What a wonderful sight, to see so many old friends meet and greet each other at Gadsby’s 100th anniversary. I asked one person, “What was your favourite part of the weekend?” He said, “Everything!” That just about sums it up.
Thursday and Friday saw a lot of trailers and RVs pulling in. By Friday night over 100 people had registered at the bank building, which for many was the hub of the activities. Schedules were picked up there and plans finalized. By the end of the weekend, 540 persons had registered and I know of some that did not register. Gadsby was bursting at the seams!
I could write a column just on the parade. There were over 35 entries ranging from baton leader Inez Skaley, then and now. Lots of machinery and horses to a few young “Chicks”. Almost every family was represented either in the parade or in photographs displayed in the church, bank building and community hall.
Among the dignitaries attending was our county councilor Vic Carey, who presented the 100-year plaque to Gadsby’s mayor Fred Entwisle, Graham and Mrs. Harle, who came to enjoy the Barbara Kent Film Festival and tour the newly renovated church building and MLA Jack Hayden put in an appearance Sunday at Decoration Day.
There was also a presentation made at the bank building when Gadsby District Hobby Club president Mary Brennen and secretary Paulette Heer presented life time honorary membership certificates to founding members Helen Bailey, Lorraine Lang, Yvonne Coleman, Isabel Stewart, Beatrice Selinger and Iona Berg.
The weather held and Decoration Day on Sunday was a service to remember. It was cold and overcast but dry. There were 340 people attending.
Once again our M.C. was Jack Chapman who recently turned 90 years young. Jack called for the march on of the colours with Sergeant At Arms Lee Holman and the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 59. Special mention to navy veteran Don Powell who led the march wearing the Canadian Navy uniform to commemorate our Navy’s 100th year this year.
O Canada and Deposit of the Colours followed. Christy and Curtis Wideman, Matthew, Clayton and Josie sang two songs, “Your Long Journey” and “Will There Be Any Starts In Your Crown.” Christy is the granddaughter of World War I veteran Paul (and Iona) Berg.
Branch No. 59 President Kevin Milner welcomed everyone. Omega Circle President, Barb Carey thanked all who made this weekend happen and presented Past President Rosalind LaRose with a plaque for her many years of service as president. Jack Hayden said a few words.
Viola Imrie introduced our guest speaker Marie Geekie who took us down memory lane in Gadsby, where we could hear, small, touch and feel the town 60 years ago. It was a very moving speech.
Doug and Shirley McKay sang “Keep On the Sunny Side” part way through the song the sun broke through the clouds making everyone look up and smile.
The Legion part of the service was lead by veteran Jack Chapman. Reverend Jack Schulze gave the invocation and lesson. Marvin Harris brought us to attention with the Last Post followed by two minutes of silence, we acknowledged “We Will Remember Them.” Marvin finished with Reveille. The wreath laying service included the Omega wreath placed by Phyllis Robinson and Iona Berg. Reverend Schulze closed with the benediction. God save the Queen.
People were reluctant to leave and lingered over coffee, anniversary cake and doughnuts. This was the official end to a great weekend.