St George’s Snowshoe Club Celebrate St Andrew’s Day, Montreal, 1911

Montreal
Daily Star, 1 December 1911, page 4

St George’s Had a Most Delightful Dinner

Speeches, Reminiscences and Musical Numbers Comprised the Jolly Programme

St Andrew’s Day was celebrated in right royal fashion last night by the St George’s Snowshoe Club. By a happy coincidence, yesterday was also the date fixed for the annual dinner and smoker, so that there was a double excuse for the evening’s enjoyment. Over 100 members sat down to the banquet in the club house. The President, Mr Geo J Sheppard announced the only toast of the evening. The King, which was drunk with musical honors, and in the course of a brief speech, referred to the fact that they were celebrating the twenty-sixth anniversary of the club’s occupation of its present quarters. Although many changes had taken place in the neighbourhood, he hoped the club would still maintain the reputation it had acquired as the home of winter sports. It was felt, said Mr Sheppard, that the coming winter should mark a renewal of all the activities which had marked the club in its early years, and for the one twould promise to take his share in any tramps that might be arranged. Mayor Rutherford of Westmount, in thanking the Club for its hospitality, spoke of the memories he had, through his long residence in Westmount of the name of the Club had always maintained for keeping up the spirit of true sportsmanship, and referred to the beauty of clubhouse’s site, which in his opinion was actually the finest in the city. Dr. Finnie was the next speaker and urged the members not to lose sight of the traditions which were inseperable from the history of the club, and to take up again the long tramps which had given rise to its foundation. He himself hoped to come down from Quebec and attend the first tramp that might be held. Mr. Guthrie and Mr. Sinck briefly addressed the company and the excellent musical entertainment which had been prepared was then gone through. A pianoforte selection by Mr. Eichhorn started the ball rolling and number after number succeeded to the great enjoyment of the club members. Among other items on the programme was one which delighted the audience because of its somewhat unusual features. The concertina, when played by such an expert as Mr Richardson, of Toronto, reveals unexpected beauties. Mr Richardson was encored time after time, and each time responded by giving fresh proof of his talent. Mr H Rees was also heard to great advantage in a number of songs and Mr R McGlaughlin added the necessary touch of humor with some amusing recitations. Nor was St Andrew’s day forgotten, for such choruses as “Annie Laurie”, “the Banks of Loch Lomond,” and many others made the rafters ring.
Before the evening came to an end, the President, Mr Sheppard, announced that open house would be kept for the Scottish curlers during their approaching visit to Montreal. A special tramp would be arranged in order to initiate them into this form of typical Canadian sport, after which a dinner and a smoker would be given in honour of the visitors. As a fitting wind-up to the occasion, Captain Sully, the first President of the Club in 1874, called upon all members present to pledge themselves once more to the taking of the long tramps, in which, despite his age, he would be only too glad to participate.

St Patrick’s Day, Montreal, 1859

Montreal Gazette, 18 March 1859, page 2

St Patrick’s Day—Our fellow citizens of Irish origin, who yesterday assembled to honor the feast of their Patron Saint, had surely no complaints to make of the weather—a bright sun and a balmy west wind favored their national day, and drew on numbers to see the gallant display made by the Sons of Old Erin. Early yesterday morning the various national and religious societies assembled in front of the new St Patrick’s Hall in McGill Street, and, headed by the Prince’s Band, and Nos 4 and 5 Rifle Companies, proceeded through several of the thoroughfares to St Patrick’s Church, where an eloquent sermon was preached by Father Dowd. After Divine service, the procession reformed, and then made a detour through Griffintown, McGill Street, to St Patrick’s Hall, where speeches were delivered by the Mayor and B Devlin, Esq, after which the assembly dispersed, the militia companies proceeding to the armoury and there breaking up. In the evening, the St Patrick’s Society, and the Irish National and Literary Society held their annual dinners, which were very well attended.

A Large Parade is Now Predicted for St Patrick’s Day, Montreal, 1911

Montreal Daily Star, 15 March 1911, page 19

A LARGE PARADE IS NOW PREDICTED FOR ST PATRICK’S DAY

Archbishop Bruchesi will Probably Join Procession as it Passes Cathedral

From present indications the change in hour of the annual St Patrick’s Day parade, instead of reducing the number of people participating in it, appears to have the effect of increasing interest. At least, such is the opinion of the marshals, who have received reports from the various parochial and national organizations as to the numbers in which they will be able to muster. It is found that even the remote parishes of the district will be able to send large representations to the parade.
Neither will there be any difficulty in securing music, as already ten bands have been engaged. The indications are therefore entirely favorable to a larger and more representative procession than usual. In fact, a record turnout is looked for.
His Grace Archbishop Bruchesi will officiate pontifically at High Mass in St Patrick’s Church. He will be assisted at the throne by Very Rev Canon O’Meara, pastor of St Gabriel’s: Rev JE Donnelly, pastor of St Anthony’s and Rev Luke Callaghan DD pastor St Michael’s. the decons [sic] of the mass will be Rev ML Shea, pastor of St Aloysius; Rev Thomas F Heffernan, pastor of St Thomas Aquinas. The sermon will be preached by Rev Thomas F Burke, CSP of New York.
It is probably that His Grace the Archbishop will view the procession as it passes the Cathedral and will likely join in and proceed with to the church.

Poems in Honour of St Patrick’s Day, Montreal 1911

Montreal Daily Star, 17 March 1911, page 8

Poems in Honour of St Patrick’s Day

CORRYMEELA

Over here in England I’m helpin’ wi’ the hay,
An’ I wisht I was in Ireland the live-long day.
Weary on the English hay, an’ sorra take the wheat
Och! Corrymeels an’ the blue sky over it.

There a deep, dumb river flowin’ by beyont the heavy trees,
This livin’ air is moithered wi’ the hummin’ o’ the bees:
I wisht I’d hear the Claddagh burn go runnin’ through the heat
Past Corrymeela, wi’ the blue sky over it.

The people that’s in England is richer nor the Jews
There not the smallest young gossoon but thravels in his shoes!
I’d give the pipe between me teeth to see a barefut child,
Och! Corrymeala an’ the low south wind.

Here’s hands so full o’ money an’ hearts so full o’ care,
By the luck o’ love, I’d still go light for all I did go bare,
God save me, colleen dhas, I said; the girl she thought me wild,
Far Corrymeala, an’ the low south wind.

D’ye mind me now, the song at night is mortial hard to raise,
The girls are heavy goin’ here, the boys are ill to plase;
When one’st I’m out this workin’ hive, ‘tis I’ll be back again-
Ay, Corrymeala, in the same soft rain.

The smoke o’ smoke from one ould roof before an English town!
For a shaugh wid Andy Feelan here I’d give a silver crown,
For a curl o’ hair like Mollie’s ye’ll ask the like in vain,
Sweet Corrymeala, an’ the same soft rain.

Moira O’Neill

Brither Scots Greet Each Other on St Andrew’s, Montreal, 1911

Montreal Daily Star, 30 November 1911, page 2.

Brither Scots Greet Each Other on St Andrew’s

 

This is St Andrew’s Day and in honor of the occasion Scotsmen all over the world are proudly wearing a wee sprig of heather fresh from the misty hills of their native land.  Montreal Scots and their descendants never fail to observe the day and the heather is today everywhere in evidence on the streets, many people of other nationalities joining with the Scots to do honor to “the land of mountains, glens and heroes.”

Just how St Andrew came to be chosen as the Patron Saint of Scotland is lost to the mists of antiquity, but from time immemorial her royal banner was the silver X shaped cross of St Andrew upon a blue ground.  Today it is the Union Jack, the white cross on blue ground, the broad white lines drawn from corner to corner.

St Andrew of the twelve disciples is reputed to have been crucified on an X shaped cross, at Petras on November 30 AD 70 after a life spent in preaching the gospel and in relieving the distressed.  To the true Scotsman, therefore, the St Andrew’s Cross is at once emblematic of love for their native land and of fidelity to the strong religious faith which has ever characterized their race.  On this day all social and political distinctions are put aside, and Scottish men and women everywhere join hands in patriotic love for Auld Scotland and in the relief of those of their race who may be in need.

The day was quietly observed.  Besides the wearing of the heather and the unusual warmth of greetings, there was little to distinguish the day from other days.

A “Haggis” luncheon was given by the supper committee of St Andrew’s Society to the office bearers and chairmen of the committees at the Windsor Hotel today, and the “Haggis” was well sampled. About forty sat down.

Fraser Viger and Co sent up a box of heather direct from the moors of Scotland, to the St Andrew’s Home this morning.

A special meeting and informal tea of the Ladies Committee of the St Andrew’s Society was held in St Andrew’s Home this afternoon to view the new colors which they are presenting to the 5^th Royal Highlanders, the presentation of which it is hoped will be made in the spring by HRH the Governor General.

 

Scots Dance Again- St Andrew’s Ball, Montreal, 1957

Montreal Gazette, 30 November 1957, page 33

Pageantry Fetes Patron Saint

Scots Dance Again

Marked by ancient Scottish customs and rites the celebration of Scotland’s patron saint was held last night in the Windsor Hotel when almost 1600 guests were present.  The annual St Andrew’s Ball, the largest event of the social season, has become an established Montreal tradition which keeps alive a sense of continuity with the past.  And among the guests were those bearing the old Scottish names associated with the history of the Society.

The flash of tartan, the skirl of bagpipes, the billowing white frocks of the debutantes and the glitter of medals blended with a scene that joined the past with the present.

The setting was particularly appropriate to the guests of honor, Brig. Sir Fitzroy Maclean, Bart, QC, MP and Lady Maclean, of DouartCastle, Isle of Mull.

Sir Fitzroy, soldier, author and diplomat, had an outstanding war record. In World War II he served with the Cameron Highlanders, joined the Special Air Service Regiment in the Middle East, which operated behind enemy lines in Libya, and in 1943 with the rank  of brigadier was secretly dropped by parachute into Yugoslavia to organise Yugoslav resistance to the German forces. He received the CBE (Military Division) for gallant and distinguished services and was decorated by the Soviet and Yugoslav governments.  He is the author two best sellers- Eastern Approaches and recently, Disputed Barricade.

Plant Badge Featured

Prior to the Ball, Mr WC Leggat, DSO, QC, president of St Andrew’s Society, and Mrs Leggat entertained the guests of honor and the honored guests, the Hon E Davis Fulton, PC, QC, MP, Minister of Justice, and Mrs Fulton, in the York Room of the Hotel. Holly, the plant badge of the guest of honour, was arranged on the table, flanked by silver candelabra.  At one end of the room was a large mural, painted by Willa Ogilvie Creighton, depicting scenes from Sir Fitzroy’s colorful career.

Following the dinner the guards of honor were escorted to the Royal Suite and members of the ball committee were presented.

Skirl of Pipes

At ten o’clock, the official party was piped into the ballroom by the pipe band of the Black Watch (RHR) of Canada piping a Highland March composed by Piper John MacKenzie in 1953 for the president of the Clan Maclean Association- Brig Sir Fitzroy Maclean, and took their places upon the dais. Lady Maclean, wearing a century-old heirloom gown of tartan velvet, was then presented with a bouquet of red roses, tied with the Maclean Tartan by one of the two pages, Master Robert Wallace Leggat and Master Pembroke Laurie MacDermot.

Last night for the first time in the history of the Society three generations were represented on the dais.  Brig WC Leggat, his father Lieut-Col William Leggat, OBE MC a past president of the Society and his son Master Robert Wallace Leggat.

In the parade to the ballroom were Capt William Redpath, and a Black Watch Officer, Mr Robert Hutchinson and the Marquess of Lorne, Brig WC Leggat, Lady Maclean, Brig Sir Fitzroy Maclean, Mrs Leggat, Lieut-Col Stuart Cobbett, Mrs Cobbett, His Worship the Mayor, Mrs Fulton, Mrs William Leggat, Col William Leggat, the Hon E Davis Fulton, Mrs Fournier, Col OH Barrett, Mrs Keith Hutchinson, OBE, Commodore and Mrs Paul Earl, Col and Mrs Donald F Purves, Air Vice Marshall and Mrs LE Wray, Mr and Mrs Ray E Powell, Lieut-Col and Mrs IRM McDougall, Mr and Mrs Herman Cole, Dr and Mrs W Haydon Bryant, Mr Owen C Roberts and Miss Constance Holly, Lieut-Col and Mrs G Stuart Ramsay, Mr and Mrs W Edgar Doyle, Mr and Mrs Emile Boucher, Mr and Mrs John Withers, Mr and Mrs B Boyd Miller, Dr Ian Hutchinson, Major L Sabourin, and Mr Alan Hutchinson.

The skirl of the pipes heralded the arrival of the debutantes who were accompanied for presentation to the guests of honor by G V Win[illegible] Jr HC MacDougall, Mrs John Taylor, and Mrs Peter Dawson.

Debutantes Presented

Those presented were: Miss Elizabeth Bertram, in a frock of white silk embossed taffeta with a bodice having an off-the-shoulder neckline, and a skirt fashioned with back fullness and a flounced hemline, and wearing a Macfarlane tartan sash.

Miss Elizabeth Ballantyne, wearing a frock of white radizmir, fashioned on princess lines, with a bow at the front of the fitted bodice, and a similar bow on the front of the skirt.

Miss Melodie Caron, wearing a frock of white corde, fashioned with a fitted bodice, finished in a deep cuff, and a full skirt falling from a reverse drape at the front and a matching stole.

Miss Flora Church, in a frock of mousseline de soie, with a bodice having a pleated off-the-shoulder neckline, and a bouffant skirt with a bustle bow at the back ending in a slight train.

Miss Sonja Courcey, wearing a Christian Dior model of satin and tulle, with a strapless bodice, embroidered in seed pearls and a very full shirred tulle skirt.

Miss Monique Dagenais, in a frock of white brocade, fashioned with a fitted bodice, and a skirt having back fullness ending in a slight train and wearing gold accessories.

Miss Marielle Demers, in a frock of snow white satin and point d’esprit  tulle trimmed with small bows.

Miss Juliana de Kuyper, in a frock of Chantilly lace fashioned with a fitted bodice, having shoe-string straps, and very full skirt with a silk cummerbund forming a bustle bow at the back.

Miss Gael Eakin, in a frock of white lace over tulle, with a fitted bodice, and a very full tiered skirt.

Miss Vale Eachlin of New York, in a frock having a bodice of lace over satin with a satin sash and a skirt fashioned of layers of white and over gathered net ruffles.

Miss Barbara Fellowes in a frock of white taffeta, with a fitted bodice and a full skirt having a straight front [illegible]  with a bustle effect at the back, and wearing matching mousseline.

Miss [illegible] bodice and a very full ruffled skirt and wearing matching accessories.

Miss Anne Glover, wearing a frock of net over taffeta, fashioned with a fitted bodice, having cap sleeves and a bouffant skirt appliquéd with lace, and wearing a Wallace Tartan sash.

Miss Audrey Hamilton, wearing a frock of poult de soie, fashioned with a fitted bodice, and a bouffant skirt, with a sash of the Hamilton tartan.

Miss Martina Kleos, wearing a frock of white nylon tulle over taffeta, with a satin bodice embroidered in seed pearls having a bow at the back and silver accessories.

Miss Marguerite l’Anglais, in a frock of white satin, with a draped off-the-shoulder neckline and a bouffant skirt, and wearing silver accessories, and a sash of the Macdonald tartan.

Miss Madeline Leclerc, in a Christian Dior model of white satin brocade and tulle, with a fitted bodice and a skirt, having a pleated train falling from the waistline, and wearing matching accessories.

Miss Marian MacDougall, in a frock of ivory tulle, with a side swept bodice outlined in covered buttons, and a very full skirt, and wearing silver accessories.

Miss Mary Mason, gowned in white lace, fashioned with a fitted bodice, having an off-the-shoulder neckline [illegible] dropped sleevelets, and a full skirt bordered by a ruching of net, and wearing silver accessories.

[Illegible] a bouffant skirt.

Miss Lydia Melling, wearing a frock of silk faille, with a draped strapless bodice and a full skirt, and a sash of the McIntyre tartan.

Miss Liane Marshall, wearing a bouffant frock of white Chantilly lace, with a fitted bodice, draped with white taffeta at the waistline, forming a double bow at the back, with a sash of the MacLeod tartan.

Miss Joy MacDougald, in a frock of satin and tulle, with a fitted bodice, embroidered with opalescent sequins and Chantilly lace, and a very full draped skirt appliquéd in flower design, with a large butterfly bow at the back, and wearing a MacDougall tartan sash.

Miss Barbara Rooney, in a frock of poult de soie, with a skirt caught with a self-fringed skirt, caught with a self-fringed sash.

Miss Sonia Taylor, wearing a frock of [illegible] taffeta, with a fitted bodice, having a halter [illegible] and a bouffant skirt with a butterfly bow at the back.

Miss Sarah Vichers in a frock of snow white tulle over poult de soie, with a fitted bodice, and a bouffant skirt trimmed with silver tipped swan feathers.

Miss Sarah Webster wearing a frock of white brocade, fashioned on princess lines with a fitted bodice, and a full skirt having a bustle bow at the back and wearing a Campbell tartan.

Miss Lynn Weir, in a frock of [illegible] satin with a [illegible] bodice embroidered

Continued on page 35

Debutantes Presented at St Andrew’s Ball

From Page 33

 

With Chantilly lace, and a skirt having back fullness.

Following the presentation and the Debutante Waltz, Brig Leggat opened the ball by dancing with Lady Maclean.  The traditional eightsome reel followed.

Eddie Alexander and his orchestra played for dancing and Bill Mudie and his orchestra played during supper.

Purple Heather

The ballroom presented a brilliant picture of blue and white- the colors of the St Andrew’s Society.  Behind the dais where the presentations took place hung St Andrew’s flag, flanked on either side by arrangements of white painted broom, pine branches, purple heather and mauve and white chrysanthemums.  Similar arrangements decorated the stage where the orchestra played and the balcony.  Balls of mirror glass were suspended from the chandeliers and cut-outs of blue and white thistles covered the wall brackets.

The personal flag of Sir Fitzroy hung over the fireplace of Peacock Alley- banked with mantle, pine and holly. Panels of red, green and gold, with large cut-outs of thistles scattered with diamond dust, covered the walls of the concourse.  Figures of Highland lassies were on stands at either side of the stairs.

Claymore and Drambuie

At midnight the guests of honor and the official party were piped into the Black Watch mess.  Prior to supper being served, Sir Fitzroy officiated in the ballroom at the ceremony of the Cutting of the Haggis, which was piped in borne with claymore and drambuie, its time honored affinities.

Tartans of the various clans adorned the walls of the Roce and Green rooms and a tall figure of a Scottish soldier on a stand formed the centerpiece on the individual tables. The Black Watch Pipe Band played in the various supper rooms and the pipers were toasted by a member of the Society. Supper was served in the Long Gallery to the guests of honor and members of the official party.

The second set of reels, the Gay Gordons, were danced at half-past two o’clock, and dancing continued until six o’clock when the orchestra played God Save the Queen.

Reels Orchestra

An unusual feature of the evening was a performance by the Montreal Reels Orchestra under the direction of Mr Alec Dagleish and Mr John Macleod of Macleod, with the following members: Lady Alison Stewart-Patterson, piano, Miss Jennifer Macdonald, vocals, Mr Peter F Brown, drums, Mr John Macleod of Macleod, Mr Stewart Sommervile and Mr Alex Dagleish, [illegible]

They [illegible] play for some of the country dances and reels at St Andrew’s Ball at the Windsor Hotel on Friday evening [illegible] roy Maclean and Lady Maclean will be the guests of honor.

Among these Attending

Among those attending were Mrs Sarto Fournier, wearing a gown of peach chiffon, with a fitted bodice, and having a draped skirt, with white accessories.

Mrs William Leggat, wearing a gown of brown lace, with a fitted bodice and a bouffant skirt.

Mrs Ray Powell, gowned in green chiffon trimmed with a cummerbund and sash of green satin embroidered with crystal beads.

Mrs Paul Earl, in a sheath gown of black silk having a cowl neckline of pleated white chiffon.

Mrs LE Wray, wearing a sheath gown of blue chiffon fashioned on Grecian lines, with silver accessories.

Mrs Herman Cole, gowned in green and gold satin, and apple green taffeta and tulle, with gold accessories.

Mrs WH Bryant, in a bouffant gown of delustred blue satin, fashioned with  a fitted bodice, having an off-the-shoulder neckline.

Mrs Stuart Ramsey, gowned in draped blue chiffon.

Mrs W Edgar Doyle, wearing a gown of aquamarine poult de soie, with a draped bodice having an off-the-shoulder neckline, and a sheath skirt.

Mrs John Withers, in a gown of aqua paper taffeta, fashioned on princess lines, having a sash of deep aqua, and wearing old accessories.

Mrs J Emile Boucher, wearing a sheath gown of midnight blue silk, the skirt falling int a train, and pearl ornaments.

Mrs Davie Fulton, wearing a draped sheath gown of royal blue Chantilly lace embroidered on poult de soie.

Mrs Ian McDougall, gowned in embroidered green satin, with a fitted bodice having a portrait neckline and a bell shaped skirt.

Mrs JC Stewart in a gown of ice blue satin with a fitted bodice, having a square neckline and a skirt with accordion pleated panels.

Mrs RL Hunter, wearing a Ceil Chapman model of ice blue satin embroidered with blue and silver beads, with silver accessories.

Mrs William Redpath, gowned in sky blue silk chiffon, with a fitted bodice having a square neckline and a bouffant skirt and wearing matching accessories.

Mrs Arthur Melling in a gown of green satin, fashioned with a fitted strapless bodice, and a bell shaped skirt having a bow forming back fullness.

Mrs John Taylor wearing a gown of silver and aqua brocade, with a draped bodice, and having a sheath skirt.

Mrs PN MacDermot, gowned in black and green delustred satin with a fitted bodice, having a halter neckline and a very full skirt.

Miss Judy McDougall, in a Hardy Amies model of white lace, fashioned on sheath lines, and bordered with turquoise velvet ribbing forming a large bow in front, and wearing a McDougall tartan sash.

Mrs Jack McGillis, wearing a gown of shaded blue tulle, with a fitted bodice and a full tiered skirt.

Mrs Rex Stellmeyer, gowned in a gold lame, fashioned on sheath lines and having back fullness.

Mrs CJG Molson in a bouffant gown of black velvet and tulle over satin, and wearing a sash of the Davidson tartan.

Mrs JC Thompson wearing a gown of white chiffon fashioned on Grecian lines, having a draped back.

Mrs Stuart Cobbett gowned in red matte jersey, fashioned on Grecian lines, with a draped back ending in a slight train and wearing white accessories.

Mrs Victor Whitehead, in a gown of pastel satin, and wearing silver accessories.

Mrs Keith Hutchinson, wearing a Norman Hartnell model of black taffeta embroidered with sequins with a sash of the Macdonald tartan.

Mrs WC Leggat, gowned in sapphire blue satin, fashioned on sheath lines, having back fullness caught with a large bow, and wearing a Wallace tartan.

Mrs Colby Kerman, in a gown of chartreuse and mushroom designed satin, with a draped bodice, and a bell-shaped skirt having back fullness, and wearing a matching stole.

Mrs S Boyd Millen, wearing a gown of white brocade, appliquéd with leaves of the same material at the neckline, forming drop sleeves, with gold accessories.

Mrs HC MacDougall gowned in dark green satin with a draped bodice and a full skirt.

Mrs George McMurtrie, in a gown of shot purple taffeta, with a fitted bodice, and a tiered skirt, and wearing a MacKenzie tartan sash.

 

The Scots and their Day, celebrations of St Andrews Day in 1900

Montreal Daily Star, 1 December 1900, page 20

 

SCOTS AND THEIR DAY

How it was celebrated in the various cities throughout Canada

With concerts and dinners

There was a touch of khaki in the colouring at the Toronto celebration

 

(special to the Star)

Ottawa- December 1- St Andrew’s day was duly celebrated by Ottawa Scotchmen yesterday.  During the day many knots of “Brither Scots” exchanged greetings and reminicences.  In the afternoon the officers for the coming year were installed as follows: President, Hon Justice MacTavish; 1^st Vice President Dr Baptie; 2d Vice President JB Spence; chaplain, Rev Wm McIntosh; physicians Dr PA McDougall, Dr FW McKinnon; corresponding secretary John McLachlan; recording secretary HH Rowatt; treasurer William Gray; solicitor AW Fraser; pipers James Anderson, Andrew Dunlop; auditors Messers Alex Spittal and Neil McIntosh; committee, AH Taylor, John Sutherland, JG Tarriff, Geo Stockand, H Fraser, Wm Grant, Duncan Bell, H Allan, JR Reid.  At night the annual Scotch concert in the Russell theatre was largely attended.

 

WOODSTOCK sCOTCHMEN

(Special to the Star)

Woodstock- December 1- The loyal Scotchman of Woodstock and vicinity celebrated St Andrew’s Night with a dinner at the Commercial Hotel, which was attended by several hundreds.  The toast list included, “the Queen,” “God Save the Queen,” “Governor General,” “Army, Navy and Volunteers.”

 

A GREAT GATHERING

Toronto- December 1- St Andrew’s Ball, last night, was the occasion of the greatest gathering that has ever taken place here under the auspices of the St Andrew’s Society.  The Governor General and Lady Minto were present and were received at the Pavillion, where the ball was held, by a guard of honour of 100 men of the 48^th Highlanders and the pipe band.  The officers of the Garrison were present in dress uniform.  Many private gentlemen wore kilts and a large proportion of the ladies’ costumes were of tartan material.  The decorations wer of the red, white and khaki.

 

THE ANCIENT CAPITAL

Quebec, December 1- the members of St Andrew’s Society and their guests celebrated Scotland’s national day by a grand banquet last evening at the Chateau Frontenac, at which there was a very large and select attendance.  Flags were flying to-day from all public buildings in honour of St Andrew’s Day.

 

AT LONDON

London, Ont- December 1- The annual dinner of St Andrew’s Society was held at the City Hotel last night, there being a large attendance.  The usual greet of telegrams were received by the society, conveying greetings from Scotchmen from many points of America.  Among the speakers last night was Mr DC Fraser, MP of New Glasgow, NS.  Mr Fraser replied to the toast “The Scot away from Scotland,” in a creditable manner.  The other principal toasts were “The Canada that is to be” responded to by Rev WJ Clark, and “the land of our fathers” by Dr McCrae.

 

AT WINNIPEG

Winnipeg, Man- December 1- St Andrew’s Banquet here last night in the LelandHotel was a magnificent affair, over two hundred guests being in attendance. Messages of fraternal greetings were received from all parts of the country.  Dr JD McArthur was elected president of the society for the ensuing year.

 

St Andrew’s Day, Montreal, 1980

Montreal Gazette, 1 December 1980, page 48

 

St Andrew’s an Evening of Tradition, Camaraderie

By EJ Gordon

Special to the Gazette

 

Without St Andrew’s Ball, Montreal’s social season would be incomplete.

The annual celebration to honor Scotland’s patron saint drew more than 600 guests to the Windsor Hotel Friday night.  The skirl of the pipes, the flashing of tartans, the ceremony of Cutting the Haggis once more achieved an atmosphere of tradition and camaraderie that makes this ball unique.

Prior to dinner a reception was held in the Royal Suite for members of the ball committee and Sister Societies to meet the guests of honor Major the Hon Lachlan Maclean Younger of Duart, and Mrs Lachlan Maclean.

Maj Maclean, a former member of the Scots Guards and of the Special Air Services (Commandos), wore the kilt of Maclean tartan belonging to his great-grandfather, and a black cloth jacket with lace jabot and cuffs.  Mrs Maclean’s gown was of white wild silk, the tucked yoke and sleeves trimmed with bands of lace, and she wore an Ancient Maclean tartan sash.

An honored guest was HRH Crown Prince Alexander of Yugoslavia, son of the late King Peter and Queen Alexandra, who lives in Chicago.

Prince Alexander said he was born in Claridge’s Hotel in London in 1945 and christened in Westminster Abbey.  His Godmother is Queen Elizabeth II.

“My mother now lives in Venice,” he said.

Receiving Line

Those in the receiving line were St. Andrew’s Society president Reford MacDougall, wearing the MacDougall kilt, and Mrs MacDougall, whose tartan skirt was worn with a white blouse; Col J Ralph Harper, OBE, Judge George Gould, and Mrs Gould, whose black crepe ensemble had cuffs of black fox; the ball chairman, George Milne, and Mrs Milne gowned in black and gold flowered silk; Clifford JA Maclean, co-chairman, and Mrs Maclean, wearing a gown of powder blue silk.

Enjoying a pre-dinner drink were David Stewart, and Mrs Stewart, whose sheath gown of midnight blue sequins was trimmed with chiffon; Jean Honorat, the French Consul General and Mrs Honorat in a gown of pale blue patterned chiffon; Count Stanislov Bozic and Countess Bozic, in a black silk gown trimmed with white flowers; Lieut-Col. JIB Macfarlane, and Mrs Macfarlane gowned in olive green silk; Mr and Mrs Fraser Bruce, Roger Sullivan, president of the Royal Commonwealth Society, and Mrs Sullivan, in aqua silk jersey; Patrick Wickham, president of St Patrick’s Society, and Mrs Wickham, whose cream moiré skirt was worn with a black bodice; Gerald Iles, representing the English-speaking Union; Dr Helmut Blume, president of the German Benevolent Society, and Mrs Blume wearing a gown of ecru silk; Bronson Culver, president of the Irish Protestant Benevolent  Society, and Mrs Culver, whose gown of lemon chiffon was trimmed with diamante, and Robert Carrier, president of St David’s Society, and Mrs Carrier in black silk.

Pipers of the Black Watch (RHR) of Canada piped the official party into Windsor Hall where dinner was served.

Coat of Arms

The Macleans coat of arms hung behind the head table, flanked on either side by Canadian and Quebec flags.

“As this year’s theme I chose the Scots contribution to Canada,” said Vicki Stewart, the decorations chairman.

The coat of arms of the RoyalVictoriaHospital hung in the dining room and flags of the Bank of Montreal, the Hudson’s Bay Co., McGill and MacdonaldCollege were displayed in the ballroom.

Among those seated at tables centred with pink carnations and sprigs of heather were His Excellency the Mexican Ambassador and Mrs Agustin Barrios Gomez, gowned in deep blue chiffon; the Hon Mr Justice Kenneth Mackay, wearing Highland dress; Ross Osborne, last year’s ball chairman, and Mrs Osborne wearing a gown of taupe silk jersey; Dr Ian Hutchinson and Mrs Hutchinson, gowned in black silk crepe under a black sequin jacket; TR Anthony Malcolm in Highland dress and Mrs Malcolm wearing printed silk; William Mulholland and Mrs Mulholland whose skirt of white chiffon had a black and silver lame bodice; George Campbell and Mrs Campbell in red silk and wearing a Campbell tartan sash; Andrew Gorzo and Mrs Gorzo, gowned in jade green chiffon; Leslie Forrester, wearing a gown of white and violet flowered silk; Alex Hutchinson and Mrs Hutchinson, in bronze silk; Russell Payson and Mrs Payson, in a black silk gown with an Ogilvie tartan sash.

The ritual of Cutting the Haggis with his dirk was duly performed by Maj Maclean and the pipers were toasted in Glayva Reford MacDougall read a telegram from Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, honorary Colonel of the Black Watch.  Observing the number of kilted guests, he said that the custom tailors, Charles Johnson & Son, had told him that this year they had more orders for kilts to be worn at the ball than ever before.

Pipers

The ball, which took place in the Versailles Room was opened with a performance by the pipers.  Then Scott and Jamie Maclean, sons of Mr and Mrs Clifford Maclean presented Mrs Maclean with a bouquet of flowers.

This was followed by the presentation of six young girls, wearing white gowns and gloves, to Maj and Mrs Maclean.

Those who curtsied were Caroline Gilchrist Rhea, daughter of Mrs Margery Rhea and Dr David Rhea; Amanda Margaret Travers, daughter of Mr and Mrs Joseph Travers; Abigail Clifton Cairns, daughter of Dr and Mrs Arthur Cairns; Jacqueline McGowan, daughter of Mrs Rose McGowan; Carol-Ann Turpin, daughter of Mr and Mrs Eugene Turpin, and Camille Mary Therriault, daughter of  Brig-Gen and Mrs Robert G Therriault, of Ottawa, granddaughter of Mrs Edward O’Toole.

Their escorts swept them into the opening waltz joined by Maj Maclean dancing with Mrs MacDougall, and Mrs Maclean with Reford MacDougall.

Dance Floor

In seconds the dance floor was crowded.

Among those swinging to the tunes of Paul Cappelli and his orchestra were Mrs Peggy Lehrer, whose sheath of black silk was embroidered in gold dots; John Fuller, Rosemary Christensen, wearing a gold silk gown with a lame bodice; Dr and Mrs Arthur Cairns, Huntley Cameron in Highland dress, and Mrs Cameron gowned in bronze lurex, Jean Pierre Vedette; Mrs Margery Rhea, wearing a gown of gold chiffon and gold lame; Ronald Riley, and Mrs Riley, in black silk; Louise Blouin, wearing a gown of pink frilled organza; David Stewart Jr; Deidre Stoker, gowned in crimson moiré; Donald Campbell and Mrs Campbell whose gown of emerald green silk was worn with a Campbell sash; Hunter Wilson, and Mrs Wilson, gowned in black silk and velvet; Miss Ann Campbell the newly appointed American Consul, wearing a gown of blue and white batik; Cmdr and Mrs Guy St A Mongenais, Allan Matthews, Boris Rubenstein and Mrs Rubenstein, gowned in cream silk  with a Sutherland tartan sash; the Rev and Mrs Donovan Neil, Gordon Cheesbrough, and Mrs Cheesbrough, wearing black flowered chiffon; John Spencer Maxwell and Mrs Maxwell in black crepe, Lieut-Col G Douglas Robertson and Mrs Robertson wearing a sheath of iredescent sequins; Jim Bradeen and Mrs Bradeen in sea-green silk; Mr and Mrs Robert McGregor and Paul Afudik, whose family served as members of the Palace Guard in Serbia (now part of Yugoslavia) for more than a 100 years.

 

 [Should note that one of the debutantes, Caroline Gilchrist Rhea is the comedienne Caroline Rhea....she was a deb, fancy that.]

St Andrew’s Greetings from all over the Diaspora, 1900

Montreal Daily Star, 1 December 1900, page 20

FROM BROTHER SCOTS

Greetings received last night from all over the continent

United States Scotchmen

Remembered Montreal Brethren – An invitation received from Chicago

In connection with St Andrew’s Day the following congratulatory telegrams were exchanged yesterday between the local St Andrew’s Society and sister societies in Canada and the United States.

OUT OF THE WEST

From Vancouver-

“Frae a the airts the win’ can blaw, may the bairns of bonnie Scotland clasp closer the grip o’ friendship, this blithe St Andrew’s nicht, for auld lang syne.”

Reply-

“Here’s oor hand my trusty frien’

Stands Scotland where she did?

Aye and twice as more”

From Rat Portage-

“Let Whig an’ Tory a’ agree tae spend the nicht wi’ mirth an’ glee.  We’ve lashins o’ Hielan whiskey and a braw haggis.  May the moose ne’er leave yer meal pock wi; tear in its ee and a pain in its wame.

Reply-

Richgt couthily we wish ye weel,

Ye need neither caulk nor keel

Tae tell just whar’ ye cam’ irne

From Nelson BC-

Happy are we a’ the gather

Happy are we ane and a’

Time will see us a blyther

Ere we rise tae gang awa’

Reply-

“It’s no ilka nicht

That guid Scots meet the gather

It’s no ilka land

They dare aye ca’ their aim

On St Andrew’s glad nicht

They’re sure to forgether

And mak every land

For the moment their ain

DOWN BY THE SEA

From St John, NB-

Wi’ pilroch, sange, strathspey or reel,

May ye spend the nicht fu’ blithely, O

Reply-

Oor youth and beauty this nicht meet,

To chase the hours wi’ flying feet

In honour o’ St Andrew

From Quebec-

To-night we meet for auld lang syne

Once more our greetings to renew

To pledge again those absent friends

Our brither Scots

Reply-

Fair fa’ the licht

That shines sae bricht

This merry night

On Scots wha roose

Their neither deer

From Fredericton-

“Bold, independent, unconquered and free

Brave Caledonia immortal must be”

Reply-

“The deil rock him in a cradle

That doesna wish Auld Scotia weel.”

AMERICAN SCOTCHMEN

From Milwaukee-

“While roon’ our board we wire ye; unco weel Montreal’s kitty lads are here in sang an’ reel.”

Reply-

Milwaukee Scots! May ye wear yer faither’s bannets.

THE PRAIRIES OF THE WEST

From Winnipeg-

Jock Tampson’s bairns, a jovial crew,

Hae set themsels doon here to brew

A wee drap toddy, wi the view

Joined in by all

O toasting ye oor friens sae true

In Montreal

May yer haggis be hot and lashesn o

Reply-

Ye wastlin’ chiels we’re glad to gree thee,

May a’ we wish ye ever beet ye

Tae roose the lan’ we love

RIP VAN WINKLES LAND

From Albany, NY-

Fraternal greetings from the brethren in Albany.  May every returning anniversary of Scotsman’s day be a stimulus to every member of St Andrew of purer love for Motherland, with all the hallowed associations connected therewith.

Reply-

Brither Scots across the Line

This nicht we thing it unes fine

Wi’ you in hearty glee to join

In honour o’ Auld Scotia

TORONTO AND OTTAWA

From Toronto-

The St Andrew’s Society of Toronto send you hearty greetings and their best wishes for a happy and successful celebration of St Andrew’s day.

Reply-

QueenCity lads! Rejoice fu’ canty

For muckle hae ye tae be thankfu’

And aiblins hardly mair than ye

Can ca’ wi’ pride Auld Scotia hame

From Ottawa-

Fraternal greetings to our fellow-countrymen of Montreal.  May peace and plenty be the lot of ilka kindly brither Scot.

Reply-

Oor hearts are wi’ ye’ Bytown chiels.  Ye’ve had yer fire: noo the fire hands you to roos auld Scotia.

THE ROYALCITY

From Guelph-

Big Montreal, ye sent Transvaal

Yer ladies o’er the sea

They a’ fought well wi’ gun and steel

We a are prood wi’ ye

Reply-

They come- oor lads frae the stony veldt

They come flushed wi’ martial glory

Tae Scotia;s name have they added fame

To live in Canadian story.

FRAE GLENGARRY

From Alexandria-

Sae lang for Strathspey reel and fling

As pipes gar rafters dirl

Sae lang will Scotia’s bairnes true

Cleck oouthie tae their mither

Reply-

The land that has struggled for freedom with Bruce

Shall heroes and patriots ever produce

FROM KINGSTON

We extend a hearty hand-grasp, and join us and brither Scots the world o’er in celebrating the day and a’ wha honour it

Reply-

Tae you we rax a burning hand

And with you every brither band

Wha celebrate St Andrew

FROM CORNWALL

Is there that bears the name of Scot

But feels his heart’s blood rising hot

To toast his guid auld mither

Reply-

Ye’ve struck the key that thrills our heart

This nicht we join to dae oor pairt

Wi’ Scotsmen a’ the world o’er

To toast his guid auld mither

THE WINDY CITY

From Chicago a letter was received inviting the President of the local society to the 55^th Annual dinner of the Chicago society.

In reply the following was sent:

Richt glad are we to greet ye

Richt glad prood we’d be tae meet ye

At festive board to join ye

In honour of the day

Montreal Daily Star, 1 December 1900, page 20

SCOTS AND THEIR DAY

How it was celebrated in the various cities throughout Canada

With concerts and dinners

There was a touch of khaki in the colouring at the Toronto celebration

St Andrew’s Ball Decorations, Montreal, 1900

Montreal Daily Star, 1 December 1900, page 20

Century’s End St Andrew’s Ball

 

 

THE DECORATION

 

The scene was extremely pretty, the picturesque decorations of the ball-room making a delightful background for the swirling mass of colour formed by the brilliant lines of the costumes and the officers’ uniforms.  The decorations were in excellent taste and were as unique as they were successful.  In these a radical departure was made from the custom of former years, and flowers and foliage took the place of bunting, the flags, and the military emblems which have hitherto held the place of honour in decorations.  From the great centre chandelier, which was gracefully festooned with long tendrils of smilax, hung heavy ropes of laurel, that were caught in festoons reaching to the walls and to the corners of the room, and from there hanging almost to the floor between the windows.  The two chandeliers flanking the centre one were similarly treated, the great ropes of greenery where they intersected being caught and tied with streamers of brilliant tartan silk.  The balcony was draped with garlands of laurel and the window sills banked with small palms and gracefully hanging vines.  The electroliers were completely hidden by huge nosegays of various coloured chrysanthemums, while at intervals around the ball-room were placed big laurel trees banked by quantities of palms and a profusion of chrysanthemums.  It was only in the arrangement of the dais that flags were used, and there they were employed to the best advantage, being gracefully draped, and skillfully combined with the palms that formed there as elsewhere in the ball-room, so important a feature of the decorations.  On each side of the dais groups of palms and easy chairs were placed, and the orchestra, which was stationed above the dais, was screened with palms.  The ante-room at the entrance to the ball-room was made comfortable by means of rugs and numbers of easy chairs and easily divided favour with the corridors and drawing rooms, as a sitting out place.  To the left of the ball-room there was a buffet, where light refreshments were served throughout the evening.