Souvenir History of Bruce Beach: Difference between revisions

Preface

Preface

by REV. W. A. BREMNER

FOR well over forty years the Summer Resort known as Bruce Beach on Lake Huron's friendly shore has been the holiday rendezvous for health-seekers, pleasure-seekers and tor those who were just tired. From a very modest beginning the popularity and the population have grown by leaps and bounds. The need of having some sort of historical souvenir which would preserve the happy annals of. the Beach had been keenly felt for a long time. It was not, however, until the year 1915 that the meeting of this need took concrete form.

A committee consisting of the Rev. A. B. Dobson, Dr. Richard Davidson, and Mr. Angus Munn was at that time appointed and charged with the task of gathering up the facts that should find a place in the proposed souvenir. At the next meeting of the newly formed Bruce Beach Association this committee produced a history to date, in loose leaf form, and requested that the Rev. Dr. W. A. Bradley be appointed the official historian.

For eighteen years Dr. Bradley (otherwise known as Erin Go Bragh) being of frugal mind, kept the records at first in an ordinary school scribbler, but the good doctor's preference for things permanent led him to purchase a more durable book, into which he transcribed the forty year's history of the Beach and at the next annual meeting in 1934 it was decided that steps be taken to secure the publication of an historical booklet which might become the possession of the campers as a souvenir of their sojourn at Bruce Beach.

To bring about this goodly intention Dr. Bradley, Dr. McKerroll and Dr. McNamara were appointed a committee to look into the matter more closely and to bring in a report at next annual meeting. When this report was presented the cost of a suitable book seemed to be prohibitive and yet the Association did not seem willing that the project should be abandoned and decided that the committee should be continued with the addition of the name of Rev. W. A. Bremner.

1894-1921

History of Bruce Beach

AS far as is known The Bruce Beach Summer Resort had its origin in 1894. On the 24th day of May of that year, a picnic party from Ripley met in Mr. William Tout's grove, which among others comprised the McInnes, Munn, McCrimmon and Jackson families. During the course of the day someone remarked that such an event might be frequently held. Where¬ upon Mr. Angus Munn suggested a place nearer to the lake, and led the party along the shore to the spot where Rev. Mr. Maxwell's cottage now stands.

During the course of the same day, as the site seemed favorable one, Messrs. Gongia McInnes, and A. Jackson agreed to pitch a tent there later in the summer, which they accordingly did, and spent the holiday season there, calling the place "Sylvan Beach Home", which name they had printed on a large streamer.

1894

DURING that same year also the first cottage was erected by Messrs. Kennedy and Jackson, on the -site of the present Anderson cottage. The building was ~I small double one, with adjacent kitchens, on either side, and part of it is embodied in Mrs. Anderson's present cottage. During the time of their annual holiday upon the Beach, these campers were visited almost every day by Mr. Robert McCosh Sr., whose farm fronted on the lake, and who jokingly called them "The White Indians". Mr. McCosh was a man with a fine sense of humour, and his daily visit was eagerly looked for by his camping friends.

1896

IN 1896 Mr. McInnes built the cottage still occupied by the family, but which has since been remodeled, and is now one of the most attractive on the shore. Mr. Munn also erected his cottage later in the same year. For some years these three were the only cottages in the co1011\'. It was then known as "Ripley Beach".

1900

IN 1900 Mr. James S. Anderson purchased the Kennedy-Jackson cottage, which has since been greatly enlarged and beautified. From the beginning of the encampment the founders insisted on a reverent regard for the Sabbath, and for religious worship. Accordingly religious services were held each Lord's Day evening in a tent furnished by Mr. James Anderson, and later in the open air on McCosh's flats, near the hill leading to the road. The colony was thus auspiciously begun.

1902

IN 1902 Mr. Chapman built a cottage now known as the Harris Cottage. The Harris family having acquired it a few years later.

1903

UP to this date the population had been composed entirely of the lay element, but in the year 1903 the clerical element appeared in the person of Rev. Robert Martin of Erskine Church Hamilton, later• Dr. Martin of Knox Church, Stratford, and First United Church, St. Thomas. Dr. Martin's arrival signalized. a clerical movement toward the Beach, which has resulted in the addition to the population of many others of that profession.

1904

MR. MARTIN was followed in 1904 by Rev. Mr. McNab of Walton, later of Underwood, and for three years these two brethren were the only ecclesiastics on the shore. By this time the location began to be known as "Bruce Beach" -which name was given to it by Mrs. James S. Anderson.

1907

IN 1907 the fraternity that usually knows a good thing, when it is visible, was enlarged by the appearance of Revs. McNamara, of Drayton, Perrie of Wingham, Burnett of Molesworth, McLeod of Ripley, and Dobson of Fordwich, each of whom erected cottages. After five years Mr. McNamara disposed of his cottage to Mr. Maxwell, while Mr. McLeod almost immediately after the first season, also disposed of his, and left for Scot¬land. Iv1r. Burnett summered at the Beach for some years, but after his removal to Dorchester, Ontario, he was called to his eternal rest, and Mrs. Burnett sold the cottage to Rev.. William Cooper of Mount Forest in 1914, in which year Mr. Cooper became a resident of the Beach. But we must not neglect to mention here,• that the Royal game of Golf, which had been introduced by Dr. Martin, and an organization affected in 1907, was empha¬sised. The mime given to the Association was The Bruce Beach Golf Club, and it has done much to enliven and invigorate the social life of the' Beach.

1908

THE season of 1908 saw a considerable addition to the place, as during that year the Revs. W. J. West, D. T. L. McKerroll and W. A. Bremner and Messrs. Archer and Hamilton erected cottages. It was during this year also that the Bruce Beach Campers Association, which has done so much for the general good of the community, was organized.

1909

DURING the year 1909 there were no building operations, but in 1910 Mr. Barker of Lansing, Michigan, Mr. Treleavan of Ripley, Mr. John S. Robertson of Ripley and Mr. Pollock of Ripley joined the company and erected cottages. Mrs. Barker in 1915 disposed of her cottage to Rev. A. J Mann of Brussels, who then joined the ranks.

About this time the Camper's Association instituted Field Day, and Regatta Day sports.

1916

THE year 1916 witnessed the completion of a fine cottage by Rev. W. A. Bradley of Teeswater, as well as that of Rev. D. A. McLean of Ripley, and Mr. S. W. Huff of Detroit, and the disposal by Rev. Mr. Stewart of his cottage to the Misses Morgan of Ripley.

And what shall I say more? The time would fail to tell of the origin of the bonfires, picnics, excursions, and other interesting items in connection with the history of our beloved Beach.

Compiled to this point by a committee, appointed by the Association consisting of Rev. A. B. Dobson, Prof. R. Davidson and A Munn.

At the annual meeting of the Association in 1916 Rev. W. A. Bradley was elected Secretary-Treasurer of the Association, and also appointed official Historian of the Beach. He noticed that certain Beachers bore a Beach nickname, as he was promptly given the sobriquet of Erin Go Bragh. He wrote the following poem on…

The Men of Bruce Beach (Poem)

Draw near ye gods, lend me your ears, attend,
While I my hearty greetings do extend,
To all the men of head, and heart, and speech, 
Who grace the sacred precincts of Bruce Beach.
Thy trysting spot, where champions of the Truth,
Forget their cares, and here renew their Youth,
This noble race of men of high emprise,
Familiar cognomens will recognize,
Among the clan illustrious on the strand,
In foremost rank did Dougal Angus stand,
In statue large, and just as large his heart,
A leader strong with whom we could not part;
Our Billy Kaiser's not like Deutschland Bill,
Who put Old Europe in a mess, but got .his fill;
But in our sports with Ritchie, Cooper, Baird,
And Malcolm Murdock, of whom all have heard,
He takes his place with Max O'Riley bold,
Lends Irish wit more valuable than gold,
Our Robert Dim, and Alster Bann, divines,
Each in the pulpit, and on golf links, shines,
Combine their wisdom, and their counsel sound,
To make the Beach a sacred, hallowed ground,
Harnwell, serene, ranks high in the profession,
McKenzie's ruling elder of the session,
But what shall I say more for time at best,
Would fail to tell of Davidson, and West,
Perrie, McLean, McNabb, all sons of Knox,
Deserving a monument like Brock's,
But here would I foreglance, the future brave,
And lay my grateful tribute on the grave,
Of one whose gentle mien and courtly grace,
And influence strong that time cannot efface,
True, noble, kind was Dobson in his life,
The burden laid he rests beyond the strife.

Erin Go Bragh

Glossary

1917

During the year 1917 our boundaries were extended beyond the eighth concession, and cottages were erected by Roderick Martyn of Ripley, Samuel Pollock of Ripley, and Thomas Clark of Detroit. During the same year Dr. Axford of Alvinston and Rev. W. H. Burgess of Chatham also erected cottages, while Rev. A. J. Mann, who had been a resident of the Beach for three years, disposed of his cottage to the Rev. F. Q. Nichol, of Amherstburg, the latter getting possession about the middle of August of that year.

Mr. Nichol's sojourn at the Beach was of short duration. In January 1918 he died in a Detroit hospital, as the result of an operation, and Mrs. Nichol sold the cottage to the Henderson sisters of Lucknow.

At the annual meeting of the Association the question of having the cottages numbered was discussed, and Mr J. S. Anderson was asked to procure numbers, and have them forwarded to the Secretary. Subsequently the secretary Rev. W. A. Bradley, and Mr. John S. Robertson, tramped the length of the occupied territory, one October day, and placed aluminum numbers on all the cottages.

Officers: Pres. Rev. M. McArthur, Vice-Pres. J. S. Anderson, Sec.-Treas. Rev. W. A. Bradley.

Mr. Robert McCosh Sr., friend of the campers. who gave them the name of "White Indians"

Mr. Angus Munn, Mrs. McInnes, Mr. J.S. Anderson

1918

DURING the year 1918 Dr. Martin made extensive improvements in his cottage, which is now one of the largest on the Beach.

Owing to the growth of the colony towards the North, the place of the Sabbath services was moved, from the McCosh flats, beside the hill, to the Tout flats behind the Henderson cottage.

A feature of 1918 was the organization of a Ladies' Orchestra, with Miss Mildred Bradley as leader (mandolin), Mrs. Duncan Munn, and Miss Irene Harnwell (guitars), and Miss Eloise Baird, Miss Beatrice Huff, and Miss Beth McLennan (Ukuleles). Their first performance was given at the annual concert, the proceeds of which amounted to $62.00, which sum was given to the Red Cross Society of Ripley.

The only building erected this year was a boat bouse by Dr. J. F. McKenzie.

At the annual meeting of the Association expressions of regret "'ere given at the loss of our fellow camper" Rev. A. B. Dobson, and the following resolution was ordered to be spread upon the minutes.

"We the Members of the Bruce Beach Campers Association, in this annual meeting desire to express ~ our keen sense of loss, occasioned through the death last winter of one of our .oldest, and most highly respected members, the Rev. A. B. Dobson of Fordwich.

"It was largely due to Mr. Dobson's community spirit that this Association came into existence, and the very interesting history of our pleasant summer resort, incorporated in our records, was' written.

"By his genial disposition, his habitual unselfishness, and his sterling worth, he won his way to all our hearts, and we shall greatly miss him in our annual holiday gatherings.

"To Mrs. Dobson and the bereaved family our sincerest sympathy is extended, and I've earnestly pray that they may ever have the unfailing riches of a Heavenly Father's affection and care."

Officers: President-Rev. J. W. Baird, Vice-Pres. Mr. J. S. Robertson, Sec.-Treas.-Rev. W.A. Bradley.

1919

WITH the Great War ended, and the people released from the strain of those four terrible years, 1919 saw a greater number of visitors than on any previous year, though we missed some of our former young men: The words of Mrs. Heman's are appropriate here in her Graves of Household:

"One sleeps where Southern vines are dressed
Above the noble slain,
He wrapt his colors round his breast,
On a blood-red field of Spain,"

But in this instance it was where the poppies grow, on a blood-red field of France.

The only cottage built, was by F. H. McMullen of Ripley, on the site where Rev. J. M. Wesley had in 1915 put in a cellar, and which he disposed of in 1919, on his return from the war.

The executive of 1918 had discussed the question of procuring seating for our Sabbath services, and the matter was left in the hands of the President, Rev. J. W. Baird, who went about the matter vigorously when he arrived in 1919, with the result, that seating for 125 persons was procured, and set up in Tout's grove. A platform and folding pulpit were also procured. These conveniences, with the formation of a choir, greatly increased the attendance of the Sabbath services. The cost of these furnishing was met by the proceeds of the annual concert, and the offerings taken at the meetings.

The musical and literary numbers put on by the Ladies orchestra became a feature of the annual concert, and many verses of local application were much enjoyed by the audience. A few are here appended.

Bruce Beach shall shine tonight,
Bruce Beach shall shine.
Tbe beadligbts of tbe azttOJ
1"Ire all arranged ill line.
BJ'1Ice Beacb sball sbine to night,
Bruce Beach shall shine.
U'7hell the stln goes dOtl'n and the 1710017 comes up
Bruce Beach shall shine.
Bruce Beach shall shine tonight,
Bruce Beach shall shim.
Its beaut)' and its gaiety
III oZir affectio1lS ttl'ine·
Bruce Beach shall shille tonight,
Bruce Beach shall shine.
lJ7hen the sun goes down and tbe moon com~.i up
Bruce Beach shall shine.
Bruce Beach shall shine tonight,
Bruce Beach shall shine.
The Cam fm',f and their friends are here,
Alld the fun begins at nille,
Bruce Beach shall shine tonight,
Bruce Beach shall shine.
ncT hen the sun goes dowil and the mOOn comes up
Bruce Beach shall shine.

Another selection by the Orchestra composed by the Secretary of the Association, Rev. W. A. Bradley, in praise of the Beach was sung to the tune of "Solomon Levi".

If you want to spend a holiday,
And have a pleasant time,
Where the air is pure and bracing,
And the sunset are sublime.
There's a place by Old Lake Huron
That's a little hard to reach
But of all resorts of summer,
There are none that beat Bruce Beach.

Chorus:

Bruce Beach, Bruce Beach,
Tra la la la la lee,
Bruce Beach, Bruce Beach,
Gay and beautiful place to be.
The girls are fair, the boys are rare;
And as you may plainly see,
But come along and join our throng ..
For this is the place for me.

To be up to date with other institutions a Bruce Beach yell was composed by the President, Rev. W. J. Baird.

Bruce Beach, Bruce Beach.
Give a cheer for Bruce Beach.
Bruce Beach. Bruce Beach.
Pass the word along.
Bruce Beach, Bruce Beach.
Come next rear to Bruce Beach.
And bring a friend along.
B-r-u-c-e B-e-a-c-h.
BRUCE·BEACH ! ! !

This year also saw the formation of a Camera Club, with .Miss Mabel Dobson as President, and Rev. J. W. Baird. Sec.-Treas. The charter members were seventeen in number.

Officers: President, Rev. J. W. Baird; Vice-Pres., Mr. J. S, Robertson; Sec.-Treas., Rev. W. A. Bradley.

1920

THE year 1920 was a year of interest and progress at the Beach. Applications for cottages to rent were numerous, and exceeded the ability of those concerned to supply the needed accommodation. More than hventy applicants were unable to procure cottages. Many cellars were put in, and lots staked out by prospective builders. Four cottages were erected by the following, Miss Ruth \'(! arren of 'iX' alkerton, Mr. 'iX!. E. McCorquodale of Detroit, Rev. J. R. Hosking~_ of. Huron township, and Rev. J. R. Kirkpatrick of Ripley, while substantial improvements were made in their cottages by Mr. Duncan Munn, Rev. D. A. McLean, and Rev.'s Bremner and McKerroll.

Left to Right: Rev. W. A. Bradley, Dr. J. F. McKenzie, Rev. J. W. Baird, Mr. J. S. Robertson, Rev. W. H. Burgess

Bruce Beach

A Sunday School. meeting at 3.30 p.m. was organized, with Dr. J. F. McKenzie as Superintendent, which was well attended, and much appreciated by both children and parents.

Religious services were made interesting this year by the presence of two Foreign Missionaries, Rev. 1. \'X!. Pierce from Turkey, and .Miss M. Robertson from Egypt, who took the Sabbath services on three occasions.

The year 1920 was also signalized by the organization of a l\Ien's Glee Ciub by Rev. W. A. Bradley, \\'ho became its first leader. The Club was composed of the following me'l11bers, Rev, \\i', A. Bradley, Rev. F, J. Maxwell, Rev, H. ]. Harnwell, Rev. F, C Overend, Rev. J. U. Stewart, Re\". ]. \\1. Baird', Rev. \Yl. J. West, and Dr. J. F. McKenzie and Mr. E. F. Lambert.

Their selections rendered were from the University of Toronto Song Book and were much appreciated by the large audiences at the annual concerts.

Rev. A. B. Dobson

Steps were also taken at the annual meeting of the Association to provide greater facilities for sport, and each Division appointed a committee to look over the ground best suited for a Tennis court in their immediate vicinity. Thus a Tennis court was provided in each Division. One on the McCosh property in Division one.

One in Division two on the Tout flats. and one in Division three near the 8th concession.

The Association discussed the need of better provisioning of the Beach. No storekeepers in Kincardine or Ripley thought it worth while to cater for the patronage of the colony. but arrangements were at length made with Mr. J. \'\!. Crawford of Ripley to visit the Beach three times a week with groceries and provisions, and with Mr. Emmerton of Kincardine to visit the Beach twice a week with vegetables and fruits.

Rev. H. J. Harnwell, President 1920

As a result of the formation of the Camera Club, the Bruce Beach Snapshot Album was circulated among the members for inspection, It contained many of the photos that are in this book.

The only change in real estate in 1920 was the purchase of the Cooper cottage by Rev, J, u. Stewart, who returned to the Beach after an absence of four years, and the purchase of the McNab cottage by the Rev. F. C. Overend.

Officers: President, Rev. H. J. Harnwell; Vice-Pres., Mr. J. S. Robertson; Sec.-Treas., Rev. W. A. Bradley .

Many of the finest cottages of the Beach have been designed and contructed by the owners. Above: Rev. W. A. Bremners's cottage in the process of building.

Front Row: Rev. J. W. Baird, Rev. W. H. Burgess, Miss Mildred Bradley, Rev. W. J. West. Standing: Rev. W. A. Bradley, Rev. F.A. Maxwell, Rev. W. H. Harnwell, Dr. J. F. McKenzie, Rev. F. C. Overend, Mr. F. E. Lambert, and Rev. J. U. Steward.

Regatta Day 1918

1921

THIS year saw an increased population at the Beach, and an activity in building scarcely excelled in any previous year.

Cottages were built by Miss Agnes Hamilton of Goderich, Mr. J. R. McLeod of Montreal, Mr. A. Love of Detroit, Mr. A. Jackson of Seaforth, Rev. C. A. Malcolm of Lawrence, .Mr. J. S. Robertson of Ripley, Miss Ruth Heather of Guelph, Rev. J. E. Hunter of Belmont, Dr. D. Iv1artyn of Detroit, and Mr. E. F. Lambert of Toronto, while a small summer house was built by Dr. McLennan of Windsor, and a study by Rev. W. A.Bradley of Teeswater.

Steps were taken by the Association at its annual meeting to secure a title to the ground on which our cottages are built and two committees were appointed, one consisting of Rev. W. A. Bradley, Mr. J. S. Robertson and Mr. Robt. McCosh, to interview the Huron Township Council, and another consisting of Rev. D. T. L. McKerroll, Ivlr. J. E. Robertson and Mr. J. S. Anderson to interview the Provincial Government, and report the following year. Tennis courts were laid out in each of the three divisions, and a very successful Tournament conducted. Rev. W. A. Bradley resigned as Secretary of the Association, which position he held for five years, but was continued as official historian of the Beach. Rev. J. E. Overend was appointed in his place.

The only transfer of property this year was the sale by Mr. John S. Robertson of his new cottage to Mr. T. L. Hamilton of Listowel.

The local song of the year, sung at the annual concert was a parody composed by Rev. W. A. Bradley, and sung to the Tune, "There's a tavern in our town".

We are the Glee Club at Bruce Beach, at Bruce Beach,
A place to summer that's a peach, that's a peach,
We greet our friends with laughter free,
And ever after think of thee.

Chorus:

Fair thee well for we must leave you.
Do not let the parting grieve you.
And remember that the best of friends must part, must part.
Adieu. Adieu. Kind friends Adieu. Adieu: Adieu.
We can no longer stay with you, stay with you.
So we'll hang our harps on a little cedar tree.
May the world go well with thee.
Our holidays are free from care, free from care.
Your pleasures and your joys we share, joys we share.
At golf and tennis, and the oar.
We spend our time upon the shore.
O come next summer to the Beach, to the Beach.
This invitation we give each, we give each.
Come and enjoy a while at ease,
With a cottage 'mong the trees.

Officers: President, Rev. W. J. West; Vice Pres., Dr. R. Martin; Sec.-Treas., Rev. W. A. Bradley.

A Group of Clerics. Left to Right: W. A. Bradley, F. C. Overend, H. J. Harnwell, Glibert Gomm, George Gilmour, J. R. Kilpatrick, D. A. McLean, W. A. Bremner, W. J. West, F. A. Maxwell, D. Campbell, J. W. Baird, J. U. Stewart.

The Golf Club

History of The Golf Club

The Royal Game of Golf at Bruce Beach is inseparably connected with the name of Rev. Robert Martin, now Dr. Martin of First United Church, St. Thomas, Ontario.

Mr. Martin erected a cottage in 1903, which he named "Couthie Brae", at present owned and occupied by Mr. Thomas Kennedy. When he told Mr. Anderson of his location the latter said, "Well your location is a good one, but don't you think you are getting away too far from the pump?" In those days the McCosh pump in the lane did duty for all the dwellers at the Beach. But like McTavish, who claimed ancestry before The Flood, when he was asked to explain how his name did not appear among those who had gone into the Ark, explained the omission by asking, "Did you ever know a McTavish that didn't have a boat of his own?" Even in this remote past, Dr. Martin had visions of a pump of his own.

Presidents of the Golf Club, Dr. R. Martin, Dr. D.T.L. McKerroll, Mr. Fred Yates

One afternoon almost all the Beachers were engaged in throwing horseshoes in front of the Anderson cottage, when Miss Margaret McInnes said to Mr. Martin, "When are you going to show us that game of yours?" Mr. Martin immediately went for his clubs, and the whole party, composed of the Munns, McInnes', Andersons, Chapmans, and Martins, went out to what is now the second tee. The whole party arranged themselves along the second fairway, some proposing to catch the ball. Mr. Martin took his mashie, and sent the ball high over the heads of the admiring spectators. This was the first ball driven on the Bruce Beach Golf grounds, and so far as known at present, the first golf ball driven in Bruce County.

The above named families, with the addition of the family of Rev. P. J. McLaren, immediately became pupils of Mr. Martin in the study and practice of golf.

One evening Rory McLeod came to see Ivir. Martin, and said he would like to take up the Game of Golf. Mr. ,Martin told him he would be pleased to instruct him if he would get a set of clubs. Rory's countenance fell, and a look of disappointment was plainly visible in his face, as he said, "Oh I thought you had sticks enough for everybody." Rory did not become a golf enthusiast.

Dr. J.L. Murray - Sec.-Treas. of the Golf Club

Mr. C. W. Yates, First Honorary Member and Generous Patron of the Golf Club

The Club House

In 1903 Mr. Martin laid out a six holed course, One at each end of what is now the Frank Tout property, and one at each end of the two sections of the McCosh property. This constituted the golf links for four years, but up to the middle of 1907 there was no golf organization.

On the 5th of August of that year a meeting was held in Mr. Martin's cottage for the, purpose of organizing a Golf Club. By this time the population of the Beach had materially increased. At this meeting the followi11g officers were elected:. President, Rev. Robert Martin; Vice President, Mr. Duncan Munn, Secretary-Treasurer, Rev. J. W. McNamara. The Rev. P. J. McLaren and Miss Margaret McInnes were elected to form the executive.

Thus was launched the first Bruce Beach Golf Club. The name decided on was the name it proudly bears today. The annual fee was placed at 25c per member. The Golf course was re-arranged into a nine holed course by Mr. Martin and l."lr., McLaren with suggestions from Rev. David Ritchie, who spent a few days at Mr. Mar¬tin's cottage that summer.

The number and names of the holes on the course were as follows: No.1-The Juniper, 80 yards; No. 2¬The Pit, 211 yards; No.3-The Basswood, 214 yards; No.4-The Roadside, 193 yards; No. S.....,....The Kopje, 93 yards; Np. 6-The Maples, 206 yards; No.7-The Poplars, 383 yards; No. 8-The Mulberry, 221 yards and No. 9-The Hawthorn, 169 yards.

, A tournament was arranged, 300 score cards ordered and prizes offered as follows: The Handicap competition-First prize-one Golf ball, "The Colonel':; Second prize-one Golf ball, "The Corporal"; Approaching and putting--:-First prize-one "Corporal" Golf ball for each event; Ladies'Approaching and putting-one "Corporal" golf ball for each event. A fee of ]Oc was charged each person entering the contests. In the Approaching and Putting contest of the following year 1"1r. l\lcKerroll and M1'. McNamara tied. As this was not played off at the end of the season, Ivl1'. l'vlartin generously donated a goLf ball to each.

From the organization in 1907 up to 1912 the annual fee \yas 2Sc per member but in this year an advance was made to SOc per member, ladies half price, and 2Sc per \veek for casual players.

The work of preparing the grounds each season devolved upon the members, as the following item from the minutes of 1910 indicates, "It was agreed' that all available members repair to the grounds onC'the f6Howing day at 10 a.m. with a view to putting them in better condition."

In 1913 Bob McCosh is paid $1.50 for work done on the course, and Frank Tout is paid $1.00 rent for the part of the course situated on his property, and Bob McCosh $2.00 for the use of his flats. In 1914 the Golf Club took action to organize a Tennis Club, and after looking over the grounds decided to prepare and h~y out two courts on Stephen Tout's property, and Mr. McKerroll was instructed to interview Mr. Tout, and report to the secretary. Two courts were laid out, one near the centre of Mr. Tout's property, and one at the south end near the stile over the wire fence. But though much work was put on the latter it was never used. A fee of 25c was to be charged for member¬ ship.

While few records have been preserved o'f meetings of the c.!ub in the early years, one is recalled that was held at the McCosh pump in the lane, at which the foHow¬ing members were present: Mr. D. T. L. McKerroll, Mr. •"!iifftl:• ._...

W. A. Bremner, Dr. Richard Davidson, Mr. N. A. Mac¬Eachern, Mr. M. McArthur, and others.

Mr. McKerroll was elected president and for a number of years held that. important position, with M1'. j'vlacIachern as sec.-treasurer.

Among the subjects discussed was the erection of signs and barricades to protect the grounds from visitors to the Beach and cottagers driying their buggies and autos oyer the grounds used by the golfers, and it \vas decided to erect a barricade at the foot of the hill, to protect the green at that point and the fairway extending . north to Steve Tout's fence, which was becoming tracked by vehicle wheels. The barricade was accordingly erected, and on a number'of occasions torn down, one individual declaring that he would drive where he pleased, ashe was here before the golfers, though the Club was at that time paying rent to Bob McCosh for the use of the property. One of the members played the part of the historic "Dutch Uncle" to this individual, and admon¬ished him in no uncertain terms, that such conduct would not be tolerated.

The growth of the Golf Club may be judged from the increase in receipts. For the first five years, up till 1912, the annual receipts ranged in the vicinity of $7.00, then years later they had increased to $133.60. In the present year, 1933, they have increased to more than $500.00 . In 1923 the annual fee was increased from 50c to $1.00.

In this year the Lady Golfers believing with Byron, -"That man to man so oft unjust, Is always so to women,"¬ decided to form a Golf Club of their own which they did, with Miss Agnes Hamilton, President; Miss M. Dob¬son, Vice President; Miss Mary Anderson, Sec.-Treas., and Miss Eloise Baird, Mrs. McKerroll and Miss Jean Martin to form the executive. The fees were the same . as those paid by the men.

A discussion arose as to "whether all their funds should be given to the Golf Association. On motion it was decided to give one half. the gross proceeds to that institutiop. The club also decided that their executive wouldI co-operate with the executive of the Men's Club. During the four or Jive years of their separate exist¬ence the Ladies' Golf Club carried on its Own Tournament events, purchased a valuable cup to be given to the win¬nel' in the Annual Contest, ",.. hich is still doing duty, but if any lady \\,On it for' three successive years it was to become her property. The Club also gave prizes for all the other events in the contest. The Club also brought before the General Executive rules for the protection of . children on the links, and named two days per week when children under 16 years were to have the free run of the course from 1 to 3 o'clock, providing they were accompanied by a parent or adult. These suggestions became incorporated in the rules and regulations of the Golf Association. They also provided the refreshments at the annual meeting.

In 1926, like Noah's dove, the ladies returned to their former ark of safety,' and were given equal repre¬sentation On the General Executive. Byron again expres¬ses the sentiments of the returning wayfarers.

"'Tis .w•eet to bear tbe watcb dog's h,onest bark. BClydeep lIloutbedll'elc017le .. as u'e drau' near home. 'Tis SIl'eef to knOll' there is CII} e,re u.'ill mark ti 0111' coming.. and look brigbter 'll'hen we come."

In 1923 through the good offices of Dr. Drum• mond and Dr. Sedgewick/ a secondhand horse mower \vas procured from the Ancaster Golf Club for whid1 they received the thanks of the Association at the annual meeting. In 1924 Mr. Frank Tout notified the club that he would require $10.00 rental for the use of his property.

This amount was given him with a promised increase. and the Club' felt that Mr. McCosh should receive the same amount, which \VaS accordingly given.

At the close of the season Mr. Tout plowed up the field occupied by the Golf Club, and the following yea,: the course was extended throughout the width of NIr. Stephen Tout's property. But returning in 1926, the floods of that spring had done so much damage, and the ground was so wet, that the Steve Tout part of the course bad to be abandoned.

It was then thatMr. D. E. Kennedy and Dr. Gerald \X1ilson purchased the McCosh property between the road and the lake front, comprising some 40 acres. for $3000.00 for golf purposes.

Mr. McCosh expressed a desire that the cottagers behind his property should be owners of the property sold. This was readily agreed to by the purchasers, and the cottagers were given the opportunity of fanning themselves into a joint stock Company, and taking over the property within a year. To this proposition the cot¬tagers willingly agreed. A Company was formed, and a •charter obtained. The name inserted in the charter was• The McCosh-Grove, Limited. The price paid was $3000.00, and the property placed at the disposal of the Golf Club, as a permanent playground. This circumstance, together with the accession of a number of enthusiastic golfers into the landscape, infused a new life and activity into the Club, that to this day is manifestly operative. The assistance of Mr. Ritchie was sought, and a new course of nine holes laid out. A ney.' horse mower at a cost of $250.00 was purchased. Boxes were set up at each of the Tees, and benches procur::d for the conven¬ience and comfort of the players, while the valuable prizes donated by Mr. C. W. Yates, Dr. Wilson, Dr. Young and Mr. D. E. Kennedy, put a new enthusiasm into the annual Tournaments. With each succeeding year improvements were made on the course. Trees and The improvements made at the first tee were particularly One of the pleasant features of our Bruce Beach life noticeable.

Steps \vere put in the bank to assist the is the annual meeting of the Golf Club. The distribu¬players to ascend• to the first green; and to descend from tion of prizes won in the Tournament and the social hour the 8th tee-a decided convenience-but the most wel¬ I enjoyed afterwards over the teacups has become one 'Ofcome convenience was the steps put in the hillside in the the most enjoyable events of the season that we spendascent from the 2nd green to the 3rd tee. \',lith the assist¬ together during our annual holiday.

ance of the "wire fence, the hardy mountaineer could reach I" the summit with the minimum of fatigue, and feel like I Nor can we forget to mention the part that the singing. r i" lady members of the club and their friends have played In 1932 the annual clues of the club were revised as follows: Per day SOc;. per week $2.00; per month or season $5.00. Cottage owners, and their families :md guests were allowed a discount of SO~k on the daily and weekly rates, and 40~;-on the monthly and season rates. But the climax of advancement was reached in 1933 wben two valuable cups were given to the club both beautifully inscribed. One by Mr. C. W. Yates to be . contested for at the annual Tournament, and one by Mr.

It in adding interest and eclat to the sociai functions of the club which were held when visiting clubs played there with our club. At a good deal of inconvenience to themselves the visiting clubs \,'ere royally entertained and went away with unstinted praise and good wishes for the kind and gracious ladies who had been their host~ esses when they visited Bruce Beach.

'\(Te cannot close this short history to date without calling attention to the spirit of friendship and good will . that has characterized the members of this club. In fact the same spirit has always been' a marked feature of Bruce Beach life and our sincere hope is that as the years go b~' the same spirit may characterize the coming genera¬ tions as has prevailed among the founders 'lnd early dwel¬lers uf this beautiful sLImmer resort. '

Lives of great men all remind us,
We can make our lives sublime,
And departing leave behind us,
Footprints on the sands of time.

Judge West's Cottage

Bruce Beach History (1922)

1922

This year saw campers at the cottages earlier than any previous rear. Some were occupied from the nrst of June till the last of September.

New cottages were erected by Chid Jackson of Ripley, C. W. Yates of New York City, Dr. W. H. Sedgewick of Hamilton, Thos. King of Wingham, Rev. H. B. Parnby, of Belmont, Rev. D. R..McKay of Dresden. Rev. W. H. Burgess of Walkerton, James Clark of Detroit, Rev. J. R. Gordon of Mitchell, Rev. Chas. Farquharson of Newhury. Rev. A. C. Carr of West Lorne and Rev. A. Laing of Fordwich, while our boundaries were extended to the tenth concession.

As a result of the action of the Committees appointed at the last annual meeting of the Association to interview the Township council and the Government, a Provincial inspector visited the Beach in August. The Government also appointed a surveyor to survey the Beach, but the visit was postponed till the following year.

The transfers of property for the year were the sale by Rev. W. A. Bremner of his cottage to Rev. D. T. L. McKerroll, and the purchase of Mr. John S. Robertson's cottage by Rev. N. A. MacEachern of Toronto.

Mr. Robertson was an active and useful member of the Association. He served for a number of years on the Bruce Beach Executive and was also assistant treasurer for a number of years, but failing health forced him to retire, and in less than a year he passed into the great beyond. He was a valuable member of the Bruce Beach fraternity, a genial companion, and a courtly gentleman.

This year also records the first fishing adventure by the disciples of Isaak Walton on the Beach. In the first week in August a fishing party, including Rev. Dr. Davidson, Rev. W. A. Bradley, Rev. W. A. Bremner, Rev. N. A. MacEachern, Dr. L. R. Pattison, Rev. D. T 1. McKerroll, and Mr. Norman Slater, set out in two Ford cars for Miller Lake in the Bruce peninsula. They arrived at their destination at 6 p.m. after a journey of 94 miles. They fished the following dar and returned the third day with 41 fine fish.

As a result of this trip The Bruce Peninsula Fishing Club was formed with Rev. W. A. Bradley, President; Mr. Norman Slater, Vice President; and Rev. Dr. Davidson, Sec.-Treasurer. The intention of the club is to niake an annual visit to this excellent fishing ground.

An item of interest to campers this year was the installation of a Radio outfit in his cottage by Mr. Thomas Clark of Detroit.

The song of local colouring sung at the annual concert by the Ladies Orchestra was arranged by Rev. W.A. Bradley to the tune of "A Student of Cadiz" as follows:

 When I was a camper at Bruce Beach
 I played my Hawaiian guitar;
 I contended all sports with reach,
 And proudly possessed a Ford car
Chorus:
 Ring ching ching, ring ching ching, roll in ye waves,
 O roll in ye waves, O roll in ye waves,
 Ring ching ching. ring ching ching. roll in ye waves, 
 I played my Hawaiian guitar; 
 I journeyed one day to Kincardine
 Some strings to get for my guitar;
 Not a string could I get. Beg your pardon
 Nor gasoline for my Ford Car.

Officers for 1922: President, Rev. W. J. West; Vice President, Dr. R. Martin; Sec.-Treas., Rev. F. C. Overend.

History of the Fishing Club

History of the Bruce Beach Fishing Club

THE Records of Bruce Beach would be incomplete without a history of the Fishing Club. The genesis of the Club, and the experiences of the fishermen in their first venture were related in a Sporting magazine by Rev. W. A. Bradley, a short time after the trip to Miller Lake, and reproduced here: There is situated on the shore of Lake Huron, some six miles south of the town of Kincardine, a summer resort known as Bruce Beach, which numbers about seventy-five cottages, about one half of which are owned, or occupied, by clergymen, comprising theological professors, city and country pastors.

One night last camping season my cottage was invaded by a number of genuine successors of Peter; James, and John, sons of thunder as well as possessors of the instincts of the fisherman, who proposed a fishing trip to some good fishing ground, and inquired if I was familiar with any. I told them that the Bruce County Council bad three years ago held its June meeting in Tobermory, the extreme point of that index finger of Bruce county, that points to the north star, and that one of my men, who had accompanied the party, on his return, when I inquired how the fishing was in the Bruce peninsula replied, "Fishing? I tell you that the bass are so plentiful and gamey in those lakes up there, that you have to go behind a tree to keep them from seeing you bait your hook, or they will be out after it." One of the party said that he had a suspicion that the story must be true, for he had a man in his employ who had fished in a lake up there, but who so far had escaped the attacks of the bass, who had told him similar stories of fishermen's luck, and who had placed a tent and fishing paraphernalia at his disposal, if he should ever go to Miller Lake for a fishing outing. "That settles it," chimed in the other members of the party, "we leave for the peninsula tomorrow morning at 5 o'clock." However next day we concluded that the week was too far spent. and as some of the party had to preach on Sunday, that we would wait till the following week, and riot limit ourselves to time.

The Preparations for a good fish story
Left to Right: Norman Slater, D. T. L. McKerroll, W. A. Bradley, W. A. Bremner, R. Davidson, N. A. MacEachern.

Our party consisted of a theological professor, two city pastors, one of which had accompanied our troops in France, who shall be known as the Captain, a pastor from Cobourg, the writer, and (as no Presbyterian church court is complete without an elder) an elder from Hamilton.

The Fisherman's Catch
W. A. Bremner and Norman Slater, with D. T. L. McKerroll in the background

Bright and early the next week two Ford cars were filled with sleeping blankets, cooking utensils, fishing tackle, cutlery, thermos bottles, cups and saucers; sufficient for the party, and 8 o'clock saw these clerical disciples of Isaak Walton heading for parts unvisited before by any member of the party.

Considerable scepticism was expressed by the wives of the party as they saw binder twine sacks being taken along in which to bring home the fish, and suggestions were made that the fish brought back were not to cost more than 13 cents per pound. All this chaffing the fishermen endured with Christian fortitude and resignation as becometh saints.

Kincardine, Tiverton, Underwood, Port Elgin, Southampton, and Allenford, we passed through, and Wiarton reached by 12 o'clock nOon. Here the party waited till the arrival of the G. T. R. train from the south which was to bring the sixth member of the party, the elder from Hamilton.

After a sumptuous dinner in the Arlington Hotel whose genial proprietor well deserves mention here for the excellency of the cuisine provided in that hostel, the party set out for Lion's Head, which was a little over half way from Wiarton to Our objective point.

The 1923 Fishing Party. Left to Right: Norman Slater, J. R. P. Sclater, R. Davidson, L. R. Pattison, W. H. Sedgwick, J. Robertson, J. F. McKenzie.

Here begin the turns and twists in the road that have made the peninsula famous. I had heard of an Englishman, Irishman, and Scotchman, telling stories of the sharp turns in the roads that they bad experienced in their travels. The Englishman had been on a road so tortuous that he could never see twenty yards straight ahead of him. The Scotchman told of a trip he had to the centennial in Philadelphia years ago, where the curves in the railway were so sharp, that he, in the baggage car, handed his chewing tobacco to the man on the rear of the last coach of the tram, and got it back at the next curve. The Irishman said that driving around the Lakes of Killarney the curves in the road were so sharp that on a number of occasions he saw the back of his own head. But on the peninsula roads we were told that the driving horses were all fat, because at every curve in this road they could eat out of the back of the buggy to which they were hitched. "Well these roads," said the Toronto pastor, when we reached Lion's Head, "are crooked enough to make a snake dizzy."

Here we inquired about the fishing at Miller Lake, and the distance to that place. The opinion expressed was that the fishing there was not very good, and the distance in the minds of many to whom we spoke was uncertain as we were told that it was 14 miles by some, 15 by others. and 17 by the hotel keeper, who recommended Stokes Bay as a better fishing ground, and his house for our accommodation at night, as there was no accommodation at Miller Lake. However we were not to be diverted from our objective, and set out for Cape Chin, over roads that made the Rocky Roads to Dublin unworthy of the name, for while the road from Wiarton to Lion's Head was over rocks and hills, the road from Lion's Head to Cape Chin made us experience Roller Boller thrills. One member of the party remarked that these roads were up and down and in and out at the same rime. As we passed a curve·in the road a large bill board with the sign

BLACK BASS
Navy Chewing Tobacco

stood out before us. "That is encouraging," said the pastor from Cobourg. "The black bass in this country chew tobacco." We were satisfied however that Premier Drury and his capable Minister of Public Works. to whom the province owes so much for good roads, had never visited this part of the province or the roads in the peninsula would be better.

At 6 p.m. we arrived at our destination. Here we presented a letter of introduction to a Mr. West, to whom we had phoned from Lion's Head, and with whom we expected to stay while in the vicinity. Mr. West was somewhat perplexed by the clerical invasion, as already two fishing parties, from London, Ont. were camped with him. He said he could accommodate us with meals, but as for sleeping quarters, he did not know what to do, but we removed his perplexity by telling him that we would be content with the hay mow. He told us that the elder's friend had left a tent here that we might have, so under the instruction of the Captain, whose experience in France stood him in good stead, we soon had it pitched on the lawn in front lawn of our host's house. Two cots were placed in it, and preparations made for the night. Two of our party, the Captain and the Cobourg pastor occupied the cots, while the remaining four of us betook ourselves to the barn, rolled ourselves in our blankets, while the moon shed its silvery light through the cracks between the boards in the side of the barn on the four sleeping beauties testing for the first time the comforts of a hay mow. One of the tent sleepers remarked in the morning that they thought they heard a fog horn blowing throughout the night, but concluded after some deliberation that the sounds proceeded from the hay mow, while the other said that when Mr. West's cows came in from the pasture, in the moonlight to lie beside the barn, as was their custom, when they heard strange sounds proceeding from within, listened for a while, then erecting their tails in the air as though they had been attacked by a swarm of heel flies, turne'-ci, and with furious speed, ·sought safety among the rocks in the direction of Tobermorr. These were the snoring stories we heard next morning as at 5.30 the fishermen were performing their ablutions around the kitchen door of their capable hostess, while the savOl. H)" and appetizing smell of bacon and eggs etc. proceeded from the cooking utensils on the range within.

The 1922 Fishing Party to Silver Lake Left to Right: W. A. Bradley, W. A. Bremner, D. T. L. McKerroll, R. Davidson, Norman Slater. Left foreground D. R. Drummond.

Here J must make mention of two genuine disciples of the piscatorial art, NfL Thomas Ball, and 11r. Norman fvIcLeod his mmpanion, both of London, Ont., whom we met at the home where we were staying. Ml'. Ball has visited this part of the peninsula for sixteen summers, and is himself a sportsman of the first order; for he placed his boat and his fishing paraphernalia, as well as information about the grounds at our disposal that morning. This provided our party with two boats, and 8 a.m. saw the two fishing craft anchored a few yards apart in the Lake\\'here :Messrs. Ball and McLeod had marked out choice spots by small pine tree buoys. Here the fishing was all that could be desired, as the ' gamey small mouthed black bass-'the only- kind in this lake-made the reels sing, and the vigorous pike struggled to free himself from the hooks of the fishermen. The theological professor had hooked a large fish of the latter species, but it got away, taking also his hook. Soon he was reeling in another fish, and when taking out his hook announced that it was the same fish that he had hooked before, for there in its mouth was his hook and one inch of his line. "What splendid business instincts we fellows have shown," said the elder, "in electing the professor the treasurer of our party, for he will not even permit a hook to be lost." "That reminds me," said the Captain, "of a story I heard of an incident that happened in the north of Scotland," but just then he was interrupted by a bending rod and the excited shouts of "you have got him" from the other boat. \X7hen the fish' was landed he began again, but was ap:ain interrupted b~' "stay \\'ith him Dick" from the same boat. \\'hen this ./ish was safely over the gun\\' ale, tbe Captain a'p:ain started. but before be had reached in ()rthoch-:: homiletical style the 15th place 261y, he was ap:ain interrupted, by the same trill \\ith "hold steady, hold stead\' old bo\'~" The landing net was got ~ J. <- ...... into position. and a beautiful three and three quarter pound bass proudly landed. "Here." said the Captain, "jf you fellows in that buat don't stop landing !ish I will not be able to finish my story." The theological professor then in pedaJ:;ogical tones ordered all hooks to be taken from the water, in order that the Captain might not again be interrupted in telling his story. So he began anew as follows. "There was a kirk in the north of Scotland

where the two deacons, Sandy and Donald, counted the

collection after each service. One day a stranger had dropped in unobsen'ed, and when Sandy and Donald were counting the coppers, they found among them a ten shilling gold piece. There was astonishment and amazement on the faces of the two ~ deacons, Sandy declared "There ri1USt be something wrong." Donald said "Sandy, it must be a counterfeit." "\Vell I'll try my teeth on it," said Sandy, "and see if it is." ~e put It in his mouth. and in his efforts to see if he could dint it, swallowed the coin. Consternation prevailed, and a Doctor 'with a stomach pump was hastily summoned, but with all the doctors efforts he could only get out of Sandy'S stomach nine shill ings and sixpence,"

""VeiL" said one of the party, amid the laughter, "the fish that won't bite after hearing that story is a poor sport," and the hooks were again lowered with fresh bait. By noon \ve had captured twenty-five fine .fish: These had to be carried a distance of half a mile to our host's house, and it was no small load, as they \veighed about seventy pounds. But by nse of the binder twine bag, and a pole they \vere safely transported and placed on ice in Mr. Wf est's ice house and covered with sawdust. No one seemed more pleased at our success than Mr. Ball who congratulated us on our catch, and held the end of the rope on which we strung them, in order to have them photographed, The story of .finding the hook in the pik~' s mouth was told by the Theological professor, but Mr. Ball went him one better, by telling of an experience he had on one occasion. He and his son were still fishing from a boat, and both had a vigorous strike almost at the same time, His son was struggling with a strong fish,. but. it broke his line and got away, and he, in the excitement, let his steel rod fall overboard and it sank, They probed arollnd in the water with his son's bamboo rod, but no trace of the steel rod could be found. They still continued to fish, and in less than an hour landed a l<u'ge fish, when to their astonishment they found his son's hook in its mouth, and another hook also, with a line attached. They pulled on the line, and up came the steel rod which he had let fall into the water, thus procuring the lost'nook and the lost rod. Some of the party were inclined to play the part of doubting Thomas, but the narrator assured them that it was so ..

In the afternoon we were accompanied by Messrs. Ball and .McLeod, and sixteen more fine fish were added to the catch. On one occasion the Toronto pastor, brought a large pike into the boat with such haste that it described a circle and almost knocked the pipe out of :Mr. Ball's mouth who was sitting opposite to him. 1fr. Ball removed the pipe and sang "0 the bulls won't bellow, and the cows won't low, The hens' won't cackle, and the cocks won't crow, The turkeys won't gnbble and the ducks won't quack. And nothing will go right till my Jean comes back" amid the applause and laughter of the party. As the slIn was beginning to set, the boats pulled to the shore, and the catch brought to the house, and placed . beside that of the morning. A good supper \vas enjoyed, and the tent and the hay mow again became the resting places for the nigh t, all the party feeling that as they had a successful day's sport they would enjoy a good night's rest. Some of the party suggested in the morning that we try our hand again for a few hours before returning home, but the majority thought that 41 fish ought to satisfy the ayerage fishing party. So after the catch had been packed in two sacks with ice and sawdust, and placed on the running boards of the car we bid good bye to our host and hostess, and the two fishing companions we had met, and set out for Bruce Beach, but not before we had formed a fishing club, with the writer as president, the elder, as vice president, and the theological professor as secretary and treasurer, our purpose being, if spared, to make an annual visit to Miller Lake. Four o'clock saw us back again at our cottages after a journey of 188 miles. The news spread that th.e fishin.g party had returned, and before- long the fishermen were surrounded by an eager company of spectators, who snapped their cameras as they sa}\' the display of fish. ' It only remains to be said that more campers on the Beach ate fish next day than on any day of the season, from the distribution of the catch that was made by the fishing party. . The following year the membership of the Club was enlarged by the addition of Dr. J. R. P. SdateL Dr. \'{'. H. Sedge\\'ick, Dr. L. R. Pattison, Dr. J. F. lIcKenzie and .11r. J. Robertson, the fishing was l:ather a disappointment this trip. Dr. Sclater hooked a fine bass. with considerable skill played it up to the boat, but in a final struggle, after many leaps from the water, it threw the hook and got a\\"ay. The fishermen \"ere all attention as they ~\-atched tl-te manoeuver, but were disappointed when the)saw the result of the struggle. However, rather than return empty handed the members purchased $15.00 worth of lake trout iri \\Tiarton, on their way home, that their friends might not also be disappointed if they returned without fish. In 1924 only six members of the club made the trip. The fishing was good, the merriment up to that of former trips, and the little outing en joyed to the fullest extent. The Author has dedicated the following poem to his splendid fishing companions.

THE BRUCE PENINSULA FISHING CLUB

I will hie me away on a bright summer day To a fisherman's haunt, no mistake, Sl \'{!here the clear waters flow, that are colder than snow, On the shores of the fair Miller Lake. ~.' 'How my heart beats with joy, with the mirth of a boy, \'{fhen the springtime has come, and I take Down my rod, and my reel, that have proved true as steel, And I long for the fair Miller Lake. . '- \'{!hat an outfit they are, the unconquered Ford car, That refused no burden we take, And the blankets that say 'we delight in the hay That is furnished at fair Miller Lake'. \'{!hen the collar that's white, laid aside, and it's right That we should for the present forsake Both the garb, and the gown, and the dress of the town; \Vhen ,ye go to the fair Miller Lake. For the bass and the pike compensate for the hike, That our zeal for the sport makes us take, But we always are paid for the trips we h~ve made To the shores of the fair Miller Lake. How often we've thought, if no fish had been caught, \Ve're repaid for the journey we make, For nur pleasure is great, and the fun we create Is'the charm of our trip to the Lake.

Members of the Club: Rev. \'i('. A. Bradley, D.D., President; Mr. Norman Slater, Vice-President; Rev. Richard Davidson, D.D., Sec-Treasurer; Rev. \'V. A. Bremner, Rev. N. A. MacEachern, D.D., Rev. D. T. L. McKerrolL D.D., Rev. \'V. H. Sedgewick, D.D., Rev. J. R. P. Sclater, D.D., L. R. Pattison D.D.S. and J. F. McKenzie, D.D.S.

Bruce Beach History (1923-1924)

1923

THIS year, showed still increasing growth, Cottages were built by Mr. W. H. Collins of Kitchener. Rev. T. M. Wesley of Sterling, Miss Nettie Moffat, Teeswater, Mr. J. Johnston, Ripley, Rev. W. A. Bremner, Cobourg. and two cottages by Mr. Bradnock of Gorrie, while improvements were made in their cottages by Rev. D. T. L. McKerroll. Rev. W. A. Bradlev and the Ivlisses Dobson. .

The Sabbath services continued to increase in numbers, and extra seating had to procured to accommodate the increased attendance.

The Government sent' on its surveyor. as requested by the Association, and the Beach from the sand dunes On the South, to the 10th concession on the North was surveyed into 66 ft. lots.

The Annual Concert this year was unusually good. Rev. Dr. J. R. p, Sclater of Old St. Andrew's Church. Toronto. who was holidaying at the Beach, was chairman. The golf links were improved and a hand mower, and hand roller purchased, which greatly aided in keeping the greens in shape.

The only transfer of property this year was the sale of the Chapman cottage to Mr. W. S. West of Woodstock, who tore down the cottage purchased, and erected a beautiful new one.

Officers: President, Rev. W. A. Bradley, Vice Pres., . Dr. R. Davidson, Sec.-Treas., Rev. F. C. Overend.

1924

The year of 1924 was also a growing year. Cottages were built by Mr. D. E. Kennedy of Guelph and Dr. Gerald Wilson of Detroit at the extreme South end, while north of the 8th concession several cottages were erected.

An organ was purchased to assist in the Church services. and additional seating capacity provided for the increased attendance at the Sabbath afternoon meetings, while Mr. T. L. Hamilton of Listowel presented the congregation 'with collection plates.

For the first time in the history of the Beach several cottages were entered during the winter by some mischievous persons, but no material damage was done beyond a few boyish pranks. The boathouse of Dr. J. F. McKenzie was broken into, and his skiff and canoe stolen. These were afterwards recovered at Kintail, where the thieves had to hurriedly abandon them, and escape in an auto. At the annual meeting the Association decided to have a card printed, and placed on each cottage offering a reward of $25.00 for the arrest and conviction of any person breaking into a cottage.

At the annual meeting of the Association Mr. McKerroll reported progress in the matter of procuring titles to the land on which we had settled, and. a resolution was passed deciding to remain with, and trust the fairness of the Government, but dissatisfaction was expressed with the rental that the Government was charging. It was iiltimated in a letter read by Mr. McKerroll that the Minister of Crown Lands Or his Deputy would visit the Beach in August and fully acquaint himself with the situation. This visit. however. did not materialize, and there the matter rested.

There was no change in the personnel of the Executive in 1924.

Officers: President, Rev. W. A. Bradley; Vice President, Dr. R. Davidson; Sec.-Treasurer, Rev. F. C. Overend.

Councellors: Mr. J. S. Anderson, G. F N. Atkinson, H. B. Parnaby, Thomas Clark.

Convener Sports: Dr. J. F. McKenzie.

Convener Religious Committee: Dr. Sedgewick.

History of the Glee Club

Bruce Beach History (1925-1926)

History of the Young Ladies' Orchestra and Glee Club

Bruce Beach History (1927-1933)]]

History of the Tennis Club

History of the McCosh-Grove Limited

Bruce Beach History (1934-1937)

1934

This year gave us beautiful holiday weather, and the holiday spirit pervaded the camp. 'In no year of the colony's existence had the waters of the lake so far receded. The new Club House erected by the Golf Club was a rallying place for many social activities and for meetings of the various athletic Clubs.

The activities of the Ladies' Auxiliary in connection with the Club House in procuring furnishings for the same is worthy of special mention.

The Sabbath Services throughout the season were well attended. . .

The McCosh Grove Limited reported the mortgage on the property paid off and discharged. Sports Day had a record crowd. The events were well contested. In the Girls' competition Jean Wilson, won the McKenzie prize, and in the boys' competition it was won by Bill Manning. The concert in the evening was well attended, but the familiar strains of The Men's Glee Club for the first time since 1916 were missed.

Tennis Clubs No. 1 and 2 that met at the top of the hill had the original court in Division No. 1 re-surveyed and an order given for the construction of two Tennis Courts and a Badminton court to be ready for 1935.

At the annual meeting of the Association a committee consisting of Doctors Bradley, McNamara, and McKerroll, was appointed to get estimates on the cost of printing a Souvenir of the Beach, and to report at the next annual meeting.

The annual meeting of the Golf Club was a brilliant affair. The prizes this year in addition to the cups won were golf clubs. The History of the Golf Club was read by the Beach Historian, Dr. 'VI/. A. Bradley. As the Rev. Robert Martin l1ad been the originator of Golf at the Beach, driving the first ball from the present No. 2 tee, and laying out the first course, Dr. Bradley moved that hereafter No. 2 tee, and No. 2 fairway be named the Dominion Government approached through Mr. Morrison, Postmaster of Kincardine, for a delivery Route along the Beach.

Officers:. Dr. J. W. McNamara President, His Hon. Judge West, Vice Pres., Rev. H. J Harnwell Sec-Treas.

1935

In no year of the Beach's history has Lake Huron been so calm and quiet throughout the holiday and in no year had the water so far receded. The weather was ideal and the heat not intense. All the cottages were occupied throughout the season.

The new tarvia Tennis Court in Division I was ready for occupation when the cottagers arrived and in constant use from morning till night throughout the holiday.

The contest between the Kincardine and Bruce Beach Golf Clubs was woo by Kincardine, by the last man, with the last shot and at the last hole.

The new R. M. Route along the Beach front was a convenience much appreciated by the cottagers and the thanks of the Association, at its annual meeting, ordered to be forwarded to the postal authorities.

Sports day was a great success with increased attendance, and the concert in the evening above the average.

At the Annual Meeting of the Association it was agreed on account of the excellent service given us by the Kincirdine Merchants to no longer canvas them for prizes for sports day, and to fonvard a letter to the Chamber of Commerce of the Town conveying our appreciation of their service and informing them of the action taken at the annual meeting.

The committee on the Beach Souvenir reported, and was continued. Mr. W.A. Bremner wvas added to the Committee.

The attendance at the Sabbath Services was well maintained throughout the season.

Officers: His Hon. Judge West, Pres.; Mr. Thomas Kennedy, Vice-Pres.; Rev. H. J. Harnwell, Sec.Treas.

1936

This year will go down in history as the warmest and driest experienced at the Beach. Throughout the months of July and August there was no rain and one week in July was the warmest on record. As usual there were no vacant cottages throughout the season, and Sunday services were well maintained.

Golf becomes more and more the Bruce Beach pastime. Miss Mabel Dobson presented the Club with a cup to be contested for by children under twelve years of age. This called forth quite an array of youthful golfers.

In the contest between the Bruce Beach and Kincardine Clubs, for the Miller trophy, the cup was brought back to the Beach after an absence of two years.

At the annual meeting of the Golf Club, Mr. D. E. Kennedy and Dr. Gerald WTilson were made honourary members of the club.

At the annual meeting of the Golf Association the Committee in charge of the printing of a Beach Souvenir was continued.

Sports Day as usual was a gala day on the Beach, with probably not as large an attendance as in previous years. but with all events well contested. The concert in the evening was good and was well patronized.

Officers: Same as last year.

1937

One thing that has characterized the history of the Beach has been its freedom from accidents. In the 43 years of its existence there have been but two drowning accidents.

A medical doctor from the village of Atwood, whose wife and family were holidaying at the Beach, came out on Sunday to visit them. After a hearty dinner he went into the water for .a swim. He was taken with cramps, and before help could arrive was drowned. The mishap cast a gloom over the whole colony.

At the annual meeting of the Association the committee having the Beach Souvenir in hand was continued, and the sum of $25.00 was set aside to assist in paying for engravings and the same amount apportioned for the following year. Mr. Thomas Kennedy was added to the committee. The Club House was improved by the addition of a beautiful fire place in the main building and also the addition of an up-to-date and well furnished kitchen.

In the contest for the Miller trophy between the Bruce Beach and Kincardine golf clubs, the home club again demonstrated its prowess, and retains the cup for another year.

Some difference of opinion arose at the annual meeting of the McCosh Grove Limited between the Company and the Golf Club. The matter was finally left to the 'President of the Golf Club, Mr. W. Whalen and Mr. Thomas Kennedy, secretary of the company, for whatever settlement, in their wisdom they should see fit to make.

The Sunday School conducted by Miss Jean Ernst, averaged about sixty children. The regular Sabbath Services were well attended.

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Officers: Mr. Thomas Kennedy, Pres.; Rev. A. C. Stewart, Vice-Pres.; Rev. H. J. Harnwell, Sec.-Treas.

Wiki Notes

Wiki Notes

This Wiki book was created from a PDF file provided by Rob Parker. The PDF files was created by scanning the pages of the original "Souvenir History of Bruce Beach" compiled by Rev. W.A. Bradley in 1937. That PDF was then converted back to text again using Adobe Acrobat Reader Extended version 9.0. The text was manually corrected by Doug Dunlop. There are still textual errors in need of manual correction.

Here is the original "Souvenir History of Bruce Beach" PDF file.