Kincardine Legion celebrates 80th anniversary

A good crowd joined members of the Royal Canadian Legion, MacDonald Branch 183, Kincardine, in celebrating the 80th anniversary of the branch, Saturday, in the Legion Hall.

People gathered in the afternoon to glance through books of newspaper clippings and exhibits of memorabilia, while enjoying 80-cent hot dogs and refreshments.

Among the items on display, were a Second World War helmet and uniform. These items are usually stored in the attic so it was a pleasure to view them, as well as many photo albums of activities and events over the years.

"We're pleased to have people come in and look around," said president Jim McDonald. "We want them to see what's available and the many activities that are offered. And we want to stress that you don't have to be a member of the Legion to come here and enjoy the many amenities."

At 3 p.m., McDonald was joined by several past-presidents in cutting the anniversary cake. Among the past-presidents were:
 

• Robert Grey, 1993-95
• Don Showers, 1996-97
• Robert Forrest, 2009-10
• Red Larsen, 2007-08 and 2010-11
• Maureen Couture, 2011-15
• Mary Farrell, 2015-17

Those unable to attend, were Keith Colley Sr., 1990-92, Peggy Griffin, 2004-07, and Jim Williams, 2000-04.

McDonald welcomed everyone and made special mention of Second World War veteran Arthur Turland who was turning 96, Sunday, Sept. 17.

Huron-Bruce MP Ben Lobb congratulated the Kincardine Legion on its 80th anniversary and commended all the members for their support of the veterans and the community.

Huron-Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson added her congratulations, noting that the work of the Legion is very important, to remember the past, celebrate the present, and plan for the future.

"We have an obligation to never forget," she said. "It's important to remember this link to our past, but also to stand up for our country and be proud to call Canada home."

Kincardine mayor Anne Eadie said she remembers when her father, Lester Ferguson, and Turland were trying for their driver's licences at the same time, and spent some time reminiscing about their war years and experiences.

"Happy Birthday, Art," she said. "And to the Legion, on behalf of the municipality and its residents, congratulations on your 80th anniversary. Not all Legion branches have lasted this long. It's a testimony to the dedication of your volunteer base. You're not afraid to try new things and new ideas. Keep doing what you're doing, You are an important part of the community, and I hope you're here for another 80 years."

Zone C-1 commander Keith Vander Hoek added congratulations from the zone. "The Kincardine branch is one of the most organized and active branches in the zone. Thank you for all you do for your community."

Vander Hoek presented a plaque to McDonald, from Ontario Provincial Command, recognizing 80 years of dedicated service to the purposes and objectives of the Royal Canadian Legion and to Canada.

HISTORY OF THE KINCARDINE LEGION

The Wingham Legion, Branch 180, sponsored the formation of the Kincardine branch, and in 1937, MacDonald Branch 183, was granted its charter. The first president was George H. Fry.

The branch was named in honour of D.J. (Mac) MacDonald who was one of the founding members. The first meetings were held in the Kincardine Armouries (now Kincardine Commercial Printing), and in 1942, moved to the IOOF building (now Fine Table and Bed). In 1950, the new memorial hall was erected on Queen Street (now Gilley's Feed Lot).

Eventually, the hall became too small and in 1976, the Legion moved to its current home at Ardloch Lodge. The summer kitchen was taken down and 700 of the bricks were kept and used as part of the construction of a new hall attached to the original building.

The most recent project was a new furnace to provide proper heating and air-conditioning throughout the building.