1989 Edited Version of EARLY HISTORY of 5 (British Columbia)

ELECTRONIC DRAFT VERSION of 1989 Edited Version of

EARLY HISTORY OF 5 (British Columbia) Field Regiment Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery As written by LCol F.A. Robertson 1925

ONLY FOR INTERNAL USE OF 5 RCA Museum & Archives - new pictures and more info telling the early story of the 1861 formation of artillery to be included at a later date.

FOREWORD

This publication is based on a document originally produced by Lieut-Colonel Francis Arthur Robertson, DSO, at the close of his tenure as the Commanding Officer of the 5th B.C. Regiment of British Columbia.

He produced three copies of this unpublished manuscript, entitled,5th (B.C.) Regiment, Canadian Garrison Artillery and Early Defences of the B.C. Coast: Historical Records by lieut. Colonel F. A. Robertson. One copy is located in the Public Archives of Canada, one copy is held in the Provincial Archives of British Columbia and the third copy, originally presented to the Officers Mess of the 5th, is presently in the care of a former officer of the unit.

Where possible we have reproduced the original manuscript but have included material and added specific dates which subsequent research has revealed.

The EdItorial Committee: Mr. Robert L. Clapp, Mr. D. W. Falconer, August26,1989 MajorPhilipA.Sherwin

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The Editorial Committee would like to express its appreciation to the following people whose dedicated support and contribution made the completion of this project possible:

The Regimental Board of Trustees for access to the original documents; Lieut. Colonel David I. Smith, Commanding Officer and R.S.M. L. B. Woolven, for their enthusiasm and support; Corporal Jean Marsh (nee Dowler) for her endless hours of typing; and the former members of the Regiment who contributed their memories.

PREFACE

The Fifth (BC) Regiment, Canadian Garrison Artillery , with headquarters at Victoria, has the honour of being the oldest continuous serving militia unit now existing in Western Canada. Although the Canadian Militia List shows that this Regiment was organized on October 12th, 1883 it should be remembered that the organization of the Regiment was an amalgamation of several military units which had been formed many years earlier. The various units which were united in a single Regiment in 1883 included The Victoria Battery, formed in 1878; the Seymour Battery of New Westminister, formed as a Volunteer Company in 1866; and one company of Victoria Rifles, first organized as a volunteer unit in 1862.

Citizens of Victoria have reason to be proud of their Artillery Regiment which during the last sixty-three years has included in its membership a great number of the most prominent and respected men in the District, and has had for Commanding Officers such distinguished men as General Sir Arthur Currie, Lieutenant Colonel E. G. Prior, late Lieutenant Governor of British Co|umbia; Lieutenant Colonel F. B. Gregory, Judge of the Supreme Court; and other men of note in civic life.

There are still a number of men living who were actively identified with military activities in the early days, and with the valuable assistance of some of these "old timers" I have spent much of my spare time in collecting and arranging the material for this historical record in order that the traditions of the Regiment may be preserved for future generations.

In presenting a copy to the Officers' Mess as a souvenir on my retirement as Commanding Officer I wish every success to those who remain to carry on the good work. Although the Militia should train men to fight, the chief importance of this training is that it ensures, to a certain extent, a guarantee for peace. To be prepared for any eventuality is often the best means of preventing its occurrence. It is hoped, therefore, that the story of the Regiment as told in this book may be an inspiration to present and future officers to hold the standard high and always ensure for the old "5th" a degree of efficiency in keeping with the Regimental Motto "Nunquam Non Paratus."

(Sgd) F. A. Robertson Lieutenant Colonel

Victoria, B.C. January 31st, 1925.

Chapter I

THE NEW COLONY

A gentle breeze rippled the surface of James Bay Harbour where two British man-o-war ships, H.M.S. CORMORANT and H.M.S. DRIVER, rode quietly at anchor. The ship's officers gathered with Hudson's Bay Company officials, employees, and residents in the "big room" of Fort Victoria, where a significant ceremony was about to begin.

Attention was focused on a rather young looking man who was reading from a parchment bearing the Seal of Queen Victoria. The man was Richard Blanshard and the document from which he read was his commission as the first Governor of the Colony of Vancouver Island. The arrival of the new Governor from England signalled the end of expansionist dreams of a number of nations in the Pacific North-West.

Ships of the Spanish fleet had been particularly active along the North-West coast of America from 1774 to 1790 as Spain searched for new areas to expand its empire. In 1774 Juan Perez sailed as far north as the Queen Charlotte Islands and in 1775 Captain Hecate and Captain Quadra, on a further exploration, continued north into Alaskan waters. Manuel Quimper also carried out extensive survey work during 1790. The use of Spanish names on our charts today reflects their early presence in our area.

Captain James Cook, in H.M.S. RESOLUTION and Commander Chas. Clarke, in H.M.S. DISCOVERY, arrived on the coast during a voyage of discovery in 1778. Cook's mission was to search for a shorter water route to Europe or to Hudson's Bay, and to take possession of important locations not already claimed. They also made a general survey of the north-west coast from the proximity of 45 degrees latitude to the Arctic regions, including Nootka Sound.

The sheltered cove at Nootka on the west coast of Vancouver Island attracted vessels of many nations and served as the focal point of their operations. Nootka, was claimed by both England and Spain with the arrival of Captain Cook in 1778.

Cook's group remained at Nootka almost a month in order to refit their vessels, then continued north where stormy seas forced them to bear well away from the coastline.

The explorers reached the Arctic Circle and then just beyond 70 degrees latitude they encountered a vast expanse of ice which discouraged further progress. The search for a passage to the Atlantic was abandoned at this time and the group set sail for a winter haven in the Sandwich Islands. Shortly after their arrival at the Islands, Cook met his untimely death in an encounter with the natives.

Portuguese, Dutch and Spanish merchant adventurers had established profitable markets across the Pacific Ocean. Spanish control had reached Mexico and California. A shorter N.W. water passage became even more desirable as the British switched their area of commerce from the Atlantic to the Pacific and Indian Ocean areas.

Encroachment by the Russians, and the arrival of U.S. vessels added to the deteriorating conditions between nations. In 1789 the Spanish prepared to defend their outpost, and erected a fort at Nootka. The ship's heavy guns were removed and remounted within the fort. This was the first occasion of Vancouver Island being protected by guns in a coast defence role.

As tensions eased, equal rights to trade and establish settlements in the new territory were ceded to England by Spain, as specified in the Nootka Convention of 1790.

Ships of the Royal Navy however did not return to the N.W. coast of America until 1792. Early in the year, Captain George Vancouver, commanding H.M.S. DISCOVERY, and Lieut. Commander William Broughton in command of H.M.S. CHATHAM, set sail from England on a further voyage of discovery.

Captain Vancouver's ships entered Juan De Fuca's Strait on 30 April, 1792, and followed the south shore as far as Port Discovery. Puget Sound was also charted. While surveying in the vicinity of Desolation Sound they met the Spanish explorers, Galiano and Valdez. For a time they worked together with a mutual exchange of charts.

Parting company, Vancouver's group continued in a northerly direction and in early August reached the broad expanse of the Pacific Ocean. Upon entering the open sea, Vancouver thus became the first man to prove the coastline they had been exploring for 350 miles was not part of the mainland but was, indeed, an island.

Vancouver followed the coast of the mainland to Fitzhugh Sound, then turned south for his historic meeting at Nootka with representatives from Spain. The purpose of this meeting was to negotiate arrangements provided for in the Nootka Convention signed on 28th October, 1790.

At Nootka, Vancouver was received in a very friendly manner by Governor Quadra, commander of the Spanish fort. Negotiations were carried out with great cordiality. Although not reaching complete agreement on the interpretation of the terms of the Treaty, a bond of mutual respect resulted. As a compliment to Quadra, Captain Vancouver named the huge island "The Island of Quadra and Vancouver." The name "Vancouver" was retained for the large island and an island nestled between Vancouver Island and the mainland now perpetuates the name "Quadra."

Page 6 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added Governor Quadra and the Spanish fleet remained at Nootka until the latter part of 1792, then departed for San Blas, Mexico, never to return. Two years later the British flag was flying at Nootka in undisputed possession.

The next international dispute was with the United States over the Canada - U.S. boundary. This flare-up subsided when the signing of the Oregon Boundary Treaty of 1846 designated the 49th Parallel as the International Boundary. Ships of the Royal Navy were not regularly stationed on this coast until 1846, however, their presence made the opening up and development of the Canadian Pacific Coast far less hazardous for the fur trading companies.

The boundary dispute had not yet been settled when James Douglas was delegated the task of finding a suitable location for a new fort by H.B.C. Chief Factor, John McLoughlin. Douglas at the time was Assistant to McLoughlin at H.B.C. headquarters, Fort Vancouver, which is now known as Vancouver, Washington.

James Douglas, sensitive to the requirements of a self- contained fort, selected Victoria as the site. Construction began under his supervision in 1843. Charles Ross became first officer in charge of the Fort, and upon his early demise in 1844, he was succeeded by Roderick Finlayson.

John McLoughlin retired in 1845 and James Douglas succeeded him as Chief Factor for the Western Division of the Hudson's Bay Company. In 1846 during the Royal Navy's first visit to Victoria Harbour, Captain Henry Kellett, C.B., of H.M. Survey Vessel HERALD, conducted surveys of Victoria Harbour and the adjacent waters, including Sooke Harbour.

In 1847 the harbour of Esquimalt was surveyed by Lieutenant James Wood, assisted by Mr. R. M. Inskip, Naval Instructor of H.M.S. FISGARD, at anchor in Port Discovery. Fisgard Island, Duntze Head, Rodd Hill, Lang Cove and Inskip Island bear the names of some crew members of H.M.S. FISGARD. Constance Cove is a reminder of the presence of H.M.S. CONSTANCE, then on station.

H.B.C. headquarters remained south of the border until transferred by Douglas to Fort Victoria, in British territory in 1849. Roderick Finlayson assumed the position of Chief Accountant, and before the end of the year Vancouver Island became a Crown Colony.

The Fort area, rectangular in shape, was enclosed by a strongly built stockade of 20 ft. high cedar poles. 30 ft. high octagonal bastions built of huge logs stood at the northeastern and southwestern corners, each bastion being mounted with 6 or 9 pdr. iron guns, as guns again appeared on the Island in a defensive role. The buildings of the Fort were sited parallel to and within the walls of the stockade and consisted of Store

Houses, Officers' Quarters, Dining Hall, Mens' Barracks, Chapel,

Page 7 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added Post Office, Smithy, Carpenter's Shop and Fire Proof Magazine. The centre of the enclosure was similiar to a market square. The larger gates were kept closed at night, admittance being only through a small door, referred to as a "sally port." Regular watch was kept day and night to give warning of possible danger.

The boundaries of the original Fort approximate the present -day streets of Bastion, Government, Broughton and Wharf. The British Columbia Historical Society has placed a commemorative plaque at the corner of Bastion and Government Streets to mark this historic site. Recently the boundary of the Fort has been defined by commemorative bricks laid in the pavement by the Victoria Civic Society.

The first trouble with the Indians at Victoria occurred during the period when Finlayson was in command. The Indians had killed and eaten a number of cattle belonging to the Hudson's Bay Company. When they were called upon to make restitution they flatly refused. The Company threatened to discontinue trading with them until compensation was made. The local Indians carried their grievances to other tribes further up the Island, who came to Victoria in considerable numbers in support of their friends.

An attack on the Fort was made, the Indians using muskets which, however, did no damage beyond spattering the Fort walls with shot. The situation was serious enough and Finlayson, anxious that the trouble should be settled without loss of life, decided on a ruse. He sent his Indian interpreter on a secret mission to see that a certain Indian shack on the Reserve, across the harbour, was cleared of its occupants. At the same time Finlayson called a parlay of the hostile Chiefs. He told them that while he was ready to continue the fight it was not his wish to do anyone any harm. In the meantime the Indian interpreter had secretly returned by a back entrance and reported the shack all clear. Finlayson then, seeing that the Indians still remained stubborn, ordered his bastion guns to fire on the shack.

When the building was demolished the Indians raised a great outcry. Finlayson expressed his pleasure to the Chiefs that no loss of life had occurred but made it clear at the same time that he was quite able to wipe out the whole village. He then repeated his original demand for compensation and the natives, being greatly impressed by what they had seen, soon decided to exercise their discretion. That evening they brought to the Fort a sufficient number of skins to fully compensate the Company for their loss of cattle, after which they all smoked the pipe of peace. No casualties had been suffered by either side, friendly relations were again restored and the Company by their firmness has increased their prestige.

The following excerpt from a letter circa 1925, received by Lieutenant Colonel Robertson from Mr. C.H. French of Vancouver, District Manager of the Hudson's Bay Company, indicates the general nature of the defensive measures employed by the Company:

"None of the Company's Officers held commissions from the

Page 8 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added Imperial Government, and up to the time you mention, approximately 1855, there was no military organization of any kind on this coast, but the British Government war boats were constant visitors and were sometimes in Esquimalt harbour for quite long periods, and should there be any disturbance, administrations would be made from these boats. On one occasion Sir James Douglas, with a number of British sailors boarded the steamer "OTTER" and proceeded to Cowichan to administer justice. Periodically the Navy would send ashore one to three hundred men who would drill inside the Fort or on the adjoining fields and, of course, so impressed the natives that their good behaviour was the result. The Hudson's Bay Company was naturally after business and it was their policy to encourage the friend- liness of the natives rather than to keep them in fear and thus prevent them from visiting the Forts from time to time."

Governor Blanshard, realizing that influential control of the Colony remained with the Hudson's Bay Company, resigned his position as Governor. During Governor Blanshard's tenure a request was made to Colonial Office for regular troops as protection for the new Colony. The request however, was not approved by the Imperial Government.

James Douglas succeeded Blanshard as Governor in 1851 and for the next five years the Colony of Vancouver Island was administered by the Governor with the advice and assistance of a Legislative Council, the members of which were appointed by Royal Commission. This council did not hold regular annual sessions but met for the despatch of business as occasion required. A record of the business transacted by these first legislators from 1851 to 1856 is contained in the Minute Book kept by the Council and now preserved in the Provincial Archives of British Columbia. This Historic Record shows that careful consideration was given on several occasions to the question of Defence.

The first of these occasions occurred in 1854, when the news of Britain and France entering the Crimean War against Russia, brought home to the Colonists on Vancouver Island their vulnerability to a Russian invasion. An unsuccessful attack by ships of the British and French fleets on the Russian fort at Petropauloski, on the Kamchatka Peninsula, spurred the construction of medical facilities at Esquimalt's Perry Point.

Governor Douglas proposed to his Council to call out and arm all the men in the Colony who were capable of bearing arms, it was, however, decided to leave to the Imperial Government the defence of the Colony against a Russian invasion. In the meantime, arrangements were made to charter the Hudson's Bay Company's Propeller OTTER, which was armed and manned with a force of 30 men, their duty being to watch over the safety of the settlements.

On other occasions when the Governor and his Council gave

Page 9 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added serious consideration to the question of Defence the menace to the Colony was from large numbers of Northern Indians who at various times visited the Colony. In 1855 the Governor represented to his Council that much alarm existed among the Colonists on this account and he had been frequently called upon to settle differences arising between the settlers and these Indians and as these disputes were often of a serious nature he was afraid they might lead to serious consequences. He therefore proposed that a small force should be raised immediately and placed at his disposal to meet emergencies. The Council thereupon passed a resolution giving authority to the Governor to raise a company of ten to consist of eight privates, one corporal, one sergeant and a competent officer as commander. This embryonic military force was to be maintained at the public expense while the danger lasted. Privates were to receive as pay $30.00 a month together with rations. Corporals were to receive $31.00 a month and Sergeants $33.00 per month.

The first elected assembly met at Victoria in 1856, marking the commencement of Responsible Government for Vancouver Island. During the year the Governor again directed the attention of the Council to the question of Defence. The Council promptly responded to the alarm and a rifle company was formed consisting of thirty men and officers. There is no record of these Colonial Forces being called upon for active service. Petropaulski was revisited by the Allied fleet during 1855, but they found the fort deserted.

The temporary hospital buildings built at Esquimalt by the Hudson's Bay Company in 1854 were taken over by the Naval authorities in 1857. It was not until 1863, however, that a decision was made by the Admiralty to make Esquimalt a permanent Naval Station. The necessary stores arrived the following year to equip the station as a proper naval depot.

The year 1858 saw a great change in conditions on this Coast due to the discovery of gold in the Cariboo which caused the wildest excitement and brought to this Coast thousands of adventurers chiefly from California. Prior to this time Victoria was a sleepy little hamlet of a few hundred inhabitants, where as during the first year of the boom it was estimated that no less than 20,000 men came to Victoria.

The influx of such a large number of gold-hunters in the Fraser and Cariboo districts saw trouble erupt along the Fraser River between Yale and Lytton. Captain H.M. Snyder and a number of volunteers from Yale were able to appease the natives. Governor Douglas hastened to the troubled area from Victoria, accompanied by 15 Royal Engineers from the Boundary Survey Service, and 20 marines from H.M.S.SATELLITE. Finding peace had been restored, Governor Douglas made haste to advise the Colonial Office in London of the situation and made an urgent appeal for the despatch to the Colony of a regular Military Force. This request was promptly granted and before the end of the year 1858 the vanguard of a considerable force of Royal Engineers, the first body of a military nature to be stationed

Page 10 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added on this coast, arrived in Victoria.

The first detachment of Royal Engineers were all carefully selected men, fully qualified to help in the organization and administration of a new colony; in scientific ways as well as in the maintenance of law and order. This group of specialists included surveyors, astronomers, engineers, draughtsmen, architects, accountants, clerks, printers, shoemakers, tailors, and men of all other trades and callings who were fitted to perform some special work in the new colony. It was expected because of the superior discipline and intelligence of this force they would be far less likely to yield to the temptation of desertion to the gold fields.

The first of three sections, under the command of Captain R.M. Parsons and consisting of 20 men, mostly surveyors, arrived at Victoria on October 29th, 1858. The second section commanded by Capt. J.M. Grant, consisting of 12 men, mostly carpenters, arrived ten days later. Colonel Richard Clement Moody, the commander of the whole force, arrived with his wife and family on Christmas Day. The main body commanded by Capt. H.R. Luard and consisting of two subalterns, Lieutenants A.R. Lempriere and H.S. Palmer, one staff assistant-surgeon, J.V. Seddall, 118 non- commissioned officers and men, and in addition, 31 women and 34 children, did not arrive until the 12th of April, 1859. The later arrivals included a sergeant the Royal Artillery and a corporal from the Fifteenth Hussars for the purpose of forming the nucleus of an Artillery or Cavalry Corps if necessary.

Upon the arrival of the Engineers from Victoria on the 14th and 16th of November, preparations were immediately begun for the establishment of a camp at Fort Langley. Governor Douglas, Rear Admiral Baynes and other officials accompanied Captain Parson's party to Fort Langley for the inauguration ceremonies of the new Colony of British Columbia. The ceremonies were carried out with due pomp and solemnity at Fort Langley on the 19th of November. An 18 gun salute from the fort's guns was accorded Governor Douglas and the Royal Engineers formed the Guard of Honour under the command of Captain Grant.

Hardly had the Engineers settled in the temporary quarters at Langley, when they became involved in Ned McGowan's war. This desperado was reported to have broken open the prison at Yale and was at the bottom of a conspiracy to overthrow British authority. Chief Justice Begbie and Colonel Moody, with a detachment of 25 Royal Engineers under the command of Captain Grant, hurried to the scene of the trouble. When news reached Governor Douglas in Victoria, arrangements were made to send 100 marines and bluejackets from H.M.S. SATELLITE to reinforce Colonel Moody's small party.

Colonel Moody soon discovered that the dispute had begun between the two Magistrates over the jurisdiction of a constable of Hill's Bar, two miles distant. Ned McGowan, acting with the authority of Hill's Bar Magistrate, proceeded to Yale with a posse of 20 men, broke open the prison, released the Hill's Bar

Page 11 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added constable, took charge of the prisoner Farrell, arrested the Yale Magistrate and brought him to trial before the Hill's Bar Magistrate, who fined him for contempt of Court.

Following Colonel Moody's investigation, the two Magistrates were summarily dismissed from their official positions and the trouble soon died down. Although this military expedition was in some respects unnecessary, the rapidity with which the troops were rushed to the scene of action in the middle of winter had a wholesome effect in convincing the large number of miners in the district that military forces would be quickly available in case of future trouble and that the Governor was determined at all times to stamp out lawlessness and to uphold law and order.

One of the early tasks undertaken by Colonel Moody in 1858 was the selection of a townsite for a capital of the new colony. Early in 1859 Colonel Moody made a full report and recommended the present site of New Westminster as being much more suitable than Fort Langley, for military reasons. Governor Douglas, who had selected the site near Fort Langley, agreed to the change and an exchange of property was offered for lots in Queensborough, as the new capital was first called. The name was later changed to New Westminster.

During the five years 1859 to 1863, the Royal Engineers conducted numerous explorations and surveys, prepared all the important maps issued in the colonies, constructed many bridges, streets and roads, including the first and most difficult part of the Yale-Cariboo Road, formed escorts for bringing down gold from the Cariboo mines, designed the first British Columbia Coat- of-Arms and the first postage stamp used in the colony, established the Lands and Works Department, of which Colonel Moody was first Commissioner, established the Government Printing Office and published the first B.C. Gazette on 3rd January, 1863. The Gazette was then and for many years afterwards under the charge of Corporal (later Lieutenant Colonel) Richard Wolfenden.

This detachment of the Royal Engineers was disbanded in October, 1863. A free grant of 130 acres of land was offered to all who wished to remain and make their homes in the new Colony and as a consequence of this offer only twenty-five or thirty men besides all the officers returned to England. Those remaining, about 130 in all, took up their various occupations as civilians.

On the 5th of November a farewell banquet was held by the citizens of New Westminster at the old Colonial Hotel, and on November 11th the returning remnant boarded the steamship ENTERPRISE and HMS CAMELON and, with a band playing, waved their final farewell to the citizens of New Westminster.

An international dispute over the possession of San Juan Island, following the 49th Parallel becoming the Canadian-U.S. boundary, attracted the attention of the Royal Navy, Royal Marines and a party of Royal Engineers.

Commissioners were appointed by both countries during 1856-

Page 12 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added 1857 to make a joint investigation with a view to arriving at a settlement. Captain J.C. Prevost of HMS SATELLITE, and Captain G.H. Richards of HMS PLUMPER acted as British representatives and Mr. Archibald Campbell represented the United States. These Commissioners were unable to arrive at an agreement, so their reports were forwarded to their respective Governments. In the meantime, complications arose on San Juan Island where the Hudson's Bay Company had established a farm. The United States authorities endeavoured to collect the taxes which Hudson's Bay Company refused to pay, as the Company considered the island to be British Territory.

In 1859 a small military force of United States troops under Captain G.E. Pickett was stationed on the island, ostensibly for the protection of the settlers against Indian attacks. Governor Douglas countered this move by despatching several war vessels to the scene to guarantee protection of British interests. Later on, in March 1860, these vessels were withdrawn and a company of Royal Marine Light Infantry was sent under command of Captain George Bazalgette to form a permanent camp at the northern end of the Island. The United States troops had already permanently established themselves near the Hudson's Bay Company's post at the southern end.

It was not until 1872 that this dispute was finally settled by arbitration, the award being made by the Emperor of Germany in favor of the United States. On the 21st of November, 1872, the British flag was hauled down and the Marines embarked on HMS SCOTT for Esquimalt, after having maintained their camp for over 12 years. Much credit is due to Captain Bazalgette and also to Captain Delacombe who succeeded him in 1867, for maintaining cordial relations with the United States Military forces for such a long and trying period when a slight error of judgement might have caused serious friction and even war.

Chapter II

THE PIONEER UNITS

Victoria Pioneer Rifle Corps

This formation was unique in the military history of British Columbia for it consisted entirely of negroes. In the Victoria Daily Colonist of September 9th, 1923, there is an interesting account of the history of this unit written by Major J. S. Matthews of Vancouver. Credit for much of the detail must be given to Corporal S. J. Booth, one of the old Non-Commissioned Officers of the unit who lived in Victoria. The following extract is quoted from Major Matthew's article:

"A short time after the advent of the British regular --- there was organized at Fort Victoria a company of infantry whose service dated from 1860 until their disbandment six years later. --- they might well have been called the 'All Blacks' for every one, including the officers, were full-blooded negroes. Speaking some time ago to one of the N.C.O.'s, Corporal S. J. Booth, still living at that time in Victoria, and whose white locks crowned his venerable head, the old man gave me some of the circumstances which surrounded the formation of the Corps. The American Civil War had not yet broken out, and the emancipation of the slaves was a burning political question. The coloured folks in California were, he said, 'dissatisfied with the laws' --- an expression which probably was a very mild description of the real situation --- and were leaving."

"Delegates from each small coloured community in California met at San Francisco to discuss how best they could improve their hard lot. Some of them had heard there was a British Colony in the north, on the west side of the Rockies. Others had heard of Australia whither a number of them went. A committee of three was appointed to visit New Caledonia (British Columbia), interview the Government and inquire whether it would permit them to land and give them its protection. James Douglas, the Governor, extended them a cordial invitation to establish themselves on British soil, and as a result of the favourable report of the committee, fully six hundred coloured folk, it is said, changed their place of abode." "Those who were not hampered with much worldly goods came upon the old steamers BROTHER JOHNATHON and PACIFIC, two of the pioneer Pacific Coast Steamerships, which later carried thousands of California's '49'ers to the new goldfield in the Cariboo. The PACIFIC was afterwards lost in a collision off Cape Flattery with 300 souls on board, only two of whom were saved. The many coloured people, with their livestock, farm implements and house furniture, who came up on the steamers and sailing vessels were quite an acquisition to the embryo colony of British Columbia (Vancouver Island).

It was not long after that the citizens of the future Capital city organized a volunteer fire brigade, the better to cope with possible fires. The negroes volunteered to join and do their part, but the white pioneer fire-laddies would have none of it. Theirs should be no piebald company!" "Racial disputes were taking place --- none of a very serious character, for the negroes were good citizens --- and while of much importance to the participants, were of no little amusement to onlookers, and greatly enlivened the dull monotony of life in the isolated settlement, as yet unconnected with the outer world by telegraph, cable or railway. There were real hot times for the negroes for a while, but no one was hurt, and on the whole it was free from malice."

"Having been denied membership in the volunteer fire brigade on account of their colour, the negroes decided to form an organization of their own. Their aspirations ran high, for they wanted a military character, and that wise, old administrator, James Douglas, chief factor of the powerful Hudson's Bay Company, gave the necessary authority. The Hudson's Bay Company were in possession of full gubernatorial powers, and had the authority to raise such a body of men. Armed with that authority the negroes proceeded to recruit, and soon had revengeful satisfaction on the fire brigade for they refused to accept any white persons in their Army, which soon grew to a healthly looking Company, with three officers, forty-four men and nine band instruments. But here they got stuck, for they had to get a white Bandmaster, to teach them how to play. There must have been a lot of love's labour lost in those early tribal warfares between the fire brigades and the black citizens army, but everyone seemed to get some fun out of it, and bruises were few.

The uniforms, which included a shako for head dress, were especially made for them in England, and were issued by the Hudson's Bay Company. They were blue with white facings and pipeclayed trappings, although it has been said (with what degree of truth cannot be verified) that they were made out of Hudson's Bay blankets. They were armed with muskets, old Hudson's Bay flintlocks, though some were more modern, fitted with bayonets, and were loaded with black powder and lead balls; weapons dangerous enough when properly handled, and which upon their disbandment, were returned to the Hudson's Bay Company."

"A Sergeant, detailed for the purpose from H.M.S. SWIFTSURE, was their instructor, and they were drilled once or twice a week in a very old drill hall, more recently used as a skating rink on View Street, Victoria, and sometimes on their parade ground, a 'Common' of about ten acres in extent on Church Hill, Victoria. The officers were Captain Richards, Captain E.B. Johnson, and Lieutenant J.B. Johnson."

" --- the arrival of Governor Kennedy brought the grand career of the black brigade to a cruel end. The negroes wished to form an escort or guard of honour for Governor Kennedy upon

Page 15 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added his arrival to take office, but the white citizens of Victoria by no means fell in with the idea. The civic authorities finally banned the proposed honour to the new Governor, so the negroes, not to be outdone, and with mixed feelings of good and bad humour, paraded at the Drill Hall on the day of his arrival. Instead of honouring the new representative of the King, by forming a dark coloured pageant around him to escort him to his new home, they repaired to a restaurant kept by one of their colour on Beacon Hill, where they did honour to themselves by consuming dozens of chickens and lashuns of beer."

"The next day they appeared in full strength and paraded to the old Government Buildings, across James Bay, to pay their respects to the new Governor. The band played and Governor Kennedy reviewed the company and afterwards he addressed them. He regretted, he said, that he was compelled to refuse to give them official recognition, as there was no authority for their existence now that the Hudson's Bay Company's administrative powers were at an end. Vancouver Island was now a Crown Colony and their existence had not been authorized by the Imperial Government of the United Kingdom. The corps saluted, retired across the bridge, marched to Beacon Hill, indulged in a skirmishing match, returned and gave up their arms to the Hudson's Bay Company. Within the next two years they passed out of existence and almost out of memory."

Vancouver Island Volunteer Rifles

The Vancouver Island Volunteer Rifles were organized during the summer of 1861 as the outcome of a popular desire on the part of the citizens of Victoria to provide some means of defence for the young Colony of Vancouver Island. The proposal had been under discussion since 1859 when correspondence on the subject passed between G. W. Heaton, the Sheriff of Victoria, and Governor Douglas. Although the Governor expressed himself in favour of such a proposal no definite action was taken.

The editorial in the Daily British Colonist, published on July 1st, 1861, describes the enthusiastic inauguration of this military unit:

"The Topic of the Day. The all absorbing topic of the day is the volunteer movement. The patriotic exertions of Messrs. Sproat and Stewart resulted in everyone being anxious to become a volunteer. The large and enthusiastic meeting of enrolled members on Friday evening brought out a greater expression of loyal feeling than we have ever witnessed before in the Colony. The encouragement lent to the movement by Governor Douglas and Admiral Maitland, combined with the presence of Captain McKenzie of H.M.S. BACCHANTE, and Captain Richards of H.M.S. HECATE, and our Colonial notabilities at the meeting, made it the most loyal, unanimous and enthusiastic gathering that has ever collected together at one place in the Colony before to carry out such a laudable purpose."

"Upwards of 131 enrolled members took the oath of allegiance before Judge Cameron on Saturday to serve Her Majesty in the Defence of this Colony. The others, it is presumed, will qualify themselves in the same way before Wednesday in order to meet at the Lyceum to elect a Lieutenant Colonel. The whole movement is decidedly a popular one. The election of officers is entirely left to the enrolled members; and when elected they will be accepted by Governor Douglas."

Although a meeting was held on the 3rd of July, 1861, to elect a commanding officer, no decision was reached until a subsequent meeting held three days later on the 6th of July, when Major George F. Foster was chosen for the office from a slate of three candidates, the other nominees being Captain G. T. Gordon and Mr. Gilbert M. Sproat. Full accounts of these two meetings are contained in the Daily Colonist published on the 4th and 8th of July respectively. As these meetings should now be regarded as historical, no apology is offered for quoting these reports in full.

(Colonist, 4th July, 1861). "The Volunteer Movement". "A meeting of the Volunteer Rifle Corps took place last evening at the Lyceum. About 125 members were present, and a considerable number of persons in the gallery. Mr. Sproat was called to the Chair and Mr. Wallace chosen Secretary."

"The Chairman stated that a deputation from the coloured Rifle Corps had waited upon him and said that as the Lieutenant Colonel to be elected tonight would probably command their company on the field of battle, they should like to have something to say about electing him. Mr. Sproat said he gave them to understand that neither a white company at Nanaimo, nor a coloured company at Victoria could vote for our Lieutenant Colonel (great applause). The Chairman then went on to tell what the duties of a Lieutenamt Colonel would be, and seemed to think that a civilian could command as well in an Indian fight as a military man. He also in a humerous manner took the "Press" newspaper to task for this application of a word, and said some whippersnappers had reported around that the Corps was originated for political purposes; which was no such thing - it was to serve the country." "Mr. Stewart, seconded by Mr. Burnaby, proposed that the Colonelcy of the Regiment be tendered His Excellency the Governor. Carried." "Mr. Crease moved that a deputation, consisting of Messrs. Sproat, Stewart and Lowe, wait on his Excellency to tender him the Colonelcy. Carried." "Mr. Pidwell wanted to see every officer elected by the Corps, and offered a resolution providing for an annual election, which Mr. R. McDonald seconded." "Attorney General Carey (sic) believed that if the Corps was to fall into the hands of Politicians, and to be used for Political purposes, annual elections would effect it. A Lieutenant Colonel, if he does his duty must sometimes adopt harsh measures, and such measures would tell against him at

Page 17 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added the annual election." "Mr. Pidwell did not wish to see strangers elected for any great length of time; give the officers twelve months, then we'll know what they are made of. But don't take and put any Tom, Dick and Harry, about whom we know nothing, in for life." "Mr. De Cosmos would like to know if any similiar resolution was on the programme of resolutions to be laid before the meeting. The Chairman said there was, and Mr. Pidwell withdrew his resolution." "Mr. Lowe proposed that the Lieutenant Colonel hold office for twelve months, at the end of which time he would be eligible for re-election." "Mr. De Cosmos thought the resolution highly proper, and was of the opinion that no party feelings would arise from its adoption. On the other hand, if the election was for life, many disagreeable circumstances might arise." "Mr. McClure proposed an amendment that the election of the Lieutenant Colonel be postponed until after the members of the Corps had been drilled for three months. Mr. R. Lewis seconded." "Mr. De Cosmos declared the amendment to be out of order, and the Chairman so ruled. The original motion was then adopted." "Mr. Stewart moved, seconded by Mr. R. G. Williams, that the Lieutenant-Colonel be elected by ballot. Adopted." "Mr. D'Ewes moved, seconded by Mr. Crease, that the Lieutenant-Colonel should have the power to nominate the Adjutant, subject to the approval of the Governor. Several voices opposed this resolution, and Mr. De Cosmos moved as an amendment that the Lieutenant-Colonel have power to appoint an acting Adjutant, during the pleasure of the Corps, which was carried." "Mr. Stewart moved that the Lieutenant-Colonel and other officers hold office subject to such rules and by-laws as may be adopted by the Corps. Carried." "Mr. H. B. Campbell, seconded by Mr. J. G. McKay, proposed that Donald Fraser act as Treasurer. Lost." "Mr. De Cosmos, seconded by Mr. Pidwell, moved that the Chairman have power to appoint a Treasurer pro tem. Carried." "Mr. Dennes, seconded by Mr. Crease, moved that a committee of 14 be appointed to draw up rules and by-laws for the government of the Corps, to be submitted to a general meeting of the Corps, and to be subject to the approval of His Excellency, the Governor. Adopted with the understanding that the Lieutenant-Colonel when elected, should be a member of the committee. "The Chairman - Now that we have got through with the other business, we will proceed to the election of a Lieutenant- Colonel. Mr. McClure contended that such a proceeding was out of order. Mr. De Cosmos - The last meeting was adjourned by the adoption of a resolution which expressly stated we were to meet here tonight for the purpose of electing a Lieutenant- Colonel." "The Chairman then appointed Mr. De Cosmos judge of election and Messrs. Stewart and McClure, tellers." "Messrs. Sproat, Gordon, and Foster were placed in nomination and the meeting decided, that the successful candidate must

Page 18 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added have a majority of all the votes cast." "The Balloting then proceeded, each Volunteer ascending the platform and placing his vote in the hands of one of the tellers who deposited it in the ballot box. Several prominent citizens, as they advanced to the table to cast their votes, were greeted with applause, and others, quite as prominent, but apparently not as well liked, received hisses and groans while performing the same duty." "The depositing of the votes occupied nearly three-quarters of an hour, at the end of which time it was announced that no choice had been made. The vote stood as follows: Gordon, 52; Sproat, 42; Foster, 29. Necessary for a choice, 63. One hundred and forty-six names appeared on the Roll, of which 21 volunteers were absent." "Upon the announcement of the result the meeting decided to adjourn until Saturday evening next, at which time another vote will be held."

(Colonist, July 8th, 1861) "A choice at last! - On Saturday evening last the Rifle Corps again met to elect a Lieutenant- Colonel. In the absence of Mr. Sproat, D. B. Ring, Esq., was called to preside, and Chas. W. Wallace, Esq., acted as Secretary. Some preliminary remarks were made by several gentlemen, and a motion introduced to merely elect the Lieutenant- Colonel for three months. The motion was lost, however, and the balloting proceeded. The result of the first ballot was: Sproat, 60; Gordon, 50; Foster, 19; necessary to a choice, 63."

"Captain Gordon then addressed the meeting, announced that he was no longer a candidate, and requested his friends to support Major Foster. A second Ballot was then held, and the vote stood: Foster, 63; Sproat, 59. Major Foster was declared the successful candidate amid deafening applause, and on motion of Mr. De Cosmos, the vote was made unanimous. Remarks were made by Messrs. Foster and Gordon; votes of thanks were tendered the Chairman and Secretary to the meeting, and the Corps adjourned with vociferous cheers and 'Tigers' for Major Foster, Captain Gordon and Mr. Sproat. The good feeling and unanimity manifested by all present was exceedingly gratifying."

"At a meeting of the Volunteer Rifles held on July 17th, a communication was read from His Excellency the Governor announcing his approval of Major Foster as Commanding Officer. At this meeting a resolution was passed to form the unit into companies.

"These ardent volunteers commenced their drill with a vengeance as is indicated by the following advertisement published in the Daily Colonist, July 24th, 1861.

"Victoria Rifle Volunteer Regiment" Barracks, James Bay, July 23rd, 1861.

The volunteers of the above Regiment will commence drill tomorrow at

Page 19 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added The Barracks, James Bay, where the necessary arrangements have been made for their instruction.

Hours of drill: from 6 to 8 am and 6 to 8 pm, daily until further orders.

George F. Foster Lieutenant Colonel, Commanding

Artillery Company

Immediately following the organization of the Vancouver Island Volunteer Rifles a number of the members conceived the idea of forming an Artillery Company as part of the Corps. A petition dated July 8th, 1861, signed by 25 members was sent to Lieutenant-Colonel Foster requesting that an Artillery Company be formed under his command. This petition, still preserved in the Provincial Archives of British Columbia, shows the request was strongly recommended by Colonel Foster. On July 29th Governor James Douglas gave his approval and promised an application would be made to the Naval Commander- in-Chief to afford the assistance of a field piece.

On August 20th at a meeting of No. 1 Company, Captain G. T. Gordon was elected Captain; J. Robinson Stewart, 1st Lieutenant and W. J. McDonald, 2nd Lieutenant. A meeting of the Artillery Company was held a few days later when Charles W. Wallace was elected Captain, and M. W. T. Drake, 1st Lieut. These names were submitted by Lieutenant-Colonel Foster to the Governor who gave his approval and confirmation on August 26th, 1861.

The formation of an Artillery Company seems to have created a certain amount of jealousy within the Corps for in the Daily Colonist of November 28th, 1861, is given an account of a meeting held the previous evening by the Rifle Volunteers. A resolution was adopted declaring that "the Artillery Company was in no wise connected with the Rifles."

Although this military corps was organized under such favourable auspices as have been described, it was not long before the general interest waned and military activities died down for a time. In an old Militia Return preserved in the Provincial Archives of British Columbia, there is a report signed by Governor Douglas dated August 1st, 1862, stating that the Vancouver Island Volunteer Rifle Corps, consisting of 160 members, had recently been disbanded but that steps were in progress for its reorganization.

The first attempt at reorganization seems to have been made by the Gunners of the Artillery Company. A letter in the Provincial Archives dated July 1st, 1862, to the Governor

Page 20 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added from Captain Wallace requested permission to reorganize the Artillery Company distinct from the Vancouver Island Volunteer Rifles. Governor Douglas gave his approval for the suggested reorganization.

A meeting was held during the evening of August 8th, 1862, with twenty members of the defunct Rifle Corps in attendance. Captain Wallace acted as Chairman and Lieutenant M. W. T. Drake as Secretary. The members decided to form themselves into an Artillery Company and to apply to the Governor for arms. Drill was to commence immediately.

The arms requested do not seem, however, to have been supplied. A letter in the Provincial Archives dated June 24th, 1862, to Governor Douglas from Lieutenant-Colonel Foster made application for a stand of arms for Captain Wallace. Governor Douglas replied that he proposed to defer the issue of arms until he was notified of the entire strength of the Volunteer forces of Vancouver Island.

The supply of arms in possession of the Colony at this time was a shipment which had been sent from England during the latter part of 1861. A letter dated November 16th, 1861, from the Crown Agent of the Colonies in London advises the Colony of a shipment of 279 rifles with ammunition. The cost of the rifles was 1365 Pounds, 3 Shillings, 4 Pence, and of the ammunition, 290 Pounds, 12 Shillings, 6 Pence.

A further letter from Captain Wallace to the Governor dated August 15th, 1862, requested financial assistance from the Government for the purchase of uniforms for the Artillery Company. A sum of 70 Pounds was suggested as the estimate of half of the cost of the uniforms. The members were expected to pay the balance themselves. A marginal note by Governor Douglas appears on this letter indicating this sum was to be guaranteed out of the grant in aid of the Volunteer Corps. A further marginal note, however, signed by the Colonial Secretary, states the grant had already been expended and more! This seems to have ended all attempts to carry on training by the Artillery Company. No further references to their existence have been found either in the old files of the Colonist or in the various military files in the Provincial Archives.

Victoria Volunteer Rifle Corps

When it became known that the Royal Engineers were to be disbanded in 1863 there was considerable alarm at the prospect of the Colony being left without military protection. The American Civil War was then in progress and several incidents, including the "Trent Affair" in 1861 and the depredations of the "ALABAMA", caused a certain degree of tension between Great Britain and the United States. Consequently a movement was started both in Victoria and New Westminster to form Volunteer Military Companies.

Steps were taken in Victoria in the Spring of 1864 for the reorganization of the old Volunteer Rifle Corps on a more efficient basis. The name of the unit seems to have also been changed about this time to include the word "Victoria" in place of the words "Vancouver Island." In the Daily Colonist of April 23rd, 1864, there is a report of a meeting held the previous evening when the following officers were elected: Captain D. M. Lang; Lieutenant B. W. Pearse; Ensign A. T. Elliott; Adjutant J. G. Vinter; Surgeon, Dr. I. W. Powell.

In the Provincial Archives of British Columbia there is a copy of a petition dated April 25th, 1864, signed by 67 men who agreed to form themselves into a Volunteer Corps, to conform to the Rules and Regulations presecribed, and to serve Her Most Gracious Majesty The Queen as effective members of said Corps.

The Daily Colonist of April 30th, 1864 reports on another meeting held the evening of April 29th, at which a letter was read from the Colonial Secretary to Captain Lang stating that His Excellency the Governor cordially approved of the appointments of commissioned officers which had been recommended. At this meeting it was agreed that regular drills would be held twice a week, on Mondays and Thursdays at 8 o'clock pm.

Excitement Over Bute Inlet Massacre

During the month of June, 1864, considerable concern was created in both Colonies by the massacre of several white men by Indians at Bute Inlet. Meetings were held in Victoria and enthusiastic offers of assistance by the enrolment of a Force of Volunteers were forwarded to Governor Seymour in New West- minster. Captain Lang of the Victoria Volunteer Rifles called a meeting of his unit to which the public was invited and at which he advocated an intensive program of rifle shooting. There was considerable divergence of opinion in the public mind of the value of ordinary military training on an expedition of this kind. Many people were of the opinion that the hunting of Indians required altogether different qualities than those required in ordinary warfare. Governor Seymour did not accept the offer, explaining that with the services of the New West- minster Volunteer Rifles, and other forces which were available, no further aid seemed necessary at that time.

It should be noted here the excitement over the Bute massacre was responsible for starting a volunteer movement in Nanaimo. On the 13th of June a public meeting was held in Nanaimo to consider what steps should be taken in this direction. The Chair was occupied by Captain W. H. Franklin and Mr. Bate as Secretary. Although there was some opposition expressed at this meeting to such action a motion was passed to form a volunteer military organization to assist in the defence of the Colony. A list was opened to which thirteen volunteers signed their name. There does not appear to have been much public support for there is no report of any further progress being made in the organization

Page 22 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added and it is presumed the movement died a natural death.

Meanwhile during the years 1864 through 1866, enthusiasm in the Victoria Volunteer Rifle Corps seems to have been maintained. Great keeness was shown in rifle shooting and many exciting tournaments were arranged with the Fleet and with the New Westminster Volunteers. In the Intercolonial Matches, New Westminster generally won the trophies and it was not until October, 1866 that the Victoria Volunteers succeeded in defeat- ing their mainland opponents. Their rejoicings were short-lived however, for in a return match a few days later New Westminster nosed out a victory again by a narrow margin, achieving a total of 443 points against Victoria's 440.

The Victoria Volunteer Rifles were not lacking in generous support by the Government. In the spring of 1865 the Legislature voted a sum of $1,000 to the Corps to be placed at the disposal of Captain Lang. The amount in the estimates was $2,500 but Dr. Powell stated the Corps did not expect to receive so large a sum.

In the year 1866 special interest in military matters was created by the Fenian raids in Eastern Canada and the anticipation that this invasion might be extended to the West. At an inspection of the Victoria Volunteer Rifle Corps on June 18, Governor Kennedy made special reference to the seriousness of the situation. In July, 1866, the Corps went to Camp under canvas just east of Beacon Hill and because of lack of previous mention of such a camp, it is probable this was the first time in Victoria that the local military force was given such training. No. 1 Company was commanded by Captain Lang and No. 2 Company by Lieutenant Wood with a total strength of about 90 men. Sentries were duly posted and no person was allowed within the Camp Lines after 9:30 p.m. without the countersign.

In addition to evening drill, a short drill was held in the morning after breakfast. During the day those who had business in town were allowed to leave Camp. For those remaining, Camp duties were rigidly observed and the attendance of every member of the Corps at Roll Call was compulsory.

Legislation For Volunteer Forces

In the spring of 1866 a Bill was introduced in the Legislature at Victoria to place the volunteer military forces of Vancouver Island on a properly constituted basis. The following news item from the Colonist of March 30th, 1866, being of general military interest is quoted herewith:

"Legislative Council - The Volunteers - The Hon. Col. Secretary, in pursuance of notice, obtained leave to introduce a Bill for legalizing the establishment of a Volunteer Corps in Vancouver Island, and in moving the First Reading, observed that the force at present in existence did not possess any properly constituted footing. In other countries enactments had been passed granting such military bodies a legal status, and although it was true that they had been recognized by the Legislature here, as

Page 23 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added demonstrated by certain sums of money having been voted them. It was furthermore desireable that a constitutional measure should be framed authorizing the organization. The Hon. Attorney General seconded the motion."

"The Chief Justice was anxious that no misunderstanding should go abroad to the legality of the Corps now in existence. It was perfectly legal in every respect, and it was indispensable to the welfare of the community that such a movement should be fostered. It was of the utmost importance to afford so valuable a body of men every facility for the embodiment of their patriotic sentiments, and in order to do so it was desirable to endow the members with legitimate powers for free operation. In Great Britain there were 170,000 volunteers representing every branch of the Service, and the admirable discipline of the troops was a subject of national pride. After alluding to the origin of the movement in the reign of George III, he said he was induced to make these remarks to prevent any misapprehension."

"The Colonial Secretary explained that in England there was a special enactment for this purpose, and the only motive which actuated him in the introduction of the measure was to act in conformity with constitutional precedent. Hon. Donald Fraser was glad to hear the opinions expressed by the Chief Justice, and he had no doubt the Bill would receive ample consideration from the Council." The Bill then passed the First Reading.

For some unkown reason definite action on the proposed measure seems to have been postponed until 1869 when an Ordinance was passed, the preamble and first section of which, read as follows:

"Whereas it is expedient to encourage the establishment of Volunteer Forces in the Colony of British Columbia:

Be it enacted by the Governor of British Columbia, with the advice and consent of the Legislative Council thereof as follows:

1. The Governor shall, by virtue of his office, be Commander-in-Chief of the Volunteer Forces of the Colony."

There followed 24 sections in which full provision was made for the conduct of the Military Forces of the Colony. The Act was formally assented to by Governor Seymour on March 9, 1869.

From the year 1866 onward the meagre references to the Corps in Victoria's chief newspaper, the Daily Colonist, would seem to indicate a waning of enthusiasm in local military circles. Then came the burning question of Union of the Colony of British Columbia with Canada, and after this was consumated in 1871 came the question of organization of the Canadian Militia.

The New Westminster Volunteer Rifles

In New Westminster, within a week of the departure of the Royal Engineers, a public meeting was held at which a resolution was passed recommending the immediate formation of a Volunteer Rifle Company. A petition was prepared to which 55 men subscribed their names as active members of the new organization.

A letter was despatched to Governor Douglas in Victoria, enclosing a copy of the resolution and the list of 55 names, requesting his approval. This letter, which is preserved in the Provincial Archives of British Columbia, was dated November 18th, 1863 and duly signed by Wm. Fisher, Secretary, and a committee of three; Rob Greig, John Ramage and H. Holbrook. Governor Douglas gave his approval to the applications and promised that the Government would furnish the Corps with arms and ammunition.

The first commanding officer of the new unit was Captain Chartres Brew, a well-known figure in Government circles. Other officers were appointed as follows: Lieut. C.J. Pritchard; Ensign A.T. Bushby; Sgt. Major R. Wolfenden; Sgt. James Normansell; Sgt. Bert Greig and Sgt. J. Morey. In the Provincial Archives is a letter from Captain Brew to Governor Douglas dated January 28th, 1864, requesting that orders be given for the issue of arms and accoutrements to the New Westminster Volunteers "who are fairly advanced in drill." In addition, the letter also stated that the unit consisted of 73 members including officers.

Captain Brew remained in command for only a few months and after his resignation the following appointments and promotions were approved by Governor Seymour, who had recently arrived as Governor of the Mainland Colony;

Lieut. C.J. Pritchard to be Captain, vice C. Brew, resigned; A.N. Birch to be Lieut. vice C.J. Pritchard, promoted; A.T. Bushby, Esq., to be Ensign; and R. Wolfenden, Esq., to be Ensign.

The following month Dr. William J.M. Jones was appointed as Surgeon of the Corps, and His Excellency Governor Seymour accepted the Honourary title of Colonel.

It is worthy of note that the leaders in the Volunteer movement in those days, both in Victoria and New Westminster, were men who were actively identified with public affairs. Chartres Brew at different times held various important appointments under the Government and was also a member of the Legislative Council of B.C.; C.J. Pritchard was a Justice of the Peace; A.N. Birch was the Colonial Secretary; A.T. Bushby served as the Registrar General; and R. Wolfenden, late Corporal in the Royal Engineers, was Government Printer.

This military unit had been organized only a few months

Page 25 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added when considerable excitement was caused by the reported massacre of a number of white people at Bute Inlet by Indians. The New Westminster "Volunteers" offered their services to Governor Seymour when the Government officials were considering what steps should be taken. c On May 15th, 1864, a party of 28 volunteers under the command of Chartres Brew, then Chief Inspector of Police, left New Westminster for the scene of action. Another party of 50 volunteers was organized at the same time in the Cariboo under the command of William G. Cox. The first party failed in their objective and returned to New Westminster. Another party of 38 volunteers, again under C. Brew, set out on June 13th on board H.M.S. SUTLEJ. Accompanying this expedition was Governor Seymour.

In the account of these expeditions in the History of British Columbia, Vol. II, Chapter II, by Messrs. Howay and Scholefield, no mention is made of the New Westminster "Volunteer Rifles," and although it is presumed that a number of members of the Corps joined one or other of the expeditions as individuals, it does not appear the "Volunteer Rifles" were despatched as a unit.

In contrast to the Victoria Volunteers organized in Victoria in 1861 under Major Foster, the enthusiasm of the New Westminster volunteers seems to have been well sustained for a considerable time. In the "British Columbian" dated May 20th, 1865, is an article boasting that while in the neighbouring colony of Vancouver Island all efforts to keep up the volunteer organization were spasmodic and of an effervescent character, the movement in New Westminster showed unmistakeable indications of unabating vigour and interest.

This article was written, however, when the New Westminster unit had been in existence only about one and a half years. In the following year, 1866, fresh enthusiasm was kindled in military circles over the danger of a Fenian Invasion, but in the interval the New Westminster Volunteer Rifles experienced the usual slackening of interest which seems to be the lot of all volunteer bodies of this kind.

The threat of a Fenian invasion resulted in the formation in New Westminster of two additional volunteer military units, the Home Guards (New Westminster) and the Seymour Battery of Garrison Artillery.

The various Volunteer military units existing in New Westminster prior to the entry of British Columbia into Confederation seem to have kept up their organizations until the Act of Union was passed in 1871. Evidence to this effect is contained in a letter preserved in the Provincial Archives dated March 26th, 1870, addressed to Governor Musgrave and signed by William Fisher as Secretary. The letter enclosed a copy of a resolution passed at a public meeting held on March 24th, which recommended the appointment of Captain C.J. Pritchard, the senior officer of all the volunteers, as Lieut. Colonel, to be in

Page 26 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added command of the same. The letter explained that the object sought was the amalgamation of all the Volunteer Forces in New Westminster under one head.

The Governor's reply stated that any Volunteer Corps in the Colony must be governed by the provisions of the Volunteer Ordinance of 1869 and that the number and rank of officers must depend on the strength of the Corps. As the Volunteer Ordinance made provision for the adoption of Regulations in force in England, the Officer Commanding a Unit would not be entitled to the rank of Lieut. Col. unless the Corps comprised six companies with a total of 360 men.

In a Biographical Dictionary of well-known British Columbians edited by J.B. Kerr, which is preserved in the Provincial Archives, there is contained in a sketch of the life of H.V. Edmonds, a reference to the New Westminster Volunteer Rifles. The item states that in September, 1870, on the reorganization of the New Westminster Rifle Volunteers under Captain Bushby, Mr. Edmonds was appointed Lieut. and Adjutant, a position he continued to hold until 1874 when No. 1 Company of Rifles was formed as a Militia Unit.

The Home Guards (New Westminster)

The Home Guards of New Westminster were organized in June, 1866, as a result of the popular desire to strengthen the local defence in order to effectually resist a possible invasion by Fenians from across the Southern border. The following account of the organization of this Volunteer Unit is found in the "British Columbian," dated June 20th, 1866:

"The Volunteer Movement. - The New Westminster Volunteer Rifle Corps mustered at the Hyack Hall, on Saturday evening June 16th, when those who had not been previously sworn in, took the oath. The members of the Corps then proceeded to elect their officers with the following results; - Alexander Calder, Captain; Thomas McMicking, 1st Lieut.; John Robson, 2nd Lieut.; and James G. McBean, Ensign."

"The Corps mustered at the Drill Shed on Monday evening and went through a few evolutions which they executed in a very creditable way, after which they arranged about uniform, etc., and came to a unanimous decision to take the name of 'Home Guards.' Arms were served out to the members of the Corps yesterday, and they met for drill last evening, which they will continue to do every evening of the week, Thursdays and Saturdays excepted."

"There were in all 85 members enrolled, up to yesterday, but something like 25 of that number have joined the Artillery Corps, leaving the effective force of the Home Guards about 60."

For a time the Home Guards were anxious to keep up a standard of efficiency equal to the other military units of

Page 27 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added New Westminster. In the "British Columbian" dated August 11th, 1866, the following notice appears:

"HOME GUARDS, ATTENTION - We are desired by the officer in command, to notify the non-commissioned officers and men of the Home Guards that until further notice the Company will meet to drill every Wednesday and Saturday evening at Seven O'Clock when a full attendance is particularly requested as the officers are solicitous that the Home Guards should be in a position to take part in the reception of His Excellency Governor Seymour, with credit to themselves ...... "

The Home Guards do not seem to have had a very long or active career although they probably remained in existence up to the time British Columbia entered Confederation in 1871.

After Confederation when the administration of the Militia in British Columbia came under the Federal Government, the Home Guards as a unit dropped out of the running although the Volunteer Rifle Company and the Seymour Artillery Company were reorganized and perpetuated as part of the Canadian Militia.

Seymour Artillery Company

The formation of the Seymour Artillery Company in New West- minster was the first successful attempt to organize a Volunteer Artillery unit in British Columbia. Steps were taken in 1862 by Captain C.W. Wallace, Lieut. M.W.T. Drake and others to organize an Artillery Unit in Victoria, first as part of the Vancouver Island Volunteer Rifles under Lieut. Col. Foster, and later as a separate unit, but the plans were apparently never carried through to a successful completion.

The Seymour Artillery Company was formed as a direct result of the Fenian Invasion of 1866, when 10,000 men of the Volunteer Force of Eastern Canada were called out on active service under the authority of a Militia Order dated March 8th, 1866. Although the trouble was chiefly confined to Eastern Canada there was considerable apprehension felt in British Columbia. A general desire was manifested to strengthen the local defences of New Westminster which at that time consisted only of the New Westminster Volunteer Rifles.

In the British Columbian, June 16th, 1866, is a full account of a public meeting in New Westminster called to organize defensive measures against the Fenians. In the same paper there was published the following news item concerning the proposed formation of an Artillery Unit.

"Formation of an Artillery Company - We believe Captain Holmes late of the Royal Artillery, is taking steps for the formation of an Artillery Company in this city. Captain Holmes has been so fortunate as to secure a number of ex Royal Engineers, who have had more or less training in Artillery tactics, and the guns etc, are expected to arrive immediately. There can be no doubt that

Page 28 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added an Artillery Company would be of great advantage in case of an attack and we heartily wish the movement every success."

An organizational meeting was held on the evening of June 16th when the Artillery Company and the Home Guards were launched as two new and separate units. An account of this meeting is contained in the British Columbian dated June 20th, 1966:

"The Artillery Company - At a meeting of Saturday evening, after the work of organizing the Home Guards was completed, measures were taken for organizing the Artillery Company, when Captain Holmes, Royal Artillery, was unanimously chosen Captain of the Company, after which they adopted the name of 'Seymour Artillery Company.' On Monday they received their arms and marched through the city in excellent style. The Seymour Artillery Company has the advantage of being mainly composed of ex-Royal Engineers, and is now something over 40 strong ... this city can now boast of three Volunteer Military Companies, viz: The New Westminster Rifle Corps, the Home Guards, and the Seymour Artillery Company, numbering in all 180 men.

There are doubtless many others who will yet join, but even this is by no means a bad beginning for New Westminster, and affords tolerably conclusive evidence that; should the Fenians venture upon our shores they will not, at least, be permitted to take peaceable possession."

The first Commanding Officer of this new artillery unit was Captain G. W. Holmes, R.A., who was at that time Private Secretary to Governor Seymour. The name chosen for the unit, viz: Seymour Artillery Company, was no doubt suggested by Captain Holmes in honor of his Chief.

The first list of officers as published in the Government Gazette dated July 28th, 1866, was as follows:

Seymour Artillery Company (Volunteers)

G.W. Holmes, Esq. to be Captain dated 5th July, 1866 D. McCulloch, Esq. to be Lieut. dated 26th July, 1866 H.P.P. Crease, Esq. to be Lieut. dated 26th July, 1866 W.S. Black, Esq. to be Surgeon dated 5th July, 1866

The junior officers in the above list, as well as the first non-commissioned officers, were selected at a meeting held on the 16th July, an account of which was published in the British Columbian of the same date, as follows:

"Volunteer Artillery Corps - At a full general meeting of the Artillery Volunteer Corps, Captain Holmes presiding, held at the Council Hall on Monday the 16th July, the following business was transacted:

1. Candidates for admission into the Corps were ballotted for and on being duly elected took their places.

Page 29 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added 2. The Corps proceeded to elect the subaltern officers, when Mr. David McCulloch was elected senior Lieutenant; Hon. H. P. P. Crease, junior Lieutenant; Mr. David McCullock, Musketry Instructor to the Corps.

3. The election of non-commissioned officers was then proceeded with when Mr. George Hand was elected Battery Sergeant- Major; Robert Gowan and John Linn, Corporal; Mr. John Smith, Bombardier; Mr. Lancelot Newton, acting Bombardier; Mr. A. Cummings, Trumpeter.

After discussing general subjects of interest connected with the Corps, the meeting adjourned."

Captain Holmes did not remain in command of the Seymour Artillery for any great length of time, probably about a year, when he was succeeded in that position by Lieut. Henry P. Pellow Crease, better known as the first Attorney General of the Colony of British Columbia, and later as Judge of the Supreme Court.

There is, in the Provincial Archives, a small military file containing correspondence from Lieut. Crease as officer commanding the Seymour Artillery Volunteers. The first of these letters is dated the 24th June, 1867, and is to advise the Colonial Secretary that the Guns, Rifles, Shot, Powder, accoutrements and munitions complete for the Seymour Artillery Volunteers, had arrived at Victoria from the War Office in England. The letter requested that these be forwarded to New Westminster for the use of the Corps.

In another letter dated the 21st of October, 1867, the Colonial Secretary was advised that the howitzers, munitions, etc., had arrived by H.M.S. SPARROWHAWK. Lieut. Crease in this letter stated that at a recent meeting of the Corps resolutions had been passed to ask Government assistance in various ways. One request was for the use of the quarters under the Legislative Council Hall for placing the guns under cover and for drill purposes. A second request was for permission to use the old Canteen as an Armoury and a third request was for a financial grant of $200.00.

Mr. Crease, in urging the grant, pointed out that all the men of the Corps were dependent upon their daily labour for a living, that they had come forward and volunteered their services without pay when an actual invasion of Fenians was expected; and they had not as yet received a farthing from the Government although they had expended a considerable sum in providing uniforms, etc. The appeal concluded with a reference to the assistance rendered to the Rifle Corps and he hoped that the good results obtained in that unit would induce the Government to grant similiar assistance to the Artillery. Further correspondence on file shows that although most of the other requests were granted, the application for a grant was not approved.

Judge Crease was one of the outstanding figures of British Columbia in the early days, and for his public services he

Page 30 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added received the honour of a Knighthood. The old Victoria residence of Sir Henry Crease and family still stands on Fort Street. Two sons of Sir Henry comprise the well-known legal firm of Crease and Crease at present carrying on business in Victoria.

In an article by Major J.S. Matthews of Vancouver, published in the Daily Province on the 17th of January, 1914, the following reference is made to this unit:

"The pioneer of all militia corps west of the Rockies was a battery of field artillery organized in the early sixties in New Westminster, then capital of the Crown Colony of British Columbia. It was known as the Seymour Artillery in honour of Governor Seymour, the executive of the mainand colony. It was not of Canadian origin by any means, its status was that of a volunteer corps of the United Kingdom, for it existed by direct authority of the British War Office, by whom, indirectly, it was administered and paid. The uniform of its officers was identical with that of the Royal Artillery, minus the red shoulder straps and the initials 'V.R.I..' Its interesting records were unfortunately consumed in the fire which destroyed the greater part of New Westminster sixteen years ago."

The statement in the first sentence of the above article that the Seymour Battery was the pioneer of all militia corps west of the Rockies is no doubt meant in the sense that this was the only unit then existing which has had a continuous history to the present time, for, as we have already noted, the Vancouver Island Rifles and the New Westminster Rifles were organized prior to the formation of the Seymour Battery.

There is not much information to hand concerning the activities of the Seymour Artillery Company prior to its reorganization and absorption into the Canadian Militia. It is presumed however, that the organization was maintained until after the Act of Union in 1871 because when Col. P. Robertson- Ross, commanding the Militia of Canada, made his first visit to British Columbia in 1872 to arrange for the organization of the militia in the new district, one of his recommendations was "that the New Westminster Battery of Garrison Artillery be reorganized."

CHAPTER III

ORGANIZATION OF THE MILITIA IN BRITISH COLUMBIA

The entry of British Columbia into the Dominion of Canada in 1871 marked a new era in military affairs of this Province, as under the terms of the Act of Union the responsibility for the organization and maintenance of the Militia in the Province fell upon the Federal Government.

At this time there were in existence three separate volunteer military units, viz., the Victoria Rifles, the New Westminster Rifles and the Seymour Battery of Artillery at New Westminster. Under the scheme of organization of the Militia in British Columbia after Confederation all these units were re-organized and in addition another Company of Rifles was formed at Nanaimo. All the infantry units later dropped out of existence, leaving only the Artillery remaining.

Visit By Colonel P. Robertson-Ross

In 1872 Colonel P. Robertson-Ross, the Adjutant General of Canada made his first visit to this Coast to ascertain the Military requirements for the New Province. As in those days there was no transcontinental railway the difficulties of such a journey were great and deserve more than passing reference.

The route taken by Colonel Ross on this trip was from Collingwood by boat through Lake Superior to Prince Arthur's Landing at Thunder Bay, and thence to Fort Garry through the chain of inland waters including Rainy Lake, Rainy River and Lake of the Woods, this line of travel being known as the "Dawson Route", after the eminent Canadian engineer, Mr. S.J. Dawson.

From Fort Garry at Winnipeg Colonel Robertson-Ross followed the Hudson's Bay Company's line of posts to Edmonton and Rocky Mountain House and thence into Southern British Columbia through the Kootenay pass. A detour was then made via Spokane through U.S. territory to Puget Sound and thence by boat to Victoria. The distance of the route followed from Fort Garry to Victoria was nearly 3,000 miles of which over 2,000 miles were travelled on horseback. The return trip was made via San Francisco and the U.S. Pacific Railway. A full and interesting account of this trip, including the plans recommended by the Adjutant General for the establishment of a chain of Military posts on the prairies, is contained in the Annual Militia Report of 1872.

Colonel Robertson-Ross arrived in Victoria on the 28th October, 1872, and remained two weeks during which time he visited San Juan Island in company with the Senior Officer of H.M. Ships. His recommendation for the organization of the Militia in British Columbia are reproduced herewith from the Annual Mi|itia Report, 1872, as follows:

"With regard to the organization of the militia in British Columbia it is recommended that one Staff-Officer as Deputy Adjutant General of Militia be appointed for the province, as soon as the Government finds it convenient to do so. It is not necessary at present to appoint any Brigade Majors."

"The formation of two companies of riflemen (volunteer militia) in Victoria, and one at Nanaimo, is recommended, also the formation of one company of riflemen at New Westminster, another at Burrard's Inlet, on the mainland, and that the New Westminster Battery of Garrison Artillery be reorganized." "The total white population of the Province is only as yet about 12,000. There are about 4,000 half-breeds and 45,000 Indians, the latter mainly dwelling along the coast. The Indians dwelling in the interior of British Columbia are not numerous the policy of treating them in the same manner as if they were settlers; appears to have succeeded admirably.

"The following amount of military stores have recently been despatched, by order of the Dominion Government, from England direct by sea to Victoria, for the equipment of the Militia of the Province:-

1,000 Snider Enfield Rifles 1,000 Sets of Accoutrements 1,000 Rifle Uniforms 1,000 Great Coats 300,000 Rounds of Ammunition 60 Tents 20 Targets complete, with flags 100 Camp kettles 1,000 Knapsacks complete, with Mess Tins and straps

"It is very desirable with a view to ultimate economy as well as present efficiency that some building be acquired in Victoria to serve as an Armoury and Storeroom, and that a storekeeper be appointed to the charge of this public property without delay."

In accordance with the above recommendations Lieut. Colonel C.F. Houghton was appointed the first Deputy Adjutant General for British Columbia as from the 21st March, 1873, which is also the date of the establishment of the Province of British Columbia into a new Military District, No. 11. Militia General Order dated the 28th March, 1873, reads: "Charles Frederick Houghton to be D.A.G. for M.D. 11, with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Militia and Defence, from 21-3-1873. The Headquarters of this Officer will be Victoria, B.C.".

"As Lieutenant Colonel Houghton took a prominent part in military affairs in the early days of the Province, as succeeding chapters will show the following sketch of his life reproduced from the Daily Colonist of the 14th August, 1898, will prove of interest."

"The death occurred at St. Joseph's Hospital yesterday morning of Lieutenant Colonel Charles Frederick Houghton, late Deputy Adjutant General of Militia at Montreal. The deceased who was known and highly respected from one end of Canada to the other, had spent the best part of his life in the service of Her Majesty. He was born in the county of Tipperary just sixty years ago and before his twentieth birthday was appointed to a commission in the 57th Regiment. Upon his promotion to a captaincy in H.M. 20th Regiment, he was sent to Malta but remained a very short time, purchasing his discharge in 1863 to come to British Columbia and engage in farming in the Okanagan valley, being among the first to recognize the agricultural possibilities of that section of the province. In 1871 Colonel Houghton was elected a member of the House of Commons, being one of the first British Columbia members to go to Ottawa after confederation. He occupied the seat for two sessions, then being appointed D.A.G. for the British Columbia district. A few years later he was transferred to Winnipeg where he was commandant at the time of the second Riel rebellion, going to the front with the 9th Battalion, subsequently he was transferred to Montreal where he continued as D.A.G., until his retirement upon reaching the age limit."

"About five weeks ago Colonel Houghton came to Victoria in ill health and immediately went to St. Joseph's Hospital, where he was treated for cancer. He was married in 1879 to Marion, daughter of the late Robert Dunsmuir, who died in 1892."

VICTORIA RIFLES

An organization meeting called by Captain F.J. Roscoe was held in Victoria on December 3rd, 1873 to take steps for the formation of a Rifle Company of Militia. Captain Roscoe, who acted as Chairman, explained that the old Volunteer Corps had come to an end. The new Deputy Adjutant General for the District, Lieutenant Colonel Houghton, offered to take the old corps over and incorporate it as a unit in the Militia. The officers however, expressed a wish to resign and give the newcomers that were expected, a chance to elect their own officers. Lieutenant Colonel Houghton, who was present at the meeting, explained the plans for the organization of the Militia in the province. Before the meeting closed Captain Roscoe explained his own plans for training of the new unit. He said that each member would be required to drill once a fortnight throughout the year, and that a fine of $5.00 would be imposed for absence from drill without good cause. A full account of this meeting is contained in the Colonist dated Dec. 4th, 1873.

The plan of organization of the Militia in British Columbia included two companies for Victoria, as soon as No. 1 Company was organized under Captain Roscoe as commanding officer steps were taken to form a second Company. The organization meeting of No. 2 Company was held on the 19th December, 1873, when Charles E. Pooley was elected to command the unit.

Page 34 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added Both Companies of Rifles in Victoria were authorized by Militia Orders from the 13th February, 1874, the following officers being appointed as from the same date: No. 1 Company: Captain F.J. Roscoe; Lieutenant J.C. Vinter and Ensign R. Wolfenden. No. 2 Company: Captain C.F. Pooley; Lieutenant J.R. Het and Ensign W.B. McKenzie. (See Can. Gazette, February 14th and April 11th, 1874.)

The new units were equipped with black uniforms with red facings which looked very well although the style of forage caps was not popular. Training was carried out with enthusiasm so that before the end of February, 1874, both Companies underwent their first inspection by Lieutenant Colonel Houghton. (See Colonist, February 25th and 26th, 1874.)

The first annual inspection of the Victoria Corps took place on the 27th June, 1874, at Beacon Hill when the Companies went through various evolutions including skirmishing, which were creditably performed. After the inspection Lieutenant Colonel Houghton congratulated the men on their drill and soldierly appearance. (See Colonist 28th June, 1874). In his first official annual report Lieutenant Colonel Houghton referred to the work of the Victoria Rifles as follows: "I have much pleasure in testifying as to the proficiency in drill which has been attained by these companies during the short time which has elapsed since their organization. The different movements performed by them during my inspection being admirably executed, and reflecting much credit on the men themselves and their officers. Both the marching past and the skirmishing of the Victoria Companies (particularly No. 1) was exceedingly good."

With the organization of the two Rifle Companies there was also formed a very efficient Band under Bandmaster Haynes, and judging by the complimentary references in the newspapers from time to time, their services were appreciated by the citizens of Victoria. In the first Annual Inspection Report, 1874, it is stated: "Band at present consists of two enrolled men and six supernumaries. Making fair progress". In 1876 the D.A.G. reported regarding this subject: "The Band has made considerable progress during the last year and it now comprises eleven very fair performers." And in 1877 he further reported: "The Band mustered eleven musicians, who have improved very considerably in efficiency, and do a good deal of credit to the Bandmaster, Mr. Haynes. Inspected their instruments, and found them in good order."

When later on an Artillery unit was formed in Victoria, the Band seems to have been attached to both units and played at all military functions. The Band continued in existence for 15 years until 1889 when the Inspection Report shows there was no longer a Band.

During the year 1875 British Columbia was visited by Major General E. Selby Smith, commanding the Militia. In his trip westwards from Fort Garry, General Smith, like Colonel P. Robertson-Ross in 1872, travelled about 2,000 miles on horseback.

General Smith's report on this inspection trip is published in the Annual Militia Report for 1875 from which the following extracts relating more particularly to Victoria are quoted:

"At Victoria and Nanaimo, there are two Companies of Infantry clothed and equipped with Rifles, and in a very efficient state for any service. At New Westminster, on the Fraser River, there is a good company of Infantry and also a Battery of Artillery. The latter I did not have the opportunity of inspecting as their clothing had been only just received; the Rifle Company is in an efficient condition in every respect."

"The Drill shed at Victoria is a very excellent one in good repair, but nearly useless from having no gas light which can be introduced for $120.00. All the drills being in the shed at night, the necessity for gas light is obvious. On the occasion of my inspection there were 24 candles and 10 coal oil lamps burning, and yet the place was in comparative obscurity. One of the spare rooms should also be fitted up at a cost of $25.00 as an armory and clothing room."

"There is a first-class rifle range here, rented by the Rifle Association for 7 years at $25.00 per annum. They have spent $250.00 on it from private funds, which are not affluent. It is suggested this range should be taken over for the Militia as they have no other place of practice."

"There is a storekeeper, and a man employed as caretaker, but not paid. I suggested this man should receive pay as armourer, caretaker and drill instructor combined, which would make up a suitable salary for him."

"Drill instructors are much needed, and the aptitude for drill shown by these Companies deserved encouragement. An Instructor from the Royal Marines at Esquimalt would cost about $60.00 per month while so employed."

"There are at present upwards of 700 stand of arms of obsolete pattern, Enfield and Brunswick, which were passed over to the Dominion Government at Confederation; also a large quantity of ammunition adapted for those arms in the Naval Magazine at Esquimalt. The Admiral has applied for the immediate removal of the latter, to give room for powder expected from England. I ordered a board upon it and suggested it be broken up and the powder used for practice or salutes, and the arms should be sold. I am informed the Indians would readily purchase them for shooting large game. The proceeds of those arms if placed to the credit of the Militia Department would go far to execute many of the repairs now suggested."

During this year Captain Pooley resigned and was succeeded by Captain Vinter. Lieutenant J.R. Het and Ensign W.B. McKenzie also resigned about the same time. James W. Douglas was appointed to succeed Lieutenant Het, and Ensign Wolfenden was promoted to rank of Lieutenant. This left each Company in the

Page 36 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added charge of only two officers, a Captain and a Lieutenant.

Training for the next few years was carried on satisfactorily in the Victoria Rifle Companies, as is shown by a perusal of the annual inspection reports. In the year 1878, however, events of importance had the effect of detracting interest from the Rifle Companies in favor of the new Artillery Battery which was formed that year. From this date the competition between the Infantry and Artillery units in Victoria made it difficult for the former to keep up to strength. The annual report of the Deputy Adjutant General for 1879 deals particularly with this situation and concludes with a recommendation that the two Rifle Companies be converted into Artillery Batteries. Lieutenant Colonel Houghton's report reads as follows:

"I subsequently on the same evening (Nov. 27th, 1879) inspected the Victoria Rifles - Companies No. 1 and No. 2, which I regret to state showed an exceedingly unsatisfactory muster." "The establishment for each of these companies is 2 officers and 40 non-commissioned officers and men - of which the two companies together only paraded 4 officers and 27 non- commissioned officers and men, by far the greater portion however belonging to No. 2 Company."

"I must, however, here repeat what I stated in my last annual report in regard to these companies, namely, that the formation of an Artillery corps at Victoria has seriously affected their success. The uniform and training of the Artillery proved far more attractive to the young men than that of the Rifles. This made it next to impossible for them to recruit their ranks while there is even a prospect of admission to the Artillery."

"I have of course endeavoured as much as possible, to prevent men abandoning the Rifles for the Artillery, but even this cannot be always successfully carried into effect, as the men at least who have served out their term of three years in the Rifles cannot reasonably be controlled in their choice of corps for re- enlistment, and always a large proportion of the Artillery corps has already served in the Rifles."

"In fact, I regret to say I see every probability of the Rifles eventually, and at no far distant date, being utterly annihilated, by absorption; and I should regret this extremely as both Captain Wolfenden and Captain Fletcher who command these companies are zealous and efficient officers holding permanent rank in the Militia, and it would be a loss to the service were they to be obliged to withdraw from it over want of men to keep their companies up to the required strength, the more particularly as it is quite apparent the fault or remedy does not lie within themselves."

"As a very simple remedy for this, and one which if carried out I feel confident would be successful, I would most respectfully beg to suggest that these two companies be converted also into Garrison Batteries of Artillery, and that the three Batteries be equalized into 50 or 60 men each, the whole forming

Page 37 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added a Brigade under the senior officer's supervision." "This course still further recommends itself to very favourable consideration in view of the fact, that should an attack at any time be anticipated upon either Victoria or Esquimalt, the Artillery branch of the service is likely to be most called into requisition; and whereas the Artillery are equally available for either application being trained in both branches of the service, the Rifles can only be utilized as Infantry."

"One fully qualified and fairly paid Instructor, could be made available for the training of the whole, which would of course, occupy his whole time, leaving him leisure for little or no other business of any kind."

"Returning to my inspection of these companies, I have to report, most favorably upon everything with the exception of the numbers at muster as before stated. -- The arms, clothing and accoutrements being well cared for and in good order." "The movements were also well executed and in every respect to my entire satisfaction."

Not only did the Infantry unit suffer from the handicap caused by the greater attractiveness of the Artillery but they do not seem to have received as generous financial support from the Government. This is shown in the Annual Report for 1880 by the Deputy Adjutant General who gives great credit to the Victoria Rifles for their efforts in going to camp that year without any assistance from the Government, although the Artillery, who were in camp at the same time, had special authority from headquarters. The following extract is quoted from Lieutenant Colonel Houghton's Annual Report, dated December 2nd, 1880.

"The Victoria Rifles, having been unable to obtain permission to perform their drill in camp with the Garrison Artillery, nevertheless, formed an independent voluntary encampment on Beacon Hill on the 28th, July last, the two companies mustering altogether, 3 officers and 43 non-commissioned officers and men under the command of Captain Fletcher of No. 2 Company."

"Being without any assistance from the Government other than the loan of a few blankets and tents, which I took the responsibility of ordering to be issued to them - reporting the same to headquarters immediately - they laboured under such disadvantages, that although in camp at the same time, and in close proximity to the Victoria Battery Garrison Artillery, it was deemed advisable that the Corps should occupy separate encampments entirely distinct and independent of one another, in consequence of the different circumstances under which each was situated."

"This I much regretted, considering it was a great drawback to both corps, as a joint encampment would, no doubt, have been more instructive, and attended with greater benefit to each."

"I am happy to say, however, that perfect harmony existed

Page 38 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added between the two camps, and that by mutual desire they combined their forces on a few occasions for battalion drill and skirmishing practice."

"I inspected the two companies of Rifles on the 3rd August, the day previous to the breaking up of their encampment, and found their arms, accoutrements and clothing in good order. I also inspected their camp, which was regular and well pitched, and provided with a proper guard and sentries."

"They performed several company movements in a very creditable manner, and their skirmishing was fairly executed. The manual and firing exercise was also satisfactory, and proved that even this short encampment had been attended with beneficial results."

"Great credit is due to Captain Fletcher and Lieutenants Green and Dorman for their zeal in having undertaken and successfully carried through this encampment and entirely at their own expense, without aid from the Department, and I think that the benefit which has resulted to the corps from their action in this matter, warrants me in recommending most respectfully to the Major General commanding the reimbursement to these officers of the sum actually paid by them for the rationing of the men while under canvas, and further that provision be made in the estimates for the ensuing year, to admit of their being included in the list of corps authorized to perform their drill in camp during the year 1881-1882."

No change, however, was made in the organization of the Victoria Rifles until 1883 when the British Columbia Provisional Regiment of Garrison Artillery was formed into which No. 1 Rifle Company was merged. At the same time the designation of No. 2 Rifle Company was changed to "Victoria Rifle Company".

The Victoria Rifle Company continued to carry on for a number of years under the command of Captain R.E. Green who was succeeded in 1887 by Captain Philip Woolcott. The difficulties of keeping up an enthusiastic infantry company in competition with the Artillery did not diminish and on the 3rd May, 1889 the Victoria Rifle Company was removed from the list of Corps of the Active Militia.

CHAPTER IV

BRITISH COLUMBIA COAST DEFENCES

Victoria Battery of Garrison Artillery

"... It is suggested that a battery be mounted at McCaulay's Point on the promontory which projects between the harbours of Victoria and Esquimalt. In the absence of a ship of war which occasionally occurs, there is not a gun nor any kind of protection for the costly Naval Stores in the Dockyard on the one side, nor for the City of Victoria on the other. A piratical cruiser of small force, entering by the straits of Fuca, could destroy the whole place."

This excerpt from the Annual Report of 1875 by Lieutenant- General Sir Edward Selby-Smyth, Commanding Militia of Canada, clearly illustrates the defenceless situation of Canada's west coast. He continues:

"On the going over of the dockyard, I found two 7 inch and four 40-pounder breechloading rifled guns about to be sent back to England as obsolete for Naval Service. I requested these might be detained together with their shell and equipments, and have made application for their transfer to the Dominion Government for the purpose of arming the earthwork I propose, for McCaulay's Point."

"This can be constructed at a trifling outlay for earth parapets and wooden platforms."

"It is suggested an Artillery Company should be enrolled at Victoria to man this battery. There are plenty of willing and efficient men for the purpose, and an officer late of the Royal Artillery."

"There are two bronze 24-pounder howitzers on travelling carriages in position at New Westminster in charge of the Artillery, as well as a quantity of shot and shell. The gun carriages require painting. I suggest that the usual ammunition for practice be allowed the Seymour Artillery, the cost of which has previously been defrayed by the commanding officer."

In 1877 Lieutenant-General Selby-Smyth commented further:

"It might be considered that the protection of Esquimalt is an Imperial, rather than a Dominion liability, but it intimately concerns the honor of both and the supremecy of British Naval power in that region. It is necessary for our security on the Pacific that it should be well guarded. Our fleets must keep that sea and they cannot do so without coal. Nature has provided this ample stock and finest quality at Nanaimo, and British instinct of a former age, ignorant of its value, or even of the existence of this all powerful element, secured to us the place of its abode, Vancouver's Island."

"The British navy is scattered over the whole Pacific; there are no works of defence raised by Imperial hands at Vancouver, nothing but prestige and the companies of Militia at Victoria and Nanaimo. I trust that whether by Imperial or Dominion hands, we may not be much longer without a powerful battery to protect these harbours; I have dwelt upon the subject to endeavour to show it is an Imperial as well as a Dominion question, for what effects both, and so there ought to be no difficulty or hesitation in obtaining a free grant of the Imperial guns to arm the promontory that would equally guard the Royal dockyard of Esquimalt and the Capital of British Columbia."

No steps were taken, however, until the spring of 1878, when in consequence of the arrival of the steamship CIMBRIA in American waters, with a large body of Russian seamen, and a cargo of heavy rifled guns on board, Lieutenant General Selby-Smyth again submitted a report to the Government concerning the unprotected condition of the whole Atlantic and Pacific sea-board of the Dominion.

Selby-Smyth continues:

"This question having been made the subject of a reference to the Imperial Government, it followed that soon afterwards reports were sent out, drawn up by the Colonial Defence Committee at the War Office."

"With regard to Esquimalt and Victoria, we were informed that the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty waived the objections that they had previously made to my suggestion for the loan of guns in Store at Esquimalt dockyard until required for Her Majesty's cruisers. The whole armament in store, whether belonging to the War Office or the Admiralty, was therefore placed at the disposal of the Dominion Government for the defence of these points, and Lieutenant-Colonel Irwin, Royal Artillery, was immediately despatched from Kingston to Victoria to select emplacements for the guns, and to mount them on works which he was empowered to construct."

The following is the report of Lieutenant Colonel D.T. Irwin as it appeared in the Annual Militia Report of 1878.

"Kingston, Ontario, 15th November, 1878.

Report on the site, construction and armament of the Coast Batteries erected for the defence of the Harbours of Victoria and Esquimalt, Vancouver Island, British Columbia -- during the months of June, July, August, 1878, by Lieutenant-Colonel D.T. Irwin, Captain, Royal Artillery, and Inspector of Artillery."

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS

"The following extract from the general instructions received

Page 41 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added by me on the day of my departure from Kingston, 13th May, 1878, affords sufficient information as to the general nature of the work proposed to be undertaken, together with the limitations imposed as to its extent, viz:

"The Dominion Government have given orders for the erection of a battery on Macaulay's Point, Victoria, Vancouver Island for the protection of the entrance to Victoria and Esquimalt Harbours respectively." "Her Majesty's Government has sent orders to supply such guns as may be required from the Dockyard reserves at Esquimalt." "I enclose a plan prepared by Lieutenant-Colonel Blair R.A., you will observe he proposes a small battery on Victoria Point, and another on Fisgard Island for the better security of both harbours, in addition to that now proposed on Macaulay's Point." "The latter is considered of the chief importance, the other two only subsidiary."

"It is presumed the Royal Navy Authorities will take steps to arm Fisgard Island."

"You will use your discretion as to whether Macaulay's Point alone or in conjunction with Victoria Point should be armed."

"In this you will be guided by regard to economy combined with efficiency, and the means of manning two batteries."

"A volunteer battery of artillerymen has been ordered to be raised and equipped at Victoria. You will satisfy yourself that means are at hand for instructing the officers and men and rendering them efficient, and you will assist in doing so if necessary."

(Signed) E. Selby-Smyth, Lieutenant-General.

CHOICE OF SITES FOR BATTERIES

"On my arrival at Victoria on the 27th May, I reported to Lieutenant-Colonel Houghton, the Deputy Adjutant-General of the District. On the same day we attended the first muster of the Garrison Battery, under Captain Dupont, the Inspector of Island Revenue. A systematic course of evening drills and lectures, to be held three times a week, under my instruction and supervision. was arranged."

"Accompanied by Captain F. Robinson, HMS OPAL, Senior Naval Officer on the Station, and Lieutenant Colonel Houghton, a careful examination of the coastline was made, with a view of determining the best sites for defensive works."

"In this important duty I was afterwards assisted by a Board of Officers, detailed for this duty, by Rear Admiral de Horsey, Commander-in-Chief of the Pacific, and composed of Captain Bedford and Gunnery Lieutenant Lindsay, of HMS SHAW and Captain

"The results of this careful examination have already been fully detailed in my previous reports on this subject, 6th June, 16th June, and 3rd July, 1878."

"It may here be observed that the Victoria Point, mentioned in the general instructions previously quoted, has no existence except as a designation, chosen by Lieutenant-Colonel Blair, for a point close to Point Ogden, and the Victoria Point as shown in accompanying plans is a point nearly midway between Finlayson Point and Holland Point, and so designated by me, in default of any local nomenclature.

CONSTRUCTION OF BATTERIES

"The general nature of the works is that of sunken barbette batteries. The position of the sites being in all cases elevated, and close to the steep slopes leading to the sea beach, it was not found necessary to excavate a ditch in front, the earth for the traverses being more conveniently obtained in rear of the parapet, better cover in less time, and with more solid construction being obtained by this arrangement." "The guns are all mounted on barbette, it being necessary to command as extended an area of waterfront as possible."

TRAVERSES

"The guns are separated in every case by shell-proof traverses, and in one instance, at Victoria Point, this traverse has been constructed to contain the expense magazine."

"This mode of construction was not found practicable in the other batteries, owing to want of space."

REVETMENTS

"The slopes where excavated are not revetted, with the exception of the portion in front of each gun platform, revetted with planking nailed on cedar uprights." "The slopes of the traverses above the plane of site are revetted with sods placed in double layers, and the upper surfaces are sodded over." "It is not considered probable, owing to the uniform mildness of the climate and the absence of severe frosts, that the excavated slopes will fall in, but it will be necessary from time to time to renew portions of the sod revetment, and remove any debris that may have collected."

PROTECTION OF BATTERIES

"Closed weather-proof wooden sheds, triangular in section, have been placed over the three 7-in guns, and the 8-in gun carriages, and platforms; the batteries have been fenced in with ordinary post and rail fences, to keep off cattle. The various

Page 43 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added magazines and storesroom are provided with strong doors and locks, but owing to the isolated situation of the batteries and the expense necessarily attendant on building caretakers' quarters in their vicinity it was not considered advisable to take any further precaution against damage, which is not considered probable." "A caretaker has been appointed, as recommended by Major General Sir E. Selby-Smyth, whose duties are to visit the batteries regularly.

GENERAL REMARKS

"The actual work of excavating the batteries began on the 10th June and was continued with only one day's (1st July) intermission until the 30th August. The working party was entirely composed of civilian labourers under the immediate control of a foreman; their number averaged from 12 to 28 men, the men being paid by the day. As I was entirely without assistance, and the work required continual personal supervision, it was only found possible to employ one party of men, each battery being completed before another was commenced. The working hours were from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m., with one hour for dinner."

"The guns, stores, etc., were all taken from the Naval stores at Esquimalt - a heavy transporting axle mounted on wheels in conjunction with an ordinary lumber wagon, being used for this purpose, and horses and drivers hired for the occasion. The guns were mounted on their carriages and platforms by the labourers employed on the works. I was anxious to obtain the services of the Garrison Battery for this purpose, but for reasons entirely beyond my control I was unable to get more than a very few volunteers for this duty, and then only in the evening."

"The work of transporting the guns, stores, etc., from the Naval storeyard to Brother's Island being of exceptional difficulty, if obliged to be effected with the ordinary means at my disposal, I applied to the Naval Commander-in-Chief for assistance. Rear Admiral de Horsey was pleased to undertake the entire execution of this work, which was successfully effected by a Naval detachment under the direction of Captain F. Robinson, HMS OPAL. The detachment received the ordinary rates of workrng pay, from the Dominion Government."

"With reference to the subject of manning the guns in these batteries, it will be observed that for this purpose the only means at present provided are the members of the Garrison Battery enrolled about the time of my arrival, numbering about fifty of all ranks. Of this number about thirty attended the voluntary evening drills and lectures, held on the average twice a week during my stay in Victoria. About twenty men are fairly proficient in gun drill and artillery exercises, and a class of about ten of the officers and probable non-commissioned officers who were able to attend occasionally at special afternoon drills, are capable of instructing at standing gun drill and elementary exercises."

"The battery is fortunate in being commanded by an officer of great energy and zeal, and also in possessing the services as Instructor of Lieutenant D.G. McNaughton, who obtained a 1st Class Short Course Certificate from this School of Gunnery in January, 1876, he being then a Sergeant in the New Brunswick Garrison Artillery."

"Owing to the isolated position of Victoria, the very limited number of its population, and the high rate of wages paid for labour, special and almost insuperable difficulties are placed in the way of the establishment of an efficient volunteer artillery force sufficiently numerous, or well trained, for the purpose of manning this number of guns. The maintaining of an effective fire against ships in motion, is a duty the successful performance of which requires the greatest possible amount of training and intelligence on the part of the gunners."

"My previous reports and recommendations on this subject have indicated the advisability of maintaining a small permanent force at Victoria or Esquimalt, whether composed of Royal Marine or Canadian Artillerymen, trained at the Schools of Gunnery." "This force would serve as a nucleus and training school for the volunteers and could be profitably employed in the care of the several batteries, guns, stores, etc. If a sufficient number of artificers such as stone masons, bricklayers, and carpenters, several of whom are generally found in the ranks of "A" and "B" Batteries, were included in their number, the work of converting the present earthen batteries into defences, of a more permanent character, could be gradually carried on with considerable economy of expenditure."

"With the exception of firing a salute from Macaulay Point Battery, on the opening of the Provincial Legislature, the volunteers did not turn out for actual duty, or perform any paid drills previous to my departure. A general wish was expressed to postpone their annual drill and competitive gun practice until their uniforms arrived."

"A 64-pounder gun (8 inch) on common standing carriage, with stores and etc., is at present retained in the drill shed, and available for drill purposes."

"I availed myself of the services of the volunteer battery for the purpose of firing trial shots, with service charges and common shell from the 7 inch and 8 inch guns, and took every opportunity of drilling the battery at the 7 in. guns and 64 pounders after they were placed in position."

"In conclusion I may state that I received several offers of assistance from individuals not connected with the volunteer force, who expressed their willingness to volunteer for service in anticipation of hostilities. I have no doubt that in such an event a considerable number of volunteers could be obtained, but as the value of such assistance, especially in the case of duties requiring the most practicable intelligence of an

Page 45 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added artilleryman, would be of very little account unless previously enhanced by a careful course of training under competent instructors. It is to be hoped that every encouragement and assistance may be given to the present volunteer battery; and, taking into consideration the fact that the ordinary price of labour in the province of B.C. is at least twice as much as that paid in the Province of Ontario or Quebec, it might be advisable to offer special inducements to attend drill. A higher rate of pay to those officers, non-commissioned officers and men, who have obtained efficiency badges from the Dominion Artillery Association, and who have passed a qualifying examination by Lieutenant-Colonel Houghton, Deputy Adjutant General, should be considered."

(Sgd) D.T. Irwin, Lieutenant-Colonel Captain R.A. Inspector of Artillery, Dominion of Canada.

The Adjutant General of Militia Ottawa.

An extract from a report by Lieutenant-General Sir Edward Selby-Smyth dated 1st January, 1880 states:

" ... The works thrown up hastily last year when a Russian squadron appeared on the coast, rendered it necessary to despatch a commission there during the past summer. Colonel Lovell, Royal Engineers, from Halifax, and Lieutenant-Colonel Strange, Royal Artillery, from Quebec, have throoughly examined and reported on the capabilities for defence of Vancouver and the seaboard of the mainland of British Columbia.

"A few remarks of a general military character may not therefore be out of place on this subject, which can hardly be considered too carefully at this juncture. It would of course be necessary to hold the peninsula which is bounded on the one side by Esquimalt Basin, and on the other by the narrow inlet called "The Gorge". There is a small neck of land at Portage Inlet separating those two sheets of water, and there the position could be entrenched. Signal Hill close to the Dockyard, dominates the harbour and the Royal Roads outside its entrance. This should certainly be fortified. Rear Admiral de Horsey said to the Admiralty upon examining the chart, "the eye will be immediately struck with the capabilities of defence of this peninsula. The Dockyard itself with its commanding outpost, Signal Hill, is capable of defence by a few men, whilst if at any time it be decided as in my opinion it is most desirable to fortify; the peninsula could be made practically impregnable by placing redoubts on and occupying the heights with a sufficient garrison."

As regards Signal Hill, he did not overlook the rule

Page 46 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added that guns should not generally be placed to draw the enemy's fire on the position they protect; but this rule hardly applies to the present case, because fire aimed at Signal Hill could scarcely be so bad as to strike the Dockyard seven hundred yards at right angles to its line.

"I had previously urged the arming of Signal Hill, a commanding point whence to engage an enemy's ship approaching from sea, and to render Esquimalt Basin a shell trap for any unlucky ship that might enter it."

"Lieutenant-Colonel Irwin considers the present sea defences both of Victoria and Esquimalt, while efficient enough against wooden vessels, would hardly serve to prevent an ironclad from shelling either of them, the eight-inch nine ton gun on Brother's Island being the only armour-piercing gun to defend the latter. The naval stores are at present in an exposed position to naval attack; the site of the naval hospital and Hudson's Bay store would be more protected. Lieutenant-Colonel Irwin does not consider the graving dock in an unsafe position, nor likely to be destroyed by an enemy's fire. It would hardly be possible to muster militia soldiers enough in British Columbia to defend Victoria peninsula which presents many facilities for landing troops, but though the city itself might be difficult to defend, it would be hazardous for an enemy to cross the Gorge, which is deep with a strong tide way, and commanded by a ridge along its southern bank. Therefore, Esquimalt would be tolerably secure, provided Signal Hill and Rodd Point had heavy guns, and the neck of Portage Inlet strongly entrenched. The guns should be manned by trained artillerymen, and regular troops enough to keep the volunteers up to the mark and act as a reserve."

"The question of the general utility of Esquimalt as a naval station and coal depot would naturally depend upon its advantages as a secure and convenient harbour, a suitable base for supplies and facilities for repairing ships of war damaged at sea. The first seems better fulfilled there than would be probable at any of the South Sea Islands, while the completion of the graving dock would fulfil the latter. As a coal depot, however, the safety of Nanaimo, where the mines are situated must always be a most important consideration. Lieutenant-Colonel Strange, alluded pointedly to this, as did Lieutenant-Colonel Irwin, and from my own knowledge I have little doubt the place presents facilities for any defence against a naval attack. The above considerations however seem almost a secondary importance in view of the proposed railway terminus at Burrard Inlet. To any one who has seen the shipping at San Francisco, and noticed the business done by the Union and Central Pacific Railway, it must seem to be a matter of the very highest political and military importance to possess a naval station at what will be eventually the terminus of the great British American highway of commerce from beyond the Pacific."

"The position of Esquimalt with reference to the Straits of San Juan de Fuca, the channels of Haro and Rosario, the entrance of Puget Sound, and the general configuration of the locality,

Page 47 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added seems admirably adapted for protection and command. Once the railway is in working order, the question of supplies, reliefs, etc., will receive the most satisfactory solution, and its otherwise unprotected terminus at Burrard Inlet seems to furnish the strongest arguments in favor of retaining Esquimalt, and rendering it through a secure naval station and marine arsenal."

"I almost doubt whether the value of the coal supply of Nanaimo, is yet thoroughly understood and appreciated, either on this or the other side of the Atlantic. In 1875 for instance, the output was stated to be 110,000 tons; three companies at work with plant including eighteen engines, six steam pumps, and tramway to the wharves, which are 500 feet long and sufficient depth of water for large ocean steamers."

"The construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway will eventually render the conveyance of reinforcements easy in time of war, and it may be expected the ocean terminus will in time be located at Esquimalt, or Barclay Sound; thus the present inadequate force of one battery of artillery and two infantry companies at Victoria could be soon relieved, but we must always rely upon the Royal Navy, for Great Britain cannot possibly neglect the advantages Esquimalt affords as a strategic naval base in the North Pacific."

"We would not overlook the progress in naval strength and resource which the Russians are rapidly developing at Petropolouski and Amoor Rivers; the former only 4,500 miles from Vancouver, the latter barely 500 miles further. In the event of war, Russia might be in a position to harass not only Hong Kong and the China and Japan trade, but to send a squadron across the ocean in thirty days to attack the Western sea-board of the Dominion. This, unless properly fortified, would in the absence of the British squadron, be in some measures at the enemy's mercy. What would the result be of such a hostile descent upon these shores, where so many monuments of British industry and energy, must awaken grave thought. Great Britain cannot therefore withdraw her protection from Her North Pacific possessions which the Dominion has conjointly already spent a large sum in partially fortifying."

"If naval history proves anything, it proves that the Commander of a sea-going squadron must have full discretion, and that his success will be propositioned to his self-reliant genious; to restrict that quality may not be advantageous. Telegraphic communications on the other hand is a very important element which cannot be overlooked; although it might not be produced to send a continuous stream of instructions to the commander of squadron yet the telegraph must play an important part in future naval warfare. The telegraph wires running across the continent on British territory render it all the more important that Vancouver should ever continue to be the naval base in the North Pacific."

"On the opposite side of the Continent Halifax is the imperial fortress, designed, heavily fortified and maintained as

Page 48 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added an important base in the North Atlantic. Our North Pacific Fleet; struggling without a telegraphic base, without a secure and well fortified coal depot, dependent perhaps on an island in mid ocean for its coal and supplies, might sometime be in a precarious condition. It must be foreseen that in a long naval war it might not be possible to keep an island depot supplied by coal transports nor might it be always possible to protect it. Were Esquimalt navy yard given up, and an island in mid-ocean substituted, the Pacific squadron would rely for coal upon New South Wales, England, but notably still upon Vancouver, perhaps all three. Wherever it comes from it must be carried by colliers to its island point, and how many of these colliers might fall into the enemy's hands enroute, supplying them at sea with the very material most needed."

"Now, where a dockyard and arsenal already exist, a graving dock for disabled ships in progress, unlimited coal deposits abound, land forces at hand could be reinforced by railway in twelve days from Ontario, land batteries built and easily supplemented, a telegraph terminus, and perhaps not the least noteworthy feature, where a loyal and a brave people can be thoroughly replied on to rally round, appears to stamp Esquimalt before any other place in the Pacific, as the proper naval base and coaling station."

"To withdraw from it, might run the risk in time of war of being swept out of the Pacific, and supposing such a thing possible, and an enemy in possession of our stores and coals at the important base Vancouver; he has shut us out entirely until a powerful squadron got round Cape Horn to recover our Supremacy; and on what would that squadron have to depend, without any coaling base and at great disadvantage, in trying to recover that which we should never run the risk of jeopardizing. It would be wrong to disperse forces at a number of points of little use in a great war, but an important position on which the supply of and communication with the North Pacific Squadron depends, must never be left to an enemy, nor yielded in any way."

"The importance of Vancouver as a naval base and the consequence of losing it, renders the railway across the Dominion of vital concern to the whole Empire; and for these reasons, it is most desirable that Vancouver Island should never be abandoned by our ships of war. Esquimalt is available for ships of any tonnage or draft of water to run into during a gale of wind by day or night, where they can anchor in from seven to nine fathoms in a land locked basin."

"It will be kept in view that Russia is the power against which we might have to take precautions, for with respect to our friendly neighbours over the border, we need hardly have any anxiety. It is true the United States frontier has been advanced, so that the channel entrance to Nanaimo from the southward can be commanded by American guns from the Island of San Juan, which we have allowed to become American ground. There is a military post, formerly the barrack of our Royal Marines, on the Island within the sight of the City of Victoria; another at

Page 49 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added Port Townshend, about forty miles up Puget Sound; and another at Fort Vancouver, on the Lower Columbia River, the entrance to which is defended by heavy batteries near Astoria."

"It was stated that during the recent Russo-Turkish campaigns, there were eleven ships of war flying the Russian flag in San Francisco Harbour, all in first-class order, carrying about 2,000 men, and more guns than in all our squadron from Chili to Vancouver. Their object may be taken to attack British possessions and commerce if we had been drawn into war. Might such an event not be possible in the future, and should not Esquimalt be thoroughly armed as a great naval base, telegraph and railway terminus in the North Pacific, and as a standard of efficiency and support, should not at least one hundred marine artillerymen under the Admiral and on the ship's books of the squadron, be stationed there?"

"It only requires a glance at the general chart of the world to trace the various lines which mark out the great highways from port to port, upon which the ocean commerce of the world chiefly passes. Almost without exception, every one of these lines begins or ends at, or passes through some British possession. There is but one great gap, in the system of defence supplied by our foreign possessions, -- that is the line that begins at Vancouver and ends at the Falkland Islands, through the Straits of Magellan or round Cape Horn. That line is flanked by foreign countries, and we have no station within those limits, which lie about seven thousand miles apart, where we can post a defensive squadron, or have a secure base for telegraphic intelligence, coal and sea stores. But we hold one end firmly, and when better fortified, and the Pacific Railway is complete across the continent on British Soil, we shall do so more strongly. We also hold the other end at Falkland Islands. If therefore we maintain the positions we have got, and add securely to their defence, we prevent the only class of cruiser, that can be sent abroad by such an enemy as Russia from obtaining coal, and the danger from such cruisers need not then be greatly apprehended. At the first outbreak, they perhaps might do mischief, for they would be ready and we might be tardy; they would start with full coal bunkers and stores, which by our holding Vancouver and Nanaimo mines, they would find difficulty in replenishing. It is apparent therefore that a great naval base, coal depot, railway and telegraph terminus, must never be abandoned. On the other hand, how hazardous a policy, it might be in time of war to remove from such a strong and important base, to risk our coal and supply station upon any island whatever in the Pacific, to which munitions must be carried by sea, and if not fortified and strongly garrisoned, the base of supply could, therefore, not be guaranted.

"The necessity for a graving dock is a question of no light importance, more necessary perhaps now than in former years; since we have evidence that should our enemy be Russia, her naval operations may be as active on the Pacific as on the Atlantic. The object of sending the CIMBRIA, last year from the Baltic to American waters with such a crew and cargo as before stated

Page 50 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added is suggestive. We have even learnt that Russian naval officers declared their object was to employ fast steamers to intercept and prey on British commerce, and place under contribution or destroy Canadian ports.

Russia's now extensive home stations at Petropolovski, the Amoor and Vladovostock, with telegraph lines direct from St. Petersburg, might possibly enable her to have a preponderance of naval power on the Pacific, unless our fleet were reinforced in time by a similar class of swift boats, and our naval base and railway and telegraph terminus at Vancouver Island, were fortified and garrisoned beforehand."

The railway, passing through the fertile belt or zone of this magnificent country capable of raising a food supply sufficient for Great Britain, would open up direct communication with the whole of British North America, China, India, Japan, and Australia. The large supplies of eastern produce required by Canada would be carried by this route and help to develop trade in a community who draw their manufactured products in a great quantity from England, instead of, as now, going through and helping to build up American interests. This railway will probably ultimately extend from Nanaimo to Esquimalt, or Barclay Sound, as its ocean terminus. A strong naval station must consequently be maintained there in the interests of Great Britain, as well as of the inhabitants of British Columbia.

"Lieutenant-Colonel Strange was appointed upon this joint commission, being the senior and as an officer of acknowledged high professional attainments very desirous to be so employed. It was desirable that both Dominion Inspectors of Artillery should know the defences and the sea coasts of Vancouver and British Columbia. Lieutenant-Colonel Irwin, an excellent young officer of much promise, had already made a long and fatiguing journey across the continent. The manner in which his duty was performed last year having called for my approbation and justified my representing his able report in that sense to the Government and to the Colonial and War Ministers."

Lieutenant Colonel T. Bland Strange, Royal Artillery, in his independent report dated 17 November, 1879 to Lieutenant- General Sir Edward Selby-Smyth, said in part:

" ... I accompanied Colonel Lovell, R.E., in his examination of various harbours, Nanaimo, Bute, and Burrard Inlet, and more particularly Barclay Sound and Alberni Canal. I obtained detailed information from Captain Hennell, an intelligent officer of the Bombay army, who visited the coast as far as Port Simpson. The Senior Naval Officer commanding the station, Captain Puget, R.N., afforded us every facility, and placed at our disposal H.M.S. ROCKET, commanded by Captain Orlebar, R.N., who also gave us the benefit of his experience and knowledge.

I read carefully the reports of Admiral de Horsey, other naval authorities, and of the Dominion Government Engineers. There appears to me no place so suitable for a naval station as

"I entirely concur in the recommendation of General Sir Edward Selby-Smith and Admiral de Horsey, that a powerful battery is essential on Signal Hill, which commands, not only the sea approach, but the two roads from the land side, as well as the whole interior of the harbour. A couple of 9 inch R.M.L. 12 ton guns, mounted in Moncrieff pits blasted out of the rock, would, I think (as giving as all-around fire it would be impossible to silence), form a very valuable element of defence."

"Rodd Hill presents a very favourable site, the ground forming natural embrasures and traverses, with a sheltered site for a magazine; it is easily accessible by boat from the dockyard; the fresh water supply is there. A heavy battery should be built on Rodd Hill Point to protect the entrance to Esquimalt, and to cross fire with Brother's Island and Signal Hill batteries and Macaulay Point --- 2,500 yards. The armament should not, in my opinion, be less than 9 inch, 12 ton R.M.L. guns. They would also bear up the Royal Roads, and a ship entering offers a favourable parallelogram of fire to them. A portion of the Rodd Hill Battery would also enfilade the tongue of land forming the shore of the salt lagoon. It would, however, be advisable to build a block house on Belmont Hill, otherwise a few riflemen would render the Rodd Hill Battery untenable. Belmont Hill takes it in reverse at about 400 yards."

"Fisgard Island is too small and rocky to be used advantageously as a heavy gun emplacement."

"I would not propose any but heavy guns for the defence of Esquimalt, with the exception of a battery of four heavy field guns, 16 pounder R.M.L., with harness, & c., complete, to be handed over to the Canadian Militia Artillery, and horsed by farm horses to meet boat attacks either on the several bays southwest of Victoria, from which there are good roads to the town, or to repel a landing to the eastward in Sooke Harbour. In this direction the rough and densely wooded character of the country will confine an enemy having to land supplies and ammunition to the road, which could easily be closed against him; and any counter barricade of such road, by felled trees, could only be forced with artillery. The country round Victoria, especially west of it to the sea, is comparatively open and suited for field artillery. On the principle that it is always advisable to place batteries in advance of what they defend, it was contemplated to recommend the construction of a battery on the high land between Albert Head and Rodd Hill, to bear on vessels coming up the roads to the entrance of Esquimalt, with 5,000 yards extreme range to Macaulay Point; but I do not consider it advisable for the following reasons:-

"1. It would extend the defence beyond the powers of the small body of men that would be available. It is 11 miles from Victoria by land."

"2. Such a battery would be liable to be taken in reverse

Page 52 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added by an enemy from Sooke Harbour advancing along the road and across Sangster's Plains."

"3. The height being 250 feet, extreme depression 7 degrees, gives range of 600 yards, inside which a vessel would be secure from its fire."

"Supposing the battery were withdrawn 300 yards from the shore, the water is deep enough to allow a vessel running along 300 yards from shore."

TORPEDOES

"The pressure of the Royal Navy would render the storage at the dockyard of materials for a torpedo system a natural precaution, while the laying them down in time of war naturally form part of their duty. Their manipulation might be left to the proposed garrison of marine artillery."

"A system of telegraphic signals, from Albert Head round the coast to south and east of Victoria, could easily be established and maintained by the above mentioned garrison."

"With regard to the temporary works constructed by Lieutenant Colonel Irwin, Inspector of Artillery, taking into account the small sum of money and the inadequate means at his disposal, I am of the opinion that they could not have been better devised or executed, with the exception of some trifling details of no great importance. A Battery on Holland Point would have commanded, more effectually, the entrance to Victoria Harbour, by a cross fire with Macaulay Point. Victoria Point Battery does not entirely command the entrance to Victoria Harbour -- the fire of the right gun is masked by points of land running out and by intervening woods. It would be desirable to render the present works permanent by revetting the interior slopes of the gun positions in stone or brick, while the other slopes could adequately be secured by upright cedar stockade revetment."

"It has been previously pointed out that the present batteries at Finlayson and Victoria Point can be taken in reverse, by attacks from boats landing in Cordova and other bays to the eastward."

"A central keep, with a couple of Moncrieff pits, on Beacon Hill, would have a considerable sweep to seaward, and would also command the gorges of the above mentioned batteries, as well as one that might be erected on Holland Point, but the expenses of such an undertaking would not, perhaps be commensurate with the results gained, nor with the probable strength of garrison available. Moncrieff pits, if constructed on Beacon Hill and Signal Hill, respectively, would require, in great measure to be blasted out of the rock, but the cost of the revetment would be saved, and the protection of the gun, carriage and stores from weather or depredation would be complete by covering with a shingle roof. Such temporary shelter would be easily removed for service, and need not interfere with gun practice. In lieu of

Page 53 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added erecting a central keep on Beacon Hill, I would recommend closing the gorges of Macaulay, Finlayson, and Victoria Point Batteries with stockades. A portion of the wood which grows thickly up to the gorge of Finlayson Battery would have to be cleared away.

"Estimated costs of closing the gorges of batteries by means of stockades constructed of sawn cedar posts 6 x 6 inches, painted at top, coated with coal tar for 3 feet 6 inches at bottom to prevent decay, and loop-holed, were so arranged as to admit the use of small arms fire against any land attack."

MACAULAY POINT BATTERY

426 feet, 1,278 posts 11 feet long, 6 x 6 inch sawn cedar, at $16.00 per 1000 (board measure) ------$ 687.00 Digging 426 feet trench 3 feet deep, tarring and setting posts, including loop-holing ------$ 100.00 ------$ 787.00

FINLAYSON POINT BATTERY

330 feet, 990 posts 11 feet long, 6 x 6 inch sawn cedar, at $16.00, per 1000 (board measure) ------$ 522.00 Digging 330 feet trench 3 feet deep, tarring and setting posts, including loop-holing ------$ 77.00 ------$ 599.00

VICTORIA POINT BATTERY

260 feet, 780 posts, 11 feet long, 6 x 6 inch sawn cedar, at $16.00 per 1000 (board measure) ------$ 411.00

Digging 260 feet trench 3 feet deep, tarring and setting posts, including loop-holing ------$ 61.00 ------$ 472.00

"Total estimated cost of stockades, $1,858."

"The Macaulay Point battery is included, because, though it might be secured in war if the neck of the peninsula, between Esquimalt and Victoria were entrenched, yet, if it were reached by a land attack, it would be rendered completely untenable by a few riflemen posts on the rock ridge, about 500 yards distance. The proposed stockade would defilade the excavated terre plain, and afford means for musketry fire in reply. They would also tend materially to preserve the batteries from the depredation of cattle and marauders who have already broken into, plundered the magazines and carried off some of the gun stores."

PRESENT ARMAMENT OF ESQUIMALT

Brother's Island - One 8 inch 9 ton R.M.L. gun. - Two 64 pounder 64 cwt. R.M.L. guns.

Macaulay Point - Three 7 inch 6 1/2 ton, R.M.L. guns.

Proposed Additional Armament:

Rodd Point - Four 9 inch, 13 ton R.M.L. guns on traversing platforms and carriages.

Signal Hill - Two 9 inch, 12 ton R.M.L. guns on Moncrieff carriages.

PRESENT ARMAMENT FOR VICTORIA

Finlayson Point - Two 64 pounder R.M.L. guns. 32

Victoria Point - Two 64 pounder R.M.L. guns 32

Proposed Additional Armament:

Holland Point - Two 7 inch, 6 1/2 ton R.M.L. guns.

MOVEABLE ARMAMENT

"Four 16 pounder R.M.L. field guns, carriages, harness, & c." "As the amount for Esquimalt will probably be furnished by the Imperial Government, it will doubtless be supplied from Woolwich, of the present service patterns."

"Should the Dominion Government contemplate the purchase of any gun, I would not recommend the latter, because the gun question is in debate, being reconsidered by a committee at the war office, and a complete change in construction may be introduced, rendering obsolete the guns at present in store at Woolwich, which would be issued on purchase."

"Great results have been produced by a long gun (chambered) and, in my opinion, the Dominion Government could not do better than apply to Sir William Palliser to construct such heavy guns as are required. Those constructed by him for the United States being prominently satisfactory in the opinion of the officers of the United States' Artillery by Captain E. Palliser. For 64 pounder and smaller guns, it has been proved by the successful manufacture of Mr. Gilbert, at the Canada Engine Works, Montreal,

Page 55 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added that our old smooth bore guns can be converted cheaply and successfully in this country ..."

"... The smallest permanent garrison of regular trained artillerymen to man and look after the armament and works of Esquimalt would be 200 gunners, with a proper proportion of officers and non-commissioned officers. Having due regard to the instructions to bear in mind that Esquimalt is an Imperial station of primary importance, I would recommend that this force should be marine artillery, for the following reasons:-

"1. Being completely under the command of the Admiral of the station, there would be no divided responsibility."

"2. The armament at present mounted is of the naval pattern, and could be replaced, if necessary from the dockyard stores, together with ammunition, etc. Repairs could also be performed by the dockyard officers."

"3. The pay, supplies and clothing of such force could be all carried out by the admiralty authorities."

"4. If any other force than marine artillery were employed, it would necessitate a special pay, commissariat, store and medical departments."

LOCAL FORCE

"The employees of the dockyard, who are entirely naval artificers and have several afloat, should be embodied as a battery of auxiliary artillery on the principle of the old dockyard battalions, under the command of the superintendent of the dockyard. The terms of their engagement render them liable to this service, which, I have no doubt, they would be quite willing to render. This battery could be especially considered as a garrison for the two Moncrieff pits on Signal Hill, the lift carriages for which could be kept in complete working order by them, with the aid of the machine shops, within a few hundred yards. As to feasibility of repair, no better arrangement, could well be imagined. For the construction of the proposed batteries, a company of Royal Engineers would be required; if they were retained as part of the permanent garrison, the objections to a garrison from the Royal Artillery, as requiring a special supply department would not hold good."

"The smallest permanent garrison of regular trained artillerymen to guard and fight the guns for the protection of Victoria and the harbour, including the batteries at Finlayson Point, Victoria Point, and that proposed for Holland Point, which are separated by considerable distances, would be 100 gunners, with a proper proportion of officers and non-commissioned officers ..."

"... This force would serve as a nucleus and training school for the volunteers, could be profitably employed in the care of the several batteries, guns, stores, etc., and, if a sufficient

Page 56 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added number of artificers, such as stonemasons, bricklayers, and carpenters, several of whom are generally found in the ranks of "A" and "B" Batteries, were included in their number, the work of converting the present earthen batteries into works of a more permanent character could be gradually carried on with a considerable economy of expenditure."

"This force would have to furnish detachments for Nanaimo, New Westminster or Burrard Inlet, in view to the protection of the continental terminus of the Canadian Pacific Railway."

"Experience has shown that the organization of the Canadian gunnery schools is better suited to the instruction of Royal or Royal Marine Artillery, as at Halifax."

"The attached communication from Captain Dupont, (Acting Deputy Adjutant General, No. 11 Military District), shows the authorized strength of the volunteer militia of Vancouver Island and British Columbia, and gives the probable number of men capable of bearing arms that would be available in case of emergency. Captain Dupont, who commands the battery of volunteer militia artillery, is a zealous and intelligent officer, whose opinion may be relied upon, and who deserves great credit for the efficiency he has produced in the battery under his command." "The care he has taken of the batteries and armament in his charge, and, indeed, for the manner he has performed the duties of Deputy-Adjutant General during the absence of Lieutenant Colonel Houghton, D.A.G., my personal thanks are due to him for the assistance he has rendered me at Victoria. He proposes to qualify, by a course of instruction at one of the gunnery schools, which will, I trust, be sanctioned."

"The force of volunteer militia of Victoria was inspected by Colonel Lovell, C.B., R.E., who expresses a very favourable opinion of their efficiency, especially of their gun practice."

"Since the death of Sergeant Braham, late Royal Artillery, Assistant Gunnery Instructor from "A" Battery, Captain Tatlow, who has obtained a First Class Long Course Certificate from "B" Battery, has been appointed caretaker and instructor to the volunteer militia artillery. From my knowledge of him as an officer, I have no doubt he will perform his duties satisfactorily. I have to recommend, with a view to better training and instruction, that the increase to the battery of garrison volunteer militia take the form of a second battery, by changiing No. 1 Company of Rifles into artillery (a change they themselves desire), as there are not sufficient men of the class willing to enrol to keep up the increased strength of artillery and rifles."

"The battery of artillery commanded by Lieutenant Pittendreigh, late of Her Majesty's 3rd Regiment, might be completed by the addition of ten men and one officer, and a suitable equipment supplied, their gun carriages being rotten."

"A fourth battery should be raised at Nanaimo, the whole

Page 57 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added making a brigade of four batteries, commanded by Captain Dupont, with Captain Tatlow as Adjutant, Gunnery Instructor and Quartermaster."

"The strength of 100 gunners, permanent garrison for Victoria, is calculated upon allowing four men per gun, regular artillerymen, for the batteries at Victoria, besides furnishing detachments for Nanaimo and New Westminster. The brigade of 160 men, volunteer militia artillery, making up the complement required for efficient working of the batteries, as well as manning the four 16 pounder heavy field guns, and two 24 pounder howitzers at New Westminster, which might be found useful in securing the roads from the south, which unite at New Westminster, on the opposite side of the Fraser River. The position of New Westminster is a naturally strong one between the frontier and Burrard Inlet. The single road from the south through a densely wooded ridge on the south bank of the Fraser River, opposite New Westminster could be closed by Captain Pittendreigh's guns, flanked by the rifle company and by auxiliary Indian sharpshooters ..."

I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient Servant,

(Sgd) T. Bland Strange, Lieutenant Colonel, R.A. Dominion Inspector of Artillery

Citadel of Quebec November 7th, 1879

COPY (FOR COLONEL STRANGE'S INFORMATION)

STRENGTH OF THE VOLUNTEER MILITIA OF B.C. AND NUMBER OF ABLE-BODIED MEN AVAILABLE FOR TRAINING ON EMERGENCY

Military District No. 11 Victoria, B.C. September 24th, 1879.

Sir: "I have the honour, in accordance with your instructions, to report that the strength of the active militia in the Province of British Columbia, is as follows:-

______|Authorized |Actual |------|------|Officers:NCO's:Officers:NCO's ______| :& men: :& men Victoria Battery Garrison Artillery | 5 | 85 | 3 | 50 No.1CompanyRifles,Victoria | 3 | 42| 2 | 31 No.2CompanyRifles,Victoria | 3 | 42| 2 | 34 Garrison Artillery, New Westminster | 2 | 30 | 2 | 25 Rifle Company, New Westminster | 3 | 40 | 2 | 34 RifleCompany,Nanaimo | 3 | 40| 1 | 23 |______|_____|______|______| 19 |279| 12 |197 TOTAL...... |______|_____|______|______

"The authorized strength of the Victoria Garrison Artillery has only recently been increased from 3 officers and 50 non- commissioned officers and gunners to 5 officers and 85 non- commissioned officers and gunners. The uniforms for this increase have not yet arrived; as soon as they are received the strength will be brought up to number authorized."

"I have the honour further to report that I have made a careful estimate of the number of men capable of bearing arms that could be enrolled should an emergency arise and their services be required for defences of the places mentioned, and fix the numbers as follows:-

At Victoria, including the City and District, and the Town and District of Esquimalt ...... 700

At Nanaimo, including the Town and District, and Comox and Cowichan Districts ...... 350

At New Westminster, City and District, including Burrard Inlet ...... 350

"Beyond the districts mentioned, excepting the mining villages of Barkerville, Stanley and Cassiar, the population is so scattered that there are very few men who could, with safety, leave their homes, for the most part being without assistance, and too far separated from neighbors to aid or relieve each other, few men could leave their houses and families."

"From the mining villages a small addition might be made to the numbers I have given, but several weeks would be required to enrol men and bring them to the coast."

"If time permitted and arms were available, an auxiliary force of 1,000 Indians could, I have no doubt, be raised."

I have the honor to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, (SGD) C.T. Dupont, Captain. Acting D.A.G.

- A -

"War Office, 1st July, 1879.

Sir:-

"His Royal Highness the Field Marshal Commanding-in-Chief, having just been pleased to direct you to proceed to Vancouver Island, for the purpose of reporting of the defences, I have to inform you that certain measures were taken last year for the purpose of providing temporary defences, which were partially erected by officers of the Dominion Government, and armed with guns lent by the Admiralty."

"The report of the Colonial Defence Committee of last year, forwarded herewith, will explain their views upon the subject. I also forwarded reports by Lieutenant General Sir E. Selby-Smyth, Colonel Blair, R.A., and Admiral de Horsey, R.N., referring thereto, with Lieutenant Colonel Irwin's plan of defence and chart of the port in question. You will be good enough to place yourself in communication with Lieutenant Colonel Strange, R.A., Inspector of Artillery, who had been sent by the Dominion Government, and, after conferring with him, to report in detail on the following points."

"1. The means to be adopted for placing the harbours of Esquimalt and Victoria in an efficient state of defence by permanent works, the extent to which the temporary works may be made available being reported."

"2. Whether the two harbours can be considered independently, or whether, on the other hand, the scheme of defence must necessarily embrace both, bearing in mind that Esquimalt as an Imperial station is of primary importance."

"3. The Garrison required to be permanently maintained, and the manner in which such garrison should be constituted stating the extent to which assistance in this respect may be expected from local resources."

"4. These are the principal points to which your attention should be directed. But, I may add, that your reports should be as full as possible and accompanied with plans furnished with the least possible delay."

I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient Servant, (Signed) J.L.A. Simmons, General.

To Colonel Lovell, C.B., Commanding Royal Engineer, Halifax.

-B-

"War Office, 1st July, 1879.

Sir:-

"With reference to my letter to you of this day, I am to request you, when in Vancouver's Island, to visit Nanaimo, which has been brought to the notice of the Secretary of State for War as the station from which the dockyard at Esquimalt and steamships navigating the Northern Pacific along the coast of America are chiefly supplied with coal."

"The defence of Nanaimo, may therefore, become a matter of importance, as well as for securing a supply of fuel for the use of British steamships, as for preventing an enemy from obtaining such supplies. The Secretary of State, is therefore, desirous of taking advantage of your visit to Vancouver Island to obtain your views as to the advisableness of providing defences for this post, and the means to be taken for its defence in case such a measure should at any time become necessary."

"The Secretary of State for War will also be glad to receive any views you may form generally, on the measures to be taken for the defence of the Pacific Coast of Her Majesty's dominions in the event of war, bearing in mind its distance from any established naval arsenal, and the difficulties which must, therefore, attend hostile operations directed against it."

"I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, (Signed) J.L.A. Simmons, General.

To Colonel Lovell, C.B. Commanding Royal Engineers, Halifax, N.S."

CHAPTER V

BRITISH COLUMBIA PROVISIONAL REGIMENT OF GARRISON ARTILLERY

Early Militia Lists in the Regimental Archives show that the 5th (B.C.) Regiment, C.G.A., was organized on 12 October, 1883, and from this date commences the history of the Artillery in British Columbia as a Regimental Unit instead of Independent Batteries. The name given the Regiment at that time was "British Columbia Provisional Regiment of Garrison Artillery." Authority for its formation and the names of the first officers appointed are contained in Militia Order No. 22 dated the 12th October, 1883, and published in the Canada Gazette dated the 13th October, 1883.

The Regiment was comprised of four batteries under Major C.T. Dupont, as Commanding Officer. The Seymour Battery of New Westminster, commanded by Captain Pittendreigh, was made No. 1 Battery, in the new organization. The Victoria Battery of Garrison Artillery was divided into two batteries, Captain A.W. Jones, commanding No. 2 Battery; Captain J.L. Raymur, commanding No. 3 Battery. No. 1 Company of Rifles, Victoria, was made No. 4 Battery and placed under the command of Captain W.H. Dorman. Captain Richard Wolfenden was appointed Adjutant and Dr. J.B. Matthews, Surgeon. A few weeks later 2nd Lieutenant Walter Shears was appointed Paymaster and Captain Dorman, Quartermaster. Captain E.G. Prior succeeded Captain Dorman in the command of No. 4 Battery.

The authorized establishment of the Regiment was 17 officers and 170 N.C.O.'s and men; the establishment for each battery being 3 officers and 42 N.C.O.'s and men. From these figures it can be seen that the staff consisted of: Commanding Officer, Adjutant, Surgeon, Paymaster, Quartermaster, Regimental Sergeant- Major and Regimental Quartermaster-Sergeant.

Besides the changes already noted the following further changes were made in the various Battery commands during the period covered by this chapter. In March, 1885, Captain John Nicholles succeeded Captain Raymur in No. 3 Company; and on the 8th January, 1886, Captain William Norman Bole, afterwards Judge Bole, succeeded Captain Pittendreigh in No. 1 Company at New Westminster. In civil life Captain Pittendreigh was a stipendiary magistrate. His term of command of the Artillery in New Westminster covered a period of about seven and a half years. In connection with his retirement Militia General Orders dated the 8th January, 1886, contains the following tribute:

"The Assistant Deputy Adjutant General Commanding the District wishes upon this occasion to express his regret that Captain Pittendreigh has been compelled by the Regulations of the Service to sever his connection with the force in this District.

"The very satisfactory condition of Captain Pittendreigh's Battery during the past two years - last year the best and smartest corps in this District - has been owing to the zeal and energy displayed by him in its behalf, and its condition on being handed over last November to Captain Bole, both as regards the personnel as well as the state of arms, accoutrements and clothing is deserving of the highest credit - a state which it is hoped this Corps will continue to maintain."

"Captain Pittendreigh carries with him the regards and best wishes of the officers, not only of his own corps, but of the District at large."

(Signed) J.G. Holmes, Lt-Col. A.D.A.G., Mil. Dist. No. 11."

FIRST ANNUAL INSPECTION

The first annual inspection of the new Regiment was made by Lieutenant Colonel J.G. Holmes, D.A.G. in April, 1884, the period fixed for the completion of the Annual Drill for 1883, being extended owing to the recent reorganization.

In his annual report dated 18th April, 1884, the D.A.G. strongly recommended new guns for the District and especially condemned the guns used by the Westminster Battery. His report on the Artillery Armament of the District, after enumerating the guns on charge, reads as follows:

"The above are mounted on naval carriages, and slides, for the defence of Victoria and Esquimalt, and are provided with a supply of ammunition equal to about 100 rounds per gun. I do not consider this sufficient in so isolated a station as Victoria, at least 400 rounds per gun should be provided, as, owing to changes in armament of Her Majesty's ships of war, we can no longer depend on the Royal Naval Yard for reserves of suitable ammunition. Steps should also be taken for the transfer to the Dominion, by purchase or otherwise, of all such ordnance, ammunition and stores as will be shipped back to England, consequent on above mentioned changes. We have also at New Westminster two 14-pounder Smooth Bore Howitzers, originally mounted on field carriages with limbers complete. The carriages and limbers are rotten and have fallen to pieces, and the guns are without sights. I would recommend that they be at once returned to District Store, as where they are they answer no good purpose, and, by their dilapidated appearance, bring discredit on the force."

"I strongly recommend that a Battery of four 40-pounder rifled guns, on travelling siege carriages, be supplied for this District, one of which would be issued to replace the 24-pounder Howitzers. This gun would be most useful in preventing a crossing of the Fraser River by a hostile force, and could be

Page 64 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added used with great effect, either from a steamer or an armoured car on the line of the Canadian Pacific Railway, which, for many miles, skirts the north bank of the river. Two more might be issued to the Headquarters Batteries of the British Columbia Garrison Artillery, and be employed in preventing an enemy's landing in many places around Victoria, where the guns at present mounted could not reach."

"The remaining guns to be given to the School of Artillery for instructional purposes."

"A Battery of 7-pounder R.M.L. guns should also be provided so that in case of disturbance, either on the coast or in the interior, suitable Artillery armament for this kind of operation could be provided - these guns to be in charge of "C" Battery, G.A. and be provided with suitable harness, pack saddles, &c."

FIRST ARTILLERY SCHOOL

The first Artillery School for the Active Militia in British Columbia was organized and conducted in Victoria by Lieutenant Colonel Holmes in 1884. On the conclusion of the course, which lasted from the 17th April to the 10th July the following Certificates were granted:

First Class, Short Course, Grade A: Captains Richard Wolfenden, James L. Raymur, E.G. Prior; Lieutenants N.P. Snowden and John Nicholles.

Second Class, Short Course, Grade A: Lieutenant A.G. Gamble, and 2nd Lieutenant F.G. Wake.

First Class, Short Course, Grade B: Sergeant R.J. Plummer.

Second Class, Short Course, Grade B: Corporal E. Rogers and Gunners H. Smith and E. Mallandaine.

The Report of Lieutenant Colonel Holmes on this school is quoted herewith from the Annual Militia Report, 1884.

"I have the honor to submit the following Report on the Temporary School of Artillery, at this station, to date.

"Owing to the delay in the formation of "C" Battery, G.A., and the appointment of a number of non-qualified Officers to the newly formed Regiment of Garrison Artillery at Victoria, I felt it to be imperative that something should be done to enable these Officers to obtain a knowledge of their duties, and qualify themselves for the important positions they had assumed. I accordingly made application to Headquarters, at Ottawa, for authority to carry out a special short Course of Instructions, with such means as were at my disposal, and which were limited by the small amount of equipment on our charge at this Station.

"Authority having been granted, the course commenced on the 17th of April last. Seven officers and seventeen non-

Page 65 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added commissioned officers and men joined during the course, which continued until the 10th of July. One Officer attended for the purpose of obtaining a Special Course Certificate.

"One Officer, who declined examination, and four N.C.O.'s and men, who were unable to complete the course, did not obtain certificates.

"Staff-Sergeant Kinsella, Regiment of Canadian Artillery, acted as Sergeant-Major and Instructor in gun drills, etc. The courses of lectures, Infantry drill, sword exercise, etc., having been undertaken by myself.

"This non-commissioned Officer, who arrived from Quebec on the 17th of October, 1883, has been of great assistance to me. He has acted as Instructor to the Active Militia Corps at Victoria, and by his zeal and attention, done much towards bringing that Force to a high standard of efficiency.

"Captain Wolfenden, B.C.G.A., who was in immediate command of the Detachment, and Captain Jones, B.C.G.A., who acted as Adjutant, are deserving of credit for the manner in which they performed their various duties.

"The guns used for drill purposes being mounted on Naval pattern carriages and slides, some slight changes had to be made in the gun drills, and the results could not be made altogether satisfactory. I would most strongly recommend that steps be taken to provide land service, pattern carriages and platforms for the armament here, as being more suitable, being more simple in construction, more easily worked and affording more cover to the Detachment, the latter point being of special importance in the case of guns mounted, as they are on barbette.

"These Batteries at present are unserviceable for want of repairs. Renewal to certain of the wooden carriages and slides which had become rotten from time and exposure seems to me to be an opportune time to make such a change. The expenditure involved in partial reconstruction and renewals might better be utilized in arranging for a more perfect system of defence than in perpetuating the present unsatisfactory one."

FIRST TRAINING CAMP

The first camp of the Victoria Batteries of the Regiment was held at Beacon Hill from July 23rd to August 9th, 1884. Citizens of Victoria, as well as the soldiers themselves, manifested much interest in the training. No time was lost in commencing drill in the mornings. Reveille was at 4:45 A.M. - early enough - but there was a Rouse Sounding at 4:30 AM!

The annual inspection was made by Lt. Colonel Holmes during the last three days of Camp and his report states:

"B.C. Provisional Regiment of Garrison Artillery, - The Headquarter Batteries of this Corps - No. 2 and 4 - performed

Page 66 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added their Annual Drill in Camp at Beacon Hill Park, Victoria.

"Great interest was shown by all ranks in their work, and also by their fellow-citizens of Victoria.

"The Municipal Council provided the Camp ground, fuel and water, free of charge, and also voted the sum of two-hundred dollars in aid of the expenses of the Corps. This degree of interests shown in the force was very gratifying to the Corps concerned, and was of material assistance to it.

"The Camp was formed on the 23rd of July, and broke up on the 9th of August, having lasted for seventeen days, although pay was received for twelve only, which proves the interest taken by Major Dupont, the Commanding Officer, and the remaining Officers and men of this Corps.

"The Batteries and Staff paraded nearly full strength, Staff- Sergeant Kinsella, of the Regiment of Canadian Artillery, acted as Sergeant-Major and Drill Instructor, and his valuable services were much appreciated by all ranks.

"At the close of the Camp, the Regiment paraded in Marching Order for inspection. Rear-Admiral A. Lyons, Royal Navy, Commanding the Pacific Squadron, who, at my request, kindly consented to make the inspection - was pleased to express his pleasure at the good appearance and steadiness of the different batteries.

"I would beg, in this communication, to strongly recommend that the allowance in money, in lieu of rations, &c., be increased at least 33-1/3 percent, to allow for the increased cost in this Province over the Eastern Provinces.

NEW CORPS

"It is to be regretted that the Batteries of Garrison Artillery, one at Nanaimo and one at Hastings, on Burrard Inlet, recommended last year, have not been accepted and gazetted. Had they been, and permitted to drill this year, I am confident that the total number of all ranks drilled in this District, this year, would not have fallen short of that recommended by me in last year's report, viz. 300 officers and men.

"To my last report, I would beg respectfully to call attention. To the remarks made therein I have little to add, the suggestions contained in it having not as yet been acted on, except to again call attention to the unserviceable condition of the Batteries at Victoria and Esquimalt, a matter I consider of the first importance.

"The carriage and slides of the 64-pounder guns are rapidly becoming unserviceable from decay, and will soon require complete renewal. The supply of 64-pounder ammunition is nearly all expended, and there is no reserve of either in District Stores.

Page 67 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added "A large supply of 64-pounder guns, carriages, slides, ammunition, and stores therefore, has just been shipped to England from the Naval Yard at Esquimalt as being no longer required for naval purposes.

"The Batteries at Macaulay Point and Brothers Island are unserviceable for want of the necessary repairs called for last year, none of which have as yet begun. The guns, carriages and slides mounted in these Batteries are in good order, having been completely overhauled, repaired and painted last winter.

RIFLE RANGES

"A new site for a Rifle Range at New Westminster has been selected and its purchase recommended.

"In conclusion, I may state that I have every reason to feel pleased with the manner in which the Officers and men of the permanent Staff have performed their various duties, and to place on record my appreciation of the soldier-like qualities of the Officers and men of the Active Militia of this District.

I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient Servant, (Sgd) J.G. Holmes, Lieut. Colonel, Acting Deputy Adjutant-General, Military District No. 11.

The Adjutant General of Militia, Ottawa."

SHAM FIGHT

Shortly after the conclusion of Camp, 1884, arrangements were made for the staging of a sham battle between the Victoria Batteries and one of the Naval ships from Montreal. Major Dupont in a letter describes this event as follows::

"The ship attacked one of the batteries at Beacon Hill, firing from some 2,000 yards distance, the guns replying with their fire. After considerable shooting, which caused plenty of noise and smoke, the land battery was supposed to be silenced (signalled by the guns ceasing fire). Boat loads of sailors from the ship then effected a landing in grand style and the gunners retired, armed only with rifles, taking advantage of the lay of the land to retard the enemy's advance. They were finally driven back on their last defence, which consisted of a long table abundantly supplied with kegs of beer, bread and cheese, where honorable terms were made with the enemy."

A letter of appreciation was sent by Admiral Lyons to Lieutenant Colonel Holmes on the part played in these manoeuvres by the Militia and was published in Regimental Orders dated 22nd October, 1884.

WAR CLOUDS

During the year 1885 there were again rumours of war with Russia, this time over the Sealing question. Also there was trouble in the North West Territories of Canada, a rebellion led by Louis Riel, having broken out there amongst the Indians and half-breeds. A regimental Order dated the 5th March, 1885, called for Battery gun drill at least twice a week and battery commanders were urged "in view of the threatening aspect of affairs" to show zeal and energy in their work. Confidential instructions were issued about this time by Lieutenant Colonel Holmes for manning the various batteries in case of mobilization.

GUARDS OF HONOUR

On state occasions the Regiment was called upon to provide Guards of Honour, as was invariably the case on the Annual opening of the Legislative Assembly.

On October 16th, 1885, a special Guard of Honour was provided to receive His Excellency, The Marquis of Lansdowne, Governor General of Canada, on his arrival in Victoria. On this occasion the Guard, under the command of Captain Wolfenden, comprised all three Artillery Companies with Band and also the Victoria Rifle Company. After His Excellency had been received at the wharf with a general salute, he was escorted by the Guard through the city.

In Regimental Orders a letter was later published from Lieutenant Colonel Holmes expressing appreciation of the good muster and appearance of the Guard and the manner in which their duties were performed.

MAJOR C.T. DUPONT

On the 27th November, 1885, Major Dupont retired from the command of the Regiment with permission to retain his rank and was succeeded by Major Richard Wolfenden. As Major Dupont had been in command of the Victoria Artillery since 1878 when the Victoria Battery was formed, a period of seven years, much credit is due to him for his energy and zeal in placing the Artillery on an efficient basis. Major Dupont was acting Deputy Adjutant General of the District while Lieutenant Colonel Houghton was absent on extended leave.

Major Dupont was born in the City of Quebec on 26th of September, 1837. He comes from a military family, his progenitors on both his father's and mother's side having had long service in the Imperial Army, their commissions being signed by King George III and King George IV.

While a young man Major Dupont entered the service of the

Page 69 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added Federal Government and was for many years Indian commissioner in the frontier territory of Canada, including the districts of Lakes Huron and Superior.

In the year, 1872, when this Province entered Confederation, Major Dupont was sent West on a special mission to obtain information on this part of the country for the customs authorities. In 1873 he was made Inspector of Inland Revenue, with headquarters at Victoria, which post he held for many years. While he was Indian commissioner, stationed on Manitoulin Island, he helped to repel a Fenian attack from the American side of the lake. Before receiving his commission in the Canadian Militia he served his term in the ranks of the Victoria Rifles at Montreal and the 15th Battalion at Belleville.

After he had been given command of the Victoria Battery, he took a Long Course of Artillery at the Quebec School of Gunnery, although he had previously passed the Kingston School of Gunnery examination.

Major Dupont's residence in Victoria for many years was known by its name "Stadacona". The estate was purchased by the city and is now known as Stadacona Park. During the last few years of his life and until his death on 8th December, 1923, he resided on Rock Avenue, off Quadra Street, in one of the beautiful suburbs of Victoria. Even in his old age he continued to take a keen interest in military matters and much of the material in this history concerning the organization of the Victoria Battery was furnished by him.

REGIMENTAL MOTTO AND CREST

On the title page is a copy of the Regimental crest and motto. No information is at hand regarding the exact date that this crest and motto were chosen, however, a memo from Lieut. Colonel F.B. Gregory to Major R. R. Munro dated September, 1899 directed him to select a suitable crest design as soon as possible. Two senior Sergeant-Majors created the design which was approved by Lieut. Col. Gregory. Major Dupont, in one of his letters, says: "I gave the Regiment the Motto 'Nunquam non Paratus' as being in line with the Imperial Artillery motto 'Semper Paratus' which of course we could not have." It seems probable therefore that the motto was chosen first by Major Dupont and the crest was chosen at a later date. The crest and motto have not been given official sanction by the Militia Department at Ottawa, and their use has been limited to the engraving or printing on Regimental cards and stationery.

SECOND ARTILLERY SCHOOL

Owing to the delay in the arrival of "C" Battery in Victoria, and the need for special artillery instruction in the local Regiment a special short course of instruction was held by Colonel Holmes in Victoria in the spring of 1886. The report on this school , published in the Annual Militia Report, 1886, is reproduced as follows:

"I have the honour to submit the following report on the Special Short Course of Instruction lately held at this station, under authority from Headquarters, Ottawa.

The course commenced on the 15th March last, and continued without intermission until the 15th June. One officer and twenty non-commissioned officers and men joined for the course, and one officer attended for the purpose of obtaining a Special Course Certificate.

The instruction during the Course was limited to squad and company drill, field and garrison gun drill, and repository exercises, owing to there being no sling-wagon, gyn or siege gun at the station. It was also necessary, owing to all the guns being mounted on naval carriages and slides, to modify the drill as laid down in the Artillery Exercises to suit the armament. This proved only fairly satisfactory. I beg again to recommend that early steps be taken to replace these slides by traversing platforms of modern pattern.

Most of the wooden carriages and slides on charge here are now unserviceable from decay, four at least being completely useless, thus rendering two-thirds of our 64-pr. armament at present useless. Requisitions were made some months ago for wrought-iron common standing carriages, to replace those now unserviceable, as well as for many articles of equipment much needed to place the Batteries in a condition fit for service.

A number of rifled field and siege guns are also needed for defensive purposes, there being none either at the station or in the Province.

A course of rifle practice was carried out by the squad, consisting of class firing as laid down in orders for the annual drill of the Militia, as well as independent and volley firing at unknown ranges, with fairly good results. A portion of the biennial practice ammunition was fired from the 7-inch and 8-inch guns; there was no 64-pr. ammunition available for a course of competitive practice.

Bombardier T.W. Robson, B.C.G.A., deserves especial mention for the very creditable examination passed by him. He obtained the highest number of marks of any competitor in the squad, viz: 689, and has now been recommended for a commission as Lieutenant in his Regiment.

In conclusion I beg to bring to your favourable notice the services of Dr. F.A. Praeger, Acting Surgeon, B.C.G.A., who acted as Medical Officer to the School during the whole course to my complete satisfaction. This gentleman received from the public no remuneration for his services, and as it is essential for the sake of discipline to have a Medical Officer, I would strongly recommend that for future similiar courses (should further delay in the formation of "C" Battery, R.C.A. render them necessary) he be allowed pay as an attached officer

Page 71 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added during the course. I am also of the opinion that the District Paymaster should be allowed pay for the extra trouble given to him during course of instruction."

I have the honour to be, Sir, Your Obedient servant, (SGD) J. G. Holmes, Lt. Col. Commandant, R.S.A.

The Officer Commanding, Regiment of Canadian Artillery, Ottawa.

"At this school eleven candidates including four from the Victoria Rifle Company were successful in obtaining Certificates as follows:

1st Class, Grade A: Capt. R.E. Green, Victoria Rifle Co.; 2nd Lieut. C.M. McNaughton. 1st Class, Grade B: Gnr. W. Atkins, Bomb. F.W. Robson, Gnr. C. Spencer; Cpl. B. Williams. 2nd Class, Grade B: Corp. R.C. Fawcett, Victoria Rifle Co.; Gnr. C.P. Mason; Sgt. T. Watson; and Ptes. F. Shade and G. Smith of the Victoria Rifle Co.

THE BAND

Victoria's first Military Band was attached to the Victoria Rifle Company and later, when the Victoria Battery was formed, the band was attached to both units. After the formation of the Artillery into a Regiment the band was absorbed by the larger organization as indicated by the following memorandum from Lt. Col. Holmes, published in Regimental Orders dated 9th Nov. 1883.

"Owing to the formation of a Provisional Regiment of Garrison Artillery in this District, the Militia Band at Victoria in order to draw drill pay and annual band allowance, will in future be required to be enrolled entirely in the above-mentioned corps."

"The officer commanding the Victoria Rifle Company will kindly arrange that any bandsmen now on the strength of his corps be permitted to be transferred to the Regiment of Garrison Artillery.

"The Secretary and Treasurer of the present Band organization will hand over to the Officer Commanding the Regiment of Garrison Artillery all books, papers, cash, etc., in his charge."

Although William Haynes was the first Bandmaster when the Band was attached to the Victoria Rifle Company and retained that position for a number of years, he appears to have dropped out for a time, (date unknown) and was succeeded by a Mr. Leigh who apparently was in charge of the Band when it was taken over by

Page 72 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added the Regiment. Regimental Orders however show that on the 1st February, 1884, William Haynes was again appointed Bandmaster "vice Leigh resigned."

A strict set of Band Regulations was published by Major Dupont in Regimental Orders dated the 10th June, 1884, as follows:

"1. All members of the Band must be enrolled in the B.C. Regiment of G.A. in accordance with Sec. 18, 46 Vic. Chap. II.

"2. No person will be permitted to practice with the Band, either with his own instrument or one belonging to the Regiment, after this date, who is not duly enrolled.

"3. Bandsmen will not be required to perform drill as gunners, but will be required to attend not more than six foot drills and all Band practices.

"4. In all other respects Bandsmen will be subject to the provisions of the Militia Act and Regulations and Orders for the Militia of Canada, equally with all enrolled in the Regiment.

"5. The Bandmaster will be held responsible for maintenance of discipline in the Band, and the custody of all instruments and Militia property entrusted to the Band.

"6. On no pretext whatever may the Band play on any occasion, excepting at practice and parades ordered by the Commanding Officer of the Regiment, unless permission has been previously obtained from the Officer Commanding; neither may individual Bandsmen in their private capacity make use of any Militia instrument for any purpose except as hereby specially authorized.

"7. The earnings of the Band in playing (by permission) for private parties or parades will be paid to the Treasurer of the Regimental Band Fund and 75 per cent of the amount will be forthwith distributed to members of the Band in proportion of their efficiency, and the remaining 25 per cent will be appropriated to the Band Fund.

In those days discipline was evidently enforced in the Band as well as in the various companies. In Regimental Order dated the 26th April, 1884, a number of members of the Regiment were fined $5.00, for absence without leave from inspection parade. In this order no less than six bandsmen were included who were also required to turn in their instruments and equipment.

The Regulations as drafted by Major Dupont were again published in Regimental Orders by Major Wolfenden, who apparently followed the same policy as that of his predecessor in enforcing discipline, for in Regimental Orders dated the 23rd December, 1885, we note that Bandmaster Haynes was dismissed for failure to carry out the prescribed regulations. The first annual inspection report of the Regiment held on

Page 73 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added the 3rd of April 1884 contains the following reference to the Band. "12 members; perform very well but require discipline - are unsteady in parade." The next inspection held on the 9th August, 1884, shows an improvement as is shown by the following brief report: "14 musicians, good."

A similar good report was made at the annual inspection on the 27th March, 1886.

ANNUAL TRAINING, 1885

Owing to the late date of receipt of orders to commence drill this year, permission was applied for and received to extend the drill period of the Victoria Batteries to the 1st April, 1886. Lieutenant Colonel Holmes in his annual report stated that as the winter period was always the most favorable for evening drills he was of the opinion that much good would result from such an extension each year, and we find that from this time the practice was frequently followed.

Although the Battery had its annual inspection on November 28th, 1885, the Victoria Batteries did not complete their annual drill until their inspection on the 27th March, 1886, this being the first annual inspection of the Regiment under its new Commanding Officer, Major Wolfenden. The official report for this year for all batteries was satisfactory as usual. Lieutenant Colonel Holmes in his annual report made the following remarks on the armament at New Westminster: "New serviceable rifled guns are much required for the Battery at New Westminster. Pending the issue of these I consider that serviceable carriages and limbers for the Howitzers now on charge should be issued, and have made requisition for them."

This brings us to the close of this chapter for on the 7th May, 1886, the name of the Regiment was changed to "British Columbia Brigade of Garrison Artillery", and on this occasion Major Wolfenden was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

BRITISH COLUMBIA BRIGADE OF GARRISON ARTILLERY

The name of the local artillery was changed to "British Columbia Brigade of Garrison Artillery" on the 7th May, 1886, which name continued for about 7 years when it was again changed to "B.C. Battalion of G.A."

The authorized establishment under the new title remained practically the same as before except that the Commanding Officer was given the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and an extra officer was added as Second in Command with the rank of Major. Each of the four batteries was commanded by a Captain as before.

During the period covered by this chapter Officers on the

Page 74 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added Staff and in command of Batteries were as follows:

O.C.: Lieutenant Colonel R. Wolfenden was in command of the Brigade until his retirement on the 15th June, 1888, when he was succeeded by Lieutenant Colonel E.G. Prior.

2nd in Command: Major E.G. Prior, from No. 4 Battery, was 2nd in Command under Lieutenant Colonel Wolfenden until his appointment as Commanding Officer. Major John Nicholles succeeded Prior as 2 I/C and retained this office until he retired on the 7th April. 1883.

Adjutant: Captain Northing P. Snowden was Adjutant until the 27th Sept. 1889, when he retired and was succeeded by Captain P.A. Irving on the 28th Feb. 1890.

Quartermaster: Captain W.H. Dorman, appointed Quarter- master in the Provisional Regiment on the 14th December, 1883, remained Q.M. throughout this period.

Paymaster: Walter Shears, who was appointed Paymaster in the Provisional Regiment on the 14th December, 1883, remained Paymaster throughout this period.

Surgeon: Dr. J.B. Matthews, appointed Surgeon in the "Victoria Battery" on the 5th December, 1879, remained in office until he died. He was succeeded by Dr. E.S. Hasell on 28th October, 1892.

No. 1 Battery Commander: Captain William Norman Bole, who succeeded Captain Pittendreigh on the 8th January, 1886, remained in Command until the 1st February, 1889, when he was succeeded by Captain C.M. McNaughton. On the 28th February, 1890 Captain Thomas Owen Townley was appointed vice McNaughton deceased. In civil life C.M. McNaughton was a jeweller.

No. 2 Battery Commander: Captain A.W. Jones, who was one of the first officers of the old "Victoria Battery" and who held command of a Company ever since the formation of the Provisional Regiment, kept the command of No. 2 Battery until the 23rd December, 1887 when he was appointed Paymaster and Superintendent of Militia Stores for the District. Captain Jones, a resident of Victoria, carried on a real estate business under the firm name of A.W. Jones, Ltd. On the 23rd March, 1888, Captain P.A. Irving, later better known as Judge Irving, succeeded Captain Jones in the command of No. 2 Battery which position he held until he was made Adjutant, the command of the Battery then going to Captain J.W. Sinclair his appointment dating from the 28th February, 1890. On the 22nd April, 1892, Captain Sinclair, having "left the limits" was struck off the Militia list but no immediate successor seems to have been appointed.

No. 3 Battery Commander: Captain John Nicholles, who had been in command since the 20th March, 1885, was on his promotion to Major, succeeded by Captain W.J. Quinlan on the 27th September, 1889.

No. 4 Battery Commander: Major E.G. Prior was in command until he was promoted when he was succeeded by Captain W.B. Smallfield on the 16th July, 1886.

"C" BATTERY

The arrival of "C" Battery, R.C.A., at Victoria on the 10th November, 1887, marks the first appearance of a permanent garrison in British Columbia. The significance of the event is referred to by Lieutenant Colonel J.G. Holmes in his Annual Report for 1887 as follows:

"The arrival of "C" Battery, R.C.A., at Victoria on the 10th November last made a new era in the life of the Militia of this Province. What effect it will have upon the Force remains to be seen. I have every reason to hope, however, that it will be beneficial and that the presence of a Corps in the permanent military service of the Dominion, being not only an addition to our defensive military strength, but also a pattern and example in discipline, soldierly bearing and conduct will have the effect of making each Corps vie with the others in being nearly as possible like it. The fact that every officer and man has at least at his disposal the means of acquiring a knowledge of all his duties is also a matter of congratulation."

In another report Lieutenant Colonel Holmes refers to the Battery's reception and accommodation upon its arrival as follows: "The Mayor and Corporation of Victoria have aided me in every possible way in making the Battery comfortable, and the people of the City very generously provided a good supper and gave the Battery a hearty welcome the night of its arrival. "The single non-commissioned officers and men are quartered in the Agricultural Hall, Victoria, which was fitted up under my supervision as Barracks and answers the purpose fairly well. Considerable work had to be done both to the main building and the outbuildings.

"The present arrangements, however, which compel the Officers and married non-commissioned officers and men to reside out of the Barracks, owing to want of accommodation, are not satisfactory, and it is to be hoped that the new Barracks to be built on Work Point will be fully completed by the 1st October next year, when the lease of the present premises expires."

In the formation of "C" Battery, quotas were drawn from "A" Battery at Kingston and "B" Battery at Quebec. The organization of "C" battery was authorized in 1883 and during this year the organization of the Canadian Artillery was changed to include all three Batteries, or Artillery Schools of Instruction, in one Regiment. The following reference to this change was made by Major General R.C.A. Luard, Commanding the Militia, in his annual report for 1883.

Page 76 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added The formation into one Regiment of artillery of the two schools of Gunnery, "A" and "B" Batteries, together with a third Battery, "C", to be formed for service in British Columbia, is a very important fact to record and on which to congratulate the Militia, as tending to ensure uniformity of system in the Schools, and the Certificates emanating therefrom, as well as in the Artillery generally. Under Lieutenant Colonel Irwin (Retired List, Royal Artillery) who has for many years commanded the Royal School of Artillery at Quebec, I have every confidence that the Regiment will prosper."

The delay in sending "C" Battery to Victoria, four years having elapsed between the date of its authorization and the time of its arrival, may have been due, at least in part to the uncertainty as to whether Victoria or Vancouver should be selected as the site of Barracks for the Artillery School of Instruction and for Headquarters. Major General Fred Middleton, Commanding the Militia, in his Annual Report for 1884, favored Vancouver as being more centrally located than Victoria and holding a strategic position as the western terminus of the Canadian Pacific Railway. He also pointed out that Victoria, together with the Dry Dock at Esquimalt, was always protected by a Ship of War, and a Marine Department quartered in the Naval Yard, which protection might be withdrawn by the Imperial Government should the new Battery and District Headquarters be established there.

Although the old Agricultural Hall in Beacon Hill Park was only intended as temporary quarters it was three years before the Battery was transferred to permanent quarters at Work Point, and during this time the gunners were chiefly employed in clearing the site for, and helping in the construction of their future home.

LIEUTENANT COLONEL WOLFENDEN RETIRES

With the retirement of Lieutenant Colonel Richard Wolfenden, in June, 1888, the local Artillery lost the services of a keen and capable officer. It has been already noted that he came to this country from England with the Royal Engineers. On the disbandment of that body in 1863 Mr. Wolfenden remained in British Columbia and continued his duties of King's Printer, a position which he retained until his death. From the time of his arrival in this country until his retirement from the Regiment Lieutenant Colonel Wolfenden was always connected with some Military unit, having served with the New Westminster Rifles before joining the Victoria Artillery. He was President of the B.C. Rifle Association for many years and was the first man to represent the Province at Wimbledon. As a reward for his military and other public services he was made "Companion of the Imperial Service Order" in 1903 and this, together with the "Volunteer Officers' Decoration" which he also received entitled him to use the initials I.S.O., V.D. after his name. On the 5th October, 1911, he died after a short illness at his home, 120 Menzies Street, and was given an imposing military funeral by his

Page 77 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added former comrades in the 5th Regiment.

INDIAN TROUBLES AT HAZELTON

In the summer of 1888 there was a reported uprising of the Indians at Hazelton and in response to the usual requisition signed by three Justices of the Peace, Lieutenant Colonel J.G. Holmes, despatched "C" Battery to the scene of trouble. On the 16th July the Force left Esquimalt for Port Essington on H.M.S. CAROLINE. On arrival at Port Essington it was decided to hold The Battery there in Camp while special constables went to Hazelton to settle the trouble if possible, it being felt that the knowledge of a military force at Port Essington would have a restraining effect. This proved to be the case and on the 6th August word was received that everything had been satisfactorily settled.

A full account of this expedition reported by Lieutenant Colonel Holmes, is contained in the Annual Militia Report for 1888. The last paragraph of the report refers to the services of Lieutenant Colonel E.G. Prior as follows:

"Lieutenant Colonel Prior, Commanding British Columbia Garrison Artillery, who came forward promptly and volunteered his services in any capacity, is, I think, deserving of special mention. His knowledge of the Chinook language was very useful, and had the expedition proceeded up the river his position as Supply and Transport Officer, would have been not sinecure, and the duties of which he is, from the little experience already had, I am satisfied, able to perform most satisfactorily."

STRIKE DUTY AT WELLINGTON

Two years after the Indian troubles at Hazelton the troops of the Province were called out in aid of the Civil Power. This time the trouble was caused by a strike of the Miners at Wellington, Vancouver Island. On this occasion "C" Battery was accompanied by a detachment from the B.C. Brigade of G.A. In the Colonist of the 6th of August, 1890, the following account is given of the despatch of the Forces.

"Affairs at Wellington. - In order to anticipate the possibility of riot and bloodshed at Nanaimo, a requisition, signed by three magistrates, was on Monday evening presented to the senior officer in command of the militia, asking that a detachment of military be sent to Wellington to supplement the efforts of the special police in preserving order and protecting property. In answer to the requisition Lieutenant Colonel Holmes, D.A.G., ordered thirty men of "C" Battery, R.C.A., to hold themselves in readiness to go to Wellington. He requested Major Nicholles to parade an equal number from the three Headquarter Batteries of the B.C.B.G.A. at the drill shed in marching order, at noon. Ten men were accordingly drawn from each battery and under the command of Captain Quinlan, the detachment, thirty strong, took their departure by special train

Page 78 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added at 1:30 p.m. They were joined by the "C" Battery contingent at Russell Station and the entire force reached Nanaimo last evening. They were supplied with ball cartridges, 60 rounds being supplied each man. During the day the telegraph company had orders from headquarters not to transmit any messages to the strikers notifying them that the military were going up."

Fortunately no serious trouble arose during the presence of the military forces at Wellington although as is usual in such cases vigorous protests were made against the action of the authorities in calling out the Militia. The detachment from the B.C. Brigade of G.A. only remained for about two weeks although "C" Battery remained for a considerable time longer.

Regimental Orders dated the 20th August, 1890, reads: "The following memorandum from the D.A.G. is promulgated for general information. The detachment of B.C.B.G.A., has been relieved from further duty at Wellington. They left for Victoria at 4:40 p.m. yesterday. Please convey to all who have been on duty my approbation of their readiness in responding to the call of duty and their exemplary conduct while stationed here.

J. G. Holmes, Lieutenant Colonel, A.D.A.G., M.D. 11

INSPECTIONS

The Annual Militia Reports show that the training and annual inspections of all batteries in the Brigade during the years 1886 to 1892 were of a satisfactory nature. At the Annual Inspection of the Victoria Batteries on the 26th November, 1887, the Honourable The Minister of Militia, Sir Adolphe P. Caron, was present and was pleased to express his satisfaction at the fine appearance of the batteries on parade.

The Victoria Batteries had the honor of furnishing a Guard of Honour on the 31st October, 1889, on the arrival of Lord Stanley of Preston, Governor General of Canada, and His Excellency was pleased to express his approval of the smart appearance of the officers and men.

ARTILLERY ARMAMENT

Although the guns used by the Victoria Batteries were considered serviceable the weapons used by the New Westminster Battery were very unsatisfactory. Reference has already been made in preceding chapters to the reports and recommendations made by the D.A.G. on this subject but these seem to have had little effect on Ottawa authorities until the year 1886 when new pattern wrought iron carriages were received to replace the rotten carriages which had become absolutely useless.

Lieutenant Colonel Holmes however continued to urge that the old smooth bore howitzers at New Westminster should be replaced by new rifled guns, but no action seems to have been taken in

Page 79 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added putting these recommendations into effect.

A Return of Ordnance contained in the Annual Militia Report for 1892 shows the following list of guns on charge in British Columbia:

BRITISH COLUMBIA BATTALION OF GARRISON ARTILLERY

The next change in name and organization of the Brigade took place in April, 1893, when the title was changed to "The British Columbia Battalion of Garrison Artillery". Under the new Battalion organization the authorized establishment of each Battery was considerably increased and authority was given for the formation of a new Battery, No. 5, at Vancouver.

The B. C. Battalion of Garrison Artillery existed from April, 1893, to about the 1st of January, 1896, when the name of the Battalion was changed to the 5th Regiment, C.A. During this period the following further changes in organization should be noted although further reference to them will be made later. In September, 1893, the Batteries were changed to Companies and renumbered; Nos. 1, 2 and 3 at Victoria, No. 4 at New Westminster and No. 5 at Vancouver. In September, 1894, No. 4 Battery at New Westminster was disbanded although reorganized the following spring. In October, 1895, No. 6 Battery was organized in Vancouver making three companies on the mainland and three in Victoria. In the early part of 1895 the Battalion was given the number five although the name "5th B.C. Battalion, G.A." was not used locally and rarely seen outside the Militia List and Canada Gazette.

ESTABLISHMENT

Under the new "Battalion" organization the strength of each Company was increased from 3 officers and 42 other ranks to 5 officers and 98 other ranks. The Staff comprised 6 officers and 5 other ranks so that when Nos. 5 and 6 Companies were formed in Vancouver the total authorized strength of the Battalion was 36 officers and 593 non-commissioned officers and men. This made the B.C. Battalion of Garrison Artillery the strongest militia unit numerically, in the Dominion, a fact which caused considerable

Page 80 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added pride in the minds of the local military enthusiasts.

COMPANY ORGANIZATION

The following extract from Regimental Orders dated the 25th April, 1894, explains the plan of Company organization adopted at that time.

"With reference to G.O. (1) 31.1.94, the following Company organization will be adopted by the British Columbia, Montreal, Levis and Halifax Battalions of Garrison Artillery.

"Each Company commanded by a Major, is to be divided permanently into two half companies, the right hand Company under the Captain, and the left hand Company under the senior subaltern.

"Each half company is to be divided permanently into two sections, each under a subaltern.

"Each section, when it exceeds 10 fyles to be divided into two subsections, each under a non-commissioned officer."

OFFICERS

During this period when the Artillery was known as a Battalion of Garrison Artillery, Lieutenant Colonel E.G. Prior was in command. Apparently there was no separate Officer on the Establishment as Second in Command.

From this time appointments of officers were made to the Battalion rather than to companies or batteries as was the practice hitherto. The Commanding Officer had the power to distribute all officers in the Battalion to the various companies as he saw fit. Consequently it is impossible, from a perusal of Militia Orders in the Canada Gazette, to say which Companies were commanded by the various Majors in the Battalion.

After the adoption of the Battalion Establishment Captain P.A.E. Irving, former Adjutant, and Captain Quinlan were each promoted to the rank of Major and given command of a Company. Captain Thomas C. Townley of New Westminster was also promoted to Major and remained in command of No. 1 Company. At a later date Major N.P. Snowden was appointed Major in command of a Victoria Company.

Major Irving retired in April, 1894, Major Quinlan in November of the same year; and Major Snowden in January, 1895; the vacancies thus caused being filled in July, 1895, by the appointments of Majors F.B. Gregory, B. Williams and A.G. Sargison.

After the promotion of Major Irving from the Adjutancy the office of Adjutant was temporarily filled by various officers

Page 81 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added detailed for that duty gazetted as Adjutant. Amongst other changes on the Staff A.C. Flummerfelt succeeded W.H. Dorman as Quartermaster in January, 1894, and Dr. G.H. Duncan succeeded Dr. Hasell as Surgeon in June, 1895.

NO. 5 COMPANY

No. 5 Company B.C.B.G.A., has the honor of being the first Militia unit organized in Vancouver. For many years the people of that town had been advocating the formation of an artillery Battery there and their efforts were backed yearly by the official recommendations of the D.A.G., both Lieutenant Colonel Houghton and Lieutenant Colonel Holmes having supported the project.

When Captain Townley was authorized to raise a Company of Garrison Artillery, therefore, there was considerable satisfaction which however was tempered by regret that the unit was not to be an independent one but only a part of the B.C. Battalion of Garrison Artillery.

In the Vancouver Daily Province dated the 17th January, 1914, there is a lengthy article by Major J.S. Matthews on the formation of Vancouver's first Corps which deals particularly with the organization and activities of No. 5 Company. From this article the following extracts are quoted:-

"Just twenty years ago, on January 16th, 1894, by the taking of the oath of allegiance by a number of pioneer patriots, Vancouver formed the first unit of Her Majesty's Volunteer Forces destined to constitute the future Vancouver garrison. Few there are now who recall even the name of that old corps, the parent, as it were, of the fine regiments of Vancouver today.

"It is doubtful if in all the west a complete uniform could be assembled from the new parts preserved by some of those who served in it, and to whom the old number and initials No. 5, B.C.B.G.A., bring back the enchanting memory of bygone days. Trials and triumphs, joys and sorrows fell to the lot of the old brigade, but with a determination worthy of their great cause, they struggled on, shoulder to shoulder, until the few of them who are now here to see, evince a justifiable pride as they watch corps after corps swing by to the martial music of their bands. Who would not feel proud to have been part of the little acorn from which has grown such a sturdy oak?"

Major Matthews then gave a short summary of the early military units in the Province up until the organization of the Artillery into a Regiment of four batteries. His article then continues as follows:-

"Under the arrangement of one battery at Westminster, and three at Victoria, the B.C.B.G.A., remained for several years, and it was the only militia in the province. But in August, 1893, the old order was again disrupted. Since the last change there had arisen on the shores of Burrard Inlet a small town

Page 82 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added which bid fair to eclipse all the older cities, and in the shuffle a new battery was created and assigned to Vancouver.

"Much to the chagrin of the New Westminster artillerymen, who took a soldier's pride in their seniority, the officer commanding their battery agreed to a suggestion of the Deputy Adjutant General that the batteries of the brigade should be renumbered, and the change being assented to at Ottawa, the old No. 1 at Westminster became No. 4, while Nos. 1, 2 and 3 located at Victoria and the budding city of Vancouver became the proud possessor of the new battery No. 5.

"Prior to 1893 some effort had been made on the part of the citizens of the Terminal City to induce the militia department to form a corps in Vancouver, but their efforts had been futile. Some desired to have a Highland Regiment, but all agreed that it must be a separate corps and have no connection with the batteries at Westminster or Victoria - a desire which was eminently reasonable in view of the fact that, when organization was ultimately ordered, some 300 signatures appeared on the roll of applications, from which it was estimated that, even with a liberal discount a company of 200 could have been enrolled.

"After much delay the vexing question was settled. Early in June, 1893, Major (then Captain) T.O. Townley, who when he had resided in Westminster, had since 1890 commanded No. 1 Battery, was notified that authority had been delegated to him to raise a battery of garrison artillery at Vancouver of a strength of 100 men. "Captain Townley started to recruit immediately. Military men were delighted, and the more so as the branch to be taken up was that most interesting one--artillery. The new battery was to be No. 5, B.C.B.G.A. True, they were to be the junior battery of the brigade, but that brigade was the strongest one in Canada, its established strength being no less than 30 Officers and 460 non-commissioned officers and men.

THEATRE AS DRILL HALL

"As yet they had no drill hall, but they had the promise of one. In the interval between taking of the size rolls for uniforms, and the arrival of these garments and equipment, a building which was to do service for several years was secured for a Drill Shed. It was the old Imperial Opera House on Pender Street. It was in this old hall that the first parade of the pioneer corps took place and from which in 1900 and 1901 the Vancouver detachments were despatched for service in South Africa."

"The light fantastic was tripped at irregular intervals in the old theatre up to the time it was acquired for military purposes, and afterwards when it was converted, the stage, the ticket office, and all the dressing rooms were used to much advantage practically without alteration. The main floor, was used for drill purposes, the old cannon now ornamenting the main

Page 83 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added entrance to the quarters of the Connaught's Own on Beatty Street, being the armament.

"The stage was a special parade ground for recruits. The small office to the west at the entrance was the Orderly Room, while a similar room on the east was the armory. At the rear of the stage were some dressing rooms, and these were used for smoking rooms, games room, etc. At the front end of the hall the gallery was most useful for spectators. In December, 1893, Captain Townley was gazetted to the proper rank for an officer commanding a battery--that of Major-- and immediately began to exercise the authority granted him.

"Then came the memorable days of January 16 and 18, 1894. For several days it was noised abroad that the uniforms had arrived. Finally it was announced that they would be issued on January 16, and there was no lack of excitement on that evening.

"One by one the budding aspirants for military honours secured their uniforms, and were marched to the Orderly Room, where the Oath was administered which made them charter members of Her Majesty's first troops in the city of Vancouver. Fifty men were enrolled that evening. Colour Sergeant Marrion was the first man sworn in.

"The next evening January 17, equipment was issued to 30 more men, and the next day the first parade was held. The parade state showed 63 N.C.O.'s and men exclusive of officers. The following list is believed to be a complete one of those who attended the first drill on January 18, among them being many prominent residents of Vancouver today.

THE FIRST ROLL CALL

"C.A. Wood, John Turner, C. Redmond, L.A. Martin, B.W. Ward, E.A. Ford, W.A. Boultbee, T.H. Howell, H. Millie, J. Langstaff, J.H. Diamond, G.A. Boult, A.M. Forbes, Thomas Rodway, W. Pedder, N.B. Forbes, J.M. DeWitt, J.H. Tulley, D.M. McLean, J.J. Hillier, C.H. Mouat, J.C. McLagen, J.R. Tite, C. Millard, J. Kelly, H.M. Henderson, George Barwick, H.N. Smith, F.W. Alexander, R.F. Marrion, W.J. Hill, J.L. Leslie, W. Robertson, J.O. Fleming, W.T. Green, Benj. Hughes, H.J. Sharp, Albert Fowler, George Morency, M. Ramsay, R. Allison, J. Manning, A. Ballard, J. Keenan, H. Proctor, J. Rodway, H. Burnett, D. Homewood, W.C. Smith, F.J. Nickels, J.A. Dickey, A. Nye, C. Mackedie, A. Lougheed, D. McDougall, G. Hitchcock, G. Buscombe, T. Hewton, E. Moscop, R. Sim, T. Hannah, A.C. Langdale, N. La Branche.

"It is interesting to read the first military order issued by Major Townley. It reads:-

Company Orders

By Major T.O. Townley, Commanding No. 5 Company, B.C.B.G.A. Vancouver, B.C. Jan. 22nd, 1894.

"1. The company will parade at the drill shed on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 8 p.m., until further notice. "2. The following promotions will take place. To be Sergeant, and acting Sergeant Major, J.C. Cornish. To be Sergeants, Gunner J. Duff Stuart, G.A. Boult, John Turner. To be Bombardiers, Gunner F.W. Alexander, L.A. Martin.

(Sgd) T.O. Townley, Major. Commanding No. 5 Company, B.C.B.G.A "

"Major Townley was assisted by four officers, Lieutenant C.A. Worsnop, who as Lieutenant Colonel Worsnop succeeded him to the command; Lieutenant Lacy R. Johnson, now the Heavy Brigade, Montreal; Lieutenant F.W. Boultbee, who has since commanded both the Sixth Regiment and the 104th Regiment, and Lieutenant C. Gardiner Johnson, who as Major and Quartermaster retired from active service a short time ago.

BOYS OF THE OLD BRIGADE

"The boys of the old brigade were a jolly lot of fellows, and many a good old story is told of their adventures for they could play as well as they could work. On May 24, following their organization, Major Townley gave them a complimentary trip to Nanaimo. They embarked on board the old Union S.S. Company steamer, CUTCH, since converted into a "battleship" for a South American republic, and renamed the BOTAGO, and arrived at Nanaimo safely enough."

"But on the return journey they experienced some amusing adventures, annoying at the time, but for which the perpetrators have long since been forgiven. It appears that the steamer CUTCH took over a rather larger load of passengers than the law allowed, and on arrival at Nanaimo, the master was warned. The vessel was scheduled to leave at 4 p.m. and at that hour the company, with military punctuality, swung down to the wharf to embark.

"It was within two minutes of the hour when they arrived at the point where the vessel lay only to find that the lines had been cast off. The impression prevailed that the vessel was going to another wharf to embark passengers and it was not until some moments later that rippling waves, curving from her bow, and the tantalizing waving of white handerchiefs from her stern, told them the thin red line had been left. Resting on their arms the gallant company watched the vessel sail away.

"The master of the CUTCH, warned that he must not take back as many as he had brought, decided to leave the body which had the greater unity, but militiamen felt far from complimented at his tribute to their cohesion.

"Finally after some hours delay on account of the telegraph wires being down, the steamer ROBERT DUNSMUIR was communicated

Page 85 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added with at New Westminster and induced to come to the aid of the distressed soldiers.

"Towards early morning the old troopship waddled in to Nanaimo, and the troops embarked. But here the soldiers met another Waterloo. The crusty old sea salt who commanded the DUNSMUIR refused to take them to Vancouver and insisted on going to Westminster from which port he was due to sail, so he dumped the thoroughly disgusted parade in the Royal City, from which point they finally reached Vancouver in anything but a good humour.

BOMBARDMENT OF VANCOUVER

"There are other stories, The "Assault on the Box Car," and the "Bombardment of Vancouver". The latter took place quite unintentionally inside their own drill hall. It was the real game, with powder and shot and shell. No one was hurt, but some were badly frightened, and a hole was blown in the side of the drill hall through which a fox terrior could jump.

"Into one of the two old muzzle loading guns now lying outside the Drill Hall on Beatty Street, a gun detachment loaded a 64 pound shell. Attached to the nose of the shell by means of a ring was a withdrawing rope. The shell became slightly twisted and jammed in the barrel, and in the effort to withdraw it the rope broke, leaving the shell in the gun. No extractor was available at the time, and in vain was every persuasion used to recover the delinquent shot.

"Then some one suggested that it might be blown out with a gentle charge, and the idea was voted a good one. Some powder from an old stock of cartridges in the gallery was secured, and a little, just very little, carefully poured down the touchhole. An unsuccessful attempt was made to discharge the gun, so a little more powder was used, but still no result.

"Then they said, 'Oh pshaw, put something worthwhile down, a whole handful,' and down a whole handful went. The primer was properly adjusted, the gun crew stood at their posts in review order, the gun captain gave the command, and the gunlayer pulled the lanyard. There was a deafening roar, a huge cloud of white smoke, and the crashing of timbers told that an invisible something had bored a gaping hole in the wall, finally bringing up with a thud in the bushes beyond.

"The gun crew stood aghast. They were speechless, with surprise. Terrified officers and men came rushing from all parts of the hall and explanations followed. The smoke cleared away, when, lo and behold, two 64 pound shells with rope, rings and all disclosed themselves. One had gone clean through the wall while the other lay on the floor of the shed. The gun had been sent from headquarters with a shell in it which had not been previously discovered.

"A party was detailed to bring back the missle from the

Page 86 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added brush, another to fix up the hole in the wall, and the incident was closed. CHAPTER VI

FIFTH REGIMENT, CANADIAN ARTILLERY

Military General Order No. 59 dated 28 December, 1895 stated in part: "Battalions of Garrison Artillery will in future be designed (sic) Regiments. The Artillery Service will in future be designated the Canadian Artillery." Accordingly the unit became the "Fifth Regiment, Canadian Artillery". The six B.C. Batteries remained as the Fifth Regiment, Canadian Artillery, until 1 July, 1896 when the regiment was divided into two battalions, the first at Victoria under Lieutenant Colonel Gregory, and the second at Vancouver under Lieutenant Colonel Townley. The change was eminently satisfactory to military men in Vancouver, who had at last obtained recognition of their claims for a separate unit.

"The regiment had the distinction of being at the time the first and only regiment in Canada having two battalions. In June, 1897, Colonel Townley resigned and Colonel Worsnop took command."

"It was during the tenure of Colonol Worsnop's command that the "Second Battalion, Fifth Regiment, Canadian Artillery", as the Vancouver corps was now known, was converted to the "Sixth Battalion Rifles". The number "six" was taken from the disbanded "Sixth Fusiliers" of Montreal."

"The change was intensely unpopular at the time, both on the account of the loss of the benefits of the study which had been given to the artillery branch of the service, and a considerable cost to officers and men which the change made necessary. It was not long, however, before all ranks adopted the same old enthusiasm in their new work as in the old."

Of the first officers of No. 5 Company, Major T.O. Townley, was afterwards Mayor of Vancouver and later Registrar in the Land Registrar Office at New Westminster. Captain C.A. Worsnop was Collector of Customs and afterwards became first commanding officer of the 6th Regiment, D.C.O.R. Lieutenant L.R. Johnson, later went to Montreal and became O.C. 2nd Montreal Heavy Brigade. Lieutenant F.W. Boultbee became the third O.C., the 6th Regiment, D.C.O.R. Lieutenant C. Gardiner Johnson, who was Lloyd's Agent at Vancouver was afterwards for many years Major and Quartermaster of the 6th D.C.O.R.

Troubles of New Westminster Battery

During the years 1893 and 1894 several circumstances gave rise to trouble in the Battery at New Westminster. The first cause of dissatisfaction was the renumbering of the Batteries or companies as authorized in a Militia General Order dated the 25th August, 1893. By this order the New Westminster Company was given the Number 4 in place of Number 1 which they had previously held on account of their seniority.

The following extract from one of the newspapers published about that time shows that the citizens of New Westminster regarded the numbering of the companies as a slight to New Westminster.

"Mr. Corbould, M.P. has wired the Minister of Militia a strong protest against depriving the New Westminster company of its seniority by renumbering the Battalion and making the Company No. 4 instead of No. 1. The attempt to deprive the corps of its old number is a contemptible piece of business, and it is to be hoped the Minister will favorably consider the matter and restore the senior number to the place it belongs. Mr. Courbould has also forwarded the protest of the City Council to Ottawa."

Within the ranks of the Company itself the feeling of resentment was so keen that there was talk of disbandment and Lieutenant Colonel Peters, after an inspection in October addressed the company on the subject. His remarks are contained in the Daily Columbian dated the 21st October, 1893. After paying a high tribute to the company for the size of the parade, efficiency of drill and condition of accoutrements he continued:-

"I was glad to see the big turnout, as I had read in the newspapers that after the inspection the company would break up. Papers sometimes make mistakes, and I trust this is one. The apparent cause of the discontent is the renumbering of the companies. The cause is to be regretted, but as far as I can see the whole thing is a mistake. When it was decided to increase the battalion to 500 strong, Colonel Prior wanted to have companies 1,2, and 3 at headquarters but before making any move in this direction, he wrote to Captain Townley to see if there would be any objection to this step, and received a reply that there would not. Colonel Prior then wrote to the Adjutant- General and the change was made. I can understand the discontent, and, no doubt, the older members of the company, who I can term "old Timers", feel it more than the others. I think it would be great folly to let the company break up, as no slight was intended. I feel sure that if the company is allowed to go down, another will be at once organized in Vancouver and in Nanaimo; they are anxious to have a company there. I feel sure you men would not like this city to be without a company. If the old members cannot bear with the change, perhaps the younger ones can. Colonel Prior would not have agitated the change had he known the discontent it has caused."

Shortly after the trouble over the renumbering of the companies had died down further dissatisfaction grew out of the objections of the men in No. 4 to having over them officers who were not efficiently trained. There had been considerable difficulty after the reorganization of the Brigade in getting a list of officers for the company and it was not until March, 1894, that the following junior officers were gazetted as provisional second lieutenants; C.R. Townley, James W. McColl, Harry C. Major and John S. Clute, Jr.

Page 88 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added The following newspaper account is given of the insubordination in the Company against one or two of the officers against whom the men seemed to have objections.

"There is mutiny and mimic war in Company Four, British Columbia Brigade of Garrison Artillery. On Tuesday night the company was ordered to parade in preparation for the annual inspection which is fixed for September 15. The men turned out well, but refused to drill unless one or two newly appointed officers resigned. Lieutenant Townley thereupon announced that no more drills would be held until further notice, and in the meantime he will report to Colonel Prior, Officer Commanding. Some time ago a complete new staff of officers were gazetted, not one of whom had worn the uniform and had absolutely no knowledge of military matters, and the men objected. It will be a great case for General Herbert."

As a result of the chaotic condition existing in No. 4, the Company was disbanded on authority of a Militia General Order dated the 8th September, 1894, and for several months New Westminster was without representation in the Battalion.

The disbanding of No. 4 Company did not, however, mean that military enthusiasm had waned in New Westminster. It was not long before a movement was afoot, not only to reorganize No. 4 but also to form a Highland Rifle Company. Mr. John A. Forin who took a leading interest in the formation of a Kiltie Company, and who was chosen to be its Captain if the organization were approved, communicated with General Herbert at Ottawa about the matter but received a reply favoring the reorganization of No. 4 Company in the Artillery Battalion.

Arrangements for the reorganization of No. 4 were practically completed by the 1st March, 1895. According to a newspaper report of the 4th March, seventy names were already on the list for enrollment. Mr. John A. Forin, County Court Judge at Nelson, was prevailed upon to take command of the company. Authority for the reorganization of the Company was contained in Militia General Order dated the 13th April, 1895, which reads as follows:

"5th British Columbia Battalion - No. 4 Company. This Company having been organized is taken on the strength of the Active Militia with Headquarters at New Westminster, B.C. To be 2nd Lieutenant, provisionally, to complete establishment: John Andrew Forin, Esq.: Henderson Finnes Clinton, Esq.: Thomas Sturch Annandale, Gentleman; and De Wolf Smith, Esq."

There seems to have been about this time a feeling of resentment in the New Westminster Battery against control of the Commanding Officer in Victoria. Lieutenant Colonel Prior complained that the New Westminster Officers had a habit of ignoring him and going direct to the D.A.G. for everything they wanted. He even complained that he had great difficulty in getting replies to his direct correspondence. In one of his letters to a military friend in Vancouver Lieutenant Colonel Prior referred impatiently to the attitude of the New Westminster

Page 89 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added officers in rather forceful language, saying in part: "They are no more fit to be officers than I am to be a Bishop."

A short time after the reorganization of No. 4, Lieutenant Forin, having changed his place of residence to Vancouver gave up the command of the Company being succeeded in this position by Lieutenant H.F. Clinton.

From this time on No. 4 seems to have gone ahead and it was not long before they succeeded in attaining a high standard of efficiency as is shown by the report of an inspection made on the 1st November, 1895, by Lieutenant Colonel Peters. On this occasion the muster was 72 including three commissioned officers. Lieutenant Colonel Peters expressed himself as highly pleased with the Company, especially in view of the fact that they had less than two months drill and were composed largely of recruits.

No. 6 Company

No. 6 Company at Vancouver, the junior battery of the Battalion was not actually organized until the latter part of 1895 nearly two years after the formation of No. 5 Company, although an agitation to form a second company in Vancouver was started soon after No. 5 Co. had been organized.

In the "News Advertiser" dated the 15th November, 1894, credit is given to Sergeant Le Branche for his enthusiastic efforts to get a second company going. The article reads as follows:-

"Another Volunteer Company to be Formed -- Proposed Drill Shed. The efforts of Sergeant Le Branche during the early Summer, are at last meeting recognition, and no small promise of ultimate success. This philosophic N.C.O. is every inch a soldier and although in No. 5 Company, he occupies a fond paternal position from the summit of which flows a stream of loyalty, discipline and last but not least, bon camradiere which now permeates the ranks, but the old warrior was not satisfied. His heart yearned for the movements of companies rather than men, and being of a most practical turn of mind, he began to press the subject of a second company for this City. "Victoria has three, we should at least have two" was a conclusive argument, and it was not long before the roll of a second company was fully filled. The more difficult part, however, remained; that was to obtain official sanction for such a body, as well as the necessary equipment, etc. Petitions were presented, and other such means resorted to, and now at last they appear about to bear fruit. The formation of the company has at last been recommended, and pending further progress, official enquiry is being made on another and even more extensive subject, a drill shed.

"That such a thing is necessary to the proper maintenance of the Battery, is most patent, and the fact that the powers that be, are bringing up the matter, is practically an assurance that they will do their part, that is erect the hall. A site is,

Page 90 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added however, necessary and as a rule that is the gift of the corporations raising the volunteer bodies. In almost all the Eastern cities, the site has been provided in this way, and it is highly probable that before the end of the year Vancouver will be asked to do her part in the matter."

When official sanction was finally given for the formation of No. 6 Company, Captain C.A. Worsnop who was appointed to command, proceeded to get together all those who had formerly offered themselves for enlistment in the new Company as shown by the following advertisement which he published in the newspapers.

No. 6 Co. B.C.B.G.A.

"Those who have already signed the previous service roll of this Company are requested to attend at the Drill Shed, Pender Street, on any evening this week, between 7:30 and 9 to be measured for uniforms and attested; together with any others who may desire to join the Company.

(Sgd) C.A. Worsnop, Captain. Commanding No. 6 Co. B.C.B.G.A.

Vancouver, Oct. 21st. 1895.

CONSTRUCTION OF FORTS AND IMPERIAL GARRISON AT ESQUIMALT

The most important military development in British Columbia during the period covered by this Chapter was the result of an agreement made between the Imperial and Dominion Governments for the construction and manning of forts for the defence of Esquimalt. In the Annual Report for 1893 Major-General Ivor Herbert, Commanding the Canadian Militia, made the following reference to this important subject:

"I have had the satisfaction of negotiating, during the past year, the details of an agreement between the Imperial and Dominion Governments, which, I have reason to believe, will prove a satisfactory solution of an important portion of the problem, of Imperial as well as Local defence. Under the terms of this agreement, the contributions respectively of Canada and Great Britain, towards the establishment of a strongly fortified naval station on the Pacific coast of Canada, have been fixed, and arrangements made for manning the defences of that station by an Imperial garrison supplemented by the Dominion forces. In accordance with it, the Barracks at Victoria, B.C. have been handed over to the Imperial authorities as part of the Canadian contribution, and the preliminary work towards the erection of the fortifications has begun."

"The forts to be constructed according to this scheme of defence were as follows:- Macaulay Point, three 6 in. B.L. guns mounted on Hydro Pneumatic Disappearing carriages; Rodd Hill, three guns of similar design divided into two forts, one gun in

Page 91 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added the Upper Fort and two in the Lower Fort; Black Rock, Duntze Head and Belmont Batteries, each comprising two 12 pdr. Q.F. guns and Signal Hill with two 9.2 in. guns. In addition to these forts there was to be a mine field to protect the ship channel leading into Esquimalt Harbor."

In the Victoria Daily Colonist dated the 29th of June, 1902, there is a valuable article entitled "Defenders of the Pacific Highway" from which the following extracts are quoted.

"The Colonial Defence Committee of the British Parliament having recommended that the important coaling station and drydock (built by the two governments) at Esquimalt should be adequately protected, steps were taken in 1889 to carry out their suggestions. This finally led to the handing over of the Dominion government property at Work Point to the Imperial authorities. In that year Lieutenant J.I. Lang (now Major Lang-Hyde, C.M.G., R.E.), a graduate of the Royal Military College of Canada, was despatched with Company Sergeant-Major Hopkins, Corporal Peckham, and Sapper Longman for the purpose of making a preliminary survey of the land in the vicinity of Victoria and Esquimalt. This occupied about two years and a half, and on its completion the party returned to Halifax.

"In 1893 it was finally agreed that defence works to cost about $300,000 should be undertaken at Esquimalt, to be borne jointly by the two governments. The Dominion government agreed to pay the entire cost of the Imperial Garrison, consisting of 3 officers and 72 non-commissioned officers and men of the Royal Marine Artillery (of which 2 officers and 15 non-coms. and men were for duty as submarine miners), and to hand over the Work Point barracks, then occupied by "C" Battery, R.C.A., and to provide the necessary land for the works. The Imperial government undertook the superintendence of the works and to provide the armament and necessary vessels and stores for submarine mining, and half the cost of the defence works. On the 4th of August, 1893, Lieutenants Templer and Barnes, R.M.A., with 15 non-coms. and men arrived from England to take over Work Point barracks. The next night "C" Battery, R.C.A., left Victoria to rejoin headquarters at Quebec. Shortly afterwards Major H.H. Muirhead, R.E., the officer specially selected by the war office to superintend the construction of the defence works, arrived from England.

"Having looked over the ground, Major Muirhead recommended that the works should be constructed by day labor, under sapper superintendence. A detachment of the 18th Company, R.E., under Lieutenant (now Captain) Gordon, a nephew of "Chinese" Gordon, with 20 non-coms. and men arrived from Halifax on the 1st of May. Work on the battery at Macaulay Point was almost immediately commenced, a large corps of civilian labourers being engaged. The remaining works were taken in hand in succession until completed, and early in 1896 the armament of the fortifications arrived and was mounted in the various works by the detachment of Royal Marine Artillery."

Although the citizens of Victoria extended a hearty welcome to the Royal Marine Artillery Detachment upon its arrival, there was general regret felt on the departure of "C" Battery when they were relieved by the R.M.A.

The following newspaper report on the departure of "C" Battery shows how popular these Canadian "Regulars" had become during their stay of a little less than six years in Victoria.

"Farewell "C" Battery. - "C" Battery has gone, and the well known figures of officers and men who have been seen on the streets of Victoria for several years past, will be seen no more. They left on the PREMIER at midnight, and by this time are enroute to Quebec, where they are to be stationed for the next three years or more.

"It was with feelings of deep regret that the citizens saw the Battery boys depart, but the "Send-off" was none the less hearty on this account. All day long there was life and business at the barracks, where everyone was preparing for the move and bidding adieu to the many friends to be left behind. At 10 o'clock the march to the boat was begun, the Battery being joined in town by the band from H.M.S. ROYAL ARTHUR, which played familiar airs. As the soldier boys marched through the streets they were cheered and applauded by the crowds gathered on the sidewalks, and more especially was this the case when the company reached the corner of Government and Fort Streets, and again the cheering was renewed when they marched down the incline to the wharf. There was an immense crowd here congregated to say good- bye and as the band played "Auld Lang Syne", "For they are jolly good fellows," and like familiar airs, the enthusiasm of the spectators knew no bounds. Three hearty cheers were given for the departing soldiery, followed by any number of "tigers".

"Amongst others down to say good-bye to "C" Battery were Lieutenant Colonel Prior and the officers of the Volunteer Artillery. Colonel Prior was much affected at the parting, and in a most feeling speech expressed to Colonel Holmes and officers how deep was his regret that they were going away. Colonel Holmes, responding, said he, too, felt keenly his departure from Victoria, where his stay had been made most pleasant by the many kindnesses of numerous friends.

"Similar sentiments were expressed by the other officers, and when the final handshaking was done, those who were not going away left the boat sad and sorry that their former associates had left."

About the last of March, 1894, a second detachment of Royal Marine Artillery, comprising 55 N.C.O.'s and men under the command of Major G.A.L. Rawstorne, arrived from England. This party was comprised mainly of artisans, the majority of whom had seen service on board various warships. Major Rawstorne had served for several years on the Mediterranean Station aboard H.M.S. TEMERAIRE, after which he spent five years at Portsmouth

Page 93 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added as gunnery officer and instructor. REGIMENTAL BAND

The first Regimental Band in Victoria under Bandmaster Haynes seems to have been disorganized in 1888 after which for a period of five years the Regiment was without a Band. In 1893 Lt. Col. Prior engaged Bandmaster Finn, formerly of the Victoria City Band, to organize and train a brass band for the Battalion. Advertisements appeared in the newspapers on the 23rd August, 1893, for twenty-two bandsmen, who were asked to apply to Captain W.B. Smallfield, acting adjutant.

In the spring of the following year the Band gave a series of Promenade Concerts on Saturday nights in the new drill hall on Menzies St., the first of these concerts being held on the 2nd June, 1894. Admission fee was 10 cents and members of the Battalion in uniform were admitted free. The program generally included bayonet review exercises besides musical selections and the large crowds who attended these concerts testified to their popularity.

During the following winter a series of three entertainments were given in the old Victoria Theater for the purpose of raising $1,000 for purchase of Band instruments. The program consisted of musical selections by the band and also military features such as musical drill and bayonet exercises. Besides other assistance offered by the public the use of the theatre was on these occasions given free of charge. These entertainments, the first of which was held on the 18th December, 1895, proved very popular and resulted in the formation of a good sized Band fund.

THE NEW DRILL HALL

The New Drill Hall on Menzies Street was completed in January, 1894, and was a source of pride and satisfaction to the military people. The inaugural parade on the 11th January was the largest parade of the Battalion on record and on this occasion the newly organized Band made its first appearance with the Battalion. After drill short addresses were made by Lieutenant Colonel Prior and Colonel Peters the D.A.G. About two weeks later there was a formal opening of the Drill Hall by His Honor Lieutenant Governor Dewdney. The battalion was inspected by His Honor who made an appropriate address giving credit to the gallant colonel commanding for his zeal. Other addresses were made by His Lordship Bishop Perrin and Captain Hughes Hallett, R.N., after which the hall was thrown open for inspection while the Battalion Band played musical selections.

DEPARTURE OF LIEUTENANT COLONEL HOLMES, D.A.G.

After ten years service as D.A.G. for British Columbia Lieutenant Colonel J.G. Holmes was, in August, 1893, transferred to M.D. No. 10 with Headquarters at Winnipeg. As during his residence at Victoria he had become a popular officer much regret was felt at his leaving and the officers of the B.C.B.G.A.

Page 94 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added paraded on board the steamer PREMIER on the night of the 19th August to present him with an address of regret on his departure from the Province.

The following account of the military career of Lieutenant Colonel Holmes was published in the Winnipeg Tribune on his arrival in Winnipeg to take over the duties of D.A.G. for Manitoba. "Josiah Greenwood Holmes, successor to Lieutenant Colonel Villiers, is a Canadian, being born in the Niagara district in November, 1845, and commenced his military career as a bugler in the old Lincoln Battalion of Infantry in 1861, and was Ensign in the corps during the Fenian raid of 1867. On the organization of the St. Catharines garrison artillery corps, J.G. Holmes, was gazetted as lieutenant in November, 1868, and promoted to its captaincy in April, 1872. Lieutenant Colonel Holmes has been associated with the Canadian regular artillery since its inception and, in fact, was one of the promoters of the movement. He was gazetted as senior lieutenant of "A" Battery, stationed at Kingston, and after some years' service there was transferred to Quebec and promoted to the rank of Captain in August, 1882. A few months later the rank of Major was conferred, and in 1883 Major Holmes was gazetted as Lieutenant Colonel and appointed as commandant of "C" Battery stationed at Victoria, B.C. On his removal to the Pacific Province he was also appointed Deputy Adjutant General of the district, and held these positions for ten years, receiving official intimation of his change to District No. 10 on Friday of last week."

DEATH OF CAPTAIN SMALLFIELD

In the death of Captain W.B. Smallfield on the 18th August, 1894, the B.C.B.G.A., lost one of its most capable and enthusiastic officers. Death which was due to typhoid fever came to this officer in the prime of life, he being only 33 years of age. An imposing military funeral was conducted by the members of the Battalion. While the remains lay in state in the orderly room of the Drill Hall, watch was kept alternately by squads from No. 1 and No. 3 Companies to which units the late Captain formerly belonged. The pall bearers were Captain Flummerfelt, Q.M.; Lieutenants Williams, Sargison, Munro, McConnan and Jamieson. Chief mourners were Lieutenant Colonel Peters, D.A.G.; Lieutenant Colonel Rawstorne, R.M.A.; Lieutenant Colonel Prior; Staff Surgeon Hasall; Captain Palmer, Captain Jones, and Lieutenant Barnes, R.E. The firing party from No. 3 Company was under the command of Lieutenant Gregory. Captain Smallfield in civil life was head salesman for the firm of Turner, Beeton and Company.

GOVERNOR GENERAL'S VISIT

On the 3rd of November, 1894, His Excellency the Governor General and Lady Aberdeen arrived on a visit to Victoria. The Victoria Companies of the B.C.B.G.A., provided a Guard of Honour comprising 3 officers and 100 men with Band. Their Excellencies remained in Victoria several days, during which time a public

Page 95 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added reception and a state ball were given, both of which the officers of the B.C.B.G.A., were ordered to attend in uniform.

Major General Ivor Herbert, C.B., Commanding the Canadian Militia, arrived on a visit to this Coast about the middle of December 1894, to make a general inspection of military conditions in B.C. As General Herbert has much to do with the negotiations between the Imperial and Dominion Governments relative to a new Agreement for the Defence of Esquimalt, he was especially interested in the work then in progress for the construction of the various forts around Esquimalt Harbour. During this visit General Herbert donated to the B.C.B.G.A. a handsome sterling silver cup for Company competition. The inscription on this trophy reads "Company Efficiency Prize." "Presented to the British Columbia Battalion of Garrison Artillery By Major General Ivor Herbert, 1894."

FIELD MANOEUVRES, ETC.

In addition to the regular annual training and inspections the Battalions under Lieutenant Colonel Prior received considerable special training and entertainment in frequent manoeuvres which were generally staged on special holidays.

On Good Friday, 1894, a field day was held at Oak Bay. No. 3 Company, under Captain Smallfield and Lieutenant Holden occupied a defensive position near the Oak Bay Hotel which was attacked by No. 1 Company under Captain Sargison and No. 2 Company under Major Quinlan. At the close of the day's proceedings addresses were made by Lieutenant Colonel Peters who, with Major Irving, had acted as umpires; and by Major Dupont, who referred with pride to his former association with the old corps. The manouvres were witnessed by a large number of Victoria citizens.

On the 24th May, 1895, an elaborate field day was held at Beacon Hill in which the B.C.B.G.A., the R.M.A. and blue jackets of the fleet all took part. The force defending Beacon Hill was commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Rawstorne, R.M.A. and comprised the B.C.B.G.A., the R.M.A. and a Company of the R.M.L.I. The attacking force from the direction of Oak Bay consisted of six companies of bluejackets. On this occasion No. 5 Company, from Vancouver paraded with the Victoria Companies of the B.C.B.G.A. The Battalion, in the absence of Lieutenant Colonel Prior, was commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Peters.

At the conclusion of the attack all the forces were formed into a Brigade and marched past a saluting point occupied by Admiral Stephenson, His Honor Lieutenant Governor Dewdney, Japanese Consul Norsse in uniform and a military staff. A royal salute was afterwards fired in honor of Her Majesty's Birthday. The day's proceedings were witnessed by a huge concourse of spectators.

On two occasions, in 1893, and 1895, the Victoria Batteries journeyed to Vancouver to take part in the Dominion Day Celebrations and these excursions helped materially to maintain a

Page 96 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added fine esprit de corps between the Victoria and mainland units.

THE 5TH (B.C.) REGIMENT, C.G.A. 1899 TO 1914

With the organization of the 6th Regiment, D.C.O.R. in 1899, all connections between the 5th Regiment and the Mainland were cut. From that time until the present the 5th Regiment has been a wholly Victoria unit. This chapter will carry on the record of the Regiment from 1899 until the outbreak of the Great War in 1914.

CHANGES IN ESTABLISHMENT

When the 1st Battalion became the 5th Regiment the establishment was changed to six companies instead of three as noted in Regimental Orders dated 4th August, 1899, from which the following extract is quoted:

"The following information taken from Militia Order No. 144 of July 26th is published for general information."

"The Regimental Establishments for the year ending 30th June, 1900, have been approved by His Excellency the Governor-General- in-Council and will be issued to all concerned."

The following changes therein are noted:

"The 2nd Battalion of the 5th Regiment, C.A. has been changed into a Battalion of Rifles and the 1st Battalion becomes the 5th Regiment, C.A. with the following establishment.

Regimental Staff

Officers N.C.Officers

1 Lieutenant Colonel 1 Regimental Sergeant-Major 1 Major (2nd in command) 1 Quartermaster Sergeant 1Adjutant 1Bandmaster 1Quartermaster 1Orderly 1 Medical Officer 1 Paymaster Sergeant 1Paymaster 1CorporalMedicalOrderly

Six Companies, each as follows:

Officers OtherRanks

1Captain 1Coy.Sergeant-Major 1Lieutenant 2Sergeants 12ndLieutenant 3Corporals 3 Bombardiers 1 Trumpeter 40 Gunners

Total Per Company - 53

The officers in command of the various companies as detailed in Regimental Orders dated 22nd Nov. 1899, were as follows:

No. 4 Co. Lieut. T.E. Pooley; No. 5 Co. Lieut. J.P. Hibben; No. 6 Co. Captain M.W.T. Drake.

No. 5 Company, as detailed in the same Regimental Order, was to act as a Company of Submarine Miners and were required to drill under canvas for three consecutive weeks in each year. The training in submarine work has, however, discontinued after about a year as far as the Regiment was concerned, and in Regimental Order dated the 5th October, 1900. No. 5 Company was instructed to take up Artillery training again.

The Regimental organization of six companies, continued until the summer of 1905 when, by authority of a General Order dated the 9th of May, the six small Companies were merged into three Companies on the higher establishment. According to this new establishment the Staff consisted of the following officers: Lieutenant-Colonel; Adjutant; Quarter-Master; Medical Officer; Paymaster, and Chaplain. Each Company had a Major in command, 1 Captain and 4 Subalterns. The total strength of the Staff was 19 and that of each Company, 115, thus making the total Regimental Strength 364 all ranks. Except for minor changes this Regimental Establishment continued until the Great War of 1914.

The following redistribution of officers is quoted from Regimental Orders dated the 28th June, 1905:

No. 1 Company will consist of the old No. 1 and No. 2 Coys, to which are posted the following officers: Captain Currie, in command; Captain Angus; Lieutenants Booth, Harris, Duncan and Colquhoun. No. 2 Company will consist of the old No. 3 and No. 4 Coys, to which are posted the following officers: Captain McConnan, in command; and Captain Winsby. No. 3 Company will consist of the old No. 5 and No. 6 Coys, to which are posted the following officers: Major Hibben, in command; Captains Wilson and Roberts; and Lieutenant Garnett. Captain W. R. Langley will take over the duties of Adjutant from July 1st."

SOUTH AFRICAN WAR 1899 - 1902

On the outbreak of war between Great Britain and the Boers of South Africa, Canada made a loyal offer to send a contingent to help in the defence of the Empire. The offer was gratefully accepted by the Imperial Government. The first contingent raised was called the "2nd (Special Service) Battalion, Royal Canadian Regiment" and was composed of eight companies lettered "A" to "H". "A" Company was recruited in British Columbia and Manitoba, the officers of this Company being as follows:

To be Captain: Major H.M. Arnold of the 90th Winnipeg Battalion.

Page 98 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added To be Lieutenants: Captain M.G. Blanshard, 5th BC Regiment, C.A., Captain A.E. Hodgins, Nelson Rifle Company, and Lieutenant S.P. Layborn, R.C.R.

The first call for Volunteers from the 5th Regiment was made in Regimental Orders dated the 16th October, 1899, applicants being told to apply at the Orderly Room in the Drill Hall. In Victoria, as elsewhere, many more men offered their services than the limit allowed.

The detachment from the 5th Regiment consisted of one officer and 25 other ranks, their names, as published in the Colonist being as follows:

Captain M.G. Blanshard Arthur Carter JamesAnderton AlexMyddletonWood Frank Finch-Smiles FrankDickinson Henry John Dolling Andrews Seymour Hastings O'Dell CecilMortonRoberts JohnTodd Frederick Temple Cornwall Alexander G. Beech William Herbert Stebbings William Herbert Brethour Clark William Gamble Arthur Maundrell HenrySmethurst JosephR.Northcott RalphW.J.Leeman JamesW.Jones John Henry Somers William Ironside Scott GeorgeNeill JohnHerculesDixon JamesStewart StephenCharlesCourt

When the detachment left Victoria on the night of the 22nd of October, they were given a enthusiastic send-off not only by their comrades in the Regiment but by the citizens generally who raised by subscription a purse of over $2,000.00 to provide comforts on the way. The Regiment sailed from Quebec for Cape Town on the steamership SARDINIAN on the 30th October, amid the unbounded enthusiasm on the part of the thousands assembled to witness its departure.

As in all wars the spirit of enthusiasm aroused at the departure of troops for the battlefields is later tempered by sorrow when the news comes of casualties inflicted by the enemy. In Victoria there was mourning when a report was received that several members of the 5th Regiment had lost their lives in the battle of Paardeberg Drift on the 18th of February, 1900. The Regiment, in honour of their fallen comrades paraded at a Memorial Service conducted in the Drill Hall on Sunday, the 25th of February, by the Regimental Chaplain, the Reverend C. Ensor Sharp.

The following is a list of names of these who lost their lives at that time: No. 7004 Sergeant W. I. Scott; No. 7074 Private A. Maundrell; No. 7105 Private J. H. Somers and No. 7113 Private J. Todd.

The news of Captain Blanshard's death from wounds on June 15th caused further regret in the Regiment. A Memorial Service

Page 99 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added was held in his honour on Sunday, 24th June, in St. Andrews Presbyterian Church, the Service being conducted by Reverend Leslie Clay.

Captain Blanshard was a popular officer in the 5th Regiment. He obtained his first military experience with an Ontario Field Battery in which he served for two years prior to coming to British Columbia. It was shortly after his arrival in Victoria that he joined the B.C. Brigade of Garrison artillery sometime in 1887 - when Lieutenant Colonel Wolfenden was in command. He received his commission as Lieutenant in January, 1894, and was promoted Captain in 1895. In 1896 he was appointed Adjutant, a position he held until he left for South Africa. In civil life Captain Blanshard was a Veterinary Doctor.

In April, 1900, a number of men were transferred from the Regiment to "A" Company of the 2nd (Special Service) Battalion, R.C.R. This Company was retained here and for a year it was quartered in the Marine Hospital on the old Songhees Reserve. The Sergeant-Major of this Company was Chris Hollyer, who was to serve overseas in The Great War.

The South African veterans from the 5th Regiment returned to Victoria on the 15th of November, 1900. Lieutenant-Colonel Gregory called a parade of the Regiment to welcome their old comrades home again. After being escorted to the Drill Hall the veterans received an Address of Wecome from the Mayor after which the Band provided music for a promenade concert.

A Memorial Tablet, erected in memory of those members of the Regiment who lost their lives in the South African War, was mounted on the wall at the entrance of the Drill Hall where since 1900 it had been the custom to place a wreath on the tablet as part of the annual memorial service. In 1916 the tablet was removed and installed in the Bay Street entrance of the new Armoury where a service is conducted annually.

ANNUAL MOBILIZATION OF ESQUIMALT FORTRESS

In the first annual Mobilization of Esquimalt Fortress which the District Officer Commanding ordered in 1900 as part of the Militia training both the 5th Regiment and the 6th D.C.O.R. from Vancouver took part. Camp was made at Macaulay Point on Sunday the 2nd September, on the morning of which date Lieutenant Colonel Worsnop arrived with his mainland troops. In the afternoon a parade for Divine Service was ordered, after which two sacred concerts were given, between 3:30 and 5:30 by the 5th Regiment Band and the other from 7 to 8 o'clock by the band of the 6th D.C.O.R.

Lieutenant Colonel Gregory was in command of the camp until 9 a.m. Monday morning when all the mobilization troops were placed under the command of the O.C. Troops, Esquimalt, for the days operations.

Page 100 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added For the next five or six years the 5th Regiment was called upon to carry out an annual mobilization of Esquimalt Fortress as part of its regular training although, after the first occasion, the 6th D.C.O.R. did not take part.

CHANGES IN DISTRICT COMMAND

About the first of the year 1900 Lieutenant Colonel Peters, who had been D.O.C., M.D. 11 for the last seven years, was transferred to M.D. 2. His immediate successor in British Columbia being Major T. Benson, R.C.A., who was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. In April, 1901, however, Lieutenant Colonel J.G. Holmes, who had been D.O.C. prior to Lieutenant Colonel Peters, returned to Victoria and again resumed command of the District. In January, 1903, Lieutenant Colonel Holmes was promoted to the rank of Brevet Colonel. On September 1st, 1909, Colonel Holmes retired and was succeeded by Colonel J. Peters. On September 1st, 1910, Colonel Peters retired and was succeeded by Lieutenant Colonel R.L. Wadmore of the Royal Canadian Regiment who was promoted to the rank of Colonel.

LIEUTENANT COLONEL GREGORY RETIRES

In December, 1901, Lieutenant Colonel Gregory, having completed his period of Command of the Regiment, was transferred to the Reserve of Officers. He was succeeded by Major R.R. Munro who was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Lieutenant Colonel Gregory had continuous service as an officer in the Regiment for over eight years his various promotions being as follows: Provisionally, 2nd Lieutenant, June 23rd, 1893; rank confirmed, December 22nd, 1894; Lieutenant March 9th, 1895; Major, July 20th, 1895; Lieutenant Colonel September 29th, 1896; Retirement December 10th, 1901. In civil life Lieutenant Colonel Gregory was a barrister and is now one of the Judges of the Supreme Court of B.C.

CORONATION OF KING EDWARD VII

In 1902 a Canadian Military contingent was sent to England to take part in the elaborate formalities staged for the Coronation of His Most Gracious Majesty King Edward VII. A detachment was sent from the 5th Regiment which included Captain Alexis Martin, Sergeant Major Mulcahy, Coy. Sergeant-Major Bailey, Coy. Sergeant -Major Lettice, Sergeant Lorimer and Gunner Smethurst.

LIEUTENANT COLONEL MUNRO RETIRES

In February, 1903, Lieutenant Colonel Munro retired from the command of the Regiment. Major Hibben and Captains McConnon and Drake waived their respective claims to promotion and Captain John A. Hall was appointed as the next Commanding Officer, being promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Lieutenant Colonel Munro served as an officer in the Regiment for over ten years, and in civil life he was chief accountant in

Page 101 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added in the well-known firm of R.P. Rithet and Company.

In June, 1904, Lieutenant Colonel Munro died and on the 5th day of the month, he was given a military funeral by his former comrades of the Regiment.

CHAPTER VII

DEPARTURE OF IMPERIAL GARRISON

The departure of the Royal Garrison Artillery from Esquimalt, on May 17th, 1906, marks a new era in military affairs, not only in British Columbia but in the Dominion of Canada. The Royal Navy had been withdrawn from Esquimalt in 1905 as stated in a former chapter and now with the departure of the Imperial military troops Canada undertook a more complete responsibility in maintaining her own defensive forces.

As related in previous chapters the first Imperial Troops to arrive in British Columbia were the Royal Engineers in 1858. After their departure in 1863 there was a period of thirty years when the military forces of this Province were purely Canadian. Then as has been already noted "C" Battery was replaced in 1893 by the Royal Marine Artillery, and in 1899, under the terms of a new agreement, the R.M.A. were replaced by the Royal Garrison Artillery.

In the Victoria Daily Times dated May 12th, 1906, there is published a full account of the Imperial Troops in B.C. This article gives a sketch of all the units above mentioned but as we have already noted the history of most of these we quote herewith only the last part of the article, commencing with the arrival of the R.G.A.

"The five years' agreement under which the detachment of Royal Marine Artillery was loaned to Canada expired at the end of March, 1899, but they were retained for six months pending the settlement of a new division of responsibility made necessary by the increased requirements of the garrison. This was finally arranged on the basis of one company Royal Garrison Artillery and one and a half companies of Royal Engineers being provided by the Imperial authorities; half the cost of the garrison and of providing additional barrack accommodation to be defrayed by Canada. During the last week in September, 1899, No. 19 Company, Western Division, R.G.A., arrived in Esquimalt, but owing to the want of quarters the complement of engineers were not drafted. This artillery company was afterwards replaced by No. 58 Company, which leaves tomorrow. In the spring of 1900 the land required for increased accomodation was handed over to the Dominion and construction of further barracks commenced. This was rapidly pushed ahead and within a year sufficiently advanced to permit the full garrisoning of the fortifications and other defence works.

"The last important arrivals occurred on May 25th, 1901, when a strong draft for the Royal Garrison Artillery, half the 44th Fortress Company, and the 48th Submarine Company, Royal Engineers, reached this city. It was in the middle of the Queen's birthday celebration, and the whole population turned out to welcome the new arrivals. They were received by the Band of the Fifth Regiment and escorted along Government, Johnson and

Page 103 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added Store Street to the electric cars in which after a short ride, they reached the barracks at Work Point."

"In December, 1903, the command of the forces was taken over by Lieutenant Colonel English, R.E., and since that time very few changes have occurred. Work has steadily progressed in various branches of the service, and a large amount of construction, both military and barrack engaged in. Esquimalt harbour was carefully laid out in submarine mine fields, the different forts extended and improved. As now handed over to the Dominion, the results of the work of the Imperial troops becomes a valuable asset in the scheme of Canadian Defence."

"The Garrison at the present time consists of the following, including the officers given above:

"58th Company Royal Garrison Artillery. "44th Company Royal Engineers. "48th Company Royal Engineers (Submarine). "Detachment Army Service Corps. "Detachment Royal Army Medical Corps. "Detachment Army Ordnance Corps. "Detachment Army Pay Corps.

"It numbers in all about 350 officers and men. Of this number all will leave tomorrow with the exception of a half dozen men of the 48th Company R.E. and the officers remaining in Canada. These are Lt. Col. English, who will spend two years more in the Dominion; and Capt. Muspratt-Williams and Lieut. Elliston, who have decided to serve with the Canadian troops in future. Thirty-four men of the artillery and about thirty-one of the engineers also have been mustered into the Dominion service and remain as a nucleus of the new force."

"Lt. Col. Charles Ernest English entered the Royal Artillery over a quarter of a century ago, having been gazetted Lieutenant on 27th July, 1880. He became Captain in January, 1889, and on 8th September, 1893, obtained his majority. Upon being appointed to command the troops at Esquimalt he was brevetted Lieut- Colonel. He is no stranger to Canada, having spent seven years at the Royal Military College at Kingston. At the request of the Dominion authorities the war office has permitted him to remain two years more in Canada, but at what point is at present undecided."

"Captain Reginald L. Muspratt-Williams, R.A., was gazetted Second-Lieutenant on November 1st, 1890, Lieutenant three years afterwards, and Captain on October 14th, 1899.

"Lieutenant P. Elliston, R.A., who has become a member of the Canadian Forces, entered the Imperial army on the 28th April, 1900 as a Second Lieutenant, obtaining his present rank on the 3rd of April, 1901. For the present he will command the Dominion Forces at Work Point, and, it is probable, at an early date to receive a step in promotion and become Captain.

Page 104 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added "Captain Daniel Brady, R.E., who remains for the present in command of the 48th Submarine Company, has been eighteen years in the service. He was gazetted Second Lieutenant on February 17th, 1888; Lieutenant on the same day three years after and Captain after eight years further service, on 17th February, 1899.

"The ranking officer to accompany the troops on their voyage to the old country is Major Edward Humphrey Bland, R.E. who has 22 years service. Entering the army on 9th December, 1884, as Lieutenant, he became Captain ten years afterwards, and obtained his Majority on New Year's Eve, 1902. Major Bland served during the Miranzai Expedition with the Bengal Sappers and Miners, for which he holds the medal and clasp, and with the Isazai Field Force in 1902.

"The Imperial forces, during the whole time of their residence in Canada, have been a prominent factor in circles other than their own limited sphere of duty. In addition to the various public works mentioned at the beginning of this article they have proved themselves true brothers in arms to the B.C. militia and volunteers. On every occasion when evolutions of the combined forces would be of use in training the local companies both officers and men have given willing assistance. This has been done by the officers with the greatest alacrity, while the men under them have not only considered such work well within their line of duty, but each occasion also has been marked by a spirit of fraternity that showed the duty was also a pleasure. Several shoots of musketry and gunnery instruction have been of material service in bringing the provincial forces up to the present standard of efficiency and friendly rivalry at the rifle range has been it is hoped, of good effect to all concerned.

"Two officers and about sixty-five men will remain in Canada as part of the Canadian forces. They are worthy successors to those who remained of the old guard in 1863, and it is confidently expected will make a mark of equal prominence and high character in the history of British Columbia that will be written in years to come."

ANNUAL TRAINING

As the outstanding event of the year 1907 was the winning of the Governor General's Cup for the first time by a Victoria Battery in the Dominion Artillery Competitions, this will be an appropriate place to give a synoptic account of the annual training of the Regiment for the whole period of fifteen years covered by this chapter.

From the year 1901 the Regiment went into Camp at Macaulay every year as part of the annual training program. Prior to this time the annual inspections were as a rule carried out at local headquarters. Under the "Lower Establishment" organization adopted in 1899 when the Regiment was divided into six companies,

Nos. 3, 4, 5, and 6 Companies, trained on the 6" guns in Fort

Page 105 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added Macaulay, while No. 1 and 2 Company trained on the old 13 pounder R.M.L. guns. The annual shooting practice with the latter guns was carried out at Trial Island in 1901 and 1902, but after that the Battery fired from Macaulay Plain at a target anchored in the sea. When the "Higher Establishment" was adopted and the six companies were combined into three in 1905 Nos. 2 and 3 trained on the 6" guns and No. 1 on the movable armament.

"These old 13 pounder R.M.L. guns were used by No. 1 Company until 1908, when, pending the issue of more modern equipment No. 1 Company was allotted to man the 12 pounder Q.F. guns of the Esquimalt Defences. After that for a few years none of the companies of the Regiment had training in moveable armament until about the year 1911 when No. 3 Company seems to have been allotted modern field guns for training. From this time until the outbreak of war in 1914, which marks the conclusion of this chapter, No. 1 Company, carried out its annual training on the 12 pounder Q.F. guns at Esquimalt, No. 2 Company on the 6" guns in Macaulay Fort and No. 3 Company on the field guns as Moveable Armament."

An amusing incident that happened in connection with one of the shooting practices of No. 1 Company with the 13 pdr. R.M.L. guns is worthy of record. As this is one of General Currie's pet stories he has been good enough to rehearse the particulars as follows:

"It happened away back in the time when the permanent garrison at Work Point Barracks was made up of Imperial troops with Colonel English in command of the Garrison as well as of the Artillery. I do not know whether I was a Captain or a Major, but at any rate I was in command of No. 1 Company, and on the particular day in question we were carrying out our competitive practice with the old 13 pounder R.M.L. guns. The practice took place on a Saturday afternoon, the battery being stationed between the old camping ground and John Jardine's house. In the morning a target had been anchored in the Straits, but a violent wind began to blow about noon and the target broke loose from its mooring and drifted away. Seeing the futility of putting out another and being averse to giving up the practice, we finally arranged to carry out some indirect practice at a point out at sea.

"The battery was shifted up closer to the camp so that the shoulder of Fort Macaulay shut out the view of the point on which we were to fire. It was arranged that one of the Imperial officers would go to the range-finder in the Fort and after we fired our first round at about 3800 yards range he would swing his range-finder on to a point estimated at 200 yards in excess of our range and report that our first round had fallen 200 short. In those days we had no telephone so in order to get word from the battery to the Fort and vice-versa, a chain of orderlies was established between the battery position and the range- finder. The orderlies were about 25 yards apart and were told to repeat word for word the message to be relayed. The wind was

Page 106 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added blowing strongly from the Fort to the battery, consequently, we could hear the message practically from the time it left the Fort until it reached us, but, of course, it could not be heard the other way.

"We started off alright, but after the fourth or fifth round I heard a message coming down the line "F.O." This was repeated by each man. Not knowing what "F.O." meant, I turned around and gave instructions "to repeat the message". I heard that going all the way back to the line, and again down to the battery came the message "F.O." I turned to Colonel English and said that I didn't know what "F.O." meant and he replied "Ask them what it means." I turned and had the message "What does "F.O." mean?" relayed to the Fort. It so happened that the message from the Fort was "N.O." and somewhere in the line the "N.O." which left the range-finder became "F.O." either on account of the wind making it difficult to hear or because Fatty McKilligan was one of the orderlies. The officer at the range-finder being a very keen, decisive chap was apparently somewhat annoyed at anybody being so stupid and said "N.O.", God damn it, means No Range!

There was no mistaking that message coming down the line Each orderly shouted just a little louder and more incisively than the one before and we at the battery could hear it all the way along. The last man turned to me without a smile on his face, saluted, and said, "N.O.", God damn it, means No Range! The shot had been unobserved, not falling within the arc of the range-finder. Colonel English turned away with a smile and poked his fat old dog in the ribs with his swagger stick.

"The practice, as a matter of fact, turned out very well when you consider the old muzzle-loading guns, the old black powder and the old fuzes. We were probably using 15 second wood time fuzes then. In those days it is not an unusual thing for the shell to break up in the bore and for us to break many of the pickets in old John Jardine's fence, with bits of shell falling, as they did, in all directions.

"Colonel English was very good to us and I remember him doing an especially fine thing. On the night of our preliminary practice, when I thought we had done very well, I was very much put out when the practice returns came in and found that a young chap named Smith, an Imperial gunner, had put all the figures giving the number of yards plus or minus in the minus column, making it appear that every shot fell short. Colonel English was equally annoyed and the night of the competitive practice went out in the launch himself and did the observing. You know how it can get choppy off Macaulay. I thought the keenness of Colonel English was splendid and worthy of all emulation."

The General Efficiency Returns, showing the results attained each year by all the Companies, in their Annual Inspections, are preserved in Regimental Orders. Up to the year 1906 the names of the various company commanders are also included in these

Page 107 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added returns. From 1900 to 1904 there were six companies, after which date there were only three. For the benefit of Regimental Officers who may wish to look up these records the following table is given.

GENERAL EFFICIENCY RETURNS

YEAR REG. ORDERS YEAR REG. ORDERS 1900 4th Oct. 1900 1908 2nd Dec. 1908 1901 25th Jan. 1902 1909 8th Dec. 1909 1902 29th Oct. 1902 1910 4th Jan. 1911 1903 12th Aug. 1903 1911 not given 1904 27th June 1904 1912 4th Dec. 1912 1905 25th Oct. 1905 1913 18th Dec. 1913 1906 30th Jan. 1907 1914 19th Jan. 1915 1907 15th Jan. 1908

Under the command of Lieutenant Colonel J. A. Hall the 5th Regiment fought its way in Competition with other Canadian units of Garrison Artillery until at last in 1907 No. 2 Company commanded by Captain W.N. Winsby, won the 1st Place in General Efficiency. This was the first time that the Governor General's Cup, the most coveted trophy in the C.A.A. Competitions, was won for Victoria. The Turnbull Shield, 1st Prize for Gun Practice was also won by No. 2 Company that year.

This high standard of efficiency having been at last attained, the 5th Regiment thereafter became a formidable competitor for honors every year and from this date to 1914, a period of eight years, the Governor General's Cup was won five times and there was scarcely a year that the Regiment did not win some valuable silverware in the annual competitions. In the 1914 camp the Regiment was handicapped on account of a large number of men being still on duty with the Civil Aid Force at Nanaimo and District and could not therefore take part in the competitions.

The various trophies put up for competition by the C.A.A. amongst the Garrison Artillery Units in Canada were as follows:

Governor General's Cup - 1st Prize for General Efficiency, presented by the Governor General for the time being.

Lansdowne Cup - 2nd Prize for General Efficiency, presented by the Marquis of Lansdowne when Governor General.

Turnbull Shield - 1st Prize for Gun Practice, presented by Lieutenant Colonel T.T. Turnbull, late Montreal Garrison Artillery.

Hugh Blair Cup - 2nd Prize for Gun Practice, presented by Hugh Blair, Esquire, of Edinburgh, Scotland.

Gwatkin Cup - 1st Prize for Efficiency of Personnel, presented by Major General Sir Willoughby Gwatkin, K.C.M.G., C.B.

All the above are Challenge Trophies with the exception of

Page 108 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added the Governor General's Cup which becomes the property of the Unit which wins highest place in General Efficiency each year.

The following table will show at a glance the trophies won by the Regiment in these annual C.A.A. Competitions for the eight years preceding the War.

1907 1908 1909 1910 1911 1912 1913 1914

Gov. Gen. Cup No 2 - No 2 No 1 - No 1 No 2 - Lansdowne Cup - - No 3 No 3 - - No 1 - Turnbull Shield No 2 - No 3 No 1 - - No 2 - Hugh Blair Cup - - No2 No3 No3 No 1 No 1 - Gwatkin Cup ------No 1

Separate Moveable Armament Competitions were only held for two years, 1912 and 1913, when an Association Challenge Cup was awarded for First Place in General Efficiency. This trophy was won by No. 3 Company, 5th Regiment, in 1912, and by No. 3 Company, 3rd N.B. Regiment in 1913.

CEREMONIAL

During these years the Regiment had plenty of practice in ceremonial duties. Guards of Honour were furnished not only at the annual openings of the Provincial Legislature but also at all visits of high state officials of which the following is a partial list.

Major Gen. Hutton, Commanding the Canadian Militia. Oct. 1899 EarlofMinto,GovernorGeneral. Sep. 1900 Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and York. Sep. 1901 EarlofMinto,GovernorGeneral. Sep. 1904 Sir F. Borden, Minister of Militia. Sep. 1905 Brigadier Gen. Lord Aylmer, Inspector General. June 1906 EarlGrey,GovernorGeneral. Sep. 1906 GeneralBaronKurokiofJapan. May 1907 Prince Fushimi of Japan. June 1907 DukeandDuchessofConnaught. Sep. 1912

Further practice in ceremonial parades was provided from time to time at Reviews in celebration of the Queen's Birthday or Dominion Day. In 1904 the Regiment went to Vancouver to take part in the Dominion Day Celebrations.

QUEBEC TERCENTENARY CELEBRATION

As the year 1908 was the 300th anniversary of the founding of Quebec by Champlain a gigantic celebration was staged at Quebec lasting from the 20th to the 31st of July. The presence of H.R.H. the Prince of Wales and representations from various foreign countries, also of British, French and United States Warships gave an Imperial and International aspect to the event which greatly added to the spectacular success of an important incident in Canadian History.

A full account of this Quebec Tercentenary Celebration, with all its magnificent pageants, is given in the Canadian Annual Review, 1908, by Castell Hopkins but we can only refer here to the part played by the military forces. Representatives from all Militia Units in Canada were invited to be present and these were grouped into ten brigades under the command of Brig-General W.D. Otter, C.B. The Royal Review on the historic Plains of Abraham, 24th July, was a grand spectacle, not soon to be forgotten, when, amid the cheers of 20,000 spectators, 3000 sailors and marines from the battleships followed by 12,000 Canadian troops swept in steady parade past the saluting base occupied by the Prince of Wales and his brilliant staff.

After the Review the following message was received by Sir Frederick Borden, Minister of Militia, from Sir Arthur Biggs;

"The Prince of Wales directs me to convey to you the expression of his highest appreciation of the very successful Review of the Canadian Militia which His Royal Highness had the great honour of holding this morning. He is well aware that the work of conveying so large a body of men and horses to Quebec must have entailed much heavy work and careful organization; also that many of the troops could only have been present at considerable sacrifice. The Prince heartily congratulates you, Brigadier- General Otter, and the Staff, upon the happy results of your efforts. The march past was extremely well carried out and His Royal Highness hopes you will convey to all ranks his congratulations upon the soldier-like bearing and smartness on parade of the Canadian Troops."

At this celebration all the troops from Militia Units between Winnipeg and the west coast were grouped into a "Western Contingent." By authority of District Orders dated the 27th June, 1908, the following details of troops were chosen from British Columbia: Garrison Artillery - 1 Captain and 15 N.C.O.'s and men. Infantry - 1 Subaltern and 15 N.C.O.'s and men. The Infantry detail was supplied by the 6th Regiment, D.C.O.R., Vancouver, and the Artillery, by the 5th Regiment, C.A. Victoria. Lt-Col. J.A. Hall was appointed to command the Western Contingent and Lieut. P.T. Stern was made Adjutant.

The following is a list of officers and other ranks of the Regiment who were detailed to go on this trip. Lt-Col. J.A. Hall, Lieut. P.T. Stern, Capt. W.N. Winsby, C.S.M. R. N. Lorimer, C.Q.M.S. F. Hatcher, Sgt. T.M. Ross, Corporals R. Parker, C. Kinlock, F. Kroeger, G.H. Swarbrick, Gnrs. F.W. Newberry, F. Ware, A. Breidfjord, J. Stuckey, E.W. Tribe, J.R. Connerton, A. ccrwick and S.P. Langley.

LIEUT-COL. J.A. HALL RETIRES

On the 1st September, 1909, Lieut-Col. Hall retired from Command of the Regiment and was succeeded by Major A.W. Currie who was soon afterwards promoted to the rank of Lieut-Colonel. Col. Hall first joined the Regiment as Quartermaster and Hon. Captain on Nov. 24th, 1899. On Nov. 30th, 1900 he retired as Q.M. and was made Prov. 2nd Lieut. His promotion after that was rapid, being made Captain in 1901 and Lieut-Col. in 1903.

About three years after his retirement from the 5th Regiment Lieut-Col. Hall undertook the organization of the 88th Regiment Victoria Fusiliers, the first Infantry Unit to be raised in this city since the days of the old "Victoria Rifles". In the early part of the War Lieut-Col. Hall went to England in command of the 88th but was soon afterwards attached to the Imperial Munitions Department, where his technical knowledge gained in civil life in the manufacture of explosives proved of exceptional value.

VISIT TO SEATTLE

The Alaska Yukon Fair held in Seattle in 1909 was a big event and on "Seattle Day" on the 6th September the 5th Regiment, having obtained official sanction to make the trip, took part in the celebrations of the day. It was eleven years since the Regiment had visited Seattle but their welcome was just as warm as on the previous occasion. Over 100,000 people visited the Fairgrounds that day and the members of the 5th Regiment were gratified when they learned that the authorities had arranged for special cars to convey them from their camp. Lieut-Col. Currie, who had recently been promoted to command the Regiment reported that numerous complimentary references had been made by the people of Seattle on the soldierly bearing of the Canadian troops.

CORONATION OF KING GEORGE V

An important military event of the year 1911 was the coronation of His Majesty King George V on which occasion a composite Regiment was sent from Canada to England to take part in the ceremonies. The 5th Regiment had the honor of providing a small detachment to join the Canadian Contingent as follows: Lieut. R.P. Clark, Sgt. F.W.L. Harrap, Gnrs. A. Nex and L. McNaughton.

CANADIAN ARTILLERY TEAM

In 1911 a Canadian Artillery Team was sent to England by the Dominion Artillery Association to take part in the Artillery Competitions with the National Artillery Association of Great Britain. Capt. J.C. Harris of the 5th Regiment, a grandson of Sir James Douglas, first Governor of British Columbia, was chosen to command the Coast Defence Detachment on this occasion and was successful in winning high honors for the Canadian Team. The following account of these competitions has been kindly prepared

Page 111 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added by Capt. (now Lieut-Col.) Harris.

"Before giving an account of this trip it is necessary to explain the object of these competitions. The Canadian Artillery Association (C.A.A.) includes all Artillery Units in Canada and the National Artillery Association (N.A.A.) includes all artillery units in the British Isles. It used to be the custom to hold competitions between the two Associations every four years as it was felt that such interchange of composite batteries would result in increased efficiency.

A composite detachment or team was made up from various units and trained in the three branches of artillery, viz: Field, Heavy and Coast Defence.

"The first time the C.A.A. sent a Detachment to England was in 1896 when Gnr. (now Major) W.H. Lettice, our esteemed Quartermaster, was selected to represent the 5th Regt. C.A., and their work was on the famous old 64 pdrs. at Shoeburyness. Following that, in 1908, a detachment was sent to Canada by the N.A.A. for competitions with the C.A.A. units and practices were carried out at Halifax for Coast Defence, and at Petawawa for Field and Heavy Units. The 5th Regt. C.A. had no representatives this year. Prizes were awarded for each competition the "King's" being for Coast Defence, the "Prince of Wales" for Field and the "Londonderry" for the Heavy. The C.A.A. did very well this year, winning the "King's" and "Prince of Wales" but losing the "Londonderry". Between competitions the N.A.A. Team were entertained by the C.A.A. and many interesting excursions were taken to show the visitors the sights of the new country. "In 1911 another Composite Detachment was made up by the C.A.A. for Competition with the N.A.A. in England. Orders were issued for mobilization and the 5th Regiment, C.G.A., detailed to supply one Composite Detachment, B.C. and three men. Lieutenant Colonel Arthur W. Currie who was then in command of the Regiment, selected myself to be B.C. and detailed Sergeant W.B. Gordon from No. 1 Coy., Corporal S.A. Staden from No. 2 Coy. and Gunner A. Penketh from No. 3 Coy. My orders were to proceed to Halifax for training. We left Victoria on July 12th and after a pleasant journey arrived at Halifax on the 18th. En- route we were joined by Col. McNachton, our esteemed Commandant, and other N.C.O.'s and men.

"When we arrived at Halifax we had our full detachment and were ready to commence training at once. My G.G.C. was detailed from the 1st Regt. C.G.A. who reported to me at once. The Field and Heavy Officers did not report then as the Detachment was down for Coast Defence training. We were quartered at Sandwich Battery having as our instructors, Major Phillips of the Royal Artillery, and Sergeant-Major Instructor Rycroft now serving as our esteemed District Instructor Of Gunnery at Esquimalt.

We trained on the 6" M.K. VII, every day learning something new. It was Major Phillips who first taught me what the Ballistic Coefficient was and how it was worked out. We had tried many years previously on this station to solve this factor but with only meagre

Page 112 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added success. However during all our shooting I could see how vital that calculation was to our subsequent success. All the men worked with a will and it was a real pleasure to be of such a Detachment. We used the 6" Dummy Loader for speed and training and as much as 20 tons of metal was passed through that loader by each of the loading numbers each day, with the result that we had efficiency with the loading numbers, every shell being rammed properly home. Laying and D.R.F. work was practiced by 1" Aiming Rifle at reduced range; then 3 pdr. sub-calibre practice at service range, using towed winding in Hong Kong Targets, at a speed of 25 knots; then the 6" Practice, using half charge at the same targets and speed. At all these practices we learned something new each time. One forcible lesson was learned when I saw a 6" Practice go to pieces for the want of passing the long cleaning brush down the bore of the gun after firing with 1" aiming rifle. The result was the B.C. fired his first two rounds which fell 500 yds. short--they were cleaners. Then his correction was "Add 500 yards". The result was 500 yards over. "Drop 500" gave result 50 yds. short. "Add 100, Gun fire. This shows that the second pair of rounds should have been hits had the guns been clean.

After completing our C.D. training we left Halifax for Petawawa to train in Field and Heavy work. We were here joined by the B.C. of the Field (18 pdrs.) Major MacLaren with Capt. F.L. Armstrong and Lieut. A.G.L. McNaughton as Section Commanders and Lieut. Oland as Battery Captain. The Heavies (4.7) were under Major Odell from Cobourg with Capt. D.A. McKinnon from P.E.I. as Section Commander. I acted as Adjutant under Colonel McNachton. We trained here for ten days carrying out alternate shoots from the 18 pdrs. and 4.7's. No ballistics were used in these series and the ammunition was packed in the sun with the result the shooting was erratic. The men, however, had attained a high level of training.

"We left Petawawa for Montreal, Aug. 9th, and embarked on the ROYAL EDWARD for Avonmouth, and after a pleasant journey arrived in England on Aug. 16th, where we were welcomed in the usual Royal manner by the Earl of Stradbroke, representing the N.A.A. and at once proceeded to London. The men were quartered in Chelsea Barracks, the home of the Guards, and the officers at a convenient hotel in Sloan Square. Our entertainment commenced from the moment of our arrival in London and continued until the 23rd Aug. when the whole Detachment went to Shoeburyness for a final practice before the competitions commenced. After we had completed our practice there we went by rail and motor to South Downs, Salisbury Plain.

"On Thursday, Aug. 24th, the N.A.A. Competitions commenced, the Field being the first branch to compete. There was some confusion at this juncture as it was understood that the C.A.A. were to compete against the best N.A.A. Detachment, instead of which the N.A.A. had eleven Detachments entered for competition. The terms were one series each, best series to win. Our Commandant protested at the odds against us but finally decided to carry on. Our B.C., Major MacLaren did a very good shoot but only won 4th place. The Heavies fired next, there being two

Page 113 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added other batteries to compete against. Major Odell won second place in this competition.

"After that we left for Portsmouth, where we were quartered at Eastney Barracks, the Home of the R.M.A. We had two days to train for the C.D. shoot which was to be carried out from Cliff End Battery, Isle of Wight. The day of the competition, Aug. 29th, was warm, temp. 76 degrees in the open and 60 degrees in the magazine; wind light, N.W. It was a splendid day to test the Ballistic Coefficient. We had the same conditions to contend with as the Field and Heavy Detachments had. There were seven batteries to shoot against. In the draw I secured 4th place. Conditions were two series of 16 rounds each; total figure of merit of both were two series to count. No B.C. was to observe any other shoot.

"The seven detachments firing against mine all went for time and trusted to luck for hits, but as I said before the Ballistic Coefficient played its part and proved its value. Had the day been a normal one the results would have been very close as the difference in time of any two batteries was a matter of seconds, but when it is remembered that there was an "error of the day" of about 175 yards minus one can readily see the value of the calculation. Some batteries in their speed had six rounds in the air at once. Targets were the usual H.K. travelling at 25 knots coming towards the Battery at an angle of 45 degrees. Range was 5,000 yards.

"Our first series resulted in all hits because we stuck to our original training taught us by Major Phillips, viz: Fire two ranging rounds, then make corrections, then "go" for speed. In our second series we obtained 15 hits out of 16 rounds. The 15th round landed on the leading target and cut it adrift from the tug, and the 16th round, which was already in the air, landed ahead of the target owing to it having slackened speed. It was judged a hit from the tug but out for line by our C.U. Our total Figure of Merit for the two series was .988 while our nearest competitor was .715. We won the Prince of Wales Prize for the C.A.A. and I as B.C. was given a silver cup by Messrs. Elkington and Company."

"After the competitions we left for London. It was arranged to have another shoot for the Field and Heavies between the best N.A.A. Teams and ours so they proceeded to Lydd to have another whirl. The target for the Field was dummy battery at 3600 yards range over level shingle beach. The day was hot and the mirage made it impossible to obtain good shooting. The target looked to be upside down and the air burst doubles. However our competitors were no better off so the C.U. awarded a tie. The Heavies then fired but had the same adverse conditions to contend with. The men were splendid and did all in their power to retrieve the day but the mirage made it impossible to obtain fair observation.

"We left the Old Country on Sept. 6th arriving in Montreal on Sept. 14th, where we demobilized. Our whole trip proved one of

Page 114 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added the most instructive courses it has ever been my luck to enjoy. The N.A.A. did everything possible to make our stay pleasant and instructive. In fact it was hard to find time to do our drill as it interfered with the entertainment. We were shown over Woolwich Arsenal, the School of Gunnery at Whale Island, Portsmouth Dockyard and other places too numerous to mention. While in London we were inspected by Lord Roberts and had our photographs taken with him. The Duke of Connaught presided at one of our banquets by the N.A.A. and we listened to several splendid speeches.

FIELD DAYS

On Dominion Day, 1912, the 5th Regiment, at the conclusion of their Annual Camp, took part in a grand manoeuvre scheme with the three Militia Regiments from the Mainland. An attacking force commanded by Lieut-Col. J. Duff Stuart and comprising the 6th Regiment, D.C.O.R., the 72nd Seaforth Highlanders and a detachment of Field Ambulance came from Vancouver, landed on Vancouver Island and marched by Cobble Hill and the Malahat Road to attempt the capture of Rodd Hill Fort on Esquimalt Harbour.

The Defence forces comprising the 5th Regiment, C.A., the 104th Regiment from New Westminster and a detachment of the 18th Field Ambulance Corps were commanded by Lieut-Col. A.W. Currie who established his headquarters at Colwood Hotel. On the night preceeding the actual attack the Defence established a signal station on Mill Mountain to give information regarding the first signs of enemy outposts. On the morning of July 1st Lieut-Col. Currie had his forces occupying a strong position near Colwood Station covering the road from Goldstream to Colwood Hotel, while strong reserves were held at or near the Hotel.

One of the outstanding triumphs of the Defence was won in the early part of the day when Honorary Lieut-Col. J.A. Macdonell and Quartermaster D.C. McGregor of the 72nd Highlanders were captured hidden in a motor car near Colwood, while going from Victoria through the Defence territory, to join their friends who were advancing from the north. They were held prisoners at Colwood Hotel until the close of operations though treated hospitably to all the refreshments they could wish.

The Umpires were Colonel Wadmore, D.O.C.; Lieut-Col. C.M. Paley, Director of Military Operations, Ottawa; Lieut-Col. Flick, B.C. Horse; Col. Hunter and Major A.B. Snow. At a conference after the bugles sounded Cease Fire a general criticism was offered on the days work, the decision of the Umpires being that the Forts at Rodd Hill had been successfully defended.

In 1913 the various infantry regiments of the District were in Camp for their annual training at Sidney, at the same time as the 5th Regiment was in Camp at Macaulay. At the conclusion of both Camps a grand Field Day was arranged for the 1st of July. The attackers comprised the 6th Regiment, D.C.O.R., and the 72nd Seaforth Highlanders. Lieut-Col. J.A. Hall, in charge of the Defence forces, had under him the 88th Fusiliers of Victoria, the

Page 115 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added 104th Regiment, New Westminster, the 5th Regiment, C.G.A., and the University Cadets. The chief strategical feature vital to the Defence was Christmas Hill. Considerable confusion developed during the day and at the Conference which was held afterwards at the pumping station on Quadra Street, the Umpires had difficulty in making some of their decisions. This enabled both sides to claim a victory.

RETIREMENT OF LIEUTENANT COLONEL A. W. CURRIE

During the summer of 1913 preparations were made to organize the "50th Gordon Highlanders" in Victoria. The previous year saw the formation of the 88th Regiment, "Victoria Fusiliers" under Lieut-Col. J.A. Hall, a former Commanding Officer of the 5th, and now Lieut-Col. Currie was chosen to command Victoria's second Infantry Regiment his tenure of command of the "5th" being nearly expired. The date of organization of the 50th Gordons is given in the Militia List as August 15th, 1913; although Lieut-Col. Winsby's appointment to succeed Lieut-Col. Currie in Command of the 5th was not Gazetted until Jan. 2nd, 1914.

The meteoric career of Lieut-Col. Currie during the War and his rapid promotion to the Command of all the Canadian Forces in France with the rank of Lieut-General has won him lasting fame in the ranks of Canada's most distinguished men. He was born on December 5th, at Napperton, Middlesex County, Ontario. In 1894 he came to Victoria and for about five years taught school, first at Sidney and later in Victoria. In 1906 he left the teaching profession to enter the Insurance and Real Estate business in which he was engaged until the War. He joined the 5th Regiment as a gunner in 1897 when Lieut.-Col. Gregory was in command. In December, 1900, he received his commission as 2nd Lieutenant, and was promoted to Captain, November, 1901; Major, May 1906; and Lieutenant Colonel September, 1909. His career during the War is a matter of record and so need not be given here. General Sir Arthur Currie is still Honorary Colonel of the "5th" and frequent letters from him in Montreal, where he is President of McGill University, show that he still takes a keen interest in his old Regiment. In one of his letters General Currie relates the following interesting account of some of his first experiences in the Regiment:

"I remember very well joining the Regiment in the Spring of 1897, largely at the solicitation of E.R. Vigor, who was so long a member of No. 1 Company. Vigor held different non-commissioned ranks and severed his connection with the Regiment when he was a Lieutenant. I joined the same night as Jim Muirhead, who, I believe, is now in the Finance Department at City Hall. The Regiment was then commanded by Lieut-Colonel Gregory, Captain Blanshard was Adjutant, and No. 1 Company was commanded by Major A.G. Sargison, so long in the Colonist Office and father of Allie Sargison, whom you will remember as an officer in the Regiment. Captain Ross Munro was second in command. Joe Wilson, son of William Wilson the Tinsmith, was Company Sergeant-Major. Reference to the Service Roll of those days, located in the Regimental Archives, would disclose who constituted the company.

"I remember the first time I turned out on Regimental Parade. It was the time of the annual inspection at the close of the season 1896-7. I had just received my uniform, and had it altered. We wore the old pipe-clay belts and white helmet. I remember seeing Colonel Gregory coming to the door of the C.O.'s private room and calling for the Adjutant. Apparently he asked for someone to be detailed as the C.O.'s Orderly. Blanshard passed the request on to Munro and Munro ordered me to report. He possibly thought that because I was a recruit the Company would suffer less by my acting as Orderly to Colonel Gregory than by my presence in the ranks. The instructions I had received on recruit drill said nothing about the duties of a C.O.'s Orderly and you can imagine the state of mind on receiving the order to report. However, I did and the Colonel gave me a Long Service Medal to carry. It was afterwards presented when the inspection was over. I hung around the C.O.'s door until the Regiment passed out of the Drill Hall on its way to Beacon Hill. where the inspection took place, when I fell in behind. The rear, as you know, is brought up by the Medical Officer, Second in Command, and some others, but none of them seemed to want me near them. I felt very uncomfortable, a feeling which was not lessened when the word was passed down the ranks that the Colonel wanted his Orderly. I hurried up to the front wondering what would be said to me. I was asked where I had been and if I didn't know enough to keep close to the Colonel. I fell in just behind him in much the same position that old Joe Montero used to take up when we went out for some of our field days. You will remember that old Joe always used to accompany the Regiment and every time the C.O. would say a word Joe would salute, first with one hand and then with the other.

"When we got to the Hill the Regiment was lined up and inspected by the C.O. I have forgotten whether it was Holmes or Peters. After the inspection there was the usual battalion and company drill and I am willing to swear that I was the most uncomfortable man on the parade ground. When the time came to present the Long Service Medal I was again, apparently, in the wrong place, and again I heard the dreaded shout, "Where is that qualified to a certain extent. However, I managed to hurry up to the Colonel and salute him rather awkwardly - a rather different salute than was taught at Bexhill School. However, I escaped with my life and if it had been possible to have turned in my clothes on the return to the Drill Hall, I believe I would have done so.

"This feeling of dissatisfaction with myself and with the Canadian Militia was not lessened by a sharp reprimand administered to me by Vigor on the way over town. We were crossing the old James Bay Bridge when we met the Mayor, whom, I believe was Mr. C.E. Redfern. I did not salute the Mayor - an omission which Vigor regarded as the most serious offence and one calling for a sharp rebuke. Luckily the annual inspection marked the close of drill operations for the season and nothing more happened until the fall.

Page 117 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added "I took up the work again with some degree of earnestness which led to enthusiasm and felt highly elated when the Company elected me their Secretary. I think during the season 1897-8 I received my first stripe, which I sewed on my own sleeve in rather untailor-like fashion.

In the spring of 1898 I took up rifle shooting, largely at the suggestion of Corporal, now Major Fred Richardson. I grew very fond of rifle shooting - an interest which grew as long as I remained in the Canadian Militia. I remember that when I joined we were armed with the old Martini Henry and I also agree with the description given that arm by Pte. Ortheris when referring to Pte. Mulvaney's rifle. We shot then at Clover Point Range. My sighting shot was an inner and my first on score was a bull's eye. The proud thought then flashed across my mind that an embryo King's prizeman had come to compete. Pride, we know, goeth before a fall. The truth of that philosophy was immediately demonstrated to me when my next five shots on score were all misses. I did manage to hit the target with the seventh shot and scored an outer. Besides the injury to my pride, I also suffered an injury to my shoulder. You remember how the old Martinis used to kick. The next morning I found that my shoulder was black and blue and also my right cheek and that my right eye was nearly closed owing to the swelling of that cheek. I made 12 at 500 yards, and never hit the target when we came to 600. However, things of that sort changed very much after the introduction of the Lee-Enfield, which, if I remember righty, we received in the Spring of 1899.

"In conclusion I want to express my most cordial approval of the effort you are making to compile a comprehensive history of the 5th Regiment. I am glad you have undertaken it. Such histories are interesting and become more valuable as the years go by. Yet often their compilation is neglected until those who can give authentic facts are no longer available. I feel that much of the earlier history of Canada is being lost sight of for the reason that no one takes the trouble to make records. I can remember very well many stories being told me by my grandfather - stories of struggles with the Indians, of privations and of the overcoming of difficulties - all of which if repeated now would act as an inspiration to the young people of the present day. I refer particularly to the stories of the pioneers who possessed the spirit which counted for, and still counts for, so much in the development of our country."

THE NANAIMO STRIKE

The chief event of the year 1913, as far as the Regiment was concerned, was the strike of coal miners in the Nanaimo District which necessitated the calling out of the 5th Regiment and other Militia Units in Aid of the Civil Power. The Officer in charge of the troops on this special service was Lieutenant Colonel J.A. Hall, formerly Officer Commanding the Regiment, and by special request he prepared the following account of the Tour of Duty of the Fifth Regiment in connection with this strike.

Page 118 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added "The duty which fell to the lot of the 5th C.G.A. and some of the other Militia Units of M.D. 11 in aid of the civil power at Nanaimo in 1913 and 1914 was unique in the history of the Canadian Militia. Whilst it is clearly beyond the legitimate field of a regimental history of the tour of duty, to discuss the causes of the strike or the methods of the strikers' organization, the circumstances of the case were such that unless an outline appreciation of the situation in the strike area be available, the conditions under which the duty was performed will not be understood and the services rendered by the Regiment and other units participating will fail of receiving just recognition. Therefore I must briefly outline the situation.

"About six months before the Militia was called out, a dispute, had culminated in a strike which involved the whole coal mining area of Vancouver Island. The chief places concerned were: Ladysmith, as coal shipping port and place of residence of coal miners it is the most southerly municipality in the disturbed area. Extension, purely a coal mining settlement connected to Ladysmith by the Coal company's railway and indirectly by road via Starke Crossing. South Wellington, on the E.& N. Railway about midway between Ladysmith and Nanaimo, purely a coal mining community. Nanaimo, the commercial centre of the coal trade, the largest town in the area, whilst essentially a colliery town possesses several other small industries. The Comox field about 60 miles north of Nanaimo. The Mines are centred around Cumberland, a typical coal mining town, connected with coal company's railway to Union Bay the shipping port twelve miles away. These areas were not connected to Nanaimo by rail in those days, communication to Union Bay was maintained twice a week by the C.P.R. steamers, or by motor over what was by no means a good road. All the centres were well served by telephone and telegraph.

"Population. - In the areas from Nanaimo south, the mining population was essentially European in origin, but in the Comox field a number of Chinese and Japanese were employed both on the surface and underground. The majority of the Europeans were probably of the Anglo-Saxon race, drawn chiefly from the coal mining districts of Lancashire, Yorkshire and South Western Scotland. These people were more or less accustomed to, and in sympathy with British ideas of government and justice, but the remainder of the European population was drawn from almost all parts of the continent, Poles, Italians, Swedes and Belgians probably predominated in this heterogenous mixture. Most of t(em were very illiterate and ignorant of British traditions and constituted a very fertile field for the operation of extremist agitators who so frequently follow up and thrive on conditions of industrial dispute. There was therefore an exceedingly dangerous element in the population which could be directed into acts of violence. It is a somewhat curious circumstance in view of the great number of Americans employed in the metalliferous mines, that were comparatively so few in the coal mining industry of Vancouver Island. But, nevertheless, the American Federation of Miners, a very powerful and wealthy organization had had their agents in the area for some time and on the strike breaking out,

Page 119 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added their skilled organizers practically took charge and liberal strike pay was provided.

"It is of course not easy to ascertain the exact financial arrangements involved, but I think it may be accepted as fact that the strike pay ran from $10 to $20 per week according to whether the man was married or not and the number of his dependents. I have good reason to know that the total monthly payments were at first at least one hundred thousand dollars and only after the strike had been continued for more than a year, had these payments diminished to seventy thousand dollars a month. The total payments made by the American Union exceeded one million five hundred thousand dollars. It is very important to appreciate the financial aspects of the case, that there may be some understanding of the huge interests involved in the dispute. It was no quarrel between a wealthy mining corporation and poor unpaid coal miners but between mining corporations only one of which was able to pay dividends and an immensely wealthy American Labour Union, which in its wisdom, to establish a point policy, could and did expend money comparable with the paid up capital of the coal company in the district which was able to make any returns to its shareholders.

"Almost simultaneously with the Nanaimo strike the American Federation became involved in a great strike in Colorado. There, scenes of violence on an unprecedented scale became significantly frequent. Conflicts between striker, non strikers and the armed forces of the state partook more of the nature of minor military operations than civil disturbances. In the papers circulating through our strike area, we read of conflicts in which as many as fifty men were killed. The disturbed conditions continued for months in Colorado and if we were to accept the news published in the B.C. papers, there must have been a loss of several hundred lives and some millions of dollars in property destroyed. There is a tendency towards exaggeration in newspaper reports and it is unlikely that the Colorado strike reports were any exception in this respect but in judging of the situation in Nanaimo, it must be recognized that such reports were circulated among the irritated mining population, supported by the same union, directed and encouraged by the same skilled organizers.

"In the early summer of 1913 the coal companies took steps to operate the mines without coming to terms with the American Federation. Small forces of white men commenced work at Extension and South Wellington and at Nanaimo arrangements were under way to supplement the small staff of engineers who had been keeping the pumps going to prevent the mines flooding by active coal miners. A small mine, the Jingle Pot, controlled by the Alvensleben interests (of which interests we heard a good deal more in other directions when the war broke out) had made terms with the American union and was soon to operate to full capacity. At Comox the Chinese and Japanese had more or less ignored the strike and kept up a small output of coal, which was of vital importance to the shipping interests of B.C. for bunker fuel. Arrangements were under consideration for the employment of such whites as desired to work. These circumstances, which were in

Page 120 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added the nature of indications of the defeat of the strike policy, precipitated the acts of violence which resulted in calling on the militia for strike duty.

"Until this time there had been little unusual civil disturbance in the district and whilst a few extra provincial police may have been sent in, the combined municipal and provincial police force in the area probably did not exceed fifteen or twenty men. But as the decision of the coal companies to operate the mines became increasingly effective, acts of violence and intimidation against the working miners became numerous and soon reached such a serious degree as to be beyond the power of the available police force to suppress. It became evident that if the miners who wished to work were not to be prevented from doing so they must be assured adequate protection. The question before those responsible in such matters was how was such protection to be made available and effective. No material solution to the problem could be expected by an increase in the municipal police forces of Ladysmith and Nanaimo and neither could a sufficient number of the small provincial police force be withdrawn from their stations all over the Province and concentrated in the strike area. Even if they could be so withdrawn, at the risk of leaving large areas denuded of police protection, their numbers could have only been very limited.

"The plain statement of the fact was, that the Province of B.C. had no means of its own adequate to, or capable of, handling the situation. Three alternatives seemed to be open to the administration, one to secure the assistance of the R.N.W.M.P., a second to call on the militia, and the third to engage the services of Special Constables for the Provincial police. The first and second alternatives involved the admission that the province of B.C. was of itself unable to maintain law and order within its boundaries. The first involved negotiations and arrangements with the Government of the Dominion and very probably legal difficulties of a somewhat serious matter. The R.N.W.M.P. was a Dominion force, uniformed, paid and controlled on a semi-military basis for service on the Prairies. Adequate in strength and efficiency for the work it was called upon to perform and with a reputation second to no other force in the Empire, it was not evident that the force was sufficiently in excess of the strength required for its normal duties, that it could spare the necessary strength to cope with the strike situation. Still less was it evident that this force would come under the executive control of the Attorney General's Department of B.C. Whilst, naturally the motives concerning the decision on the matter have remained unknown to the public, the fact was that the R.N.W.M.P. were not employed.

"It is extremely difficult, even after the experience which civil aid duty gave us, of the views of the Administration, to form a clear conception as to what idea they had of the militia force at the time when they must have had under consideration the various alternatives available for the maintenance of order. I understand that except as an odd Hon. Colonel, no member of the Executive had ever so felt the call of duty of the citizen to

Page 121 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added equip himself for the service of the state as to ever have worn the uniform of the Militia. As to the legal aspects of the employment of Militia in aid of the civil power, I do not think anything so filled those officers, whose duty brought them into touch with the administration, with greater amazement than the manner in which those gentlemen disguised their acquaintance with the provisions of the Militia Act. My opinion is that, so little had the executive thought that the Militia could be effective, that they had not even taken the trouble to inform themselves what legal formalities were involved.

"And so the administration decided that the solution of the problem lay in the increase of the Provincial police by the enrollment of Special Constables. Pay at the rate of $2.50 a day, food and quarters, were the terms offered and as there was considerable unemployment in both Victoria and Vancouver large numbers of men were soon found to be available on these terms. Those to whom the expressions esprit de corps and discipline convey a meaning, will have no difficulty in forming an opinion of the prospective value of the newly enrolled Specials for the work before them.

"The effect of this move on the strikers was to antagonize them to a most extraordinary degree and acts of violence became incessant. A party of 20 to 25 Specials were sent over to Nanaimo from Vancouver by the regular C.P.R. boat. They were met at the Nanaimo wharf by what was described to me as a delegation, others might have considered some other description more accurate. The Specials promptly handed over their revolvers, some of which went into the water. It looked as if the Specials might follow their arms, so they went back to the boat. The strikers'organization had shown that they could successfully defy the administration of B.C. and that they were in effective control of the area of the strike. No representative of the civil power dare interfere with them. A game warden happened to arrive in Nanaimo about this time, with some rifles and shot guns he had taken from a party of American poachers. He took the weapons to the Provincial police office and then to the strikers' office to apologize. It being considered that his actions were innocent of wrong intent, his apology was accepted. The effect was like an electric shock to the whole strike area.

"Events followed in such rapid succession that it is difficult to record them in even approximately correct order. I will merely attempt a brief summary of the position immediately preceding the calling out of the Militia. At Ladysmith two grave outrages involving the use of dynamite bombs has taken place; the strikers' organizers had met the City Council in a sort of conference and in effect give the Council notice that their functions were superceded. The strikers would patrol the town and maintain what they considered suitable order. A list was drawn up of persons who were not acceptable citizens in the opinion of the strikers and 24 hours notice was given to the undesirables to leave the town under the threat of forcible removal in case of neglect to comply. Many obeyed promptly. At Extension the working miners were forcibly expelled from the town, their wives

Page 122 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added and families found such refuge as they could in the surrounding forest. The Superintendent of the coal mines disappeared and his house was burned to the ground, his family escaped to Victoria.

The houses of most of the workers were burned or wrecked, wrecked doors and windows, pictures and stoves, childrens' toys and furniture, books and clothing were smashed or cut to pieces and scattered around in an indescribable manner. The head works of the mine were set on fire, a considerable amount of shooting must have taken place to account for the hundreds of bullet holes and empty shells we found all over the place. It was reported that a number of men were killed but no clear evidence of this came to my knowledge. At South Wellington, the head works of the mine were destroyed, working miners were driven out of the town and a reign of terror instituted, but perhaps not so bad as at Extension. At Nanaimo, there had been serious rioting for days in succession, the operations of the mine pumps was forcibly prevented and the mines allowed to flood, thus effectively putting the No. 1 Mine out of business for months. At Cumberland, the attempt to force the Japanese and Chinese to cease work was defeated because the Japanese were found to be organized and armed with long knives of a very businesslike appearance.

"In Victoria Wednesday, August 13th, was a day full of reports and rumours of the doings in the strike area. Lieut-Col. (now General Sir Arthur) Currie, who then commanded the 5th C.G.A. and I (I was then in command of the 88th V.F.) had several consultations. It seemed inevitable that the Militia would be called upon almost immediately. We determined that if either or both of our units were ordered out, every thing that could be prepared beforehand should be. No information, instructions or even preliminary warning could be obtained from the D.O.C. During this afternoon a report reached Victoria that a little battle was taking place at Extension between the strikers and the workers and that eleven of the latter were killed. Currie and I now decided that we would order our units to parade that night. The D.O.C. was informed of our intention but would give no intimation of his intentions.

"About ten o'clock, whilst the units were still on parade, the D.O.C. arrived in the Drill Hall and instructed me, that in view of a communication he had received from the Attorney General, that I was to proceed to Nanaimo in command of the units on parade and that he would immediately add to the force a detachment of fifty R.C.G.A. and two machine guns. The parade was immediately dismissed to reassemble in an hour, in order that all ranks might obtain some food for the next day and make such arrangements as they could for an absence from Victoria for an undefined period.

"I do not know how the D.O.C. anticipated that the troops would move to Nanaimo at 11 p.m. at night, no transportation warrant or written orders of any kind were given to me. Currie and I decided that everything possible should be ready and consequently the E.& N. Rly. had a train made up ready at the

Page 123 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added station, a fact which was of course promptly communicated to the strikers committee at Nanaimo by their friends in Victoria. What was not communicated at Nanaimo, was that the midnight Vancouver boat after leaving its usual dock in the Inner Harbour would tie up to the Outer Wharf and await the arrival of troops and convey them to Nanaimo. It was also not communicated to the strikers' committee that the Provincial police would arrange that telegraphic and telephonic connections with Nanaimo should become interrupted as soon as the Vancouver boat left the Inner Harbour dock. Only Capt. Troup, Superintendent of the C.P.R. coast steamship service and the Chief of the Provincial Police knew of my intentions in reference to the route to Nanaimo. I was informed when we paraded again a little after eleven by the Victoria police, with evident anxiety, on their part, that a large somewhat hostile crowd had been assembling near the E.& N. station. I expressed to them much graver anxiety than I felt. There was a certain amount of hostile demonstration in and near the Drill Hall as we formed up, but this was quickly suppressed. We left the Outer Wharf a little after one o'clock.

"The first orders were issued on some paper torn from a Boy Scout's Field Pocket Book. They were not very formal but are somewhat interesting. They were:

"Orders by Lieut.-Col. J.A. Hall Comdg. Special Service Force At Sea, 2:35 a.m. Aug. 14th.

1. Reveille will sound at 5 a.m. 2. Breakfast will be served as follows: 5th C.G.A. at 5:30 a.m. R.C.G.A. and 88th V.F. at 6 a.m.

3. Ammunition will be issued under the supervision of Capt. Almond at the following times: R.C.G.A. and 88th V.F. at 5:30 a.m. 5th C.G.A. at 6 a.m. Requisitions for 20 rounds per man will be sent by adjutants to Capt. Almond. Packages are not to be opened until ordered and no rifles to be loaded. O.C. Coys. will detail one man per company to draw the ammunition. 4. Parade Grounds: The following parade grounds are allotted. R.C.G.A. forward saloon, 5th C.G.A. saloon, 88th V.F. promenade deck.

(SGD) P.T. Villiers, Capt. 88th V.F.

"The breakfast mentioned in the orders was rather a failure, there was only coffee and a few crackers to be had. The Skipper did not wish to land us at Nanaimo City dock even at 6 a.m. for fear of possible hurt to his ordinary passengers in case we met resistance, neither did I but for other reasons, so we were landed at the Brechin Mine wharf about 7 a.m. Sleep on the boat was scarcely obtainable, all ranks had been at their ordinary occupations during the day of August 13th, they had paraded in the evening and sometime after midnight found themselves packed like herring on the boat knowing that they had a hard days work

Page 124 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added ahead of them when daylight came. I managed to get a stateroom but the time stated in the orders shows that there had been a long consultation before I was able to say to my colleagues "Now try and get as much rest as you can, reveille will sound in a little over two hours."

"An amusing incident happened soon after reveille, which was the first intimation the passengers in the staterooms had of anything unusual. A prominent Victorian was enroute to Vancouver on important business, he had been celebrating a little before going on the boat, there was no prohibition in B.C. in those far off days. The bugles disturbed his well merited rest, so he opened his stateroom window and not recognizing the scenery felt a bit anxious. Not getting any response to ringing his bell for a steward he decided to dress and investigate. On opening his door and finding the boat full of soldiers he felt further cause for anxiety and on being told we were off Nanaimo he remarked in a very regretful tone of voice: "I must have got on the wrong boat last night."

"After a little delay in response to a telephone message we were joined by the Mayor of Nanaimo and Provincial Chief of Police Stephenson together with an express wagon for our ammunition and horses for our machine guns. We marched some three miles into Nanaimo, tired and hungry, but with a feeling throughout all ranks that whatever duty we had to perform the militia of Canada would not fail. We met a hostile crowd as we got into the town, but they were too surprised at our arrival to make any attempt to interfere with us except verbally. By means of a gentle but iron handed persuasion, to which some people in Nanaimo were unaccustomed on the part of the state authority, all ranks obtained a good breakfast at the chief hotels of the town.

"The situation at Extension was causing the Provincial Police the greatest anxiety. They were informed that 18 men had taken refuge in the mine tunnel and that the head works had been set on fire to suffocate these men. They had unconfirmed reports that several men had been killed in the fighting there yesterday and that the position of the women and children of the working miners was extremely critical as they had been driven from their homes into the bush a few days previously. A force of 1200 armed miners was reportedly prepared to dispute the entrance into that town of either police or militia. I decided to move my whole force to Extension as soon as possible to do what we could towards rescuing the miners in the tunnel and give what aid we could to the women and children and to return to Nanaimo that night. I considered that the force at my command, about 300 all ranks, was too small to divide and that the situation at Nanaimo was too critical to leave the town unprotected at night. In fact rioting took place there almost as soon as the troops had left for Extension.

"We went by a special train to Stark's Crossing and thence some 3.5 miles by route march along the main road. The road ran through heavily wooded undulating country which offered many excellent opportunities for holding us up. Had there been 20

Page 125 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added resolute men who really intended business among the reputed force of 1200 armed miners, to say the least of it they could have made it very awkward for us, but fortunately we did not meet a sign of opposition. When we reached the little hill just above Extension we saw a crowd of a few hundred men on a little bluff to the left of the road. From their exposed position it was evident that they were merely interested spectators, there was no fight in them. They had very definite views as to soldiers in general and us in particular which they expressed verbally only, but the bluff of armed resistance has been called.

"Extension was under such a cloud of smoke that it was impossible from our position on the hill to see anything so Major (now Lieut.-Col.) Winsby and a small company of the 5th C.G.A. went through the town to the mine works. He soon sent word back that the miners had escaped and that with the help of a number of the strikers he had got fire hoses and bucket crews to work putting out the fire at the minehead structure. It was an extraordinary tactful scheme, to get the strikers to help put out the fire they had started such a short time before and there was just that element of humour in it which is so enormously valuable in a tense situation.

"The remainder of the 5th C.G.A. and some of the 88th Victoria Fusilers spent hours in searching the wood around Extension for women and children. They brought in that afternoon some 70 starved, helpless, terror stricken refugees, varying in age from old women of 60 to a baby only a few days old. Many a gunner, N.C.O. and officer too, I saw coming through the trails in the bush, some helping those who could scarcely walk, some carrying a youngster on their backs, all had given the refugees every bit of food they had with them. A man who wore the uniform of the 5th could go hungry himself much more easily than he could face a hungry child. Of course it was not strictly military work, it was that kind of work in the service of humanity which is associated with the highest honours earned by those wearing Canadian uniforms. We commandeered some farmers wagons and some mine mules, where we got the harness from I don't know, we loaded the refugees into the wagons and at 7 o'clock started back along that hot dusty road to Stark's Crossing where the train was awaiting us.

"I had let it be understood that we were going to Ladysmith and so the engine of the train was headed in that direction. Telephone wires were found to be cut from Extension, trees were fallen across the railway track between Stark's Crossing and South Wellington. Our train backed all the way to Nanaimo, none too soon, for a sharp sighted member of the train crew spotted a gang of men on the track just outside Nanaimo in the act of trying to spread the rails, but we passed on it in safety. We obtained meals at the hotels at Nanaimo after some little trouble. Half a dozen men with fixed bayonets had to be shown in several hotels to convince the staff that we were going to be supplied forthwith. Guards were posted at various points which had been threatened with damage as we were advised by the Chief of Police. Those not so employed enjoyed the best night's

Page 126 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added sleep they could obtain in and around the station buildings.

"There was an incident in our march to Extension which perhaps may be regarded as a purely personal matter and therefore should have no place in this record. I do not know all the facts, but what I do know is such that I can never forget. As a concession to the possible objection on the introduction of personal matters I will omit names and merely record the incident as I know it. Just as we were about to entrain for Stark's Crossing an officer of the 5th, who has come back from France with a record second to none, reported to me that he had gone lame and could not march, but he could ride and had been able to secure a horse, enquiring if I had any objection. I did not see why officers of the 5th should go lame just at such a time and I was chiefly thinking about other things so I very curtly consented. At Stark's Crossing that officer suggested he might be useful at a point between the advance guard and the main body and again I consented, being too busy thinking of other things to perceive that the lameness was nothing but a bluff, put up by my old comrades of the 5th, that the mounted officer should be mistaken for the commander of the force and should attract any bullet which might be intended for myself.

"During the next two days details of the Corps of Guides, No. 3 Field Coy. Engineers, the 6th D.C.O.R., the 72nd S.H. of C., details of the Service Corps and Medical Corps arrived at the strike area from Vancouver and more men of the 5th C.G.A. and ranks, Capt. Bray and a detachment of the Ordnance Corps with camp equipment, tents, and blankets. Duties were one incessant round of patrols and guards, excellently carried out with firmness but the utmost good temper under the exceedingly difficult conditions of continual contact with hostile crowds. During this time the Provincial and Municipal Police were able to show themselves on the streets without molestation and consequently were able to make some very urgently needed enquiries, but it was not until the afternoon of Monday, August 18th, that the police, under a very strong escort of troops, reasserted their authority by making an arrest.

"Captain Godson-Godson, 72nd S.H. of C. and Capt. Villiers 88th V.F. constituted my little staff. The Corps of Guides under Major Bryan were working day and night in conjunction with the Provincial Police preparing maps. It was surprising how little was shown on any available maps of the numerous by-roads and trails throughout the whole district. We wanted to know as exactly as possible where every man lived for whom the police had warrants issued, there were several hundred such warrants. No. 3 Company, C.E. did a lot of useful work around the camps. Supply was efficiently carried out by the C.A.S.C. Some semblance of order was achieved among the militia units. Officers and men of all units seemed to arrive in the most promiscious manner and nothing seemed more certain than that if a unit was at Nanaimo, men coming to join it would arrive at Union Bay. There was absolutely no system of advising us in Nanaimo of the departure of men to join us and consequently we could exercise no control as to where they should report. By Saturday , August 16th, the

Page 127 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added 5th C.G.A. were all at Ladysmith, South Wellington and Extension. The 72nd S.H. of C. were at Cumberland and Union Bay. The 6th D.C.O.R. and 88th V.F., the Departmental Corps and H.Q. were at Nanaimo.

"There is a little tale about the 5th when they were first reasonably reassembled at Ladysmith which is too good to be lost. The Regiment was drawn up in line near the railway station, facing a decidedly ugly tempered crowd. Colonel Currie addressed the crowd telling them that the Militia were there solely to maintain law and order. This was apparently not a very popular remark with the crowd. Then he said that he relied on the good people of Ladysmith assisting him in that duty. This in the opinion of the strikers was a sign of a more reasonable view, of the situation, they were running the town and really did not need the assistance of the Militia. Then Currie said, 'But we are not taking any chances' and sharply turned around to the Regiment gave the order - 'With five cartridges load magazines' The ominous sound of the clicking of the cartridges in the rifles was by no means pleasant music to those in the crowd near enough to hear it. But when at "Ease Springs" one shot was fired into the air, the effect on the crowd was that you could not see it for dust, and when the dust had blown away there was no crowd. Currie expressed himself in a manner which is the special privilege of a commanding officer and kept his remarks up with the utmost eloquence until the crowd was out of hearing. He was known even in those days to have a wonderfully accurate power of sizing up a situation and many of us wondered if he had not arranged for the discharge of that rifle. He may have thoughtfully put a few rounds of blank ammunition in his pocket before leaving Victoria.

"The 5th C.G.A., soon re-established civil control in their area, and the miners' patrols were replaced by Militia. When the strikers conceived the idea of marching to Chemainus to burn down Mr. Palmer's house, because he was reputed to be a shareholder in the mines, Currie showed them resons why they should not do so, which was effective. The humane but laborious work of searching the woods for refugees was kept up for days, and again women and children found relief come to them in their dire distress in the uniform of the 5th Regiment. The Regiment did not participate in the somewhat dramatic surrounding of a meeting of some 800 miners in Nanaimo on the night of the 18th but at 3 a.m. on the morning of the 19th they furnished escorts for the Provincial Police in their area, who that morning arrested throughout the whole district several hundred men for whom they held warrants which they did not consider advisable to attempt in daylight.

"On August 29th the militia force in the strike area was reduced to one small company each of the 5th C.G.A., 6th D.C.O.R., 72nd S.H. of C. and 88th V.F. and details of Guides and Departmental Corps. This little force owing to the fact that the magistrates would not give us release, the Provincial authorities not having provided a police force in their opinion adequate to the situation, was retained on duty until August, 1914.

Page 128 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added "At first there was a considerable amount of guards and patrols, then escort duty for prisoners and protection duty at the Court House during the trials, but after this was over duties took more the form of ordinary garrison work. The Nanaimo Agricultural Exhibition Buildings were utilized as a barracks for H.Q. and detachments at Ladysmith, etc."

"A number of grave problems had to be faced during this period, questions of pay, of leave, of transportation, of medical attendance and clothing were all in a very unsatisfactory state. No consideration had been embodied in K.R. & O., to meet the case of militia being retained on Civil Aid duty for any lengthy period, but in spite of all difficulties nothing broke the spirit and discipline of the militia and it is well for the Province of B.C. that it was so, for nothing but the militia stood between the natural law and order of civilized government and what we should now call a Soviet Government in the strike area. The war came and all these things became forgotten in the much greater problem, but I think it is fitting that there should be some little record of the good work in which my old unit participated in those days. I cannot do real justice to that work, I can only say that never once, no matter what the circumstances, did it happen that a member of the good old Regiment did not amply prove worthy of the Regimental motto."

CHAPTER VIII

THE GREAT WAR 1914 - 1919

At the break-up of the Annual Camp of the 5th Regiment at Macaulay on the 30th June, 1914, little did anyone dream eight years would elapse before another such camp would be held, or that within five weeks there would be a call to arms throughout the British Empire to fight in the greatest war of modern times.

Although war was not actually declared between Great Britain and Germany until the 4th of August, 1914, the 5th Regiment was mobilized prior to that date and various detachments were allotted to man all the forts constituting the Defences of Esquimalt and Victoria. On August 2nd the first Detachment of 4 officers and 54 N.C.O's. and men proceeded to Esquimalt; on August 3rd a second Detachment of 1 Officer and 51 N.C.O's. and men proceeded to Work Point Barracks; and on August 4th Headquarters and the remainder of the Regiment, including the Band, proceeded to Macaulay. On this day also another Detachment of 2 officers and 52 N.C.O's. and men arrived from duty with the Civil Aid Force at Ladysmith, with a field gun, and proceeded to Work Point Barracks.

Directly after the Declaration of War, the Canadian Government offered to raise immediately and send overseas a Contingent of approximately 20,000 troops. This offer was gratefully accepted by the Imperial Government. The call for volunteers met with a ready response in Victoria, as elsewhere throughout the Country, and on August 26th the first Detachment from the 5th Regiment consisting of 68 Officers, N.C.O's. and men, left Victoria for Valcartier to join the first Canadian Contingent for Overseas Service. Thousands of citizens of Victoria turned out to bid farewell to the departing troops and there was much cheering, but later on, when drafts left from time to time, the farewells became more subdued as realization dawned that the war would be a long and bitter struggle and that many of those who were departing might never return.

The Officers included in the first Draft from the 5th were Capt. R.P. Clark, Capt. P.T. Stern, Hon. Capt. Rev. Wm. Barton, Lieut. K.H. Bovill, and Lieut. W.B. Shaw. The rest of the draft was made up as follows:

No. 1 Company

No. 27 C.S.M. R. Parker. No. 49 A/Sgt. F. Young. " 86 Cpl.W.B.Monteith. " 31 Cpl. E. Waller. " 38 Bdr. L. C. Diespecker. " 69 A/Bdr. J. H. Burns. " 338 Gnr. J. B. Armstrong. " 74 Gnr. J. M. Armstrong " 87 " C.T.Balderston. " 67 " J.M.G.Bell. " 44 " H.S.Carter. " 99 " V. W. Carter. " 337 " E.D.Carter. " 35 " R.A.R.Clark.

No. 85 " P. F. Edmonds. No. 65 Gnr. S.G. Fieldsend. " 70 " A.S.Grice. " 84 " St.J.Hodson. " 59 " K.C.McCallum. " 34 " F. MacMillan. " 3 " J.C.Orr. " 63 " A.Page. " 336 " P.Searle. " 95 " F.H.Small. " 36 " J.Ward. " 308 " J.A.Watson " 332 " W.G.Watson " 39 " R.H.Williams. " 53 " H.G.Warren.

No. 2 Company

No. 133 Sig/Sgt. V. Zala. No. 193 Cpl. W. G. Eden. " 142 Cpl. E.W.Prior. " 110 " H.L.Robinson. " 153 A/Bdr. R. L. Price. " 200 A/Bdr. T.W. Gaunt. " 179 Gnr. F. W. Alexander. " 348 Gnr. T. W. Buss. " 188 " J.A.Chisholm. " 176 " W.C.Clare. " 192 " B.W.Compton. " 149 " M.T.Harrison. " 182 " F.C.Hanington. " 112 " O. Mulcahy. " 158 " E.V.Robley.

No. 3 Company

No.209 Cpl. F.Fox. No.278 A/Cpl. B.Keogh. " 247 A/Bdr. P.Rivers. " 293 " G.Paradise " 266 Gnr. A.Corbett. " 275 Gnr. E.D.Dingle. " 276 " E.W.Dingle. " 221 " E.Dowling. " 273 " S.Evans. " 271 " J.E.Farmer. " 248 " P.Foreman. " 214 " R.Harvey. " 231 " H.C.Laundy. " 241 " T.Loader. " 356 " C.Morris. " 263 " A.Phillips. " 238 " H.J.Ramsay. " 215 " P.A.Thunder. " 286 " H.Whaite. " 357 " J.M.Smith

As soon as the first Draft had left Lieut.-Col. Winsby endeavored to obtain authority from Ottawa to have the Regiment organize a complete Battery for overseas service. It was considered by the Military authorities at that time that the Pacific Coast Defences should be kept fully manned and this permission was not granted.

Shortly afterwards, however, authority was given for the mobilizing of the 47th Infantry Battalion and Lieut.-Col. Winsby reluctantly severed his connection with the Artillery to accept command of a Unit that was destined for Overseas service. The 47th Battalion was officially mobilized on March 1st, 1915, with Headquarters at New Westminster. An opportunity was given to individual members of the 5th Regiment to enlist in the Infantry and although it was a disappointment to the artillerymen that they could not join an overseas Artillery unit, a large number volunteered their services. The total number who transferred from the 5th Regiment to the 47th Battalion at this time was 57, including the following five officers: Lieut.-Col. W.N. Winsby, Major J.C. Harris, Capt. F.A. Robertson, Lieut. and Q.M. W.H. Lettice, and Lieut. E.G.P. Baker.

Page 131 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added Lieut. Col. Winsby with his four officers left the 5th on February 28, 1915 and on March 10, 1915 the N.C.O.s and men were struck off strength of the following companies of the 5th on their transfer to the 47th Battalion, C.E.F.:

From No. 1 Company

No. 57 Sgt.F.E.Dutot No. 17 Bdr.A.C.Knox " 83 Cpl. R. E. A. Diespecker " 69 Gnr. H. Forrest " 72 " R.A.Waterson " 53 " C.J.Newton " 43 " J.H.O'Keefe " 400 " M.O'Callaghan " 25 Bdr.T.G.Norris " 332 " J.D.Reid " 42 " E.L.Casey " 13 " W.T.Taylor " 22 " E.C.Dudley " 10 " W.W.Waterson

From No. 2 Company

No. 186 Cpl. H. E. Palmer No. 500 Gnr. G. A. Lee " 111 Bdr.M.M.Lupton " 513 " J.A.McKechnie c" 343 " C.B.Kennedy " 347 " W.Ralph " 509 Gnr.J.M.Agnew " 504 " R.Reid " 128 " T.M.Anderson " 127 " G.C.Sanson " 192 " R.R.Behenna " 161 " F.Smith " 345 " J.P.Carr " 506 " P.L.Topham " 187 " H.H.Doughty " 112 " H.O.Waite " 512 " N.W.Garrard " 113 " WalkerWhite " 126 " I.J.Harris " 508 " W.R.White " 106 " H.H.Holland " 501 " J.F.Wootten " 107 " R.J.Huston " 174 " J.E.Young

From No. 3 Company

No. 292 Sgt. A. Penketh No. 280 Gnr. T. F. Davies " 251 " H.S.Foreman " 273 " F. Hopkins " 219 Cpl.M.W.Oliver " 268 " R.S.Jackson " 225 " F.Heybourne " 234 " H.F.Jarvis " 226 " E.L.Laundy " 289 " H.Mooney " 248 Gnr.H.N.Austin " 238 " G.Ogilvie " 215 " E.H.Cotterell " 203 " H.Rivers

About the same time as the 47th Draft left Victoria for New Westminster another small draft was despatched from the Regiment for service with No. 6 Company, Royal Canadian Garrison Artillery, in the forts at St. Lucia, British West Indies. This advance party included two officers, Lieuts. Maxwell Kirkpatrick- Crockett, Richard C. Hoyle and the following N.C.O. and men:

No. 252 Bdr. V. L. Danvers No. 269 Gnr. V. T. Evans " 1 Gnr.H.G.Rough " 152 " H.King " 60 " R.M.McBrady " 139 " G.Prior " 339 " A.Inglis " 338 " W.MacNeal " 80 " T.T.White " 45 " S.Dufty

The main party of forty-eight N.C.O.s and men, struck off

Page 132 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added strength of the 5th Regiment and posted to No. 6 Company, R.C.G.A. on November 7, 1915, included:

No. 21 Sgt. F. Kroeger No. 244 Gnr. H. H. Hayes " 61 " W.Kroeger " 192 " C.Houghton " 136 Cpl. E.G.Ray " 9 " W.H.Jones " 125 Bdr. K.F.Roberts " 246 " J.Kennedy " 115 Tptr.S.C.Hall " 153 " W.Mee "609 " H.Hayes "270 " T.Martin " 281 Gnr. D.W.Atkins " 299 " A.Macdonald " 412 " J.Acreman " 2 " J.T.McInnes " 413 " R.Acreman " 158 " L.McIntosh " 117 " S.J.Austin " 245 " T. Newbigging " 165 " F.Bennett " 66 " E.Nicholls " 194 " E.Bennetts " 51 " R.M.Roulston "346 " W.Beal "219 " W.Ralph " 130 " T.W.Ballinger " 25 " A. E. Roberts " 517 " J.Cargill " 141 " J.Stephens " 241 " H.Dunn " 137 " H.Smethurst " 336 " G.Dudley " 59 " C.A.Smith " 69 " H.Forrest " 226 " W. H. Steenson " 163 " M.S.Frampton " 229 " E.G.Stilwell " 282 " W.Gibson " 70 " G.M.Steadman " 149 " E.J.Gallop " 35 " H.K.P.Sunderland " 37 " R.G.Hale "267 " P. L. Williams " 178 " G.Hawkins " 112 " G.A.Wells " 409 " E.J.Hunter " 83 " G.W.Whitworth

Four days later, on November 11, 1915, two more Gunners were posted to No. 6 Company, R.C.G.A.: No. 177 Gnr. P. T. Luscombe, and No. 209 Gnr. H. Murphy, followed by No. 34 Gnr. E. D. Cox on November 15, 1915.

Bdr. Ken Roberts, who served in both Fort Vigie and Fort La Toc mentioned that the West Indian Contingent troops, who had gone barefoot from birth, suffered terribly when they were required to wear army boots and got rid of them at the first opportunity. Their N.C.O.s were hard-pressed to keep their troops properly dressed. He reported many members of the Company contracted the local diseases and a fair percentage of them were ill at any one time.

In the absence of Lieut.-Col. Winsby the command of the 5th Regiment fell to Major R. Angus who was promoted to temporary rank of Lieut.-Col. on August 17th, 1915. During the war the Regiment remained on continuous service in the local forts and supplied and trained numerous drafts for reinforcements overseas, including more especially drafts for the 10th Bde. Ammunition Column, the 15th Bde. C.F.A. and 4th Div Ammunition Column. The Regiment was finally demobilized on August 15th, 1918.

To write a complete account of the overseas services rendered by the 5th Regiment during the War would be an almost impossible task, as the Regiment, from the nature of its duties, was of course not allowed to proceed overseas as a complete unit. It is unfortunate, and will always be a matter of regret, that not even

Page 133 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added a Battery was wholly enlisted for the C.E.F. from the 5th. The honour of the Regiment was however nobly upheld by many individual members who enlisted in the 5th (B.C.) Regiment, C.G.A. Overseas Contingent, C.E.F. and served in numerous units of the C.E.F., including practically all branches of the Army. Their gallant deeds add lustre to the traditions of the venerable 5th.

There exists in the possession of the Regiment a voluminous Record of all the members of the Regiment who served overseas in any capacity. This Record is in tabulated form giving the following information respecting each man: Name, C.E.F. Regt. Number, Rank on Enlistment, Rank on Discharge, C.E.F. Unit and Date of Appointment, Date Taken on Strength in the Field, Casualties, Honors and Awards, Address of next of kin or last known address. This Record was compiled with the assistance of the Director of Records at Ottawa and is considered as accurate as it is possible to make it. The total number of all ranks accounted for is 777. From this Record the following lists have been compiled and are presented here to honour their names.

1. CASUALTY LIST - Killed in Action, Died of Wounds, and other causes...... 55

Gnr. ATKINSON M.C. Killedinaction 16Jun17 Pte. BEHENNA R.R. Killedinaction 19Nov16 Gnr. BENNETTS J.F. Died 18Aug16 Major BIRCH C.W. Diedofwounds 25May17 Gnr. BRACKETT W.R. Diedofwounds 19Aug17 Pte. BURTON R.C. Killedinaction 13Jun16 Gnr. BUSH A.G. Killedinaction 13Jun16 Lieut. COOPER W.J. Killedinaction 20May17 Pte. DAVIES T.F. Killedinaction 3Jun18 Gnr. DINGLE E.W. Diedofwounds 6Nov16 Pte. DONALD T. Killedinaction 7May17 Pte. GILBERT R. Killedinaction 3May17 Bdr. GOLD F. (M.M.) Killedinaction 29Sep18 Lieut. HANNA D.B. Killedinaction 10Aug18 Gnr. HARVEY R. Diedofwounds 8Oct16 Gnr. HAWKINS E. Accidentlykilled26Jul16 Pte. HAYWARD A. Diedofwounds 23Nov16 Gnr. HILL E.F. Diedofwounds 2Sep18 Cpl. JOHNSTON C. McB. Killed in action 24 Aug 18 Pte. JOHNSTON H. C. Died of influenza 19 Oct 18 Sgt. KENNEDY C. B. (M.M.) Killed in action 21 Apr 18 Sgt. KNOX A.C. Killedinaction 27Sep18 Pte. LOHR A. (M.M.) Killedinaction 12Oct18 Sgt. LUPTON M.M. Killedinaction 10Apr17 Gnr. MITCHELL H.G. Diedofpneumonia 6Jan17 A/Capt. MOGG C. K. B. Killed in action 11 Nov 17

Pte. MOONEY H. Killedinaction 3Jun16 Gnr. MOULDING J. J. Died of pneumonia 19 Jul 18 Gnr. McLAUGHLIN W. H. Died of pneumonia 25 Oct 18 Pte. NORRIS L.H. Killedinaction 29Sep16 Pte. NORTH J.H. Died 1Mar16 Sgt. OLSON E. Diedofwounds 4Sep18

Page 134 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added Gnr. OUIMET W.J Killedinaction 16Jun17 Pte. PAINE F.W. Killedinaction 8Nov17 Sgt. PARKER R. Diedofwounds 31May15 Gnr. POTTINGER J. McN. Killed in action 1 Nov 18 Sgt. PURDY G. Killedinaction 28Mar18 Pte. REID D.R. Killedinaction 3Jun16 Gnr. RIVERS P.J. Killedinaction 27Apr15 Sgt. RULE H. Diedofwounds 10Oct18 Lieut. SHARPLES J. W. Killed in action 30 Oct 18 Gnr. SIMPSON J. Killedinaction 17Jun16 Dvr. SMITH E.T. Killedinaction 30Aug18 Cpl. SMITH F. (M.M.) Diedofillness 17Feb19 Pte. SWEENEY E.H. Wounded&Missing 8Oct16 C.S.M. TAYLOR W.F. Killedinaction 11Nov16 Pte. TELFER J. Killedinaction 8May17 Cpl. TRICKEY W.J. Killedinaction 1Nov18 Gnr. WARD J. Killedinaction 29Apr15 Pte. WHITE W. Killedinaction 10Nov17 Gnr. WHITTLE S. Diedofillness 21Nov18 Cpl. WILKINSON E.M. Diedofillness 19Apr19 Sgt. WOOTEN J.F. Killedinaction 26Jan17 Bdr. WRIGHT A.E. Missing,believedtohave died on or since 3 Jun 16 Pte. YOUNG J.E. Missing,believedtohave died on or since 27 Feb 17

2. Other Casualties - Wounded ...... 147

3. List of those who received HONOURS and AWARDS ...... 56

Captain AITKEN, George Griffith Military Cross and Bar, Mentioned in Despatches.

Lance Corporal ANDERSON, Thomas Moffat Military Medal

Acting Sergeant BLAKEY, Harold Alfred Meritorious Service Medal

Major BOVILL, KennethHubert Military Cross, Mentioned in Despatches.

Major BURDE, RichardJohn Military Cross

Captain CARMICHAEL, Eoghan Kenneth Military Cross

Battery Quarter- Master Sergeant CARR, George Sydney Meritorious Service Medal

Corporal CARTER, Elmer Douglas Military Medal

Page 135 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added Brig. General CLARK, Robert Percy Companion of the Order of St. Michael and St. George, Distinguished Service Order, Military Cross, and Mentioned in Despatches on five occasions.

Lieutenant CLEARIHUE, Joseph Badenock Military Cross

Lieut. Colonel COOKE, William Forrest Distinguished Service Order, Mentioned in Despatches on two occasions.

General CURRIE, Sir Arthur W. Commander of the Bath Knight Commander of St. Michael and St. George Knight Commander of the Bath Knight Grand Cross of St. Michael and St. George Commandeur Legion d'Honneur, 3rd Classs Croix de Guerre with Palms (France) Grand Officier de l'Ordre de la Couronne (Belgium) Croix de Guerre (Belgium Croix de Guerre (France) American Distinguished Service Medal

Lieutenant DIESPECKER, Rudolph Edmund Atherden Mentioned in Despatches

Lieuteant EVANS, Sydney Charles Military Cross, Distinguished Conduct Medal

Sergeant-Major EVANS, Rolf Kingsley Meritorious Service Medal

Major FLEXMAN, Ernest Distinguished Service Order, Mentioned In Despatches on two occasions.

Bombardier GOLD, Frank Military Medal

Lieutenant GONNASON, Carl Seymour Military Cross

Captain HANINGTON, Francis Carleton Military Cross and Bar Mentioned In Despatches

Lieut. Colonel HARRIS, James Chichester Brought to Notice of Secretary of State for War for valuable services rendered.

Sergeant HARRISON, Frank Distinguished Conduct Medal

Battery Sergeant-Major HATCHER, Frank

Lieutenant HEINECKEY, Gordon Patrick. Mentioned In Despatches

Sergeant HEYBOURNE, Frank Howard Military Medal

Lieutenant JACKSON, Ralph Stanley Military Cross

Sergeant KENNEDY, Charles Blair Military Medal

Lieutenant LAUNDY, Herbert Cridge Military Cross, Military Medal

Lieutenant LAUNDY, Everard Lynne Military Cross

Captain LETTICE, William Henry Order of the British Empire Mentioned In Despatches

Private LOHR, Alfred Military Medal

Private McCORQUODALE, Kenneth Military Nedal

Private McILVRIDE, Alexander Blythe Meritorious Service Medal

Gunner McINTOSH, Allan Grant Military Medal

Lieutenant McKENNA, Vincent Military Cross

Lieutenant MACLACHLAN, James Boyd Military Cross

Lieutenant MACLEAN, Alexander Military Cross

Staff Sergeant MACMILLAN, Evan Archibald Mentioned In Despatches

Sergeant MOWAT, Cavin Colvin Military Medal

Battery MULCAHY, Alexander John Sergeant-Major Distinguished Conduct Medal

Page 137 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added Major NICHOLSON, George Salier W. Military Cross

Major O'KELL, Stanley Holland Military Cross

Acting Company PENKETH, Thomas Arthur Sergeant-Major Brought to Notice of Secretary of State for War for valuable services rendered in connection with the war.

Gunner PING, George Military Medal

Corporal RALPH, Thomas Military Medal

Major RICHARDSON, Frederick Order of the British Empire

Major ROBERTSON, Francis Arthur Distinguished Service Order Mentioned In Despatches

Colonel ROBERTSON, Hermann Melchior Companion of the British Empire

Gunner ROSS, James Howard Military Medal

Bombardier ROWLAND, Edward Military Medal

Private SANSON, George Campbell Military Medal

Captain SCOTT, Matthew Henry Military Cross

Corporal SMITH, Frank Meritorious Service Medal

Sergeant SMITH, William Russell Military Medal

Captain THAIN, Harry Sydney Military Cross Mentioned In Despatches

Captain WELDIE, Victor Ernest Order of St Anne, 3rd Class (Russia) Order of St. Stanislas, 2nd Class (Russia) Croix de Guerre (France) Brought to Notice of Secretary State for War for valuable services rendered in connection

Lieut. Colonel WINSBY, William Norman Mentioned In Despatches

Acting Regimental Sergeant-Major YOUNG, Frank Military Medal

4. List of those who were Promoted from the Ranks to Commissioned Rank during The Great War ...... 26

Enrolledas Promotedto

Private BEVERIDGE, George William Lieutenant Gunner BLIZARD, George Percy Lieutenant Gunner CASEY, ElmoreLouis Lieutenant Trumpeter COOPER, WalterJones Lieutenant Gunner CREECH, William Havelock Lieutenant Private DIESPECKER, Rudolph Edmund Atherdon Lieutenant Gunner EVANS, Sydney Charles, MC, DCM Lieutenant Gunner FIELDSEND, Sydney George Lieutenant Gunner HANINGTON, Francis Carleton, MC Captain Gunner HEINEKEY, Gilbert Austin Cadet Sergeant HEINEKEY, Gordon Patrick Lieutenant Private JACKSON, Ralph Stanley, MC Lieutenant Gunner KEENING, CarlCampbell Lieutenant Private LAUNDY, Everard Lynne, MC Lieutenant Gunner LAUNDY, Herbert Cridge, MC, MM Lieutenant Gunner MACDONALD, JohnDenis Captain Gunner MILLER, GeraldDunn Lieutenant Gunner MONTEITH, William Berkeley Lieutenant Private NORRIS, Thomas Grantham Lieutenant Private OGILVIE, George Lieutenant Private O'KEEFE, JohnHenry Lieutenant Private PALMER, Harold Edward Lieutenant Sergeant PRIOR, BasilGawler Lieutenant Gunner ROBINSON, HenryL. Captain Private TAYLOR, Douglas Barrington Lieutenant Private WATERSON, Raymond Alfred Lieutenant

CHAPTER IX

58th BATTERY

On the reorganization of the Canadian Militia after the War the 58th Battery, one of the C.E.F. units of the C.F.A., was attached to the 5th Regiment, and it is appropriate therefore that the overseas record of this unit be included in this history.

The 58th Battery was organized on April 1st, 1916, at Fredericton, New Brunswick, Major C.M.S. Fisher of St. John, N.B., being first Commanding Officer. By April 20th the Battery enlistment had been completed. Preliminary training was carried on until the end of May, when the Battery was sent to the Artillery training camp at Petawawa.

At Petawawa the Battery formed part of the 14th Brigade, C.F.A., comprising four 4-gun Howitzer Batteries, the other units of this Brigade being the 55th and 56th Batteries from Guelph and the 66th from Montreal. The Brigade Commander was Lieut.-Col. J.L. MacKinnon of Halifax. At Petawawa the training which became more extended and intensified continued for three months when the Brigade was sent overseas. During this period there were several inspections the chief of which being made by Colonel Roy, the Camp Commandant; H.R.H. the Duke of Connaught, then Governor General; and Major-General Lessard, who made his pre-embarkation inspection on the 5th August.

The Brigade entrained at Petawawa for Halifax on the 8th of August, and on the 11th went aboard the METAGAMA, although it was two days later before the boat pulled out of the harbor, bound for Liverpool. Other troops on board the METAGAMA, besides the 14th Brigade, were the Brigade Ammunition Column and the 4th Canadian Pioneer Battalion. The complete convoy consisted of the transports METAGAMA, NORTHLAND, SCANDINAVIAN, and CAMERONIAN escorted by H.M.S. DRAKE.

In England

The METAGAMA docked at Liverpool on the 22nd September, 1916, and the 58th Battery with the rest of the 14th Brigade immediately proceeded by train to Witley Camp which was situated about half-way between London and Portsmouth. Then followed a long and monotonous period of training made up chiefly of foot drill, route marches, physical training and lectures. On New Year's Eve, the Brigade started for Larkhill (Salisbury Plain) for shooting practice which covered a period of about two weeks. This led to hopes that the Brigade would soon proceed to France but all such expectations were doomed to disappointment.

In the Spring of 1917 there was a general reorganization of the Canadian Artillery. The 4th Canadian Division Artillery was changed to the 5th C.D.A., and all batteries were enlarged to a six-gun instead of four-gun basis. The 58th Battery had

Page 140 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added transferred to it part of the 62nd Battery and went under the command of Major W.M. Martin, formerly of the latter unit. Major Fisher was transferred to command the 82nd Battery. After the reorganization the 14th Brigade comprised the 58th Battery; the 60th, commanded by Major T.D.J. Ringwood; the 61st, commanded by Major G.S. Browne and the 66th, commanded by Major C.S. Oland.

Brig.-Gen. W.O.H. Dodds, C.M.G., was given command of the Brigade in place of Lieut.-Col. J.L. MacKinnon.

After the reorganization of the Artillery, training was carried on even more intensely than before and with the coming of milder weather in the spring the training developed into that of open rather than trench warfare. In the early part of April the Battery was trained in musketry on the Mytchett Rifle Ranges near Aldershot. After that much attention was given to practice manoeuvres and "bivouacs". On Dominion Day Field Sports were held at Godalming and a little later the Artillery baseball championship was fought out at Guildford, the 13th Brigade winning out in a hard and close contest with the 14th Brigade.

In the latter part of June a grand "Bivouac" scheme took the Battery to Petworth Park, an estate belonging to Lord Leconfield, where training in open warfare was carried on for about two weeks. After return to camp an inspection was made by H.M. the King, accompanied by the Queen and Queen Mother Alexandra. Hopes were now high that the battery was due to proceed to France at an early date and every preparation was made for such an event. Another "scheme" in which the Infantry also took part, took the Battery in the early part of August on an extended trip to Midhurst, Cowdray Park and Liphook, from which latter place the Artillery were suddenly recalled to Camp for pre-overseas mobilization.

During the Battery's stay in Witley Camp inspections had been made at various times by General Fox of the R.F.A.; Major-General Hughes, the Commander of the 5th Canadian Division; H.R.H. the Duke of Connaught; Sir Robert Borden, Prime Minister of Canada; and H.M. the King. The final inspection in England was made on August 14th by the Duke of Connaught on Hankley Common, near Aldershot.

On Tuesday, 21st August, 1917, the Battery entrained with horses and guns at Milford Station bound for Southampton. Immediately after arrival at that port the troops embarked and about 4:30 p.m. the transport pulled out from the Pier bound for Le Havre. Thus after eleven months impatient delay in England all ranks in the Battery looked forward to the future in keen anticipation of the part they would play in the "Great Adventure".

First Days in France

After an uneventful trip across the Channel the Battery disembarked at Le Havre on the 22nd August, 1917, and immediately

Page 141 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added proceeded to a Rest Camp on a plateau above and in rear of the City. Next day after various kit, medical and horse inspections the Battery marched back to the pier and about 9 p.m. entrained to go "up" to the land of fighting men.

Next day, Aug. 24th, the Battery detrained at Lillers and marched to the village of Ames where camp was made until Sept. 24th. While at Ames the Battery was paid an informal visit by the G.O.C., Canadian Troops and the Divisional Commander. On Aug. 29th a full mounted inspection of the Divisional Artillery was made by Major-General E.W.B. Morrison, G.O.C., R.A., Canadian Troops.

On the 27th August the Major, accompanied by Subaltern officers, "numbers one" and one telephonist per section, went up the line to look over the position where the Battery was to first go into action.

On the 4th Sept. the Battery left Ames and after an all day march arrived at Carency in the Souchez region; just behind the Lievins-Lens front, where the Battery bivouaced for the night.

First Night In The Line

A description of the experiences of the Battery on going into action the first night is quoted herewith from the record published in the "O.Pip"; a 58th Battery publication which was one of the few Overseas pamphlets regularly published during the War. Thanks are due to Mr. Archie Wills, Sporting Editor of the Victoria Daily Times, who donated a copy of the Rhine Number of the "O.Pip", which being the last issue, contained a comprehensive history of the Battery from its organization until the end of the War. Mr. Wills was a member of the 58th Battery and was one of the assistant editors of "O.Pip".

"The next day, Wednesday, Sept. 5th, 1917, was one never to be forgotten in the annals of the Battery. It was the day of our entry into action--one of the "warmest" entries that was ever given to a Canadian Battery in the Past War. Only our modesty forbids us call it more.

"Preparation had been made to take part of the Battery into its fighting position at Lievin during the night of Sept. 5th- 6th, and during the afternoon officers, gun-crews, and Battery staff party had gone up to the position to prepare to place the guns that should come up after dark. At the wagon lines every one was excited and thrilled at the prospect, not a man but was anxious to make one of the party that should go up with the guns and wagons that night.

"It fell to the lot of the Left Section to go into position first, so leaving the wagon lines just as dusk began to fall, the two guns with their ammunition wagons took the road. Through Souchez, leaving the Arras-Bethune road at "Montreal Crossing", and through Augres to Lievin and the gun positions, the column moved steadily.

"The guns reached their positions and the wagons drew up to unload almost on the stroke of midnight. All was silence but for the low-spoken, clear-cut orders and the movement of the gunners about the wagons as the loads were unlashed for unloading.

'"Whiz-z-z-z!!! Bang!!' followed 'toute suite' by more of the same, and the 'show' was on. Speed? We suddenly developed it in 'great bunches' in unloading those wagons. Just as the first wagons were stripped the guard yelled 'Gas!' and at the same instant we caught that unmistakable odour. Masks, already at the 'alert'. were snapped on and wheeling about the empty wagons went out to the road at the canter.

"The corner turning on the main street by which we had come through the town to the gun position and that section of the street itself were being heavily and thoroughly shelled, and here some of the wagons struck trouble in the shape of wounded or killed horses and a few slightly wounded men. The other wagons coming up found difficulty getting through and some turned off and by a strange road followed round Angres, coming back to the original route between there and Montreal Crossing. And about 4 a.m., the last of the stragglers returned to the wagon lines, and a count of casualties showed a few horses killed, many more wounded or gassed and five men more or less slightly wounded. A few of the other men had got a slight "whiff" of the gas, but not more than enough to make them feel a bit "slim" for the rest of the day.

"It is no exaggeration to say that the Left Section had a 'warm reception'. Subsequent experience soon taught us that such was not, fortunately, the every night occurence. Also it is no exaggeration to say that everyone, inexperienced as we were, behaved with admirable coolness and expedition, especially our Sergeant-Major, demonstrating, as at many other times, the soldier-ability that won him a lasting place in the memory of every man and officer who knew him.

"This 'first night on' was a sharp, but effective lesson and not the least of its teaching was that the Small Box Respirator and the Steel Helmet would both do what was required of them and were faithful, dependable friends.

"The following night, September, 6th, the Right and Centre Sections put their guns in having, luckily, a quiet night without mishap.

"At last, after sixteen long months of training and waiting, the '58th' was 'in action'.

"The first few days were spent in registration and improving and strengthening the gun-pits and dug-outs. This task finished, the Battery settled down to its proper work, grim hard work that soon lost its novelty."

Trench Warfare

At this time and until the commencement of the last 'hundred days' of the War the general nature of the fighting in France was described as 'Trench Warfare'. The Infantry frequently engaged in trench raids and were always consolidating their positions while the Artillery gave what support they could with barrage fire in support of raids, S.O.S. fire in repulse of enemy attacks, destructive shooting against enemy strong points and trenches. Harassing fire, Counter Battery work and some gas shelling were carried out to a considerable extent. With the Battery one day was much like another, and beyond the usual 'straffing' there was 'nothing of special interest to report' as the daily Intelligence Sheets would say.

On the 9th Sept. the Battery Wagon Lines were moved to Ablain St. Nazaire, where they remained until mid-October when, accompanying the other Batteries of the Brigade they were moved to the Sains area, the 58th lines being located at Sains-en- Gohelle near the parish church.

To the Sains wagon lines the guns were brought on the 28th November and after two day's rest were taken to La Basson front at Annequin, the wagon line moving to Verguigneul. This front was then a 'rest' sector, that is, one on which neither side attempted to do any particular offensive work or heavy 'straffing'.

On the 24th December the wagon line returned to Sains-en- Gohelle, the guns going into positions at Lievin, formerly occupied by the 21st Battery, C.F.A., and best rememberd as being subjected to frequent and heavy 'straffing' by the enemy artillery.

On January 22nd, 1918, the gun positions were changed for those originally occupied in Lievin. Here somewhat strenuous artillery activity existed at the time and the Battery suffered its first fatal casualty.

On the 15th March, when the Division went 'out on rest' the 58th went into billets at Haillicourt near Bruay. While here Capt. Bagnall came to the Battery and Major Martin, who had been O.C. since Jan. 1917, went on leave to England where he received another appointment.

The anticipated rest period at Hallicort was suddenly cut short by the Spring Drive staged by the Germans, and on the 22nd March the Battery was again sent into action the guns being taken into position on the 23rd at Loos, relieving the 48th Battery, C.F.A. The wagon lines returned to Sains-en-Gohelle, but a few days later were moved to a position near Brunhaut Farm Corner, just off the Arras-Mount St. Eloi Road, and remembered as the Mud Hole.

Page 144 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added On 1st April, leaving the Loos front, the Battery took over a position at Thelus, which proved to be about like 'jumping from the frying pan into the fire'. The Mud Hole, proving too bad for horse lines, the wagon lines were moved on the 8th April to La Targotte, but here on account of heavy shelling which resulted in a few serious casualties the Battery stayed only over night and on the following day moved to wagon lines at Brunhaut Farm Corner.

The Battery remained in action at Thelus until 12th April, when what was known as the 'Vimy position' was taken. This position was at Vimy Ridge, not far from "The Monument", erected to the honor and memory of the Artillery boys who fell in the glorious attack of April 9th, 1917. This position also received considerable attention from 'Fritz' not only by artillery but also by plane.

On 6th May, the guns being brought back to the wagon lines the Battery marched to Divion, where a rest period of about sixteen days was spent in training for open warfare. While here the Battery was inspected by the Corps Commander accompanied by the Corps Artillery Commander.

The next move was made on the 22nd May when the Battery proceeded to Anzin near Arras where wagon lines were established on the 24th. The guns were put into position at Roclincourt, relieving the 2nd How. Battery then commanded by Major Fisher, the original O.C. the 58th Battery.

While in the Roclincourt position the Battery was in support, a great part of the time, to the famous 51st Scottish Division. While here too there occurred on the 27th May an unfortunate accident, a premature on one of the guns (F Sub.), which resulted in one man being killed and one officer and four men wounded. On the 3rd July Major Blue took over the command of the Battery, which since leaving Haillicourt, had been led by Capt. Bagnall. At the positions Roclincourt, and Anzin the Battery spent a comparatively quiet summer until the end of July when a move was made to Amiens, and from this time to the Armistice the record of the Battery is quoted in full from the 'O.Pip'.

Amiens

"Almost on the stroke of midnight of August 1st, we moved off from our Anzin wagon lines and marched to Aubigny, where we entrained about 9 a.m., August 2nd, arriving the same day about 4 p.m., at Bacquel in the Amiens district. Thence we marched to lines near Caguy. "The next night we started packing ammunition to a gun position just behind Villers-Bretooeux. Here on a road jammed three or four tier deep with men, guns, lorries and wagons, while overhead whirred enemy planes and occasionally the odd bunch of shells burst nearby, we packed and hauled ammunition for four nights and the whole Canadian Corps prepared a surprise party for 'Fritz' that, when it broke, rattled the windows of the palace in

"On the nights of the 5th and 6th the guns were put in position and at 4:30 a.m. of the 8th was sent over the heaviest barrage of the war to that date. Behind the barrage the Infantry 'went over the top' and the big 'show was on.'

"So swift was the advance of our infantry that, in a comparatively short time our guns were out of range and 'hooking in' the Battery moved ahead to a position which a few hours before had been 'No Man's Land'.

"From this time on the fighting all along the front was 'open warfare', hard, swift and strenuous. So many excellent accounts of this campaign have been written by Press writers and the men who were there that we need only add a few notes regarding our own work.

"On August 10th we moved forward from Hangard Wood, and after travelling almost all day on the heels of our cavalry and infantry we took up wagon line and gun positions in front of Folice, the guns being just to the right of Rouvroy. In these positions we remained, firing heavily, until the 17th, when the guns were taken still further ahead and the wagon lines moved up to the former gun position.

"During this period our infantry was fighting a hard but winning battle along the Roye Road and about Damery and Parvilliers. The enemy put up a strong defence in an almost impregnable position and devoted, naturally, considerable attention to back-line positions, lines of communication and so forth. Bombing and shelling alike harmed us not, but many units in close proximity suffered heavily. The 58th to a man worked and fought as never before, thanked their "Guardian Angels", wore their "tin" hats night and day and prayed in good-old-fashioned style for dark and cloudy nights.

"The weather was wonderfully fine and we certainly found open warfare under such conditions in so good a campaigning country more to our liking than the old trench-style article. Men and officers underwent the same hardships and alike covered themselves with honors and glory. We were very fortunate throughout the campaign, having few casualties, yet throughout we were at the apex of the push.

"On August 19th and 20th we returned our supplies of ammunition to rear dumps and prepared to vacate our positions, the sector being taken over by French troops.

"On the 20th occurred an accident peculiar and, fortunately, rare. One of our observation planes, flying low in front of a 60-pounder position just behind our wagon lines, was struck by a rising shell from one of the guns of the Battery below. The aircraft was totally wrecked, the two occupants being instantly killed.

Page 146 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added "On August 21st the Battery moved back to Hangard Wood, arriving on the 22nd about 6 a.m., and resting there until about 7 p.m., the same day and when we marched to Pont de Metz, which was reached about 3 a.m., of the 23rd. On the 34th, we entrained at Saleux, leaving about 12 noon. We arrived about 8:30 p.m. that night at Aubigny, whence we marched to Savy arriving about 11:30 p.m. We had not long to rest, however, as two and a half hours later, at 2 a.m., of the 25th, we again took to the road and marched to lines near Dainville, arriving about 7 a.m. The guns were taken ahead and put in action that night just in front of Arras on the nor4h bank of the Scarpe.

Arras-Monchy

"The following morning, August 26th, the "Arras push" started with an attack astride the Arras-Cambrai Monchy. The initial attack, though meeting strong opposition, was successful and well followed up. Later in the morning the guns were moved up to a position just in front of "Chapel Road" on what was known as "Orange Hill", wagon lines being taken up about six hundred yards to the rear of Chapel Road. These positions were held for three days of very heavy fighting which led up to the attack at Boiry Notre-Dame.

"On August 29th, the Right and Centre Section guns were advanced beyond Monchy to what some super-optimist had named "Happy Hollow", and on the 30th those of the Left Section were placed as an advanced section, in position just back of 'Artillery Hill'. The 31st of August was a day we will long remember. During the night of the 30th and morning of the 31st, ammunition was hauled under heavy enemy 'straffing', resulting in some severe casualties both in horses and men. Again that night, the 31st the guns were advanced to a position at Boiry. The wagon lines being moved the next day to a location just south of the Arras-Cambrai Road almost directly opposite Monchy.

Dury

(The Drocourt-Queant Line)

"On the morning of September 2nd, with an early reveille, the gun teams and "Firing Battery" wagons turned out, the remainder 'standing to'. Under the barrage that morning our infantry had broken the famous Drocourt-Queant Line and driven in on Dury, where the enemy was putting up a strong defence and hot fighting continued well into the day.

"Following the reveille turnout the guns were hauled up to the wire of the Drocourt-Queant Lines, but so warm was that locality that it was deemed advisable to pull back the guns, which were accordingly withdrawn a short distance, immediately going into action from a position just off the Arras-Cambrai road, about two kilometres ahead of Vis-en-Artois.

"There followed the taking of Dury over a fortnight of hard

Page 147 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added strenuous fighting over ridges and among the many little villages thereabout and leading up to the taking of the crossings at the Canal du Nord.

"On the 4th the guns were advanced to 'the Trench' beyond and to the right of Dury. This location is remembered not only as one of severe 'straffing', all were that, but also as one where 'souvenirs' were plentiful. From this position the guns went forward to one of the 'warmest' spots we found between Arras and the Rhine, the position at 'The Chateau', near Sandemont, which was taken on the night of 6th-7th. So close were we following the enemy that when that position was reconnoitered they were still fighting from about the Chateau. Here the guns remained until the 9th, when they were taken back, in support to the position occupied on the 2nd. From this position they were taken a couple of days later, to 'the Trench', where they remained for the balance of the reserve period.

"During this time the wagon lines were located just behind Vis-en-Artois, being moved to that location on September 3rd. The days of that period were eventful that brought us no little new experience, some that we cannot forget if we would, some that we do not wish to forget. Our wagon lines were located in the little valley of the Cojuel River and just behind the steep ridge on the western edge of Vis. The main Arras-Cambrai road passed a couple of hundred yards in front and from the Pont-a-trois Gueules, up the hill into Vis the road was a veritable graveyard for motor lorries. By day the enemy shelled this spot and by night added 'plane bombing to the shelling. But though they suffered heavily, the motor transport columns ever came and went bearing the precious supplies for the front line troops. Few indeed are the men more worthy of praise and reward than the lorry drivers.

"About the Lens area, on Vimy Ridge and in front of Amiens, we had seen the destruction of continued or tremendously concentrated shelling. We had ever long lines of prisoners and vast supplies captured by our advancing armies. We had seen men and horses killed in battle to numbers running into hundreds. But never until we passed through Arras to that long white road to Cambrai did we see the attendant horrors of modern warfare in all their stark nakedness to even one-tenth the measure that we saw along that highway, once one of the most beautiful of 'routes nationales'.

"On either hand, and as far ahead as one might see, the scene was the same. Deep hollows, ridges and long gentle slopes ploughed, furrowed and refurrowed, the glaring white of the semi- baked chalk gleaming ghastly amid the rust-brown of the upturned top-soil, the tall trees along the highway and their lesser brethren of the little copses here and there on either side alike blasted, broken, uprooted and grey, the crumbling, weathering piles of nondescript masonry and splintered timbers where once had stood quaintly beautiful villages and hamlets, these were the scenes that formed in the picture a background grotesquely horrible. The foreground was the same, only more so! In some

Page 148 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added places where "Fritz's night bombers had dropped bombs amid parties of infantrymen on their way 'up', from the fragments of clothing and equipment we surmised the recipients of this 'Kultur' had been men of our finest infantry units.

"Why continue? Such as the Arras-Cambrai road in the latter part of August and early September of 1918. Such had been that road and the country lying on either side for over two and a half years. Nor were the victims of this unholy destruction only our men; equally numerous or more so were spots where the 'Dutchmen' had been overtaken by our vengeance when driven from their refuges by the all-destroying fire of our 'heavies'. May another generation have to look upon such sights caused by the lust and madness of men.

"Along the line which passed through Vis were numerous observation balloons which seemed to be particularly disliked by 'Fritz'. He shelled them spasmodically, but regularly sent over his best 'planes and scarcely a day passed but one or more went down in flames, only to be immediately replaced by another. The aerial activity furnished our one amusement while at the Vis wagon lines. Our anti-aircraft batteries did good work, as did our patrol planes, and often the 'sausage hunter' went home empty handed. On one occasion the attacking Hun 'planes tackled a dummy balloon loaded with explosives; thereafter they were somewhat more cautious. But every day, night and morning, our 'planes soared and roared overhead on their way to and from the strongholds of the foe, while all day long the 'buses' came and went that we of the artillery-line might the better support our boys who fought 'in front of the front'.

"Through our lines here were in the heart of an area both heavily shelled and frequently bombed, only once were we directly so affected, bombs on that occasion wounding some horses and giving us all a good 'windup'.

The Canal Du Nord and Bourlon

"On September 18th, the wagon lines were moved to a hilltop just above Martiers near Wancourt, and on the night of the 20th the guns were brought back from 'the Trench' to these wagon lines. On the 21st the Battery moved to lines near Hendecourt.

Here, during the next four nights we hauled and packed ammnition to a position behind Inchy. The guns went into action here on the night of the 27th for the attack on Bourlon. The next day the wagon lines moved up to this gun position and the guns to a position just in rear of Bourlon village. The fighting of this past fortnight had been very severe, the enemy's positions about the Canal being very strong and stubbornly defended. The fighting that immediately followed was even more strenuous and stubborn.

Cambrai

"Our guns on the 28th moved to a position just ahead of Bourlon village, and the wagon lines were advanced to the position in rear of the village previously occupied by the guns. On the 29th the guns were again advanced, taking up a position behind a steep bank near Raillencourt, where they remained during the greater part of the Siege of Cambrai. On the night of the 30th the Centre Section guns were advanced to St. Olle, a little over a thousand yards ahead of the Hollow, but returned to the main position the following night. On the night of the 5th these guns were moved across to a position on the north side of the Cambrai road to which the rest of the Battery moved on the following night. This position is remembered as one where the guns were in an open field pretty much under observation and subjected to considerable enemy 'straffing'. Here they stayed for about five days moving to 'the Orchard' position at Blocourt on the 11th, the day on which Cambrai was finally taken.

"Some idea of the strength of the enemy defence at Cambrai may be gained from the fact that on the last day of the siege, Canadian Artillery, between dawn and dark shot 7,000 tons of projectiles into the enemy territory.

"From the time of the fall of Cambrai the end of the fighting became merely a matter of days; the end was at last in sight. At various points on the front the enemy put up very stubborn defensive actions, but the relentless, driving pressure kept him retreating far faster than his strategists desired, and also far faster than he could remove his stores and supplies, of which our forces captured immense quantities in the following days.

To Valenciennes

"Following the fall of Cambrai our fighting swung towards Denain and Valenciennes.

"On the 11th the Battery took up a position at Blecourt moving the next day to Esware, close to the Canal de l'Escant, where it remained for four 'warm' days. The wagon lines were moved to Ramillies and received a very warm reception there also. From Esware the Battery moved to Thun-Leveque, where it stayed for five days. The next position was at Paillencourt, and was held for one day, the Battery moving on to Marquette, which was also a 'one day stand." The next day the Battery took up two positions, first at Lourchies and second at Fosse near Escaudain. The following day the Battery moved, 'in Divisional support' to Haveluy, where it remained for the five days of its support period, after which the guns went into action at La Sennelle, wagon lines at Haveluy, where they remained until the fall of Valenciennes on November 2nd.

"At Valenciennes the Captain, accompanied by one of the

Page 150 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added Section Commanders and a signaller entering the city close after the infantry, had the honour of cutting down the German flag from the Hotel De Ville (Town Hall) staff and raising, for the first time since '14, the tricolour of France.

"Early in November 3rd the Battery went into Valenciennes with the first Allied Artillery to enter the city. Here gun postions and wagon lines were taken between the Place de la Republique and the river amongst buildings used as a hospital during the German occupation.

The Mons Road

"Early on the morning of November 4th the guns were moved to Saint Saulve on the Mons road, from which they helped keep the fast-fleeting Hun on the move, not only with our own little 'four-fives', but also with the able assistance of one of his own eight-inch 'Hows', that he had left behind in his haste. The following day the guns were moved, late in the night, to Onnaing. Here the Battery fired its last shots on the morning of the 6th. On the night of the 6th the guns were moved to Quadrouble, but were not put into action and on the morning of the 7th they were brought back to the wagon lines at Valenciennes, the Battery going on Corps Support for a few days.

"On the 9th we moved, early in the morning, ahead along the Mons road in support, halting at Crespin, just on the French side of the border. Many times we had heard of the cruel brutality of the Hun soldier towards civilians in the territory he occupied. Some evidences of that cruelty we had seen, but never any such as we saw in this little village on the Belgium border.

"On the afternoon of the 10th we moved to Thulin, a short distance into Belgium.

"Here, on the following morning, the never-to-be-forgotten 11th of November, we received word of the signing of the Armistice, and the order to cease hostilities, though not our watchfulness, at 11:00 a.m., that day.

"We took the news calmly enough, but the best evidence of our subsequent spirit was that we immediately began calculations and arguments concerning the probable date of our arrival home. Meanwhile, awaiting developments, we 'cleaned up' everything in sight, even ourselves.

On Friday the 15th some of us attended, as representatives of the Allied Armies, a service at the town church held in honour of H.M. King Albert, a soldier and a King worthy of the greatest honours. Here we also received from 'M'sieu Le Maire' and 'M'sieu Le Cure' thanks on behalf of the Belgian people for the liberation of their native land by the Armies to which we belonged.

We learned in a few days that our first dreams of going home were not to be realized, but that we were to form part of the

Page 151 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added British Army of Occupation, under the terms of the Armistice, of the Rhine cities and bridgeheads. And our last few days at Thulin were spent preparing for 'The Triumphal March to the Rhine'.

The March to the Rhine

We have not space to reproduce here the full record of this famous march as contained in the "O.Pip", but we quote from the first and last parts only.

"Hannibal marched his armies over the Alps and so did the late Con'l Bonaparte, who also marched them all the way to Moscow. The fighting men of J. Caesar marched through Gaul and Sherman's men 'to the sea'. But it is safe to say in 1919, that none of them had anything' on the Allied Armies who made that historic (it will be some day) 'March to the Rhine' following the declaration of the Armistice on November 11th, 1918.

From the beginning of the march the 14th Brigade, C.F.A., was attached to the 3rd Brigade (1st Division) Canadian Infantry and accompanied these famous troops in the occupation of the Rhineland.

With a 12:30 a.m. reveille on Monday, November 18th, a cold, raw day, with occasional snowflurries, the Battery moved off from the gun park at Thulin and the triumphal progress across Belgium began.

A long morning's march over frost-slippery cobbled roads brought us, about 2 p.m., to the little village of Cambron-St. Vincent. All along the road we received most hearty and cordial greetings from the civilians and not a house but was decorated with the Belgium colours at least. Many of the houses were quite elaborately decorated, gaily decked arches spanned the streets and signs bearing inscriptions of welcome or praise were seen on all sides. We discovered that we were variously 'nos valiants Alliees,' 'les braves Canadiens.' 'nos liberateurs,' or 'nos heros."

Among flags the Belgian black, yellow and red predominated, of course, the French tricolour was plentifully displayed but, though numerous, weird and strange in most cases were the representations of the British and United States flags. The 'Red Ensign' was the British Flag most commonly attempted, but seldom was the 'Jack' correctly made, usually lacking the white entirely and often being but two blue crosses on a red field. 'Old Glory' was a banner with a few vertical red and white stripes and blue 'stars' on a white field, numbering anywhere from half a dozen to a score, or some similar production of an ingenious mind desiring to express its gratitude to the men who had helped restore the battered remains of what once had been a home."

"All along the way the people gathered in little groups, waved, raised their hats and cheered as we passed. Sometimes they ran out into the roadway and handed us little flags which we

Page 152 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added placed upon our vehicles or in our horses headgears. Fortunately, when we halted for a few moments, the odd 'tasse du cafe' was pressed upon us. One could become a mild sort of coffee-fiend, if one could 'go' the beverage during the days of this march.

The cordiality of these people was convincingly sincere, and their plaudits did much to relieve the discomforts of marching in the weather of those days. And their welcome, together with the sight of their wrecked, stripped homes, their hunger-pinched faces, which ever smiled bravely and cheerily, and the make-shift barrows upon which they wheeled their few remaining household goods as they trudged along the roads leading westward from the land of their bondage to their homes, all these and many other sights drove home to us a realization of what war means, particularly when the Boche is the foe, either invading or retreating.

Whenever we halted, clear to the border, the same story greeted us. The 'sale Boche' had taken 'sans payer', 'lesu pommes de terre', had killed and eaten 'la bonne vache', had slept in bed while the 'petite enfants, mais oui et maman' had slept on straw spread on the floor (which was the way we usually slept). Food had been dreadfully scarce, poor in quality and woefully high in price. And the men-folk were personally 'sore' for the same 'veleurs' had taken their 'tabac' or most of it anyway."

"Of all the people we met in these Belgium towns and villages, none welcomed us more warmly, few with such dignified and sincere cordiality as 'M'sieu. le Cure.'"

"On the 6th (Dec. 1918) after an early reveille, we marched to Lierneux, arriving about noon. This was the last village we stayed at in Belgium, but nowhere did we find the Belgians more kindly hospitable than here, so close to the German border."

"The 7th was another raw, cold day, misty with a few showers. An earlier reveille started us on our march into Germany. We passed Viewsalm, where the Canadian Corps Commander had his headquarters, and continuing, crossed the border about 11 a.m., the sole spectators of our triumphal entry into 'Heineland' being three girls from a house outside the line between the black and white striped boundary posts." "They stood just on the Belgium side of the line, wore Belgium colours, and waved us on 'to Berlin' with most cheery greetings and pleasant smiles. About 1 p.m., we reached the village of Recht in the Malmedy district of the Rhineland province and there halted.

We found these first Germans whom we met on their native soil to be more comfortably housed, better provided for people than the Belgians who had been under German rule and, being country folk they had fairly good food in a fair quantity. But the atmosphere was different absolutely than in any part of Belgium. It was heavy, dull, semi-hostile and apprehensive atmosphere we found here, and the people were pretty cool to us,

Page 153 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added though respectful and deferential.

The next day, the 8th, on much easier roads, we marched about 26 kilometres to Rocherath, arriving about 4 p.m. We passed through several small towns and villages on this march but didn't see any display of flags and 'Honor aux Alliees,' signs as we had seen so many days previously. Seldom did the people of the houses we passed show themselves, regarding us from behind their curtained windows and making us feel exactly what we were, 'strangers in a strange land.' Our entry into Germany had seemed to lead toward Coblenz, but now we found our route leading toward Bonn and Cologne as it had before we left the Meuse at Huy.

On the 9th, starting about 8 a.m., we marched some 20 kilometres over heavy, hilly roads to a halting place deep in the hill country near Wildenberg. Here we parked our guns and wagons in the valley and mounted seemingly interminable hills to the hamlet of Heiken, where we found our billets and stables.

The following day we marched to Commern, and on the 11th proceeded via the considerable town of Euskirchen to Weilerswist, going on the following day to the outskirts of Cologne, where we were quartered in barracks and stables formerly used by the German regular army. We reached these barracks shortly after noon and spent the remainder of the day cleaning up harness and equipment preparatory to the entry of Cologne.

On December 13th we moved off, the entire Brigade in column, from the barracks about 9 a.m. and proceeded slowly into and through one side of the famous Rhineland city. The populace turned out in strength to watch us, the first Allied artillery, pass through their 'Stadt Koln' beneath the shadow of their famous cathedral or 'Dom'. Numerous amongst the crowd were ex-soldiers, some wearing all or part of their field uniform, but, of course, unarmed. Occasionally we saw a smile, but mostly the faces we looked down upon from our horses were grave and quiet in expression, wondering yet not fearing, stern but not hostile. The city impressed us favorably, the buildings being well built and modern in architecture. There were many stores, seemingly all well stocked, neatly and attractively displaying their wares in windows much like up-to-date windows at home."

"As we came up by the incline to the bridge, the Hange Brucke or suspension bridge, our salute was taken by General Sir H. Plumer, the famous Commander of the British 2nd Army in France, Flanders and Belgium, which later became the British Army of Occupation in the Rhineland.

Truly this was an historic moment and one great in the life of each and every one of us. After more than four years of hard and bitter fighting amid scenes of desolation and devastation, of horror well-nigh soulnumbing, we stood triumphant by right of a God-given victory in the heart of one of the fairest, oldest and proudest states of the Enemy's Empire. We were calm with the dignity of those greater and more noble natures that the battlefields had made of the fine-metal souls bequeathed us by

Page 154 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added generations of Christian free-men. We were proud, and ever will be, of our comradeship with the heroic sons of Belgium, the valiant 'Poilu' and the brave men from all parts of our own great Empire. We were proud of what had been done and prouder still that we had helped in the doing. But, in all, our pride was not that 'False pride that goeth before a fall', rather, we believe, it was that which ennobles men and raises them to greater heights of achievement and Christian civilization.

And into our feeling of pride at that great moment there came a reminding wave of sadness that humbled our spirit with reverant touch as we thought of our pals who slept beneath the shell-swept fields of Flanders, beneath the winding Scarp or under the ages-old shadow of Vimy. But, we left them not behind us when we marched to the Rhine; like the immortal 'John Brown' their souls 'go marching on' keeping us company 'wherever duty and glory may lead us'".

Across the bridge we filed, our Battery crossing at 10:25 a.m., and on to the little suburb of Ostheim, where we took up the lines that have been our 'home' since.

We've had a quiet, restful time after our arduous months since midsummer and we have enjoyed the rest.

CHAPTER X

12TH SIEGE BATTERY, C.G.A.

The 12th Canadian Siege Battery which became one of the Batteries of the 5th Regiment was, like the 58th Battery, an overseas unit, and its traditions therefore entrusted to the keeping of the 5th Regiment. As the author of this Historical Record was the first Commanding Officer of the 12th, apologies are offered for the occasional use of the first personal pronoun in writing the story of the Battery during the War.

ORGANIZATION AND TRAINING

Toward the latter part of December, 1917, authority was granted by the Army Council in London, England, for the formation of the 12th Canadian Siege Battery with effect from January 1, 1918. A few days later, in a letter from Canadian Headquarters at Argyle House, authority for action was passed to the Officer Commanding the Canadian Reserve Artillery at Witley Camp. The new battery was to be formed from the reserves at Witley and equipped with six 6-inch Breech-Loading Howitzers.

Witley, in the County of Surrey, had for some time been the home of the Canadian Reserve Artillery in England, and as there was no scarcity of men in camp, it required only a short time to form the nucleus of a Battery. The majority of the men were selected from a draft which had recently been sent from Canada by the 9th Siege Battery at St. John, N.B. The remainder of the men included representatives from all the other provinces and also a few from the United States.

During this period of organization the interests of the battery were jealously looked after by Lieut. Colonel W. G. Beeman, D.S.O., who had been given command of the 3rd Canadian Heavy Artillery Brigade comprising the three newest Canadian Siege Batteries in England, viz., the 10th, then at Lydd; the 11th at Deept Cut; and the 12th. The 8th Canadian Siege Battery in France equipped with 8-inch Howitzers was also to be included in this Brigade.

Part II Orders were duly issued and 147 Gunners were first taken on the strength of the unit with effect from January 21, 1918. One week later the battery with a strength of four officers, viz., Lieutenants Palmer, Sharples, deWitt and Agnew, with 187 Other Ranks left Witley by rail for its first training camp at Deept Cut. Deept Cut, in the County of Hants, is an Imperial Training Camp near Aldershot and here the battery found comfortable quarters in North Minden Barracks.

On the 1st of February I arrived from France to take command of the Battery. A short time later Captain Colin MacKay, as Second-in-Command, and Lieutenants A.E. Walford and F.C. Rounth- waite also joined the unit. Organization and the selection of Non-Commissioned Officers engaged first attention. The Specialist

Page 156 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added classes were formed. Signallers and Battery Commander's Assistants were sent on courses to Catterick, Wheelers were sent to Woolwich, Cooks to Aldershot, while Gun Layers and other Signallers were given special instruction within the Battery. Lectures were of frequent occurrence, night parades and tasks were carried out. Special attention was given to "Gas" instruction, and after two months intensive training the Battery was sent to Lydd to carry out shooting practice on the ranges. Training as far as England was concerned, was now completed.

The fame of Lydd as an Imperial Siege Training Camp dates from pre-war days. It was here in a little concrete laboratory on the ranges that the famous explosive, Lyddite, was discovered some years earlier. During the war Lydd was the final training station of all Heavy Artillery Batteries in England.

The village is situated on a level plain near Dungeness Point on the south coast of Kent. Stretching to the sea is a vast shingle waste used for gun ranges, while further inland the plain provides pasture for thousands of sheep. The chief land- mark in the locality is the old imposing stone church in the village with a spire which made an admirable aimming point.

The first week at Lydd was devoted chiefly to studying Standing Orders and attending lectures. After two weeks the battery was given its first experience in firing the guns. Firing practice thereafter became so common that before the end of the seventeen series which we carried out it might have become monotonous had it not been for the daily criticisms of the I.G.'s (Instructors of Gunnery) who all had little whims of their own which they insisted should be carried out.

It happened that at this time there was stationed at Little- stone nearby, an American flying squadron and when they heard of the arrival of a new Canadian battery they sent a challenge for a series of baseball games. Three games were played on three successive Saturday afternoons and although the Yankees had a good team, they failed to score a single victory, much to their disgust.

After five weeks of training at Lydd orders were received to proceed to Codford to draw guns, stores and full equipment for France. Most of the men were granted their mobilization leave of six days from Lydd, the remainder having their leaves granted later.

Codford is not far distant from the ancient town of Salisbury in the County of Wiltshire. As it was purely a mobilization camp few training facilities were provided. The chief point of interest in Codford village was St. George's Inn, and at this center there was "stand to" at certain periods every day. Training parades were entirely dispensed with and during our three weeks stay we were chiefly employed in drawing our guns and stores, going on leave, and practicing various sports.

Page 157 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added One Saturday was given over to field sports and prizes amounting to seventeen pounds were put up for competition among the six batteries then in camp. The 12th Canadian Siege Battery, which was the only Canadian unit participating, swept the slate and captured prizes amounting to sixteen pounds ten shillings, leaving the remaining ten shillings to be divided amongst the other five batteries.

As soon as the guns and stores had been drawn from the Ordnance Department, orders were received to make final preparations to leave for France. Nominal rolls and records by the score were compiled and certificates without number were duly signed with a fine optimism by the Battery Commander.

Colonel C.H.L. Sharman, C.M.G., C.B.E., who was in command of the Canadian Artillery in England came down from Witley to give the Battery its final inspection, and expressed himself as greatly pleased with the appearance of the parade. He was especially pleased on noticing, when the men doffed their caps to give three cheers, that they all had their hair closely cropped. A farewell complimentary message was conveyed by Colonel Sharman to the Battery from the General-Officer- Commanding, Canadian Forces, in England, Lieut. General Sir R.E.W. Turner, V.C., K.C.B., K.C.M.G., D.S.O.

On May 28th the Motor Transport Column arrived, consisting of six heavy four-wheel driven lorries, called F.W.D's, fifteen three-ton lorries, motor cars and motorcycles. The personnel of the column consisted of one officer, Lieut. S.H. Russ, and sixty-four other ranks of the Army Service Corps (A.S.C.).

That evening the lorries were loaded up with all the battery stores and early next morning the column, with a gun party under Lieuts. F.G. Rounthwaite and F. H. Palmer, left by road for Portsmouth at which port they embarked for France. The same day an advance party under Lieut. A.E. Walford left Codford by train for Southampton. The main body followed on June 1, and embarked from Southampton on the ARCHIMEDES bound for Le Havre.

First Days in France

The troopship ARCHIMEDES with the 12th Canadian Siege Battery and other troops on board drew up to the docks at Le Havre about noon on a beautiful day of clear sunshine, June 2nd, 1918. A hasty and orderly debarkation was made, and soon the troops were on the march to their temporary camp in the suburbs of that busy port.

At that time the American soldiers were arriving in great numbers daily and "Sammies" were everywhere in evidence. We had not been in quarters sixty minutes before we were challenged to a game of baseball. Details were soon arranged and that evening the Battery won its first victory on French soil.

In a few days orders were received to move up the line.

Page 158 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added Capt. C. MacKay took command of the Battery on the train while I set out by motor for our Brigade Headquarters at La Targette, on Vimy Ridge, where I arrived the next day. The day following, the rest of the Battery arrived, having come by train via Etaples and St. Pol.

Our first battery position was at Nine Elms, a few hundred yards south of Thelus and just to the east of the Lens-Arras Road. Numerous other batteries were located in the same vicinity so we were handicapped in finding room as well as materials for convenient quarters. The guns were soon in position and registration successfully carried out. We had been in position only a few days when the Battery adjoining our guns was heavily shelled and put completely out of action. We, ourselves, escaped serious damage, although our control post had two "8-inch" shell holes within a few feet of either side, making a perfect bracket.

After we had been in this position about two weeks we learned much to our surprise that our Brigade was to be withdrawn from the line for a few weeks. We consequently moved from Nine Elms to Blavincourt near Avesnes le Compte where we carried out daily training in open and mobile warfare. Two inspections were made by Generals Morrison and Massey and in these manoeuvres the 12th C.S.B. received warm praise for the way they demonstrated that a heavy battery was almost if not quite, as mobile as a Field Battery.

About this time great interest in the whole Canadian Corps was being taken in the approaching sports on Dominion Day. The 12th C.S.B. baseball team under the able training of Gnr. Finnamore, captain of the team, succeeded in winning the championship of the Canadian Heavy Artillery, but in the elimination games went down to defeat by the Corps Signals team. July 1 was a glorious day, and Tinques, on the Arras-St.Pol road where the sports were held, was gaily decorated for the occasion. The area was well guarded from enemy observation by a flotilla of aeroplanes, and the day was in every way a huge success. Many distinguished visitors were present including H.R.H. the Duke of Connaught, Sir Robert Borden and Hon. Arthur Meighen. The sporting events were of an exceptionally high order and keenly contested. The 12th C.S.B. had the distinction of supplying the whole four runners in the 3rd Heavy Brigade team which won first prize in the relay race. Bdr. H. Phillips, our battery trainer, also won first in one of the long distance races.

About the middle of July, Brigade received orders to go into the line again. Our battery took over from an Imperial battery in Faubourg d'Amiens, one of the western suburbs of Arras. During the two weeks we were in this position our work was not very heavy so we took advantage of an opportunity to make a careful calibration of our guns. We were surprised at the abnormally long 50% zones which these guns seemed to have, and as four of these guns were new and the other two were newly lined we could not understand the cause. We suspected the unsatisfactory results obtained were due to "economy" driving bands on the shell ammunition with which we were supplied. Careful inspection and

Page 159 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added measuring showed that in about 50% of our supply these bands were of a given standard, but in the other 50% they varied as to distance at which they were placed from the base of the shell.

A second calibration series was arranged, in which three line observation was obtained from a section of the Field Survey Company at Wagonlieu. We used selected shells and the results obtained were remarkable and proved beyond all doubt the truth of our suspicions. Our former abnormal 50% zone of 500 yards was reduced to approximately 100 yards. It was also demonstrated that those shells having drive bands furthest from the base gave the longest range; this no doubt being due to reduced air space in the chamber. The results obtained were tabulated, but shortly afterwards a circular was received showing similar results were obtained from experiments carried out on Salisbury Plain in England.

Just as we had completed these tests we received orders to be ready to move at any time on short notice. We did not know anything of future plans, but we were all confident there was to be a big drive somewhere. The contemplated move proved to be to the Amiens front.

THE BATTLE OF AMIENS

Although preparations for the Battle of Amiens which commenced on August 8th, 1918, involved the moving of the Canadian Corps, from the line in front of Arras, such secrecy was maintained that only a select few knew what was planned until practically the last minute. On August 1st we received orders to move at 9:30 p.m. that night to Avesnes le Compte where we were to bivouac the next day, and be ready to entrain the following night, destination unknown. To our surprise the next day we were informed that we were not going to entrain but at 9:30 p.m. to march to a point a few miles south of Doullens. Conjectures were rife as to our ultimate destination. We learned that part of the infantry had been sent north while other battalions were moving south. All units travelled by night, and although all roads leading south were congested by night there was no unusual activity during the day.

We eventually, on the night of August 5th, moved our six guns into battle position in a wooded gully in Abbe Wood on the main road from Amiens to Villers Bretonneux. All new batteries in the area had orders that no registration should be carried out and not a gun was to be fired before the appointed time. Those batteries which had previously been in that district were to continue their normal amount of shooting so that the enemy should have no cause to become suspicious.

Our operation orders were received on August 7 and explained the plan of attack. The Canadian Corps was to be the spearhead of the drive, our right flank being the Amiens-Roye Road and our left flank the Amiens-Chaulnes railway. The French were to co- operate on our right and the Australians on our left. The 12th C.S.B. were to support the 2nd Canadian Division on the left

Page 160 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added flank of the Corps and our Brigade was placed under the orders of the Artillery Commander of the 2nd Division.

Zero hour was set at 4:20 a.m. August 8 and at the precise moment the Allied artillery thundered out in an overwhelming bombardment. Four minutes later the infantry leapt to the chase which did not halt until the Huns had been driven, in one day, a distance of about eight miles.

After the opening of the battle the advance of the infantry was so rapid that our guns were soon out of range. During the day we moved our guns and ammunition to a second position at Wiencourt and as we passed through Marcelcave, which had been our first target in the opening bombardment, we surveyed with interest the amount of artillery damage that had been wrought.

At 11 a.m. on the second day the artillery started the show again with another bombardment but as in the previous day it was not long before our guns were again out of range. After a tour of reconnaissance we moved two of our guns to Caix but the advance proceeded so rapidly that these guns never came into action.

The third day about 4 p.m. we had our six guns in position in an orchard in the little village of Vrely which had been captured the day before. We were now under Corps orders again and we immediately engaged in bombarding the enemy transport with aeroplane observation.

By the night of the 10th the first phase of the battle was practically concluded, the phenomenal advance of our infantry having been arrested by their coming into contact with the old system of trenches and wire defences which the British had constructed prior to the Somme operations in 1916. It was also evident that the enemy had succeeded in rushing up considerable reserves of both artillery and infantry. The next few days were devoted to minor attacks to consolidate our position to the best advantage.

When it was definitely decided to halt the advance on the Amiens front it was planned to withdraw the Canadian Corps to Arras again to take part in another big drive in the direction of Cambrai. This movement was commenced on August 19th and on the night of the 24th the 4th Division, the last in the line, were relieved by the French.

That was a hectic night in Vrely as the Huns paid us a visit about 11 p.m. with their bombing planes. Several bombs were dropped and many of the French soldiers who were on their way up to the front were killed and wounded in the streets. Our own Battery escaped much damage, although I, myself, was unlucky enough to be in the way and had my right leg smashed. Fortunately medical aid came early to the rescue and soon I was in an ambulance on my way to Blighty.

Page 161 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added As my career with the 12th was thus rudely terminated, Capt. Colin MacKay took over the Command. Three days later the order to move was given and on September 1 the Battery entrained at Amiens rail-head for Arras.

The Battle of Cambrai

The last hundred days of the war, as far as the Canadians were concerned, are naturally divided into three main operations. (1) The Battle of Amiens, as already described; (2) The Arras- Cambrai Battle extending from August 26 to October 9, when Cambrai was captured; and (3) The advance from Douai to Mons.

The Arras-Cambrai battle was itself divided into four distinct phases. The initial attack which was launched on August 25, resulted in the capture of the old German front system east of Monchy-le-Preux and the Fresnes-Rouvroy line. The second attack on September 2 successfully smashed through the Drocourt- Queant system of defences. A considerable time elapsed at this stage to consolidate positions and prepare, in conjunction with the rest of the British front, for the third big attack. This attack which was made against the Canal du Nord was successfully launched on September 27. The fourth phase had for its objective the capture of Cambrai by enveloping manoeuvres. This attack commenced on October 8 by the XVII Corps of the Third British Army and on October 9 the Canadians entered the historic city.

The 12th C.S.B. after moving up from the Amiens front came into action in the Cambrai Battle on September 7, when they relieved the 87th Imperial Siege Battery at Villers-Cagnicourt. The following record of battery activity is taken from the diary of one of the battery officers, Lieutenant A.E. Walford, MM. The personal references will help to give a fair idea of a gunner's daily life during those strenuous times.

Sept. 7. - MacKay and I went forward to take over No. 87 S.B., R.G.A., in Villers-Cagnicourt (Sheet 51B, V4A). We found the bearers huddled in a little shack about six feet every way, which was only doing duty as an officers' mess, telephone exchange, battery office, command post and officers' billets. There was plenty of room for four more to get in if two lay on the bunks and if the other two stood. We had only seven officers, two B.C.A's. and a couple of Signallers, so that accommodation was excellent. Their O.C. explained that they had felt perfectly sure, of course, that they would be relieved, and so had taken no pains whatever to dig in or make any shelter. He also told us a number of facts about the position, which would have been far better left unsaid. While we were taking over the guns, a shrapnel got three people ahead of us, and convinced us that all the Major had said was true. Battery came up that night and furnished an excellent opportunity for a fight with the A.S.C. officer, which relieved the monotony of sitting still and being shelled.

Sept. 8. - Established an O.P. near Barralls Wood, and

Page 162 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added started registration on the church in Oisy le Verger, and had some excellent results judging from the appearance of the church. Signaller Perkins was wounded patching the L.P. line, but not seriously, and in the afternoon we had a premature on No. 4, wounding five men, but none killed, which was remarkable since No. 4 was firing directly over No. 5 at the time.

Sept. 9-13. - Things moved pretty quickly and we did a great deal of shooting from various O.P's., mainly on Oise le Verger, Sauchy Lestree, Marquin and Bourlon Wood. The intelligence reports about this time made daily mention of the fact that Villers-Cagnicourt received the usual attention. Bombing was a nightly occurrence. MacKay and McNeil were caught on the way home from the O.P., and McNeil hit in the thigh. A piece went in and broke MacKay's helmet, but did not wound him. However, he was so badly shocked that he had to be sent back; and Fred Palmer came up that night to take his place.

Sept. 14. - John Sharples came up from the wagon-line at Beauvais, and Archie went back. The colonel turned up and inspected the position, but, luckily, it was too hot for anybody to stick around for the purpose of making remarks, so we got off easily.

Sept. 15. - Did an early morning shoot and had a rotten time. Everybody is just played out from the constant daily firing, night bombing and continual gassing that we have been getting for the past week. There has been no opportunity to make cover save for the guns, and we have been at it day and night. During this night, the bombing was particularly bad. They buried No. 6 crew, and put a dud in No. 2 pit, but our only casualty was one man shell-shocked. Fred Palmer did some great work for which he was recommended for the M.C., and Bdr. Wilson for the M.M.

Sept. 16. - I was elected for O.P. duty, and picked up some mustard gas on the way. We were supposed to do a datum shoot, but the lines went down, and so I had to sit still and watch a

Hun NCO and three men put a camouflage in Bois du Quesnoy, which was a fine feeling, but I had the satisfaction of putting over the odd 25 rounds of harrassing fire that night, which was charged to the "bush account". Word reached us that the Americans had taken 30,000 prisoners, and wiped out a salient at St. Michael. It is about time somebody did something. We feel as if we had been doing all the fighting.

Sept. 17. - In the afternoon I went up to the O.P. of the 2nd C.H.B. and tried to do a shoot on Oisy le Verger Church. Finally, I succeeded in registering one gun. Just about this time the Hun put over an attack in front of Bourlon Wood. It was a remarkable fight, but our barrage proved too much and he had to fall back. To show his feelings in the matter he put a gas belt behind the O.P., which, of course, we had to inhale on the way home. Luckily, we had a fairly quiet night.

Sept. 18. - Rumours reached us that somebody was shooting

Page 163 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added short, and as we were all under suspicion, we had a double line shoot on Oisy le Verger, which proved conclusively that our guns were okay. John Sharples was at Halifax O.P. and I observed from the rear of No. 6. The range was 9,250 yards, but the observation perfect, and we laid No. 6 on the target with open sights. This shoot was done with almost a dozen balloons watching us, but we were lucky enough to get away without any trouble. Had a bad afternoon with a gas bombardment and harrassing fire.

Sept. 19. - Usual routine.

Sept. 20. - Got orders to reconnoitre a new position, so Fred and I met the Colonel to look it over. In the afternoon tried to register the guns but had no luck. Capt. Flinter reported for duty much to the delight of the Subs, who have been running the Battery entirely since MacKay was wounded, and that with four of us in action at the battery and one at the column for reliefs. Fred, John and I spent a terrible afternoon figuring out a New Year's List recommendations which became due about this time.

Sept. 21. - We have been put on counter-battery work, and of course, are shooting every few minutes at some imaginary Battery.

Sept. 22. - Quiet. Greg and I spent the afternoon on reconnaissance, etc., of our new position.

Sept. 23-24. - Quiet. Spent the time digging in at the new position for attack on Canal du Nord. Moved two guns up that night.

Sept. 25. - Laid out lines of fire for two guns in position, and worked on getting command posts, etc., in shape for show. Calibrated other guns on Oisy le Verger Church.

Sept. 26. - We were elected for brigade O.P. and I was the only one without an alibi. Day was very quiet for which we thank God, because our O.P. was a trench about two feet deep, no cover, no revetments and in full view. In the afternoon I slipped back to the battery to get details of the show for following morning. I nearly got nipped on the way back. Had a rotten night at O.P. Rained nearly all the time and four different gas concentrations put down on me. We were on the front of the 11th Imperial Division for the attack of the 27th.

Sept. 27. - Zero was 5:20 moonlight. Everything went fine at first. I spotted 4 whizz-bangs firing in sheet 51 W. 23 and so turned two of our guns on to them with immediate success. One Hun came back to strip his gun three times, and in spite of my best efforts, got away with it. I was almost sorry when an infantryman, finished him with a bayonet. Brigade, as usual, insisted on lengthy written pro-forma reports, which due to a change in situation, immediately became useless for any practical purpose. Freeman relieved me at 9 o'clock, and I got a job on

Page 164 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added reconnaissance. It was great sport and we all got gassed. Three of the signallers got quite a heavy dose and had to go down the line. The show went along in fine shape and the first division got their objective. The 11th division on their left, was held up and left that flank open, while on the right the flank was open as well, and resulted in heavy casualties.

Sept. 28. - Started to move forward at 9 a.m. and got as far as Le Maison Neuve. Here we hung around a day, so Fred and I went up and inspected the guns that we had knocked out yesterday. The little fellow had succeeded in getting out his firing mechanism and so disabled the gun. We went into action at 7 p.m. at Bois de Cocret.

Sept. 29. - Quiet day with ordinary fire. I got a good job as motor-cycle intelligence officer for Colonel.

Sept. 30. - Spent a bad morning on reports for brigade. Whatever else happens these reports must be made. Moved two guns up in rear of Hayne-court.

Oct. 1. - Show started at 5 a.m. and pretty soon the field guns began to move. We fired quite a lot. Prisoners came in early. Soon he counter-attacked and we were kept quite busy repelling him. The men worked splendidly and the A.S.C. did some wonderful transport of ammunition. Agnew was out as F.O.O.

Oct. 2. - Quiet day. MacNeil came back from hospital. Still limping badly but itching to fight. Fortunately it rained and for a change we had a little sleep.

Oct. 3. - MacNeil and I were sent to O.P. to shoot up Bantigney, East of the Douai Road. Brigade picked up our line so we wandered about Sanscourt and other dirty spots where the fighting was very severe. On returning to battery we found that the Hun had put a shell in the cook house. Results: Walter Adams killed; Summerville fatally wounded (badly messed up) and 21 others wounded including Tripp and Cullimore, who came right back after being dressed.

Oct. 4. - Spent the day setting up a mess. We have been sleeping and eating for a number of days in the command post because the harrassing fire was very severe. Fred Palmer and I produced numerous blisters by making ourselves a dugout much to the amusement of the gunners.

Oct. 5. - More digging by Fred and myself. Things have quieted down considerably, but a lot of night bombing going on.

Oct. 6. - Very quiet and the night abnormally so. No bombs and only tired shells. Everybody had a good sleep and the gunners took advantage of the opportunity to write hundreds of letters which prevented the officers resting for the next several days. We moved two guns into Hayne-court in X 10 C central north of Raillencourt on the Arras-Cambrai Road. Had quite a hot

Page 165 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added party. Lost some A.S.C. drivers, which gave Fred and I a chance to qualify as transport experts manoeuvering Thornycrofts around shell holes. This was 1 a.m. then of course the brigade line went down in umpteen places. All but one of the signallers were gassed, so Mason and I started back to patch up the line while the Huns shot bombs at our flashlight.

Oct. 7. - MacNeil and I were on duty at a forward position which was in a terrible condition following rain. All our stuff was brought in in daylight and so we seemed to be taking terrible chances. Billets are quite comfortable in the cellar of a big chateau.

Oct. 8. - Got the balance of our ammunition for our show, and in the evening got word that we were to attack at 1:30 a.m. Spent all night working on the orders.

Oct. 9. - Opened up at 1:30 a.m., when the troops attacked across the Canal de L'Escaut. About 4:30 the Hun came back strong, and put numbers 6 and 5 out of action. Corporal Wilson and Cleland killed. Fred Palmer was wounded. Thirteen men wounded and one shell shocked. Of the 13 wounded quite a number afterwards died as there were several lost limbs, etc. Succeeded in getting one gun back into action just before end of shoot, and kept things going with the other guns. Tripp, as usual, did some wonderful work during this show. In the evening moved two guns to Blecourt, east of Douai-Cambrai Road. Worked practically all night getting two guns into position in the sunken road northwest of the town. Found wonderful Hun dugouts, but in a fearful condition.

Oct. 10. - The Hun was again almost out of range and headquarters called for a F.O.O. I was sent forward to Esware. Established an S.O.S. station in M31, north of Esware just on the

Escaut Canal and an O.P. at the crucifix in M33. Cable was very scarce, and we did not finish wiring up til 9 p.m. Reported back to Brigade, and was sent out again to S.O.S. post to do 24 hours' duty.

Oct. 11. - Spent a very hectic night on the 11th. Everybody was pretty well all in from gassing and shelling during night but we managed to get back to O.P. in 33 and repair line by salvaging some Hun stuff. We attacked at 9 a.m. and Hun came back strong on our O.P. which was the only logical one in the vicinity. To make matters worse a Boche plane made three trips over, and gave us the benefit of all his ammunition each time. Simon and myself had a close shave from sentry using an anti-tank rifle. Visibility was very dull and information was most difficult. Made a reconnaissance around Paillancourt and Thun LeVeque, but got no satisfaction. Finally, about 2 p.m. the Colonel ordered us in since our relief had been hung up on the way and we were just about finished. On returning, found the Battery in Esware. They had been severely shelled coming through Cuvillers, east of Bantigny and the situation was saved by the cool example of MacNeil and the excellent work of some of the men, conspicuously

Page 166 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added Red McLean, who, when the driver of a lorry was missing, hopped on board and by driving the lorry through a hot spot cleared the blockade and prevented the remainder of the battery being wiped out by the barrage. Immediately on taking up a position west of and close to the corner, Sergeant Troop and seven men were badly gassed. Archie Crawford is out of action, although still with the battery. Our casualties have been so severe, approximately 85 since June 1, and 50 in the past few days, that we are reduced from a 6 to a 3 gun battery, as we could not possibly operate more than that number. The birds paid us an occasional visit here.

The Advance From Douai to Mons

After the battle of Cambrai the Canadian Corps moved further north and their subsequent advance against the enemy during the last month of fighting was in a north-easterly direction following a line roughly drawn from Douai to Mons.

In the Arras-Cambrai operations the main drive of the Canadians was in a south-easterly direction on both sides of the main Arras-Cambrai road. The area of operations had covered a considerable distance along the northern boundary of a natural strong feature. The enemy front along this portion of the line had for some time remained practically stationary and this was to form a part of the new front in the next drive of the Canadian Corps.

On October 11 the new front extended from the Iwuy-Denain Railway north of Iwuy, to the Canal de L'Escaut at Extrun, thence crossing the Sencoe River at Hamel to the Scarpe River east of Vitry.

In the advance from Douai to Mons the resistance of the enemy was very weak compared to the stubbornness of his defence of the Hindenburg Line in the Cambrai operations. With the exception of the fight for Valenciennes and Mont Rouy on November 1 there were no outstanding battles during this period.

For some time after the capture of Cambrai the 12th C.S.B. did not join the Canadian Corps until a few days prior to the Battle of Valenciennes.

On October 11, according to Mr. Walford's diary, the battery was at Esware. On the 13th day they moved via Cambrai to Navos, south of Iwuy, and on the Cambrai Villers-on-Cauchies Road. Eventually, on October 21, orders called for a move to the Canadian Corps again and the battery proceeded via Auberchicourt and Aniche to Abscon, where several days were spent in rest and reorganization.

On October 27 preparations were commenced to take an active part in the advance of the Canadian Corps, and in order to follow more closely the fortunes of the battery from this point I quote again from Mr. Walford's diary:

Oct. 27. - Major MacKay and I went on a reconnoitre for a battery position in front of Heron, and finally located one at the lime kiln LaSentinalle, between Heron and Fauberge de Paris de Clemenceau, Prince of Wales and Haig; also a number of the old Third battery boys.

Oct. 28. - Had a rehearsal for G.O.C.'s inspection. It looked fine, but got the troops all in. We marched at least forty miles that morning according to the majority opinion, and immediately upon returning were permitted to start in cleaning the guns all over again. In the afternoon MacNeil and I were sent up to the new position to warn the 4th C.R.T.'s, that we were coming into the place but found them gone. Palmer has gone to bed with "flu" and the major with malaria.

Oct. 29. - Regular parades and routine work.

Oct. 30. - Left Abscons at 10 a.m. via Les Six Mariannes to Denain, thence to forward position. We were inspected by Generals Currie, Morrison and McNaughton just outside of Abscons. I had the honor of commanding the dismounted parade, which broke step when immediately opposite the G.O.C. He, however, was looking up in the skies, and, I believe, did not notice it. This was done to the accompaniment of music, etc. We had to leave MacKay and Palmer behind or rather send them down the line, since they were both in too bad shape to turn out. John Sharples took command and drove past the G.O.C. in our good old Ford, which was marking time loudly on two cylinders. At Denain we all got aboard the lorries with the result that they were scarcely able to move and nobody had room to breathe. However, at about 3 p.m. we arrived at the position and started to dig in. It was under observation from two church towers in Valenciennes and the Hun immediately took advantage of this opportunity by shelling us before we had been in more than a few minutes. One or two men were slightly hurt; also John Sharples so severely wounded that he died within a few minutes. This cast a gloom over the troops, but we carried on getting ammunition in, for the show which was due.

Oct. 31. - Spent bad night bringing in ammunition and preparing for show.

Nov. 1. - Attack on Valenciennes started at 5:15 a.m. but we were out till plus 100 minutes. I manned the O.P. in Fosse Reussite. Visibility very poor, and could see little for some time. After 9 o'clock it cleared up and it was a wonderful sight to see the Bosche fire sections of "V" as well as neighboring towns. At 5:45 p.m. after a very bad day with gas and rain, we were about to give up the O.P. and move on, when the Bosch countered heavily on Mount Haveluy.

Our attack was a marvellously planned and executed move, and our troops were apparently quite successful in getting over the marshy ground that had held us up for weeks.

Nov. 2. - Poor old John's funeral was held at Denain. Agnew and Bacon went down to represent the Battery. While Archie and I held the fort, I took on D.C. duty and had 15 n.f.'s and one connection before noon. Archie is in bed with a touch of "flu".

Nov. 3. - We were ordered to reconnoitre forward position in E.3, so Agnew and Bacon went out. Moved three guns and some stores and ammunition up that night to a position near a Chateau on the southern side of the Valenciennes-Mons Road, between Champ de Manouevres and St. Saulve. I was detailed to stay back with the remainder, as our lorries were still consistent, arrived too late to be of any use.

Nov. 4. - Started at daybreak with remaining guns, stores and personnel for the forward position, and made extra trip with ammunition. Were inspected during the day by General McNaughton, who spoke very highly of our appearance on the review a few days ago. He said we were the smartest battery of the brigade. Captain Flinter came back from leave and Agnew went away on a course. We have very comfortable billets in the cellar of a big chateau, which has running water, spring beds and all the modern conveniences. Whole town is full of loot and some of the boys have had a wonderful time. We succeeded in digging up a lot of electrical equipment. At 4:30 got word to move a section forward, so Captain Flinter and I went up to reconnoitre. I later took up the left section, and got them into action that evening. We found that some field artillery were shelled out of here, but we are going to give it another chance as it affords good shelter.

Nov. 5. - Fired a barrage for infantry attack starting at 5:30. We opened up a few seconds ahead of time as I wanted to make sure we were the first Siege Battery to fire into Belgium but the advance apparently not very successful. Weather poor. Remainder of the day quiet.

Nov. 6. - Fired barrage at 5:30. Attack apparently very successful. A bad drizzle all day long. The battery started to move forward to Rombies, due east of Valenciennes, but got stuck in a mine crater and could not move for a good many hours.

Nov. 7. - Got all ready to move at 8 a.m. but no fit roads were found till 1 p.m. At 2 we left via Valenciennes, arriving after 8 hours on the road. The traffic was terrible and control rotten. Got two guns into position by midnight, but they never opened fire.

Nov. 8. - Reported to Bde. to take over signal job, while Williams was away. Colonel is on leave and Major Heward in charge. The signal sergeant turns out to be an excellent man and consequently, I expect to do very little.

Nov. 9. - Major Heward went down the line with "flu".

Page 169 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added Nov. 10. - The entire Brigade moved to Boussu. I had to lay a line about 10 miles long to connect up. Things are moving very quickly now, and we expect to break through before long. Got very comfortably located in Boussu and settled down for a rest.

Nov. 11. - Started off with an attack at daybreak and shortly afterwards a message came through saying that an armistice had been concluded and the troops would advance till 11 o'clock, then consolidate and hold positions. There has been talk of this for several days, but nobody gave it more than the average rumor. However, it proved to be true and so notices were posted up around the village much to the amusement at first, then to the astonishment of the troops. Not a soul knew just how to take it, for although they were all tickled to death that the whole dirty business was over and consequently, inclined to be very happy for that reason, every one thought of the fellows who were not lucky enough to be in at the finish, and especially those who had passed away during the last few days.

From this point on, life changed a great deal. We started in immediately to polish and then to drill in order to correct faults brought on by active service. Everyone was kept quite busy, and our few spare moments when some of the brass had started to dim from the last polishing, and all the rust had been carefully wiped off the guns, and any dirty spots around the village had been cleaned by the troops, the old rumor factory started. We were slated for Germany, and then were not to go; we were to go to Brussels, and we were not; we were to go to Mons and we were not; we were to be used as a flying column and we were to be used to dig up barbed wire. This little period was marked by a number of very interesting, instructive and cordial parties. Everybody visited everybody else, just as soon as the liquor in their own mess ran out. The canteens were besieged from morning to night by people who had developed the most terrible ailments, which could only be alleviated by hard Scottish lubricant.

Very little excitement occured. The troops got more leave, but not much. Finally, on December 17, after being reinforced by a number of officers who were not permitted to come up the line until after the war was over, we received orders to move to St. Synphorien, southeast of Mons. This was carried out as per usual with a tremendous amount of discomfort to the troops, but finally we got settled for the most part in poor billets, but the men scrounged around, and entirely, or very largely, by their own efforts made themselves very comfortable.

Christmas time was near and, with the assistance of the Y.M. people, who were absolutely indispensable in this connection, we succeeded in putting up a first-class Christmas dinner. We lacked sitting accommodation, so secured the use of a hall and the Mairie let us have tables and benches belonging to the Comite Nationale, and in addition, set the village boys to work making more from lumber belonging to the Cummons. Christmas dinner was the biggest event in history of the battery. We started with soup, then turkey, port, three vegetables, plum pudding, mince

Page 170 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added pie, coffee, cigars, beer, rum, cigarettes and fruit. One by one the buttons came undone, and not a man was able to eat another bite before they left. The sergeants waited on tables which gave the gunners an unprecedented opportunity of getting their own back.

About this time we were given an area to salvage. This meant marching about 20 kilos per forenoon, which put everyone in fine shape, kept our feet wet and our clothes ripped. Taken all around, however, the life was not bad for we had practically every afternoon off to go into Mons where the oysters were of excellent quality for 4 F 50 per dozen. Consequently, a daily oyster party became part of the routine.

The brigade concert party started up during this period and a number of our boys, including Lieut. Summers, went up to Mons to train with it.

New Years was celebrated in quite a fitting manner, although without the assistance of Summers, Crawford and myself who spent it with the old Third in Jemappes.

After New Years, we started on athletics and managed to work up an excellent tug-of-war team and not quite so good a soccer team. Our tug-of-war team staged a very important contest with the 11th, and as we won a number of boys managed a trip to Brussels. Inspections were very frequent and annoying.

An educational scheme was started with our own personnel as instructors and classes were held for everything from Spanish to bee farming. On the 11th it was announced that seven officers were to be picked to return to Canada from those who applied for this privilege. Every officer in the brigade applied. I told such a harrowing tale that I was one of the lucky seven, and I left the battery January 13, 1919, at St. Symphorien."

Before closing this history of the 12th C.S.B. reference should be made to the wonderful spirit of all ranks in the battery during the period of their service in France. They, of course, had their off days but they were consistently on the job and earned for the battery a splendid record among fighting units. Their indominatable spirit was exemplified in the way they stood up to the counter-battery fire which accompanied Hun counter-attacks and served their guns under the most difficult and trying conditions.

During the latter days of the war the transport difficulties at times were almost insuperable. In some cases the trouble was due to the A.S.C. although there were many instances when the personnel of the Battery Column worked most valiantly under the most disheartening conditions in keeping the battery served with ammunition and supplies.

In the early part of the year 1919, the battery returned to England. Many transfers among the personnel of various batteries were made to simplify the work of demobilization on return to

Page 171 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added Canada. The 12th C.S.B. finally left England for Canada on May 3, 1919, and arrived in Victoria under the command of Lieut. H.R. Bray on May 15th, demobilization being immediately completed at Willows Camp.

CHAPTER XII

REORGANIZATION AFTER THE WAR

After the upheaval of the War it was necessary to reorganize the whole Militia of Canada as the Militia Lists of all units had increased during the War to several times the regular number of officers, and promotions won by officers who served overseas completely upset the old seniority list. As the author of this Record was entrusted with the task of reorganizing the 5th Regiment, C.G.A., apologies are again offered for the necessity of writing certain parts of this chapter in the first person.

The Regulations governing the reorganization of the Active Militia are contained in a Canadian Expeditionary Force Routine Order, No. 2356, dated January 10th, 1920, and as this order is of historic importance it is reproduced herewith.

"2356 Reorganization of the Active Militia-Non-Permanent"

Procedure

The units of the Active Militia except units of the Canadian Machine Gun Service, are being reorganized according to instructions which have already been issued and which will be issued from time to time. The following procedure which is to be immediately brought into use is issued for the guidance of all concerned.

1st. A Commanding Officer, preferably with Overseas Service, and after due consultation with the old officers of the Corps (Overseas and Militia), will be selected and gazetted to command.

2nd. The new Commanding Officer will prepare a new slate of officers with due regard to war service, previous militia service, and qualifications, and will forward recommendations for the disposal of all officers on the strength not included in the cadre.

3rd. On receipt and approval of above, a General Order will be issued disbanding the Regiment as of a certain date "for purposes of reorganization". This disbandment order will clear the situation, render free action possible in making new appointments and adjusting seniority, and will force decisions in the case of all officers on present strength who are not receiving appointments to the reorganized unit, by transfer to another unit, appointment to the Corps Reserve, or the Reserve of Officers, Canadian Militia, as otherwise, they automatically, cease to be officers of the Active Militia. (See K.R. Can. 280).

The Rank and File being automatically discharged, the

Page 173 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added Commanding Officer has a clear field for re-engagement in suitable ranks, and vacancies for new men of overseas experience, not former members of the unit.

Continuity of service will be obtained by immediate re- appointments and enlistments. New Service Rolls will be opened as of date of reorganization, and proper Attestation Forms will be insisted upon.

4th. A new General Order will be immediately promulgated, gazetting all officers on the new cadre.

All officers on the old strength not re-appointed, will be disposed of in one of the following ways:

1. Transferred to the Corps Reserve of the Unit.

2. Transferred to the Reserve of Officers, Canadian Militia.

3. Retired.

(Recommendations, signed by the Officers concerned to be forwarded with the new cadre.).

Officers appointed to the Active List will be recommended for such substantive rank as they may be appointed to in accordance with the establishment of the unit.

Those with C.E.F. service will be recommended for a brevet equal to their rank in the C.E.F. Reserve.

They will be struck off the C.E.F. Reserve.

They will be considered as qualified for substantive or brevet rank equal to the rank held by them in the C.E.F. Reserve.

They will, if recommended, be considered qualified by War Service for the next highest rank to any rank held by them in C.E.F. for a period of six months.

If recommended for any rank in the Militia higher than that for which they qualify as above, such appointment will be provisional, on reorganization, and subject to qualification within one year.

The Corps Reserve of each Unit of the Active Militia will be, for the present, not limited to any number of the various ranks.

Officers with C.E.F. service may be recommended for appointment to the Corps Reserve of a unit in the brevet

Page 174 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added of the rank for which they were qualified for appointment to the Reserve, and with substantive rank one grade lower.

They will be struck off the C.E.F. Reserve.

Militia Officers without C.E.F. service may be appointed to the Corps Reserve of a unit in accordance with existing regulations.

The Corps Reserve of Units will be organized into Reserve Battalions, etc., and officers so appointed will be designated in the Militia List by placing the numbers of the Reserve Battalion, etc. opposite their names.

Reserve of Officers, Canadian Militia, Officers with C.E.F. service, who do not desire to be directly associated with any unit on the Corps Reserve, may be appointed to the General Militia Reserve of officers, in the rank for which they were qualified to the C.E.F. Reserve.

They will be struck off the C.E.F. Reserve.

Militia Officers without C.E.F. service may be so appointed in accordance with existing regulations.

Officers of either the Corps Reserve of Officers, Canadian Militia, with C.E.F. service, may be appointed to the Active List under the same conditions as C.E.F. Reserve Officers, set forth above.

Retired List, Canadian Militia Officers not receiving appointments in an Active Unit, on the Corps Reserve, or on the Militia Reserve of Officers, will be retired and may retain rank in accordance with para. 271, K.R. and O., Canada 1917, as amended by G.O. 43 of 1919. Reference: H.Q. 420-18-52.

Note -- A Militia Form is being prepared and will be issued at an early date.

(Sgn) F.C. ASHTON, Major-General. Adjutant-General."

The chief change made in the 5th Regiment on reorganization was the elimination of No. 3 (Movable Armament) Company and the addition of the 12th Siege Battery equipped with 8" Howitzers, and the 58th Field Battery. These two new Batteries are not organically a part of the Regiment but are attached to it for Administration and Training. In case of mobilization the 58th Battery would be part of the 15th Brigade, with Headquarters at Vancouver. An Anti-Aircraft Section was also authorized to be added to the strength of the Regiment but owing to the difficulty in obtaining sufficient recruits for the four batteries this Section has not yet been organized.

My appointment to the command of the Regiment was dated from April 28th, 1920, although it was not until Feb. 1st, 1921, that the Regiment was gazetted as reorganized with a new slate of officers. The interval of nine months was occupied in canvassing the field for officers who might be considered eligible for the Active List and in getting in touch with all officers on the Regimental List and disposing of them in the manner provided by regulations. As there were at the end of the War as many as eighty-five officers on the Regimental strength it can be readily understood that the task was no small one. The slate of officers and their seniority having been approved the Regiment was disbanded and reorganized as from Feb. 1st, 1921, from which date fresh enlistments were made. The following was the new Regimental List of Officers on Reorganization.

Headquarters

Officer Commanding...... Lt.-Col. F.A. Robertson, D.S.O.

Adjutant...... Capt. J.B. Clearihue, M.C.

Quartermaster...... Capt. W.H. Lettice, O.B.E.

Chaplain...... Hon. Major Rev. Wm. Barton.

Medical Officer...... Col. H.M. Robertson, C.B.E.

No. 1 Company. - Major T.B. Monk, Capt. and brevet Major M. Kirkpatrick Crockett, Lieuts. V. McKenna, M.C., and C.S. Gonnason, M.C.

No. 2 Company. - Major and brevet Lt.-Col. J.C. Harris, Capt. A.E. Robertson, Lieuts. V.R. Sutherland and A.N. Robertson.

58th Field Battery. - Major W.B. Shaw, Capt. M.A. Kent, Lieuts. B.R. Ker and W.B. Montieth.

12th Siege Battery. - Major G.G. Aitken, Capt. H.K. Robinson, Lieuts. A. Maclean and R.F. Castle.

During the last few years seven new officers have been taken on the Active List while five have been struck off the strength owing to their departure from Victoria. The following additional officers have been taken on strength: Major F. Richardson, O.B.E., Paymaster; Capt. H.L. Robinson; Lieut. and brevet Capt. Wm. Everall; Lieuts. R.F.A. Diespecker, G.F. Paulin, W.L. Woodhouse, and T.E. Lampman. Of those officers who have left the city Major W.B. Shaw is now in Altadena; Capt. H.K. Robinson is in the Forestry Service, India; Capt. H.L. Robinson is practicing law in Smithers; W.B. Monteith is in Los Angeles and Victor Sutherland went to Winnipeg. Lieut. B.R. Ker has made application to transfer to the Corps Reserve but this change has not yet been gazetted. A number of promotions and inter-Battery transfers have also been made so that at the present time, January, 1925, the Battery officers are distributed as follows:

No. 1. - Major M. Kirkpatrick Crockett, Capt. M.A. Kent, and Lieut. C.S. Gonnason.

No. 2. - Major and Brevet Lt.-Col. J.C. Harris, Capt. A.E. Robertson, Lieuts. B.R. Ker, A.N. Robertson and T.E. Lampman.

58th. - Major T.B. Monk, Capt. V. McKenna, M.C., Lieuts. R.E.A. Diespecker and G.F. Paulin.

12th. - Major G.G. Aitken, M.C., Capt. A. Maclean, Lieut. R.F. Castle, Lieut. and brevet Capt. Wm. Everall and Lieut. W.L. Woodhouse.

The Headquarters Staff remains unchanged except that Major F. Richardson, O.B.E., has been added as Paymaster.

Difficulties in maintaining the non-permanent Militia have always existed but since the war these difficulties have been greater than ever. In Victoria, as elsewhere throughout Canada, the natural reaction from the war seems to have left the public mind afflicted with the usual apathy towards anything and everything of a military nature. This is shown in the reluctance of men of military age to join the militia and in the unwillingness of the public through Parliament to vote sufficient funds to carry out an adequate policy of National Defence. When recruits were asked to join the 5th Regiment after its reorganization a number of the old members of course rejoined and a few new men enlisted but the numbers were at first so few that it was impossible to carry on successful training in all the Batteries, with the result that the Regiment did not go to Camp in the summer of 1921.

Saturday Night Entertainments

During the winter of 1921-22 in a special effort to stimulate interest in the Regiment a series of entertainments and dances was held in the Drill Hall every Saturday night. Through the assistance of the Victoria Police Association a wooden dancing floor was laid on the greater portion of the concrete floor and this provided excellent facilities for dancing. The Regimental Band which had been reorganized under Bandmaster Albert Rumsby provided the music. The first part of the evening was generally devoted to basketball or other games after which the floor was thrown open for dancing. Men in uniform were admitted free but for others a nominal fee of 10 cents was charged, one half the proceeds going to the Band, and the other half towards running expenses. An energetic Committee, composed chiefly of sergeants with a Senior Officer as Chairman, looked after all the arrangements, great care being taken to eliminate all tendencies towards rowdyism. These Saturday entertainments were well patronized by the public and during the first winter the attendance averaged between 1500 and 2,000. The interest aroused in the Regiment was also gratifying as during the first three months of 1922 a total of about 75 recruits were taken on the

Page 177 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added strength of the four batteries. These Saturday night entertainments were continued with varying success for several years.

Annual Training - 1922

During the summer of 1922 all four Batteries of the Regiment went to Camp, the 58th under Major W.B. Shaw going to Sarcee, near Calgary, while the other three Batteries camped at Macaulay. The Camp at Macaulay was held in the evenings as in pre-war days, each evening parade counting as a half day. Owing to "Daylight Saving" being in force the parades could be continued until a late hour which was of great assistance in getting through with the work on the syllabus. Contrary to the practice before the war when No. 1 Co. trained only on the Q.F. 18 pdrs. and No. 2 on the 6" guns at Macaulay, these two batteries since the war have been required to train on both natures of guns. In 1922 the competitive practices were carried out only on the Q.F. guns at Black Rock, although a certain amount of training was also given on the old 6" guns.

Much interest was taken this year in the firing of the 8" Howitzers for the first time by the 12th Siege Battery under Major Aitken, the results of the shooting at a target out to sea being very gratifying. The 12th however did not compete with any other Battery in Canada although prize money was awarded to Specialists and for Inter-Sectional competitions.

The results of the Coast Defence Competitions for 1922 gave No. 2 Co. 5th Regt. Second Place in General Efficiency and the Lansdowne Cup. No. 1 Co. Halifax succeeded in winning First Place and the Governor General's Cup by the narrow margin of one tenth of a point. Out of a possible 1,000 marks No. 1 Co., Halifax, won 621.8 while the marks obtained by No. 2 Co., Victoria, were 621.7. In Gun Practice No. 2 Co. 5th Regt. won First Place and the Turnbull Shield.

In the Field Artillery Competitions for this year although a total of 55 batteries were examined for Efficiency of Personnel only 45 carried out Shooting Practice. The 58th at Sarcee won 25th place in General Efficiency, 25th place in Gun Practice and 26th place in Efficiency of Personnel. Those results were considered satisfactory as it was the first camp for the 58th whereas most of the other Batteries had been to camp the previous year. The Governor General's Cup for Field Artillery was won by the 31st Battery, 15th Bde., Vancouver, commanded by Major W.A. Townsley, M.C., this Battery also winning First Place in Efficiency of Personnel.

Annual Training - 1923

In 1923 the nature of the annual training carried out by all batteries was similar to that of the previous year except that the 12th Siege Battery did not go to camp owing to the fact that Regulations for this Battery required such a large number for attendance at Camp. In the Coast Defence Competitions, this year

Page 178 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added the 5th Regiment again missed winning the Governor General's Cup by a narrow margin, No. 3 Co. of the 6th Regt., Quebec, winning 703.7 marks and No. 1 Co., Victoria, 702. The standard attained by the 5th Regiment was however very gratifying as no less than four trophies were won as follows:

Lansdowne Cup, 2nd Prize, General Efficiency, won by No. 1 Co. Hugh Blair Cup, 2nd Prize, Gun Practice, won by No. 1 Co. Gwatkin Cup, 1st Prize, Personnel Efficiency, won by No. 2 Co. Macdonald Trophy, 1st Prize, Gunlaying, Signalling, won by No. 2 Co.

No. 1 Co. also won 2nd Place in Efficiency of Personnel, for which prize money was awarded but no trophy.

In the Field Artillery 50 Batteries were examined for Efficiency of Personnel but only 33 of them carried out Firing Practice. The 58th Battery was this year commanded at Sarcee Camp by Major T.B. Monk, as Major W.B. Shaw had severed his connection with the Regiment to go into business in California. The 58th made a better showing than in the previous year, winning 15th place in General Efficiency, 22nd place in Gun Practice and 9th place in Efficiency of Personnel. The Governor General's Cup for Field Artillery was again won this year by the 31st Battery, Vancouver.

Militia Staff Course

Reference should be made here to the Militia Staff Course which was conducted this year throughout Canada for Senior Officers who were desirous of making a special study of Staff Duties. Lectures were given during the winter by the General Staff Officer's in the various districts. Examinations were held in the Spring on the theoretical work covered and those who passed these examinations were assembled in Camp for two weeks in the summer for the Practical part of the Course. The Camp for Eastern Canada was held at St. John, Que. and for Western Canada at Sarcee. Over twenty officers from the four Western Provinces attended the Sarcee Camp in the Summer of 1923, Major G.G. Aitken, M.C., and myself being representatives from the 5th Regiment. These Staff courses proved very interesting and profitable and if they are continued annually Regimental officers would do well to take this training as soon as possible.

Officers who complete this Course are entitled to have the letters M.S.C., written after their names in the Militia Lists.

C.A.A. Annual Meeting - 1924

At the Annual Meeting of the Canadian Artillery Association held at Ottawa in Feb. 1924, I had the honor, as one of the Vice- Presidents for that year, of representing the Artillery of Western Canada, my expenses being paid by the Association. Arrangements were made for me to stop off at Vancouver, Calgary, Regina and Winnipeg to meet and discuss Artillery matters with

Page 179 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added officers from the four Western Provinces. In the various conferences held I found that our difficulty on the Coast in getting young men to take an interest in the Militia was pretty general, and indeed in most places conditions were worse even than in Victoria.

The Annual Meeting was well attended and a lively discussion took place over various matters of interest to the Artillery. A number of recommendations were made to improve the Artillery training. As these naturally called for increased expenditures a warning was sounded by the Officers at National Defence Headquarters that it was not expected there would be any increase in Militia Estimates. ... In fact anxiety was expressed over the likelihood of the Government Expenditures on the Militia being reduced.

Reunion Dinner

Shortly after my return from Ottawa the Officers of the 5th Regiment held a Reunion Dinner in their Mess to which were invited all the former officers of the Regiment who were residing in the City. This was the first Reunion ever held by the officers of the Regiment and was arranged not only for the purpose of having a pleasant social evening but more particularly to revive the interest and moral support of former officers and also to create a keener interest among the present officers in the history and traditions of the Regiment. At the dinner, which was held in the Officers' Mess quarters on the evening of March 20th, 1924, there were a total of 52 officers present including 19 on the Active List, 9 representatives from the Permanent Force, the Navy and other Militia Units, and 24 former officers of the Regiment. The following is a list of ex-officers present and opposite the name of each is given his period of service as an Officer on the Active List.

1. Lt.-Col.A.W.Jones. Jul1878 - Sep 1887.

2. Lieut. D.G. McNaughton. Jul 1887 - Sep 1887.

3. Lieut. Geo. Jay (City Magistrate). Oct 1883 - Feb 1884.

4. MajorA.G.Sargison. Apr1890 - Dec 1898.

5. MajorD.B.McConnan. Jan1893 - Dec 1905.

6. Lt.-Col. F.B. Gregory (Judge). Jun 1893 - Dec 1901.

7. Capt.W.A.Jamieson. Apr1894 - Sep 1897

8. MajorJ.P.Hibben. Nov1894 - Nov 1908.

9. Col. C.C. Bennett, D.S.O. Dec 1895 -

10. MajorB.H.T.Drake. Dec1895 - Jul 1904.

11. Capt.R.H.Pooley. Jan1897 - Oct 1900.

12. Col. E.C. Hart Surgeon-Major. Dec 1898 - May 1906.

13. Capt.AlexisMartin. Mar1899 - Dec 1902.

14. Paymaster P.S. Lampman (Judge). Jun 1899 - May 1901.

15. Lt.-Col.J.A.Hall. Nov1899 - Sep 1909.

16. MajorW.H.Langley. Nov1899 - Oct 1906.

17. Lt.-Col. W. Ridgway Wilson. Dec 1899 - Feb 1921.

18. Lt.-Col. W.N.Winsby. May1902 - Feb 1921.

19. MajorC.M.Roberts. Feb1904 - Jul 1907.

20. MajorH.R.N.Cobbett. Sep1906 - May 1908.

21. MajorH.H.Woolison. Jan1907 - Feb 1921.

22. Major P.T. Stern. Aug1907 - Feb 1921.

23. Brig.-Gen. R.P. Clark, C.M.G., D.S.O., M.C. Aug 1908 - Feb 1921.

24. Capt.J.GordonSmith. May1909 - Apr 1915.

Letters of regret were received from A.C. Flummerfelt, J.C. Newbury, Harry Grahame and John Hart who were unable to attend. A letter of congratulations received from the Lady Douglas Chapter, I.O.D.E., was also read and much appreciated. A letter from General Sir Arthur Currie received enthusiastic applause after which his Toast was drunk in hearty fashion and a telegram was dispatched to him conveying the good wishes of his old comrades. The General's letter dated at Montreal, March 13th, reads as follows:

"My dear Colonel:-

"Your letter of the 7th of March supplementing the kind invitation personally extended by you in Montreal to dine with the officers of the 5th Regiment on the 20th instant, brings to my heart a feeling of homesickness and a longing to be with you all again. Yet I know that a dinner in the 5th Mess is not an occasion for regretful feelings of any kind. Some of the most joyous evenings in my life were spent as you spend the 20th - an excellent dinner with something suitable to wash it down, good fellowship and good comradeship, recollections of happy far-off days and battles long ago. What more could a soldier want?"

"No doubt my old chief, Colonel Gregory will recall the day on which I was a very awkward and timid Orderly to him on the occasion of an annual inspection. Colonel Scotty Jones can, if he will, tell the younger officers how well-off they are in these days contrasted with the days when he was accustomed to be Army

Page 181 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added Service Corps officer, Army Ordnance Corps officer and Paymaster all in one. If Major Hibben becomes confidential get him to relate the valuable services the Sikh servants can render. Charlie Bennett I first saw when he was acting as a Range Officer nearly thirty years ago, but I recall more vividly his leading of his Company in the attack on the Quadrilateral on October 8th, 1916."

"Do not let Nobby Clark serve any of the famous R.P. cocktails - they are not good for young fellows like Wooly, Winsby and Harry Grahame. If Ridgway and Stern and J.C. Newbury insist on playing poker see that the mess limit is observed. I am told that Major Drake is more than usually enthusiastic when describing the virtues of the younger Drake, and I also noted in a recent 'Colonist' that Pete Lampman is playing par golf these days. His form was always exemplary and I advise those who have not noticed it to take the first opportunity of observing him in action. I am glad to see that Doug McConnan, the fierce- tongued Adjutant, whose virtues poor old Jack Sweet was wont to extol in verse, and those other Adjutants Harry Pooley and Alexis Martin, and Captain Jamieson are expected to be with you. George Jay will be there, also Major Sargison, who was my first Company Commander, and good old Dr. Hart. Give my love to all of them. I haven't mentioned Bobby Roberts, Chester, Monk, Cobbett, Crockett, Aitkens, Billy Langley, but I assure you I have not forgotten anyone. I believe that I could name hundreds of the boys who make up the rank and file."

"I cannot tell you how proud I have always been of the old 5th Regiment, nor of my association with it. I have had peculiarly good opportunities of observing most of the Militia regiments in Canada and I am firmly convinced that the 5th is one of the most efficient of them all. I am glad that it still maintains its proud position and I am sure that with its allegiance to its old traditions, its high standard of training, the inspiration and guidance it receives from its present officers, its fame will grow greater as the years pass by. On many occasions in Canada's brief history the worth and usefulness of the Militia have been strikingly demonstrated. All patriotic citizens should give it the fullest measure of support. It is their duty to do so, while it is the duty of those who belong to our forces to take their work seriously and make themselves efficient and ready to play a man's part if the need should ever again arise."

"Let us not forget that not once nor twice in 'our fair country's story, the path of duty was the way to glory'".

"With all good wishes to the old Regiment, and to all its members and well-wishers, I am,

Yours ever, (Sgd) A.W. CURRIE".

After the first Toast to His Majesty the King other Toasts

Page 182 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added were drunk to the Army and Navy and responded to by Brig-Gen. J.M. Ross, Officer Commanding M.D. XI, and Commander C.T. Beard, R.N. A Toast to the Original Officers of the Victoria Battery formed in 1878 was replied to by Lt.-Col. A.W. Jones and Lieut. D.G. McNaughton, while the Toast to Former Commanding Officers called for replies from Lieut. Colonels Gregory, Hall and Winsby. Reminisences were also recalled by a number of other speakers and the evening's program was interspersed with a number of lively songs and rousing choruses. Before sitting down at the table a flashlight photograph was taken which is now a valued possession of the Mess. The Dinner was pronounced by all a grand success and many expressed the hope that the precedent established would be continued. The Sergeants of the Regiment soon followed suit and a few weeks later staged a Reunion Smoker which also proved a successful affair and was attended by many ex-sergeants of the Regiment.

Annual Training - 1924

The fears expressed at the Annual Meeting of the C.A.A. in Feb. 1924, that finances would not allow for any expansion in military training for that year proved to be only too well grounded. When the estimates were finally passed by Parliament a few months later the Militia Expenditures were so reduced that it was impossible to provide for the training of Field Batteries at Camp as in former years. Instead of Batteries going to camp with full firing detachments each Field Battery was authorized to send ten N.C.O's. and men besides officers and so therefore firing practice was carried out by composite detachments. On account of the fact that Batteries were not able to carry out firing practice as individual units the Gun Practice Competition was cut out this year, and also the General Efficiency Competition. In the Competition for Efficiency of Personnel the 58th Battery won 33rd place out of a total of 64 Batteries, first place being won by the 61st Field Battery, of Edmonton.

No provision was made for the 12th Siege Battery at Camp this year but Major Aitken was successful in making Regimental arrangements, which with the co-operation of the Permanent Force Officers at Work Point Barracks, enabled him to take his Battery to Camp at Macaulay, and ammunition was specifically arranged for which enabled the Battery to receive some fine training.

The Coast Defence Batteries were fortunately allowed to carry out their annual training this year as usual. The chief feature of the training of Nos. 1 and 2 Batteries was the firing for the first time of the new 6" Naval Guns which had been recently mounted in Macaulay Fort. In the General Efficiency Competition for this year the 5th Regiment again missed the coveted Governor General's Cup by a narrow margin, No. 2 Battery, 6th Regt. Quebec, winning 1st place with 671.4 marks, and No. 2 Battery, Victoria, winning 2nd place with 667.7 marks. The trophies won by the Regiment this year were as follows:

Page 183 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added Lansdowne Cup, 2nd Prize, General Efficiency, won by No. 2.

Gwatkin Cup, 1st Prize, Efficiency of Personnel, " No. 1.

Macdonald Trophy, 1st Prize, Gunlaying & Signalling, No. 1.

The officers of the Regiment may be excused for feeling rather keen disappointment in not winning the Governor General's Cup once during the last three years, the Competitions being very close as the following figures show:

1922 - Gov. Gen. Cup won by No. 1 Co. Halifax. 621.8 marks.

2nd place, won by No. 2 Co. Victoria 621.7 " ----- Margin. .1 " ----- 1923 - Gov. Gen. Cup won by No. 3 Co. Quebec. 703.7 "

2nd Place won by No. 1 Co. Victoria 702.0 " _____ Margin 1.7 " -----

1924 - Gov. Gen. Cup won by No. 2 Bty, Quebec. 671.4 "

2nd Place won by No. 2 Bty, Victoria 667.7 " _____ Margin 3.7 " -----

The last parade of the Regiment under my command was held in the Drill Hall on the evening of Jan. 23rd, 1925, on which occasion General Ross, G.O.C. M.D. 11, presented officers' Decorations and Long Service Medals to the following members and ex-members of the Regiment: Lt.-Col. W.N. Winsby, Officer's Decoration; Lt.-Col. F.A. Robertson, Officer's Decoration; Major M. Kirkpatrick Crockett, Officer's Decoration; Major H.H. Woolison, Long Service Medal; Q.M. Sergt. G.S. Carr, Long Service Medal. After the parade the members of the Regiment enjoyed a lively social evening with their friends. The Regimental Band, under Bandmaster Rogers, provided music for dancing after which refreshments were served.

The last meeting of the Officers' Mess was held on Tuesday evening, Jan. 27th, the chief business being the selection of an Officer to represent the Artillery of British Columbia at the Annual Meeting of the C.A.A. in Ottawa the latter part of February. This year being the 50th Anniversary of the C.A.A. arrangements were made to pay the expenses of one representative from each province. Lt. Col. W.A. Townsley, Commanding the 15th Brigade, C.F.A., was over from Vancouver and took part in a general discussion of matters to be taken up at the Annual Meeting. Major T.B. Monk, O.C., 58th Battery, was finally chosen to represent the Artillery from this Province.

Page 184 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added Some reference should be made to the social activities of the Regiment during the past few years. The Officers' Mess in the new Drill Hall is one of the most commodious and best furnished messes in Canada and has been the scene of many pleasant social functions. The regular Saturday Night Dances have been responsible for many enjoyable parties. New Year's Day is always celebrated and the number of callers at the Mess on that day each year testifies to the popularity of the Regiment. Several special dances have been given by both the Officers and Sergeants, the last Officers' Dance being held in their own quarters on January 29th of this year.

This brings us to the end of our story. When the tenure of my command expires at the end of this month (January, 1925) Lt. Col. J.C. Harris will take over the Command of the Regiment and of course there will follow a number of promotions and other changes, but that belongs to the future. The compiling of this Record has consumed a great deal of my spare time during the last few years, but it has been a work of love and I hope it will prove of some benefit to the officers who will carry on through the coming years.

CHAPTER XIII

B. C. RIFLE ASSOCIATION

Although rifle shooting does not occupy such an important place in the training of an Artillery Unit as it does in the Infantry, nevertheless, the 5th Regiment has always taken a keen interest in rifle practice and has produced many expert marksmen. This historical record would, therefore, not be complete without some reference to this subject. In the "Daily Province" dated the 21st of July, 1910, there is published an interesting account of the "Birth and Progress of the B.C. Rifle Association" written by Major J. S. Matthews of Vancouver, from which the following extracts are quoted:

"The British Columbia Rifle Association is honoured by being the oldest of all organizations which devote their energies to matters of sport in this Western province, and it is more than probable that it is the oldest in Western Canada. It is also unique in that, numerically small as it was at one time, it has never missed holding its prize meeting once a year, which is more than even its great parent, the Dominion of Canada Rifle Association, can claim." "From a trivial affair of a score of riflemen, armed with prehistoric weapons, black powder and lead ball, with 600 yards as the extreme range, it has grown to be a great annual gathering of marksmen to test all that science and ingenuity has been able to place in their skilled hands. From every point in the province where there is a rifle range, and there are many in British Columbia, in twos and threes, in tens and twenties, they come, with their small bore rifles, smokeless powder and needle bullets which kill at a range of two miles. For a generation and a half it has been the champion of that noble art and science -- shooting straight. It has provided the incentive for the training of thousands of riflemen, and its record is an interesting as well as a proud one." "Early in 1874, in March, a small knot of pioneer riflemen, residents of Victoria, formulated a plan to organize, the better to promote their interests. Rifle shooting was beginning to get its first impetus and they were simply following the lead of older communities. With the advent of rifled guns, the National Rifle Association of Great Britain was, largely through the efforts of the late Lord Elche, formed in 1860, and eight years later, in 1868, the Dominion Rifle Association of Canada came into being. Considerable activity prevailed during the seventies in Victoria, Nanaimo and Westminster in the raising of volunteer corps -- the old Victoria Rifles, the Westminster Rifles and the Seymour Artillery were then at their zenith -- and with the formation of these units came, of course, the inevitable desire of officers and men to become proficient with the weapon with which they were armed. The older provinces of the Canadian Confederation which British Columbia had joined eighteen months previously, already had their rifle associations, and it was upon the lines of one of these -- the Quebec association -- that that of British Columbia was originally drawn."

BIRTH OF THE B.C.R.A.

"The natal day of the British Columbia Rifle Association was March 20th, 1874, and the scene of the auspicious event was the old Mechanics Literary Institute. Mr. J. Rowland Hett, who in later years under Lieut. Governor Cornwall, served as Provincial Attorney-General, was the convenor, and called the first meeting. Arthur T. Bushby, of Westminster, was elected the first president of this meeting, while associated with him were two vice- presidents, Captain J. F. Roscoe, M.P., commanding No. 1 Coy., Victoria Rifles, and Lieut. Colonel C.F. Houghton, then and for many years afterwards, Deputy Adjutant-General of this Military District. Mr. J. Rowland Hett was appointed the first secretary." "Among others who attended the first council meeting were the Hon. Mr. Justice Gray, Major Dupont and Mr. J. Allsop, men whose names appeared prominently in the annuals of early days. With the election of the officials the association was now fairly launched, and commenced its long and useful career."

"Six months later the first annual rifle meet was held. Before those eventful days had rolled around, trials and tribulations threatened to severely check, though they could not suppress the budding institution."

"A Rifle Range was planned at Clover point, Victoria, but hardly had they installed the targets and became familiar with the contour of the ground than they were ordered to desist. Funds were lacking -- such as they had were borrowed -- and it may relieve the mind of the modern financial management to know that even in those blissful days of yore their predecessors lay awake at night thrashing out the everlasting problem. Two marvellous weapons, for which the name Martini-Henry had been adopted and which marked a tremendous stride in the development of rifle shooting, together with one thousand rounds of ammunition -- both prizes presented by the then Lord Mayor of London and citizens of London for competition at the inaugural prize meeting of 1874, and which had arrived from England via California -- were held by the Wells Fargo Express Co. for charges. The bill totalled $54.47, which amount was not in the treasury, so that the gifts of the Lord Major of London were subjected to the indignity of detention by common carriers until the money was advanced by an accommodating member of the council."

"The rifle range at Clover Point was situated on property owned by the late J. D. Pemberton, Esq., whose agent had at first given permission for its use as such, but, after much preparation for shooting had been proceeded with, he found it necessary to withdraw his sanction. The matter was of grave importance, as at that time there was scarcely another place in the vicinity of Victoria suitable for a rifle range. An appeal made to Mr. Pemberton, who was absent in England, was successful, and made possible the holding of the first historic competition.

EARLY HISTORIC COMPETITION

"At last the eventful day, or rather days, arrived. They were Thursday, Friday and Saturday, Oct. 1, 2 and 3, 1874. Twenty-five competitors, mostly from Victoria, appeared at 9 a.m. on the Clover Point range. The Westminster contingent numbered three in all, Messrs. (Capt.) Peale, Brown and Wise."

"The first program of which, so far as is known, there is now but one in existence, was a mere leaflet compared with the bulky pamphlet of today. It is in the form of a one-sheet poster, well printed on good paper, and in bold type announces a prize list of ten matches. The longest range is 600 yards; the other distances being 200, 300, 400 and 500 yards."

"No long list of 400 odd prizes valuing $1500 in cash, to say nothing of a barrowload of cups, medals and other trophies characterize that ancient document. It differs from the prize list of this year inasmuch as there are merely twenty prizes in all, fifteen of them cash prizes of a total value of about $175, one cup, one medal, a silver watch, and two Martini-Henry rifles. In all matches save two the Snider-Enfield must be used, it being the Government pattern rifle. At ranges 300 yards or over competitors may fire in any position, but at 200 yards they must stand up and fire from the shoulder."

FIRST WINNER IN FIRST MATCH

"The unique distinction of winning the first prize and match shot in the first of all of the annual matches of the British Columbia Rifle Association's meeting fell to Private Wollacott of the Victoria Rifles. Sgt. J.C. Brown of the Westminster Rifles earned second place. The opening match, 5 rounds at each 200, 400 and 600, with the Snider-Enfield was for cash prizes, two in number, the first being $20, the second prize $5. Twenty-two competitors fired, the score of the winners being, out of a possible of 60, as follows:

200 400 600 Total Wollacott ...... 13 16 14 43 Brown ...... 15 16 8 39

It was thus that Pte. Wollacott won the illustrious distinction of being the first prize winner."

"The blue ribbon event of the first day was that for one of the latest and most powerful of destructive instruments that man had so far invented, a Martini-Henry rifle and 500 rounds of ball, presented by the Lord Mayor of London. It was the only prize in the match. Five rounds each at 200, 500 and 600 yards restricted to "enrolled militiamen" constituted the conditions. The rifle was won by Capt. Peale with 40. Col. Houghton, D.O.C., was second with 39."

"The matches continued throughout the last three days. On the second day, the Lieutenant-Governor's Challenge Cup, the first of several that have since been presented by occupants of that high office, was the principal competition. On the third day, the second Martini-Henry rifle, gift of the citizens of London, England was the crowning event."

"The Lieut.-Governor's Cup was won by Sgt. R. Butler, and it ultimately became his permanent property, as he won it again a year or so later, when it became his own. The names of the winners of the ten matches constituting the meet of 1874 were:

Opening Match. - Pte. Wollacott. Lord Mayor's Match. - Capt. Peale. Association Match. - Sgt. J.P. Kennedy. All Comer's Match. - J.C. Newberry. Effective Militia. - Ensign R. Wolfenden. Lieut.-Governor's Cup. - Sgt. R. Butler. London Citizens. - Ensign R. Wolfenden. Navy vs Militia. - Militia. United Service. - Sgt. J.C. Brown. Consolation. - Moffatt.

"Prior to the holding of the first annual matches another auspicious event had occurred. It was the selection and departure for Wimbledon of the pioneer of a long list of brilliant representative riflemen which British Columbia has sent to Wimbledon and Bisley. The man who was to head the roll of honor was no other than Ensign Richard Wolfenden of No. 1 Co., Victoria Rifles, formerly of the Royal Sappers and Miners, that famous old corps which made the Cariboo road, chose the site of the site of the City of New Westminster, and generally did everything worth doing in those days of yore. Ensign Wolfenden was later better known as Lieut. Colonel R. Wolfenden, I.S.O., V.D., the King's Printer."

THE TRIP AGAIN IN MEMORY

In talking of the trip Col. Wolfenden said; "In those days the quickest way of getting to England was by way of San Francisco, then by the Union Pacific Railway to Chicago and from there to Quebec. I left Victoria in the steamer PRINCE ALFRED on May 26th. By the way, I may as well mention that the steamer only ran every fortnight, so that I had to leave Victoria very much sooner than would have been necessary if we had had in those days more frequent communication."

"On arriving at Quebec I had to wait ten days before being joined by the other members of the team. Col. Gilmour, formerly in command of the Queen's Own, was commander of the team; Major Montizambert, of either A or B Battery, forget which, was the adjutant. I remember some of the members of the team. These were: Major J.M. Gibson, now Colonel and Lieut.-Governor of

Ontario; Captain J.P. McPherson, Governor-General's Foot Guards;

Page 189 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added now Lieut.-Col.; Lieut. MacNachton; Corporal Sutherland, Foot Guards; Corporal Pain, 13th Bn.; Sgt. Baillie, 47th Bn.; Private T. Mitchell, 13th Bn.; Sgt. R. Omad, 13th Bn.; Private Bethune, 3rd G.T.R.; Private R. Disher, 19th Bn.; Captain Layton, Captain Church, and Captain J. Mason."

"We sailed from Quebec in one of the Allan Line Steamers, either the CIRCASSION or the SARDINIAN. I forget which--I know we went by one and returned by the other. It took us twelve days to cross the ocean and ten to return. On arriving in England we had four or five days' rifle practice at Altcar, near Liverpool, before proceeding to Wimbledon on the Saturday before the Monday when the matches commenced, and were very comfortably housed in camp. Our men took a good number of prizes at that meeting, two of which I had the honour of winning, after shooting off ties with many others. I also had the honour of being a member of the Kolopore team, but I regret to say that we failed to win the cups."

"We were very hospitably entertained by other teams in camp. On arrival we were inspected by Col. Growski, the President of the Dominion Rifle Association, and I remember he asked the Colonel to trot out the British Columbia man, as the Prince of Wales wished to know whether he was a white man or a black man. I may say that I enjoyed my visit to the Old Country on that occasion very much after having been absent for fifteen years."

HOW SELECTION WAS MADE

"As was the case for many years afterwards, the selection was made by local competition, and not, as at present by the standing of the competitors in the Bisley aggregate at the Ottawa matches. The competitions were held annually at Clover Point under the supervision of the D.A.G., and the score forwarded to the council of the Dominion Rifle Association at Ottawa, who nominated the members of the team according to the standing of their scores. For instance, the Wimbledon contest of the following year (1875) resulted in Sgt. R. Butler following Ensign R. Wolfenden as British Columbia's second representative. The match was fired at Victoria, seven shots at each range, the following being Sgt. Butler's score, the best out of six competitors:

200 yards ...... 28 points 500 yards ...... 15 points 600 yards ...... 12 points 800 yards ...... 23 points

Total ...... 78 points

When Method Was Changed

"Captain Fletcher, in forwarding the score to the secretary of the Dominion Rifle Association at Ottawa, expressed the hope that it will be sufficiently high to obtain for Sergeant Butler a place on the team, and it did. But in later years the competition became more strict, as witness that of 1885, also

Page 190 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added held in Victoria, when there were two entries, Lieut. Wollacott who made 345 marks, and Captain Jones, 341. Seventy-eight rounds were fired at various distances from 200 to 600 with Snider Rifles and twenty-one rounds with Martini-Henry Rifles, seven shots at each 200, 500 and 600, constituted the test. Neither of the two went to Wimbledon."

"If memory serves correctly Sgt. A.G. Sargison, British Columbia Garrison Artillery, was in 1880, the last member to be selected in this manner. No British Columbia officer or man was sent from this province to Bisley for the next fourteen years until Gunner O. Turnbull, a member of the 1893 team of eight men sent from the West by the B.C.R.A. to attend the Ottawa matches, won a place on the Bisley Team. It was in 1886 or 1887 that teams of six at first and afterwards eight, were first despatched to Ottawa."

"Since 1899 British Columbia has never been without representation on the official Canadian Rifle Team to the great Imperial shoot at Bisley. Once in recent years there were five men and on three occasions there were four. When it is considered that during the early years of the present century the militia of our province constituted less than one-fiftieth of the Volunteer force of Canada the marksmanship of our Western riflemen appears all the more astonishing."

The Honour Roll

"A list of the select few whose names will ever be recorded as having defended the fair name of the west is given below, together with the years in which they attended at the Wimbledon or Bisley competitions:

Ensign R. Wolfenden B.C.B.G.A. 1874 Sgt.R.Butler B.C.B.G.A. 1876 Sgt. J.P. Kennedy B.C. Rifles, 1877 Sgt.K.G.Sargison B.C.G.A. 1880 Gnr. George Turnbull B.C.G.A. 1894 Gnr. J.C. Chamberlain 5th B.C.B.G.A. 1895 Gnr. W. Miller 5th B.C.B.G.A. 1897 Gnr. S.W. Bodley 5th Regt C.A. 1900, Sgt. 1901 Gnr. A.R. Fleming 5th Regt C.A. 1901 Co. Sgt-Maj. F. Richardson 5th Regt C.A. 1901, 1902, 1906 and 1909 Co. Sgt-Maj. F. Macdougall 5th Regt C.A. 1901, 1902 L/Cpl. S.C. Mortimore 6th Regt. D.C.O.R. 1902 Col-Sgt. S.J. Berry, CM 6th Regt D.C.O.R. 1902, Sgt. 1904 Sgt. J. Moscrop 6th Regt. D.C.O.R. 1902, 1907 Capt. J. Duff Stuart 6th Regt. D.C.O.R. 1903, 1905 Lieut. G.A. Boult 6th Regt. D.C.O.R. 1905 Cpl. A. Brayshaw 5th Regt. C.A. 1905, 1906 Co. Sgt-Maj. J.J. Caven 5th Regt. C.A. 1906, 1907 Capt. W. Hart McHarg 6th Regt. D.C.O.R. 1907, 1910 Cpl.F.B.Fisher 5thRegt.C.A. 1907 Capt. W.H. Forrest 6th Regt. D.C.O.R. 1905, 1908,

Page 191 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added 1909, 1910 Sgt.G.S.Carr 5thRegt.C.A. 1907.

First Meet in Vancouver

"Since its inception the annual rifle meet has never been less than a three-day affair, and twice in 1882 and 1885 it has occupied four days. In the meetings of the late seventies it was customary to have brass bands in attendance, which no doubt was very pleasing to the spectators, but .. well, that was in the simple bygone days."

"Their Excellencies the Earl and Countess of Dufferin accompanied by the members of the provincial ministry in a body visited the meeting of 1876 and presented the prizes."

"After the use of the Clover Point range was denied them in 1899, through no fault of their own, the scene of the annual matches was removed to Goldstream, near Victoria. But the range was a poor one, and in 1896 the first meeting of Vancouver took place. This was at the old Central Park Range. It alternated between Nanaimo and Central Park until 1900, when an appeal, made to the Minister of Militia, was successful in obtaining the purchase of the Clover Point site as a government range, where the matches were held until 1906."

"In 1904 the finest range in the province, the Richmond, on Lulu Island, was built, and with the exception of the contest of 1908, held at Clover Point, all matches have been held there, and will in future continue to be held there as no other site is so convenient to all."

"In the course of so many years it is natural that there would be a large number of interesting competitions take place. Many of the famous old trophies have somehow dropped out of existence, and no one seems to know whither or when they went. Chief among the former is the Nanaimo Corporation Cup. It was presented by the Mayor and Council of Nanaimo in 1879, the year of the first meeting of the British Columbia Rifle Association in that city and it has remained in competition ever since. The reason for its long existence is that in the deed of gift a proviso states that it shall be won twice in succession. How hard an accomplishment is such a feat is exemplified by the fact that it has been in competition on thirty-two occasions and although twice the prize has fallen to the same individual at two meetings several years apart, it has never yet been won twice in succession. However the winners of this prize never see their trophy. It disappeared apparently some years ago."

"Another "Old Stager" is the sweet toned silver "Laurie Bugle", now in the possession of the 6th Regiment D.C.O.R., which has had it for many years. A gift in 1881 of Major-General Laurie, C.M.G. formerly deputy Adjutant General, M.D. No. 11, it

Page 192 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added is now up for contest for the twenty-ninth time. It has always been for competition by military teams, at first Inter-City, then Inter-Company and since 1897 Inter-Regimental."

"There has been at least four Westminster cups, the present one dating from 1903. Of Victoria Corporation Cups, Collector of Customs J.C. Newbury of Victoria has one, won in 1895; Lieut. J.C. Chamberlain took another in 1896, Sgt.-Major J. Caven has a third, while that presented by the Victoria City Council in 1905, is still in competition."

"The first Corporation of Vancouver Cup came in 1896, and the present one in 1902. But many of the matches for former years have been dropped, and with them have disappeared many of the trophies."

Tribute to Former Officials

"Before this cursory sketch of a few of the events identified with the early story of the British Columbia Rifle Association is brought to a conclusion some mention of a personality to whom great credit is due for the continued success of the association in the promotion of rifle shooting throughout its long and interesting career should be made. It has had any officials, but none who took such a life-long interest in its affairs as Captain E.H. Fletcher, its secretary for a quarter of a century, and to whose good work all those who knew it pay tribute. Captain Fletcher of Victoria succeeded Mr. J. Rowland Hett, who retired in 1875 after one year in office."

"For twenty-five consecutive years Captain Fletcher, ever an ardent devotee, continued year in and year out to perform his onerous duties, and to stimulate an interest in the noble art among all men. A visit to the rifle range while the matches are in progress will show anyone that is skeptical how well he and his associates have succeeded. In his day he was quite a noted shot. Among other prizes he won the first Victoria Corporation match in 1875, the Earl of Dufferin's silver medal in 1877, and was also a member of the international team of 1878, when the British Columbian defeated the American team in Seattle. Captain Fletcher, now Dominion Post Office Inspector at Victoria, resigned the secretaryship in 1900, having been made previous to his retirement, a life member of the association. Enough thanks can not be extended to Captain Fletcher for his long and able services rendered to the cause of rifle shooting."

"Major J. Reynolds Tite, R.O., formerly of the Sixth Regiment, D.C.O.R., succeeded and took up the reins which had been dropped. His resignation in 1908, after eight years in office, was greatly deplored."

"Captain G.A. Boult, the present honorary secretary, is the fourth in thirty-seven years. The onerous duties which he, like his predecessors, has assumed from no interest other than the love of the art and the desire to aid in its promotion, are now

Page 193 of 194 © 1989 - The 5th (BC) Artillery Regiment Foundation, Victoria BC – Only for internal use of 5 RCA Museum & archives – new pictures and info to be added probably ten times as heavy as they were ten years ago. He is an expert rifleman, and an energetic and capable officer. There is no doubt that under his efficient direction rifle shooting will continue to prosper year by year as it has since the days of the old Snider-Enfield."

Places and Dates of Meets

"Of the thirty-seven meetings held since 1874, seven have been held in Vancouver - two at Central Park and five at Richmond. Four meetings took place at Westminster, and an equal number at Nanaimo, while twenty-two have been shot in Victoria, sixteen at the Clover Point range, and six at Goldstream."

"The years in which the meetings took place at the several points are as follows:

Clover Point - 1874 to 1876, 1878, 1880, 1882, 1884, 1885, 1887, 1888, 1900 to 1904, 1908.

Goldstream - 1890 to 1895.

New Westminster 1877, 1881, 1886, 1889.

Nanaimo - 1879, 1883, 1897, 1899.

Central Park - 1896, 1898.

Richmond - 1905 to 1907, 1909 & 1910."

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