Vermilion In The Last Week Of March 1917

Back during the First World War, while everyone was worried about what was happening to their brothers, sons and fathers overseas, it was still business as usual for Vermilion.

At the time, the snow was melting fast, and it was expected that it would all be gone by the end of the month. For the farmers of the area, there was excitement as seeding season was approaching.

The Vermilion Board of Trade had meetings with Canadian Northern and the board of railway commissioners regarding the congestion of grain at the elevators due to a shortage of cars.

Lt. William Morgan, who had enlisted with the 194th Edmonton Highlanders, was seriously wounded in battle overseas and was recommended for the Military Cross. He was wounded when he cleared out a German trench in advance of the main attacking line. Prior to enlisting, he was a butcher and farmer at Vermilion.

Carpenters were very busy in the community renovating the Empire Theatre in the community. The second floor of the theatre was being converted into offices and rooms. The cement floor was also being removed and plate glass windows were being installed on the ground floor.

The Craig Brothers business was also enlarging its grocery department.

A theatre show came to the community and was a huge success. It raised $200 for the Red Cross and Belgian Relief. Overall, everyone who attended enjoyed the show and hoped more such shows would be put on in the future.

Lastly, upwards of $5,000 was subscribed to the pressure issue of war bonds in Vermilion. Several farmers in the area had invested, and several other citizens had put money forward to support the war effort the best that they could.

Contact Craig at craig@canadaehx.com