much an abridged version of Section 109.

Herewith Certain Municipal Offenses:

• Every person shall be liable to a penalty of not more than eight dollars, who within the limits of the town, shall commit any of the following offenses, that is to say:
• Every person who shall discharge a gun, pistol, blunderbuss, or other species of firearms of any nature in any public street, thoroughfare, alley, road or by road;
• Any person who shall make any bonfire, or set off any rocket, squib, cracker, or any other species of fireworks in [Add the following concluding phrase to the next twelve articles: any public street, thoroughfare, alley, road or by road.]
• Any person who shall throw snowballs, stones, dirt, or other missile in;
• Any person who shall coast a sled, or who shall make or use any slide upon ice or snow in;
• Any person who shall play at pitching coppers, or any game or games of any nature or kind whatsoever in;
• Any person who shall use obscene or profane language, any violent cursing or swearing, or shall indecently expose his person or any part thereof, in;
• Any person who shall use insulting or abusive language or behaviour, taunting epithets, or threatening gestures in;
• Any person who shall be found drunk, or feigning to be drunk, or making any loud bawling, yelling, screaming, singing or shouting in;
• Every person who shall turn loose any horse or cattle, or suffer to be at large any unmuzzled ferocious dog, or other animal in;
• Every person who shall ride or drive furiously, so as to endanger the life or limb of any person, or be the common danger in;
• Every person who, without the consent of the owner or occupier shall affix any posting bill or other paper upon any building, wall, fence or pole in;
• Every person who, without the consent of the owner or occupier shall inscribe or delineate anything with chalk or paint or in any other way whatsoever, willfully break, destroy or damage any part of any building, wall, fence or pole in;
• Every person who, with or without the owners consent, shall write or draw any indecent or obscene word, figure or representation on any building in;
• Every person who shall willfully and wantonly disturb any inhabitant, by pulling or ringing any doorbell, or kicking at any door without lawful excuse, or who shall willfully and unlawfully extinguish any lamp in . . .;
• Every person who shall throw or lay any dirt, litter or ashes, or any carrion, fish, offal or rubbish, or cause any such thing to fall into any sewer, pipe or drain or into any well, stream or watercourse, pond or reservoir for water.
• Every person who shall cause any offensive matter to run from any manufactory, slaughter house, butcher shop or dung hill, into any thoroughfare.
• It shall not be deemed an offense to lay sand, or ashes or other materials in any thoroughfare in time of frost to prevent accidents, or litter or other materials to prevent the freezing of water in pipes, or in the case of sickness, to prevent noise, if the party laying any such things, shall cause them to be removed as soon as the occasion for them shall cease.
• It shall be lawful for any constable belonging to the said police force to take into custody without warrant any person who shall commit any of the foregoing offenses within view of any such constable.
• [There were two additional clauses clarifying the discharge of firearms into the street, and fighting or quarreling in any house or premises.]
• In all cases where a gun, pistol or any species of firearm of any nature or kind, is fired from any house, shed or barn into any street, thoroughfare, alley, road or by road, it shall be lawful for the constable to arrest the person or persons and take him or them before said police magistrate to answer for such offense, and in the case of conviction, [they] shall be liable to a penalty of not less than twenty dollars.
• It shall be lawful for, and it shall be the duty of, the said police force, or any constable thereof to enter into any house or premises in which they or he may hear any fighting or quarreling going on, and attempt to allay or repress the same, and failing to do so, to apprehend and take into custody the party or parties so fighting or quarreling, and to carry him, her, or them before the police magistrate to be dealt with according to law.

I’ll admit that reading these clauses provided a change from the legalese encountered in such documents; however, great care must be exercised in drawing conclusions. There is always a danger in interpreting regulations from another century with conditions as they exist today. 1903 was a far different world from 2003. A glance at newspaper headlines provides the necessary evidence. It also has to be recognized that at least some of the problems confronted in the quaint 1896 legislation are still with us. Sometimes the wheel comes full circle.

Although the event has been forgotten and the participants are no longer in our midst; it must have ranked as one of the most important events of the year. Since it took place just over a century ago, on January 14th, 1903, you may wonder how it came to my attention or what its significance might be today.

Each morning, I make a point of checking incoming e-mail. Seldom am I disappointed, as readers have taken seriously my request to forward ideas for and comments about Tantramar Flashback. Thanks to the Internet, most reader reaction reaches me via e-mail. Since the Tribune Post is online, Ive become acquainted with readers not only throughout the Atlantic Provinces and across Canada, but in many parts of the USA, and from such far flung countries as Switzerland, Australia, and Israel.

Further, since there is an accessible archive, the comments received may well be about a column written several years ago. Other suggestions reach me by way of a tap on the shoulder in the Post Office, or I may be stopped by someone on the street. A number of people make contact by regular mail or telephone. All are welcome! The tip for todays Flashback came from Riverview, NB. A telephone call from Pat Kilcup Hicks, a former resident of Sackville, was most intriguing. She had in her possession a menu card in the shape of a stove. Would I be interested in seeing it? I was, and she offered to loan it to me. What made me especially interested was the date: Jan. 14, 1903. By coincidence, I received her call just a few days following the 100th anniversary of the event.

Meanwhile, I had an opportunity to investigate the banquet, at which the menu card was featured. Fortunately it was covered by C.C. Avard, then editor of this newspaper. Held at Siddalls Restaurant, it was sponsored by the Enterprise Foundry management to honour their employees. The card was described by him as a particularly appealing and artistic piece of work. It represented an Enterprise stove; the oven of which contained a list of employees and the tempting menu. (See Illustrations).

The names of the employees reads like a page from todays telephone directory. How many can you identify? Avard concluded that those present would save it as an excellent souvenir of an enjoyable occasion. We are grateful that the Kilcup family did just that. Pat pointed out that both her great grandfather Walter, and grandfather Tupper Kilcup, were among those listed. The surfacing of this item a century later, underscores the fact that Sackville was once the foundry capital of the Maritimes. Today a brief summary of the history of the Enterprise Foundry will be featured. Ill save the story of the older Fawcett Foundry for another occasion.

It all began in 1872. Sackville was to have a second foundry specializing in the manufacture of stoves. Called the Dominion Foundry Company, the site selected was near the old Intercolonial Railway station and not far from the Sackville harbour and wharves. This meant that transportation of both the required raw material and the finished product would be near at hand. The manager was Robson M. Dixon, a direct descendant of Charles Dixon, one of the Yorkshire founders of Sackville. Associated with him were: W.F. George, Harmon Humphrey, Edward Anderson, George T. Bowser and Edward Cogswell.

Over the next few years the firm was to change ownership more than once. In 1888 it was purchased by W.S. Fisher and R.B. Emerson of Saint John and renamed the Enterprise Foundry Company. By 1895, according to the Chignecto Post, the principal officers were: W.S. Fisher, President, W. Bedford Dixon, manager and John McMeekin, foreman. By this time there were some 30 employees and shipment of stoves was well distributed throughout the Maritime Provinces. Over the next decade the Enterprise Foundry prospered and expanded to meet the needs of its customers.

Suddenly, a mere five years following the 1903 banquet tragedy struck. On the night of July 29, 1908 a fire broke out on the Enterprise Foundry premises. Soon out of control it left the plant in ruins; destroyed the Intercolonial Hotel, and the old railway station. There was also some damage to the exterior of the new Intercolonial Railway Station, erected three years earlier. [The latter is the present VIA Rail Station.]

The scene is best described by an on the spot observer: The fire was first discovered about 1 AM. At the time rain was falling and a very strong wind was blowing from the west. Although the alarm was immediately sounded and the Fire Department responded quickly, the force of water was not equal to the demand. It was impossible to do anything but check the progress of the blaze. Through the hard work of local firemen, volunteers and the assistance of the Amherst Fire Brigade, whose members came to Sackville on the Night Express, the new station was saved and the fire prevented from spreading even further. Happily, no lives were lost and no one sustained serious injury.

But this was only part of the story. Upward of 100 employees were out of work; and the question on all sides was: Would the Enterprise Foundry be rebuilt? Following a brief period of uncertainty, a decision was made on August 20, 1908, to construct an up to date facility with new machinery. The replacement plant went into production in 1909. Complete new lines of ranges, furnaces and heaters were developed and the firm moved ahead. Over the years, other members of the Fisher family joined the ranks of management. In 1905 Fred A. Fisher, son of the founder became Plant Superintendent. In 1911 and 1912, D.S. Fisher and C.M.P. Fisher joined the firm; with Fred A. Fisher later assuming the presidency. The founder, W.S. Fisher died in 1931. During the Second World War, in common with similar firms in other parts of Canada, the Enterprise Foundry played an important role in producing items for the war effort. Of special interest was the design of oil burning equipment for the Royal Canadian Navy and the Royal Navy.

A Flashback reader recalled for me a unique wartime contribution of the Enterprise Foundry Company. At the time, Radio Station CFCY Charlottetown had one of the strongest transmitters in the region. Known as the Friendly Voice of the Maritimes it broadcast a special summary of war news each evening at 7:30; sponsored by the Enterprise Foundry. What made these broadcasts special was the personable newscaster, Stuart Dickson, whose voice became one of the best known in the region. There was a special reason: Because of his English accent and voice of authority, many people would not believe the news unless they heard it from Stuart Dickson. How many Flashback readers recall his nightly introduction: This is the Enterprise Foundry News, Stuart Dickson speaking?

During the post war period there was considerable diversification as the Enterprise Foundry added new production lines. At one point it could make the claim that it was the only company manufacturing a complete line of cooking products using wood, coal, gas, oil, electricity and microwave energy. Unfortunately trouble was brewing in the wings. The popularity and convenience of electricity for both heating and cooking, the almost demise of the wood cook stove and the ability of large multinational corporations to market and service their products spelled trouble for smaller competitors.

Matters came to a head in 1982. The layoff of 160 employees for an indefinite period added to the feeling of uncertainty then gripping Sackville. On Dec. 2, 1982 the company went into receivership. The remainder of the employees were given their notice at noon on Dec. 23, 1982. Meanwhile an organization to save the Foundry encompassing the entire community interested in its past and future was formed. Spearheaded by David Hawkins of Hawk Communications, it drew widespread support from citizens, including representatives from both union and management.

Despite great effort, including extensive lobbying of all levels of government; organizing petitions and an attempt to find new investors; their efforts did not succeed. Later, Enterprise Foundrys assets were sold to Enheat Inc. In turn, its Fawcett Division, the remainder of the first Sackville Foundry established in 1852, became part of a new entity to be known as Enterprise Fawcett Limited. The two rivals in the foundry capital of the Maritimes had become one.

The Flashback published on Feb. 26th provided background on the life and times of the travelling man from Dorchester, Alexander Black (1838–1902). Today’s column, also based on his informative and interesting Diary, will feature an account of an extended trip by rail to Canada.

On Feb. 26th, 1878, Alexander Black wrote: I started for Ottawa on the 3 oclock train from Dorchester. Had tea in Moncton and continued on to Bathurst. As was his custom, he frequently made stops when traveling by train. At Bathurst, he visited a farm and toured the town. On Mar. 1st, he left Bathurst for Point Levis and Qubec City, where he spent two days sightseeing. A tour of the city included the Provincial Parliament buildings and the Methodist Church. Then it was off to Montreal for a brief stopover and a walkabout in the down town.

Mar. 6th found Black on the train bound for Ottawa a focal point for this trip. Not only anxious to visit the capital city; he wanted to see the House of Commons in action. Were Alexander Black alive today, he would be described as a political junkie. Although never a candidate for public office; he had a keen interest in politics. A staunch Liberal, he seldom missed a political meeting be it in Dorchester, Sackville or Moncton.

On the Tantramar in the late 19th century, politics was a blood sport. It was then the custom for a public rally to be held in the shiretown of Dorchester on the day when candidates filed their nomination papers. Following these formalities, each candidate was expected to address the gathered throng. In anticipation of a good time; a chance to heckle opponents and encourage their candidate, hundreds would travel by special train to Dorchester. These public debates were not for the timid, or the ill prepared, and elections were won or lost by the manner in which candidates handled hecklers. Alexander Black seldom missed such an occasion.

It was therefore with great anticipation that our traveler arrived in Ottawa at 3:30 PM on Friday, March 7th [and] went directly to the Parliament Buildings. Of one thing we may be certain. He was carrying a letter of introduction to the Visitors Gallery, penned by his MP, who also called Dorchester home, Hon. Albert J. Smith. A former Premier of New Brunswick, Smith had switched to federal politics and was Minister of Marine and Fisheries in the cabinet of Prime Minister Alexander Mackenzie.

Black could not have picked a better time to visit the House of Commons. The Liberals were in the final year of their mandate and the inevitability of a federal election was in the air. For the next five days Black was to spend most of his time in the Visitors Gallery overlooking the government benches. While there, he observed the consideration of departmental estimates, three days of debate on the Budget, followed by a motion of non confidence in the government. It was defeated 115 to 77.

The text of the non-confidence motion put forward by the Conservative opposition, was destined to be of long range significance. It called for a National Policy [i.e. higher tariffs] to protect Canadian industry. On the part of the opposition, this was a trial run for the much anticipated federal election. Canada was then experiencing a depression and the Mackenzie government was later to be defeated, largely on the tariff question, in an election on Sept. 17, 1878.

Not only did Black attend each session of the House while in Ottawa; he was treated to several marathon debates. The House opened at 3 PM and often did not adjourn until well after midnight. One session lasted until 2:50 AM! All the giants of late 19th century Canadian politics were in their place. The wily leader of the opposition, Sir John A. Macdonald sat slouched in his chair, ready to pounce at a moments notice; while directly opposite, the reserved and staid Mackenzie rallied his members in response.

Blacks only break from the Commons Gallery was a walk through town; a visit to the falls on the Rideau River and service at the Methodist Church on Sunday Mar. 10. On his last day in Ottawa, after a final trip to Parliament Hill, he visited Montmorency Falls and then strolled through the snow covered grounds of Rideau Hall; official residence of the Governor-General, the Earl of Dufferin. By 3:30, Mar. 16th Alexander Black reached Toronto.

Altogether, he was to remain in the Toronto area for nearly three months. This was a departure from his usual travel pattern. Following a serious round of sightseeing, Black was usually ready to move on. The Diary reveals predictable visits to museums, historic sites, libraries, auctions and art galleries; along with side trips to Burlington, Dundas and Hamilton. On one of the latter excursions he traveled to Burlington to walk over Mr. Springers farm of 70 acres, 40 in orchard. Offered $2,000. He may have considered investing in real estate; however, this possibility would seem remote; considering his deep Dorchester roots. The offer was not taken. There had to be another reason for the lengthy delay in Toronto. It will be revealed later.

Alexander Blacks first full day in Toronto was Sunday Mar. 17th, St. Patricks Day. As was his custom he attended service in the nearest Methodist meeting house. In this instance, it was Metropolitan Methodist Church, a High Victorian style building, referred to, even then, as the cathedral church of Methodism. Dedicated in 1872 and with a seating capacity of 2,000, our Dorchester traveler was impressed, for he attended this church faithfully during his visit.

The next day provided a stark contrast with the tranquility of a Toronto Sabbath. During the 1870s relations between radical Irish Roman Catholic and militant Protestant groups were strained. On Mar. 18th, Alexander Black witnessed one of the largest riots ever to occur in Toronto. Rossa O’Donovan, a visiting Irish lecturer, was scheduled to speak in St. Patricks Hall, on King Street East. Hundreds of protesters attempted to prevent this from happening. Fighting broke out, the lecture did not take place and O’Donovan escaped; disguised as a woman.

During his stay Alexander Black thoroughly explored on foot, the area that is now the downtown core of Toronto. Interspersed were frequent visits to the Mechanics Institute on the corner of Church and Adelaide Streets. This building provided him access to a free public library and reading rooms. Occasionally he would take a day for writing and catching up on his business interests and correspondence.

At least once a week, Black took time to explore the waterfront. Rowing competitions were then a popular spectator sport not only in Ontario, but also in New Brunswick; especially on the Kennebecasis River. On May 15, 1878, a competition between Canadian champion, Ned Hanlan and his American rival, Luther Plaisted took place on Toronto bay. Another of Hanlans rivals, Wallace Ross, was a native of Memramcook, and Blacks next door neighbour back home. The latter was a member of the famous Canadian Rowing team dubbed the Paris Four; for winning the 1867 World Rowing Competition in Paris. In the 1878 Toronto match, Hanlan won; and went on to later capture the World Individual Rowing title.

Occasionally more ordinary matters took over. As a farmer and skilled butcher he arranged a visit to a slaughter house and a meat packing plant. Very much interested in auctions of all kinds, he attended two horse auctions at the Crystal Palace. Officially this building was known as The Palace of Industry and was modeled on Londons more famous Crystal Palace.

While exploring the Toronto waterfront, Alexander Black discovered that the SS Chicora was advertising excursions between Toronto, Hamilton and Niagara. (See Photograph) He made arrangements for a short trip on Toronto Bay. Having enjoyed this experience, he decided that this would be an appropriate way too mark the forthcoming Qneens Birthday. (See advertisement for details)

Following his Victoria Day excursion on the SS Chicora, Alexander Black was ready to move on. Whirlwind visits to Dundas, Burlington and Port Colborne, and an obligatory trip to Niagara Falls were made. Then it was on to Buffalo and New York. Our diarist provides few details on this portion of the trip, except that from Buffalo to New York [May 31] it was a beautiful train ride.

Immediately he went to the office [of his ships agent P. J. Nevins,] at 11 South Street, New York. Alexander Black the tourist was, transformed overnight to become a man of business. His arrival in New York had been timed to coincide with that of the Dorchester brig Bessie May. Having a major financial interest in the latter, he had extended the Canada trip so that this might happen. As soon as the ship was released from quarantine in Jersey City, he was busy overseeing discharge of cargo and ballast, arranging purchase of stores and working up a [new] charter. His only respite was to attend the fireworks in Central Park on July 4th. On July 6, 1878 the Bessie May sailed for Leith, Scotland with a cargo of oil cake.

Alexander Blacks trip from New York to Dorchester was easy to arrange. The brig Matilda Buck was due to arrive in New York on July 16 to take on a cargo of flour for Dorchester; permitting him to sail back home. In his remaining days in New York he became a tourist once again with visits to Coney Island, Brooklyn and a night at the theatre. On July 24th, the Matilda Buck departed New York, dropping anchor off Dorchester, July 28 at 7 PM.

On July 31st, he watched a familiar scene, the launch of the barque William H. Hickman. The next day, Farmer Black was mowing hay on the marsh crick [sic] with J.W. Tingley. The Dorchester travellng man was home at last! It is my intent to return to the adventures of Alexander Black later in 2003. He has many more stories to tell.

Browsing through tourism brochures, visitors to Dorchester have been known to question references to the villages role during the Golden Age of Sail. Statements such as: It was shipbuilding that made Dorchester famous around the world, cause the skeptical to ask: How could there be shipbuilding without a harbour?

Tour guides, having heard this before, point to a map, and patiently explain that the centre of the community was once Dorchester Island. It’s just down the road. And yes, although landlocked today; it was a bustling home port for ships that sailed the seven seas. Age of sail historian Stanley Spicer attests that at least 109 vessels were built in Diorchester. Of these, 68 came from Dorchester’s three major shipyards; owned by the Palmer, Chapman and Hickman families.

Dorchesters shipbuilding heritage was brought to my attention recently through a remarkable diary. Covering the last phase of the Age of Sail, from January 01, 1870 through to December 31, 1894; it records how and why, shipbuilding and international trade became the lifeblood of a prosperous community, once the shiretown of Westmorland County.

On the surface, the diarist was an unlikely recorder of this era. A farmer and businessman; he once sailed aboard the barque John Hickman as ships carpenter. But for Alexander Black (1838–1902) this was not all; for he possessed many talents and mastered more than one occupation. In addition, Black had an interest in music, art, politics and law. If an important trial was in progress at the old Westmorland County Court House, Alexander Black was certain to be a spectator. Well read, and largely self educated, he had an excellent command of language and always expressed himself in a cryptic, but engaging manner.

Beyond these achievements, Alexander Black was a staunch follower of Methodism. This is not surprising when his family background is known. His father James A. Black (1790–1863) was a half brother of the Revd. William Black (1760–1834), founder of Methodism in the Maritimes. In his time, Alexander Black was a prime mover behind the building of the Dorchester Methodist (now United) Church, dedicated on Nov. 26, 1882. As revealed in his Diary, wherever he traveled, it was his custom to worship in the nearest Methodist Church. While Blacks Diary provides valuable insight concerning late 19th century life in Dorchester and the Tantramar region; this Flashback and the one that follows on March 12th, will focus on Alexander Black the traveling man.

In order to understand this aspect of Blacks life its necessary to delve into his business interests. Growing up in Dorchester during the Age of Sail he could not help being influenced by the call of the sea. Ship launchings were important highlights in the community and he witnessed many of these events, from early boyhood onward. .How were shipbuilding ventures financed? Commonly, most contracts were divided into units of 64 shares, based on the total cost of the vessel. The shipyard usually held the controlling interest; while the remainder might be sold to the captain, the ships agent, or to local businessmen such as Alexander Black. These investors received dividends, based on profits made and their number of shares. Starting in a small way, Black was able over time, to reinvest his profit in ever larger numbers of shares. Later, as his financial involvement increased, he made frequent trips to Saint John, Boston and New York; the chief ports of call for the ships in which he had an interest. Here he would confer with local agents, supervise the unloading of cargoes and negotiate future contracts.

Important though these trips were from the business standpoint, they did not fulfill Alexander Blacks yearning for overseas travel. Unmarried, and without family responsibilities, he was able to take off when the spirit moved him. Normally these longer voyages were made over the winter months when farm choring was not so pressing.

During October of 1875 attention in Dorchester was focussed on a new ship about to be launched. Christened the Bessie May, and built by Edward Chambers, it was successfully launched on October 21st. Just over a month later, on Nov. 25th, Alexander Black, having earlier placed his trunks on board, set sail from Dorchester Island, on the maiden voyage of the Bessie May. The brigantine was bound for Glasgow via Queenstown (Cobh) Ireland. Lets pick up the story from the Diary

Nov. 25 sailed for Queenstown at 10 AM; passed Saint John and anchored in Beaver Harbour at 3:30 PM on the 26th. Set sail at 10 AM on the 27th. Passed to the west of Grand Manan and then lost sight of land. By the 28th, we were off Cape Sable. Sighted four steamships and a brig. Weather fair. During the next three weeks, the Bessie May crossed the North Atlantic by way of the Grand Banks of Newfoundland. Enroute considerable rain, squally weather and eventually fair winds were encountered; otherwise the voyage was uneventful. On Dec. 18th at 11:30 PM, the light from Cape Clear lighthouse, on a small island off the southern tip of Ireland, was sighted. At 7AM the next day, the Bessie May was abreast of Kinsale Lighthouse and by 11:30 dropped anchor in Queenstown Harbour. This seaport, located a few miles southeast of Cork, is today known as Cobh. The first leg of the voyage was over.

Happy to be on dry land, Alexander Black made good use of his time over the next few days as the Bessie Mays cargo of lumber was unloaded. Always the curious traveler, he spent Dec. 20th exploring the nearby city of Cork. While anchored in Queenstown, arrangements were made for the Bessie May to proceed to Greenock, Scotland to pick up a load of coal. On Dec 23, the ship set sail through the Irish Sea and Firth of Clyde, reaching a point 28 miles below Greenock at daybreak on Christmas Day. A tug towed the brig into port, where an unspecified cargo, picked up in Queenstown, was unloaded.

Once more Alexander Black opted to go exploring, this time in nearby Glasgow. Unfortunately, the Diary mentions only the highlights. Chief of these was St. Mungos Cathedral, which made a lasting impression. He also singled out West Park, the Arcade and Bazaar as being of interest. Alexander Blacks one regret was an inability to find a Methodist Church. Nevertheless, on Sunday Jan. 2, 1876, he starts the new year right by worshipping in a Presbyterian Church. A delay in departure of the Bessie May provided another opportunity. He was able to hop on a train and travel to Edinburgh, where he spent several packed days visiting all the noted places in the New Town and all the noted places in the Old Town.

By Jan. 12th, Black was back in Greenock. A contract to carry a cargo of coal for Havana was signed and the brig hauled to a crane to be loaded with coal. On Jan. 31st he was on board the brig awaiting fair wind to sail for Havana. Finally, on Feb. 5th the Bessie May weighed anchor at 4 AM, with a fair wind… Another trans-Atlantic voyage had begun.

Thanks to the northeast trade winds, and a good sailing breeze a smooth crossing was made. The only problem, a dead calm, meant an eight day delay in mid-ocean. Eventually on Mar. 25th, the island of St. Domingo was sighted and the Bessie May arrived in Havana at 11 AM on April 2nd our passage from Greenock was 57 days. Strangely, the Diary is blank for the next six weeks; mentioning only that the coal was unloaded and a cargo of sugar secured for New York. We can only speculate that illness prevented Alexander Black from exploring the Cuban countryside.

On May 24th the Bessie May sailed for New York, arriving on June 8th, to be met by Mr. Chambers from Dorchester. Undoubtedly, much time was spent in catching up on the news from home. By now, Alexander Black was back in form and took several days off to travel to Philadelphia to attend the American Centennial celebrations. 1876 was a notable year, as the United States observed the centenary of the Declaration of Independence. Although Black does not tell us, we may be certain that he made the rounds of the many historical sites in this city.

By July 2nd, Alexander Black was homeward bound. The Bessie May remained behind in New York to await another cargo; forcing him to travel by rail, first to Newport, Rhode Island. Once there, a drive in the country was followed by a visit to Mount Adams. In one Diary entry, made while in Newport, Alexander Black was unusually candid. He confessed to having spent a day walking to Purgatory and Paradise with details being left to the readers imagination. He then travelled from Newport to Boston for a brief overnight stop. On July 12, Alexander Black caught the train for Portland and Saint John; arriving home in Dorchester on July 15th, 1876. His long journey of almost nine months was now over.

A recent headline in the Globe & Mail highlighted the most universal of all Canadian greetings: Bon jour, cold eh? For whatever reason, winter 2003 has witnessed a deep freeze of unprecedented proportions. This conclusion has been proven by record breaking cold temperatures throughout the Maritimes. Even the weather forecasts have heightened our awareness of the cc-oo-ll-dd by their emphasis on the wind chill factor. To add insult to injury the January cold snap was followed by a Groundhog Day ice storm. For many of us, there is little consolation in the conclusion of author Robertson Davies that … its winter that establishes the character of Canada.

There have been a variety of explanations for the recent erratic weather patterns. These range from global warming, melting of the polar ice caps, to the long range impact of El Nio. Others, who may be reading too much science fiction, attribute weather swings to visitors from outer space. Its worth noting that strange and unusual weather is by no means limited to Canada; as shown by the drought and alarming bush fires so prevalent during the present Australian summer.

Nor is Winter 2003 an exception. When it comes to recalling past weather conditions, our memories tend to be selective and unreliable. More often than not, cold winter memories remain the sharpest. The Tantramar region has had its share of every swing of the weather pendulum. For example: in January 1932, spring like conditions prevailed in January. The mercury soared well above freezing, and skipping ropes and baseball games were enjoyed on school playgrounds.

Possibly as a result of our cold weather preoccupation, Canadians have, for several years, been debating the possibility of a midwinter statutory holiday. Recently the Saint John Telegraph Journal decided to sample on the street opinions on the matter. Heres two interesting responses: Other than Canada Day, we dont have anything to celebrate who we are. Winter is such a part of our heritage we should have something to mark winter. Another respondent expressed similar views: Winter is a big part of our national fabric. We should have a holiday thats celebrating the fun of snow some kind of Winter Festival Day.

Its a reasonable assumption that a mid winter holiday would be welcomed by many Canadians. Further there is a consensus that it should occur sometime between Christmas and Easter and fall on either a Friday or Monday to create a long weekend. Since the date of Easter fluctuates, this means that mid-February would appear to be the ideal time. How about this coming weekend its still cold eh?

For the record, other reasons for a winter holiday have been put forward. Many countries commemorate the lives of famous personalities through statutory holidays. January 11, 1815 was the birth date of the leading Father of Confederation and first Prime Minister Sir John A. Macdonald. Another important Prime Minister and the first French Canadian to hold the post, Sir Wilfrid Laurier, died on February 17, 1919; creating the possibility of a Macdonald Laurier Day. Others have pointed out that such a holiday should honour all Prime Ministers; however, since some have been eminently forgettable this might not be too popular.

Another suggestion that would have resonance on the Tantramar is the raising of Canadas National Flag Day to the status of a civic holiday. The now familiar red and white flag with a stylized maple leaf in its centre, was approved by Parliament in late December 1964. The Royal Proclamation, officially designating the flag, was signed by Queen Elizabeth II and took effect on February 15th, 1965. Personally, this is a date that I will always remember, as I witnessed the ceremony when the new Canadian flag was unfurled at the Commonwealth Institute in London, England. Many readers will recall that the late Dr. George F.G. Stanley, former lieutenant governor of New Brunswick and Sackville resident, was responsible for the design of the flag.

For a number of years, the town of Sackville has celebrated its natal day on the first weekend in August. This is appropriate, since summer is the season when many people have their vacations. For this reason, the weekend has become a time for family gatherings and reunions. The weather is also more conducive to outdoor activities such as parades and athletic events. The date neatly coincides with New Brunswick Day, enabling more people to have time to travel for a homecoming. A second civic holiday, as suggested below, is not meant to interfere with this summer celebration.

2003 is Sackville’s Centennial year. This event will be celebrated, as it should be, in a variety of ways. The anniversary of the towns incorporation might be marked in the future by combining the existing Heritage Day, which usually falls on the second weekend in February, with a civic holiday to mark the incorporation of the town. Technically Sackvilles natal day is Feb. 5th; however, a holiday that coincides with a mid-February weekend might be a welcome antidote for the February blahs.

In proclaiming this occasion a civic holiday, two objectives would be achieved: the provision of a winter break as mentioned; and the focussing of attention on the towns unique history and heritage.

In recent years, an important initiative in this direction has been undertaken by the Tantramar Heritage Trust in their marking of Heritage Day. An outline of the creative program to take place Feb. 15th, at Tantramar Regional High School, will be found elsewhere in this issue of the Trib. A Winterlude atmosphere could well be combined with seasonal sports activities, such as hockey, to provide a focal point for the holiday. Since there is lots to celebrate, this might well become an annual event.

For many years, Sackville was known as a hockey town. Few people are aware that the first New Brunswicker to play on a winning Stanley Cup team was a native son. Bill Red Stuart was born in Sackville in 1900 and went on to play defense for the Toronto St. Pats. In 1922, the team won the NHL championship. During his career, Stuart played seven seasons in the NHL, first with Toronto and then Boston. Later he turned to coaching. Two of his teams in Halifax and Sudbury went on to win the Allan Cup.

More recently, during the 1950s through to the 1980s, Allison Gardens was often filled to the rafters with cheering hockey fans. This was the heyday of the game; when teams such as the Sackville Combines and Sackville Eagles, along with the Mount Allison varsity hockey team would attract 1200 or more people to games. Many a provincial and regional championship came to Sackville as a result of the efforts of these talented teams.

What better centrepiece for Sackville’s first Heritage Winterlude Weekend in 2004, than a Centennial Hockey Tournament in the new rink? Remember it’s winter that captures the character of our town as well as our country.

In previous Flashbacks published on Aug. 14 and Dec. 4, 2002, the steps leading to the incorporation of Sackville were outlined. Today, and still with the same subject, The Case of the Mysterious Town Seal takes centre stage.

Recently, on receiving a telephone call from a local resident, I realized that there was another story waiting to be told. He asked me to explain How the town celebrated its incorporation on Jan. 4, 1903. Since the ratepayers had not by that date voted in favour of incorporation, there was some doubt that this information was accurate. Following my request for evidence the caller suggested that I take a look at the Town Seal.

This advice was followed. Before going further, each reader should stop and look carefully at the accompanying illustration. At first glance, it seems clear that incorporation took place in January of 1903. Assuming for the moment that this is correct; two questions emerge: What was the actual date in January, 1903? Why was the phrase Act of 1896 included?

To make certain that I was not missing something, I requested help from a totally unscientific sample of seven local citizens of repute. They were asked to study the seal closely and tell me the date of incorporation. Four replied with certainty in their voices: Some date in January 1903. The remaining three said: It must be 1896, because Act of 1896 is printed in bold type. I then realized that any public opinion survey, even one with a 2.8 margin of error, 19 times out of 20, would not help. I would have to go back to the archival catacombs.

My first discovery came in finding the record of a Town Council meeting in Fords Hall on April 24, 1903. It had been earlier recognized that an appropriate seal was, for legal reasons, required by the new town. A special committee of Council under the chairmanship of Alderman Frederic Ryan had completed its work. Tenders were called; and responses from two Saint John printing firms were considered at this meeting. The tenders filed would amaze any 21st century communications or advertising agency. Barnes & Company quoted a price of from $7.00 to $15.00; while the successful bid by R.H. Green & Sons came in at $7.50.

The symbolism on the proposed seal was both striking and appropriate. The shipbuilding era was remembered in the sketch of a brigantine in full sail. An open book transposed on the globe highlighted the importance of Mount Allison University; while a parlour stove and plow focussed attention on two of Sackvilles important industries; the manufacture of stoves and agriculture.

Now the plot begins to thicken. On motion of Alderman Frank Harrison, seconded by Alderman Alexander Ford, Greens design was adopted subject to a slight change. Around the outer edge of the seal the words: Incorporated Jan. 1903, should appear. Was this the end of the mystery? Not yet; as I was soon to find out. There was obviously something behind the addition suggested by Town Council.

To make matters more complicated, I had by this time, uncovered the actual date of Sackvilles incorporation. Proof was found in the Journals of the House of Assembly and Sessional Papers. Following legal requirements, the Westmorland County Sheriff Joseph A. McQueen officially informed the Provincial Secretary that: An election [on the matter of incorporation] was held Monday, January 12, 1903 A.D. The number of ballots marked For was 167; and the number of ballots marked against was 137 with one rejected. Communication was slower in 1903 than today; thus some time elapsed before this official notice was acted upon in Fredericton.

Eventually an order-in-council was prepared for signing and proclamation by the Lieutenant Governor. It read as follows: I do therefore proclaim that the said town of Sackville, comprised of boundaries herein before described, be incorporated under and by the provisions of the Towns Incorporation Act. Given under my hand and seal at Fredericton, the fifth day of February one thousand nine hundred and three and in the third year of His Majestys reign.

In a ceremony held in Fredericton on the above date, His Honor Lieutenant Governor Hon. Jabez Bunting Snowball (1837–1907) affixed his signature and Sackville was now officially incorporated. Incidentally, His Honor, a lumber baron from Chatham, and former MP and Senator, had a number of interesting links with the new town.

A graduate of Mount Allison Academy, he was an active supporter of that institution and after 1862, the university. His father Rev. John Snowball, a prominent Methodist clergyman, served as minister of Sackville Methodist (now United Church) from 1861 to 1863. At this point Rev. Mr. Snowball retired from the ministry but continued to live in Sackville.

The Lieutenant Governors sister Mary Ann married Joseph Lawrence Black (1829–1907), a prominent Sackville businessman. Later their son, Hon. Frank Bunting Black (1869–1945), became president of the family business; J. L. Black & Sons Limited. He served in turn, as a member of Town Council and Mayor. Black rounded out his political career as an MLA for Westmorland and from Nov. 25, 1921 until his death he was a member of the Senate.

Meanwhile, a further check of government documents for 1896 revealed that during the legislative session of that year, a bill entitled The Towns Incorporation Act was passed by the legislature. It provided the ground rules for incorporation of towns throughout New Brunswick, and explains the presence of the phrase Act of 1896 on the seal.

Still one question remained. Why did Town Council insist on the additional wording Incorporated Jan. 1903? By April 30th, they most certainly had in their hands a copy of the order-in-council and proclamation by the Lieutenant Governor. The solution to this aspect of the mystery must be credited to journalistic sleuthing by a former editor of the Tribune — C.W. Scoop Moffatt.

Because of his interest in local history, I reasoned that Moffatt might have had something to say concerning the mysterious town seal in his Tribune column When Was That? After scrolling through several issues, I discovered that he was very much aware of the discrepency in dates on the Town Seal.

Ever the investigative reporter, Scoop set out to determine what had actually happened. In his quest, he enlisted the help and support of Lloyd Folkins, then MLA for Tantramar. The latter had more than a passing interest in the subject. Before entering provincial politics, Folkins had served for ten years on Sackville Town Council and was elected mayor in 1952. He, in turn, sought the aid of the Provincial Archives staff. The documents uncovered proved that Sackville’s natal day was Feb. 5, 1903.

But even more, the Moffatt/Folkins investigation revealed why the date Jan. 1903 was so permanently and incorrectly fixed. It was because of a typographical error in the Royal Gazette of Feb. 11, 1903. The usually reliable Gazette in an example of sloppy editing had substituted the date January 4th in place of February 5th. The 1903 Town Council, did not correct the error; and merely copied the date as printed in the Royal Gazette.

The last word must go to Scoop: All of which proves that you cant always believe what you read. Although the Trib and Town Council of the day accepted the date in the Royal Gazette without question, an alert editor would have caught the discrepancy in dates. The proclamation of an event eight days before it actually happened could not be made even by order-in-council. So for all future historians, the town of Sackville was officially incorporated February 5th, 1903. Q.E.D.

During 2003 it is my hope to devote several Flashbacks to highlights of the past century in Sackville. If you have topics to suggest; or better still, material, photographs or information to share, please get in touch.

Only a few readers will recall Christmas as it was celebrated seventy years ago. For many on the Tantramar and elsewhere, Dec. 25, 1932 was unmistakably grim. The Great Depression that began with the Stock Market crash of 1929 was now a fact of life. Yet despite harsh economic times, and a much simpler life style, the true spirit of Christmas was everywhere apparent. Lets go back and sample Christmas when the season was much shorter. Unlike 2002, it did not start immediately after Halloween; only to end in a whimper with the January sales. In 1932 the beginning was signaled in early December when practices for Christmas concerts began in earnest.

About the same time, advertisements for Christmas Specials appeared. By comparison with today, merchants in Dorchester, Port Elgin and Sackville might seem to be offering bargains galore. Some examples were: Grapefruit selling at 4 for 25 cents; Red Grapes 2 lbs. 25 cents; Green Grapes 20 cents per lb. A box of Moir’s Chocolates cost $1.29. Electric irons were $2.35; while table lamps ranged from $1.35 to Deluxe Models at $12.50.

Bargains? Not really. When the prevailing low wages are factored in; for untold numbers, the season was anything but merry. The Sackville Post encouraged all who could afford to support the annual Christmas Stocking Fund for the needy. C. C. Avard, then editor of the rival Tribune spoke for many when he editorialized: The main idea on this Christmas of 1932 is to carry on and live one day at a time, doing our duty as we see it, with the hope that the skies will clear and that the storm of Depression will soon pass.

Both rural and townspeople shared adversity during the 1930s; yet those living on farms had one advantage, they seldom went hungry. A preoccupation then as now, was with the weather. In 1932 the Tantramar was experiencing an unusually mild spell. The downside was the problem of muddy roads. However, at least one rural correspondent reported that the usual activities of the season are in evidence cars and carriages are moving too and fro on either side of the Isthmus. Despite a Green Christmas, Santa Claus was scheduled to make his appearance at the Imperial Theatre. Admisssion: Boys and Girls 15 cents; Adults 25 cents. All children were guaranteed a bag of goodies.

It was noted in the newspapers that Prime Minister R. B. Bennett would not, as was his custom, spend Christmas in Sackville at his brothers [Captain R. V. Bennetts] home on York Street. Instead, the Prime Minister was then on his way back to Canada, from an official visit in England. Radio was still a novelty in 1932. The annual Christmas message by the reigning monarch, a tradition that continues today, was eagerly awaited. Relayed by short wave and transmitted locally by the Moncton radio station; the reception was reported loud and clear on the Tantramar.

To fully appreciate Dec. 25th, 1932, I would like to share an account by someone from away who decided to return home and experience, once again, a Chignecto Christmas. The writer was Lyman T. Chapman (1897–1980), a native of East Amherst, whose ancestry may be traced to William Chapman, a Yorkshire settler at Point de Bute in the mid 1770s. Reputedly, this family can claim more direct descendants than any other of Yorkshire origin on the Tantramar. Chapman was then based in Winnipeg where he edited The Nor-West Farmer. Later, he was to succeed Point de Bute native, Dr. John M. Trueman as Principal of the Nova Scotia Agricultural College. Following service in the RCAF during the Second World War, he returned to journalism, and will be remembered both locally and across Canada, for his longtime editorship of the popular Family Herald. The story is best told in Chapman’s own words.

As the festive season of 1932 approached, I had a sudden longing for a Christmas at home, something I had not experienced for 15 years. It is said that nostalgia is the strongest of human emotions and looking back over the years, there is a danger of becoming sentimental. Yet, we are more likely to appreciate such occasions in times of adversity, rather than in times of prosperity. In 1932 we were certainly in the midst of adversity.

Although relatively well paid as a magazine editor; because of payments on the mortgage, radio and car I was obliged to borrow on my life insurance to finance the trip. My wife, young son and I set out with high hopes; looking forward to my parents [Alexander and Minnie Chapman of East Amherst] meeting their first grandson. We traveled by rail to Toronto, then Montreal and finally Amherst. As always, the family Christmas tree was a welcome sight. 1932 was the first time in many years that a stocking had been hung by the chimney with care. Another touch of the good old days was the Christmas concert in the one room schoolhouse. Like those of earlier years, it was a mixture of reverence and revelry. The babe in the manger, the three wise men and the star of Bethlehem were all there. The little schoolhouse was packed with fond parents and visitors.

My brothers [Curtis and Ross Chapman] reminded me of incidents during our childhood Christmases. When the family circle was assembled, they kidded me about the times I put out a tub of water on Christmas Eve for Santas reindeer. The tub was always empty on Christmas morning. Christmas Day routine had hardly changed over the intervening years. Children were wide awake early to find out if their fond hopes had been realized. As soon as the morning chores were done, the extended family began to gather for Christmas dinner at noon. The men sat in the kitchen until mother had too little elbow room at the range and kitchen table. When she gave the word, everybody moved to the living room.

By this time, the food began to appear on the dining room table. The carving of the turkey was done in the kitchen and plates were passed along in an assembly line. The vegetables were all home grown. The cranberries were picked on our own Tantramar Marsh. Maybe the Christmas pudding had some spices from town, but the summer savory in the dressing was the real thing. Dessert and the pudding came later, as well as fruit, nuts, tea, coffee and milk; not forgetting the choice of mince or apple pie — the latter being smothered in whipped cream.

After dinner there was storytelling and a discussion of family events and tales of Christmases past. The new grandson was well in the foreground with the contents of his stocking. As chore time again approached, the horses were harnessed and the relatives departed. On New Years day there was a repeat performance at my grandfathers farm three miles away. After New Years celebrations were over, we returned to Winnipeg. Of course, the grandson held centre stage right to the finish. As his grandmother was fastening his coat, he sang a childhood song, complete with lisp. This put the finishing touch on my best Christmas.

Unfortunately, as the dirty thirties wore on, the skies were not to clear; and the economy worsened; only to be rescued by World War Two. And yet, Lyman T. Chapmans observation that people appreciate Christmas even more in harsh times, continued to ring true. The essential character of a Maritime Depression Christmas was also captured in Ernest Bucklers classic novel The Mountain And The Valley. By contrast, he portrayed a family struggling to make a living on a marginal farm; not on the fertile Tantramar or in the productive Annapolis Valley, but on the barren soil of Nova Scotias South Mountain.

Heres how Buckler explained the true magic of the season: There were the three days: the day before Christmas, the day of Christmas and the day after. Those three days lamplight spread with a different softness over the blue-cold snow. Faces were all unlocked; thought and feeling were open and warm to the touch The yellow lamplight soft-shadowed faces like a flood and gathered the room all in from outside the windows. In that instant suddenly, ecstatically, burstingly, buoyantly, enclosingly, sharply, safely, stingingly, watchfully, mountingly, softly, ever so softly, it was Christmas Eve. What a difference the glow from a kerosene lamp can make! Compliments of the Season to all Flashback readers!