17 Stanley Ave, Chatham, Ontario, Canada

Bramshott Camp

June 5 /19

Dear Jeanne:

I am in board room ready for work and it is only 8:45 am so will commence a letter to you.  This will be my last letter to you from Bramshott as I expect to be leaving here for Witley Camp, June 9^th.  I am being sent there for return to Canada, and may be there from two to six weeks.  While I am waiting I will get leave and am counting on going to Ireland.  Wish you were here to go along.  I am sorry I cannot go directly to boat from this camp, as I will have to attend parade at Witley and that will be something new for we fellows from the Dental Corps.

We are very comfortable here as four of us have a hut to ourselves.  I have a camp bed and very little to do.

We play tennis most every day for one hour – have a stand in with some of the Boys in Officers’ Mess and get the odd lunch from them. Last Sunday I was to hear Mrs. Parkhurst speak in one of the Y’s and she was very good.  She spoke to us as a mother would speak to her sons.  Of course, her subject was on women’s rights.  It was on Sunday night and we had a sacred concert and heard some good singing.

I received your letter about one week ago and as I seldom get any mail any more it was very welcome.

I remember those little baskets Ethel gave us and did I tell you some person was kind enough to steal the egg out of mine, which made me angry.  But such is life in boarding houses. 

I have not attended any more dances since the one in Scotland.  I will say the girls over here are not to be compared with you Canadian girls.  I will tell you what I think of them when I return.

No doubt your nephew is home before this.  I wonder if he came through this camp, if so I might of made out his Dental Certificate.  Does he live in Chatham?  If so, I may meet him when I come to see you. 

What is your opinion of Day Light Saving time?  I was in favour of it in civilian life.

I have just received a letter from my Sister-in-law with no news as they are expecting me home before I receive it.  I am sorry to say I have not heard from the Burr’s since last fall.

I hope to be back in Hamilton when peace is signed.

Algae, my boy friend, is a great friend of a priest at the R.C. Hut (Father Kelly) and he is a fine fellow, so we go there every night for lunch at 8:30 and they make us special cocoa.  Think they think we are R.C.s, but none of us are.  But we should not worry as long as we get the cocoa.

Yesterday was Derby Day and the favourite ran absolutely last.

I will keep writing to you but, although I like getting letters, you better not write any more overseas as I may be home early in July.

Tell your Sister-in-law I am counting on finding out all about the joke I was supposed to get.

Hoping to see you soon.

Remain,

Ed

17 Stanley Ave, Chatham, Ontario, Canada

Bramshott Camp

May 15, 1919

Dear Jeanne,

I received your letter Tuesday and was very pleased to get same as it had been some time since I had heard from you but I understand you have been busy.  And I would have enjoyed very much being there to see you as Mrs. Jonathan Highborn.  I believe you must have a good time in Chatham – too bad it is not a large city like Hamilton. 

I still have the piece of poetry you sent me of Chatham tucked away in my trunk.  I am pleased to tell you we expect to leave this camp very soon as several of our Boys have gone this week and the few who are left are doing very little.  I am afraid if they keep me here much longer I will be getting lazy, as we are not worked very hard in the Dental Corps.

I am glad to hear of you being to Toronto.  Sorry I was not there as we would of probably tore Burr’s Store down.

I must thank you for the Easter greetings and will say you are the only one who sent me an Easter card.  When I see you, you will have to tell me all about Aunt Susan’s visit.  And it must of been a success.  Imagine taking in the sum of money you did – think probably we had better go on stage but the only thing I could do would be to take tickets or probably act as usher.

The other Boys, as well as myself, enjoyed Jeff & Mutt and I have them pinned up in our board room. 

I think the Paris – Grun one is the latest.  Over here they are just commencing to spring the old jokes we had in Canada before the War broke out.  Later after tea – we were told to report at our Quarter Stores and when we arrived we were given 1 pair of socks, tooth brush, tooth paste, shaving stick, pack of tobacco and several packs of gum.  Do not know who is giving it to us but guess they are from Canadian Government.  The socks have been knitted in Victoria, B.C.   Also, a cake of soap.

I have just had a game of tennis, we lost.  We play at Y.M.C.A.  We have a football, baseball outfit.  Also, a soft ball outfit but the weather the last few days has been too warm for playing ball.  I spent last weekend at the Witley Camp with some of my old friends of the Artillery and had a real good time.  Two weeks ago, I was to London to see the Review of the Colonial Troops.  A dandy parade and the Canucks led the parade something like 1000 strong, followed by Aussies or Australians, about the same in number, and then New Zealand and Newfoundland.  I watched it from the Strand and think all of London were trying to see them from the same place.  As the crowds were so thick they were walking on one another. 

I believe the Burr’s would be somewhat excited when they could not find you.  Just now I cannot say what time I will be home, as one never knows in the Army just where he is at.  I would like to go to Detroit with you and would have been counting on visiting you for a long time, so hope we can arrange it when I return.  I have a sister living in Rochester and I have promised her a visit when I get home.  The fellow I sent with for the views of Scotland forgot to get them and has got his discharge.

Speaking of my hair, it is growing in about half inch long but would prefer sending you a snap with my cap on.

The answer to that 40 lbs. affair is – 1, 3, 9, 27.  They total 40 and you can weight anything from 1 to 40 lbs. with them.

I am enclosing a leaflet about Imported Brides, thought it rather funny when reading it.

I am surprised at you keeping such late hours as three a.m.  I used to myself but do not believe

I could stand it now as I have the habit of retiring about 10 or 11 p.m.

We are having a tennis tournament Saturday.  We will get one game anyway.  That is the main thing, we are not very classy players.

Hoping to soon hear from you soon again but after you receive this you had better not write me over here anymore, as I hope to be on my way.

Remain Sincerely,

Ed

17 Stanley Ave, Chatham, Ontario, Canada

No. 338454

Bramshott Camp

Hants

C.A.D.C. (Canadian Army Dental Corps)

Apr 2, 1919

Dear Jeanne,

Received your welcome letter a few days ago and you are one of the few who write to me now.   Guess they all expect me home.

It begins to look as if we may finish here about June but at the present time we are waiting for work and do not expect any more troops until about April 20^th.  Some of our boys have gone on leave this a.m. and I expect to have about five days next week.  As far as I know I will spend it in London and hope to get to Ireland on last leave.  Probably you will think we just live for leave but that is the only excitement we have over here. 

Some of the boys have a stand in with the staff of R.C. Hut as we go every evening for lunch and they make good cocoa.  They gave us a football last week so we are out every night getting exercise.

I am glad you cannot see me now as yesterday I had my hair clipped and shaved on top as it was getting so thin on top I was afraid I would so be bald; so I am taking advantage of where I am among strangers of trying to coax it along. 

I have found a congregational church and have been to it the last two Sunday nights.  It is about two miles from camp and I have to go alone as none of the boys are very strong on going to church.  The first Sunday no person spoke to me but the last time the minister shook hands with me. 

I have sent to Scotland for some views of the Orkney Islands but expect they will only be postal.

Was to a concert in the Y. last night – heard a new song.  Tune of Katie, probably you know it.

Civies beautiful civies

You’re the only cloths that I adore

When I get back to my home town

They’ll be hanging on the K. K. Kitchen door.

And you ask me why soldiers wear red braces.  I do not know and Jeanne you know you should always give the answer, just reminds me of one.  Suppose you are keeping store and had only one scale that would weigh in (lbs no halves) up to 40 lbs and you only had four weights.  The total of the four are 40 lb.  Now what are they, this is no joke and can be done.

I know why soldiers wear braces, but why red – please let me know.

I will try to tell you how we were entertained in Scotland.  Sunday the first night we met a Lieutenant on the train car and he asked us home with him.  Met his sister, wife and parents, of course.  On Sunday we just talked and had lunch.  On Monday we went to an old place or home.  She would be about 70 years of age.  We were there for tea, four of us.  She had a couple nursing sisters invited also for tea but they were late in coming and arrived just as we were finishing.  Also, a couple of other young Ladies arrived and played the piano and sang for us.  We had games of all kinds and another lunch and I went home with one of the girls and she sure did talk Scotch.  She had red hair but was very nice.

Tuesday night a taxi called for us at Y.M.C.A. and we were taken to a swell home for tea and afterwards to the theater with the man and his wife.  This was a swell home and they invited us out again Sunday, if we were in Glasgow.  The next night was for tea to Mr. Bissett’s.  His daughter is very musical and also, a girl friend of hers who sang for us.  And our last night in Glasgow we went to a dance and supper given by the underground tube railway.  100 of us soldiers were invited and were seated at table leaving a vacant place between us for the girls as they arrived.  I forgot the name of the one who sat beside me but she had a drink before coming and was in good talking humour.  We had plenty of fun and afterwards, I met some very nice Girls and went home with one but do not remember her name.  She was tall and good looking.  We have just had a parade of 71 men and I met an old friend, Chas Furness formally, who traveled for Red Rose Tea.

Friday morning, we left Glasgow for Edinburgh.  That night we tried to look up some friends of the boy with me but did not locate them.  The Saturday night we spent at a house with three women and about five children, played games and plenty of music.

Sunday we were with a party looking at principle places in Edinburgh, about twenty soldiers and about ten or twelve U.S.A. sisters.

We left at 9:30 pm arriving in London about 8 a.m. the following morning.

I hear we get discharged as soon as we arrive so if I get a civie suit will that not do to come and see you in.

I am sorry to say I have not received the papers you sent me.  I enjoy the clippings you enclose.  You are having a big and busy time going to so many teas and parties.

I believe your sister-in-law is mistaken about the joke or if it was anything in eating line. (?)  I ate all and tasted O. K.

I have your socks on for the 2nd time and they were sure made for my big feet as they fit fine.  I am looking forward to meeting your Sister-in-law, also your Brother, who will not tell you everything without being asked.  So – he is a Mason, they never tell.  And not forgetting I hope to meet your Mother.  My parents I believe have forgotten me as I have not heard from them in about six weeks.

You will think I am wound up and am never going to stop but as it is near supper time I will have to close.  With love,

From, Ed

P.S.  Please excuse any mistakes as I have not time to read this over.

E.V.G.

I may be home in June or July.

17 Stanley Ave, Chatham, Ontario, Canada

Canadian Soldier’s Letter

A Battery

Reserve Brigade, Canadian Field Artillery

(Christmas Card)

WITH ALL KIND THOUGHTS (cover)

A wealth of beauty may this Season hold

And every coming Day new joys unfold.

Warmest Christmas Greetings

and Every Good Wish for a

Happy and Prosperous New Year.

From

Gunner Edward V. Grassie

Canadian Field Artillery

Overseas

Christmas 1918

17 Stanley Ave, Chatham, Ontario, Canada

Witley, September 4, 1918

My Dear Friend Jean,

Have been going to write for some time, so here goes.  I can scarcely realize I am so far away from all my friends and as I am among all Canadians, it is not too bad.  I left Toronto first part of June and spent most of month on water arriving here last of month.

We were in Frensham Pond, a segregation camp, for two months and I liked it there fine as it was a real pretty spot.

We got six days leave on the first of August and spent most of the time in Scotland.  Were in London just a day.  Took train at night for Edinburgh arriving there at 4:46 am.  Unable to get any accommodation in the Hotel there so we left same night for Glasgow.

We remained in Glasgow for three days and had a real good time as four of us Boys were together.  The last day we spent in London.  Took in St. Paul’s Cathedral, a show and had a chicken dinner.

In Edinburgh we were through castle was going to go to Forth Bridge but our time would not allow.

In Glasgow we were up the Clyde, passed the ship yards and it was a fine trip and surprising how many ships are being built.  We took in the Loch Lammond trip and went up the Loch in a boat.  The scenery was grand but was cloudy day and could not get snaps.  We were through Botanic Gardens also, Iware Park.

In London we took bus past War Office, Parliament Building, Westminster Abbey, Leicester and Trafalgar Squares, over Westminster Bridge and along the Thames.

The people in Scotland certainly used us fine – more so than the people here and believe me when I get next leave will go there again.  And the eating is better there than here and the porridge was great.  I have been here in this camp a little over a week.  Most all kinds of Boys I know and feel at home; only get a little tired of the drill.  The same old thing all the time. 

Well Jean, how are you and do you ever get to Toronto to see Ethel and Byron?  Wait until I return and we will arrange a trip there.  And I do believe we would have some time.

How is Chatham?  I am taking the liberty of writing hoping it may be alright as I do not think you would get married without consulting me.

Are you still in same position? I often thought of looking over your city but never could get away.  We get up at 6 o’clock and is I believe a little early.  We have to answer roll call at 9:30 pm so do not get much sleep.

We have a large mess room – seats about 300 and have three sittings in our Battery alone.  The food comes on Tables from end and the fellows at lower end who get the small share are called the Belgiums.  We have a half holiday Wednesday and Saturdays and that shortens the week.  How is Eve Pain?  I believe you told me she was to be married.

The War now has been very good lately and hope it may continue. 

I have to take a course in driving and expect it will be some time before I go to France.

I would be delighted to hear from you as getting letters is one of the greatest pleasures we have.

Hoping you are enjoying the best of health.

Remain Yours,

E.V. Grassie

Driver E.V.G.  338464

Witley Camp

Surrey, England

C.P.A.

A Battery

17 Stanley Ave, Chatham, Ontario, Canada

Belgium

December 2/18

Dear Jeanne & All,

Your very welcome letter of Nov. 5 received today and as usual very pleased to hear from you.  I have very little time to write these days as we are on the march into Germany almost steady every day, so I will just be able to drop a line now but will try and make up for it when we get over the Frontier, which won’t be long now. 

I had quite a surprise today in a letter from Frank.  He is O.K. and in the Southern States.  Has been in the Army 15 months but was unlucky enough to be kicked by a horse just before his battery left for this country so was held there and has a good job.  He says he doesn’t think he could stand a letter from home so maybe I had not better send his address until I explain to him that everything is all right.  He has sure done some travelling since he left and has been all over the States and South America. 

Sorry to hear Pen and Pat, also Grandma, have been laid up with the “Flu”.  It must be very serious.  Hope they are altogether better now.

I guess some of my letters must have gone astray, Jeanne as I have written pretty regular.  I have returned to the Battalion and am on the postal staff so ought to have a little better luck with my parcels than last year – that’s if they get this far. 

Guess you have had great rejoicing over there since the Armistice was signed.  We can hardly realize it is over yet.  It seems very strange there are no Iron Rations* flying around.  I expect it will be March before we get on our way home but they can send me as soon as they like.  I think I ought to be in the first bunch according to service and being married.  Hope so anyhow.  Heard today Joe Pleasant was killed – hope it is not right, it seems hard luck for a fellow to be just out here a few weeks and get an R.I.P.  Joe just landed in time for the last scrap of two. 

Well Folks, I must close for this time as I have several other letters to write.  Hoping all are real well and to hear from you again soon.

Love to all,

Roy

*Iron Rations were an emergency ration of preserved meat (tinned, boiled beef) cheese, biscuit, tea, sugar and salt carried by all British soldiers in the field, for use in the event of their being cut off from regular food supplies.  The Australians adapted the term ‘bouilli beef’ to ‘bully beef’.

17 Stanley Ave, Chatham, Ontario, Canada

No. 18949 

Pte. R.M. Buckingham

Dock View Road

Red Cross Hospital

Barry, South Wales

November 17, 1918

Dear Miss Reid,

Your parcel came today and was a dandy.  Can’t thank you enough for it.  Everything was in good shape and we certainly did enjoy it.  We have 8 chaps in my ward and some mix are Scottish, French Canadian, Australian, English and of course “yours truly”.

Please thank Miss Wing and Miss Payne for sending their little donations.  Appreciate good old Canadian produce even if we are in hospital.  We are going away from here to another place in Wales.  They are moving all Canadians and Australians from here.  Have been out of bed now for 3 weeks and it seems a real treat lying in bed.  Very glad Hillman Snells got back to Canada O.K. 

Expect Chatham went wild when the Armistice was signed.  We certainly had a great time here.  Like it a great deal in Wales and only wish I could stay in our dear little hospital a few weeks longer.

Today is a swell day and Sunday and all.

Will close now.

Best to all.

Bob

17 Stanley Ave, Chatham, Ontario, Canada

 Pte. Leslie Burke 189330

18^th Canadians

C/O 4^th Canadian General Hospital, Ward E6

Basingstoke, Surrey

No date

07 March 1918 (postmark)

Dear Miss Reid,

Just a few lines.  It may interest you to know I am getting better from a long illness of 12 weeks.  I have been in different hospitals.  I had a letter from Mrs. Burke with your address today.  I wish you good luck and happiness.  I am improving a bit and expect I shall be all right now when I get out of here.  I caught Trench Fever* in France.  I am sorry to say that many of our old boys have gone.  Ones we all loved.  I shall hope, if God is willing, to return to Mrs. Burke.  I hope you will often think of me.  It is not always a white cot and nurses.  I have helped to bury some of our lads.  Poor Boys.  Well I can’t tell you more.  I shall hope the future will be brighter for us all.  I must close now.

Ever your friend.

I have just read a wonderful book by H.G. Wells, “Mr. Britling Sees It Through” and “Options” by O. Henry, either of which would do credit to the shelves of the library if they are not already there.  They are good reading, instructive and above all fine samples of thought and of the knowledge of people.

Well, I must really go to bed. 

Bon soir mon ami.

Leslie Burke

*Trench Fever was first identified in France in mid 1915 by the physicians of the British Expeditionary Force.  It presented in the soldiers, with an unusual acute febrile illness accompanied by headache, dizziness, backache and a peculiar pain and stiffness in the legs, particularly the shins.  After much research, it was determined that Trench Fever was transmitted by body lice.  No cure was found.

Reference:  University of Kansas Medical Center

Journal Royal Society of Medicine (JRSM), November 2006

17 Stanley Ave, Chatham, Ontario, Canada

 Bramshott Camp

Near Liphhook Station

Hants, England

April 12^th, 1917

Dear Miss Reid: 

How are you these days.  Here I am away over in England enjoying the best of health and Camp life.  At present we are in a quarantine camp, before we go to our permanent camp, which is just across the road.  We are under canvas at present and it is very cold these nights, as for the last three mornings we have got up to look out upon a great white sheet, but as soon as old king Sol comes out, it soon goes. 

We had a most enjoyable passage across the ocean, taking about nine days in all from the time we left Halifax Harbour.  We left Chatham on a Thursday three weeks ago tonight, and got to Halifax late Sunday night following.  We boarded the S.S. Lapland, a large and luxurious boat, and went out into Halifax Harbour and lay there for three days.  On the next Wednesday we hove up our anchor and our eyes turned towards the new land or “Over ‘ome” as the English boys say it.  The voyage was very calm, until the next Monday when it began to roll and I felt the effects of the rolling but not entirely under the weather.  We had a little excitement when we landed at the mouth of the Mersey, just before we prepared to land at Liverpool dock.  It was about 1:30 am in the morning when I heard a pal of mine yell, “Come on Bob she has been hit”.  As first I didn’t know whether it was a dream or not but soon came to my senses when I heard boys rushing for the upper decks.  I soon got out of bed and in a jiffy was up on deck, even though sparsely clad, and believe me it was some cold up there in the raw wind which was blowing off the seas.  We had been hit by one of those awful things, which are a menace to shipping, A German Mine, and it blew a hole in our bow 3’ (feet) by 4’ (feet) and the water was coming in fast.  We were ordered to go to the back of the boat in order to hold the boat up out of the water as high as possible.  In the excitement that followed the explosion, a number of the boys were hurt, but not seriously.  One poor fellow from the 24 Battalion, Montreal could not be found at the roll call and it was concluded he had been killed and blown out through the hole.  We then got on the train at Liverpool and such trains.  The Engines are very small and the cars similar to that, neither one being much larger than a good-sized motor car but they can surely go. 

I will drop you a card or letter later on when I go on my leave telling you about my travels.  If you get any spare time just drop me a line, and be sure and do that.

With best regards to all,

From your old Sunday School kid,

Bob

My Address:

Sergeant R. Buckinghman

186^th Overseas Battalion, C.E.F.

Bramshott Camp

Liphook, Hants, England

Now don’t forget an old friend.

Stanley Ave, Chatham, Ontario

Jan 4^th, 1917

Dear Miss Reid,

You really should have taken me to task for not writing sooner.  Am afraid I am as lazy out here as I used to be in Sunday School.  The mail has been quite backward lately so was delighted to see a cheerful note from you.

Tell Fraser to make good use of his feet for Canada is to be preferred to France any day.  Bob seems to be an industrious chap with his letter writing.  I must try and get him to drop me a few lines once in a while.  Maybe Wesley B. will land nearby with his plane and pay us a visit.  I am hanging on to the snaps to show Bill Anderson when he returns from leave, which he is a present enjoying in Scotland. 

Seeing that Bob sent you some English holly, I must give you some French holly right from our last gun position.

Surely you don’t expect to find a large number of young men at league in these times.  I guess it is up to the girls to carry on.  Wish I was there to hear Dr. Daniels.  I used to like him very much. 

It is some job after Xmas writing to all the people who have remembered you.  Wish I had that typewriter in the library.  Got started in our signaling classes this am.  Hope to get some good practice in before leaving this burg.  The other signaling N.C.O. and myself have quite a nice billet, at least the bed is a fair imitation of home.  The lady always has coffee ready for us when we come in.  Well, I must write one of my numerous Aunts now.  Will try to be better in the future with my pen.

Sincerely,

Hillman (Snells)

17 Stanley Ave, Chatham, Ontario, Canada

No. 880551, C Coy

4^th Reserve Battalion

Bramshott, Hants

England

July 8^th, 1917

Park St. Youth League –

Dear Friends, 

It may interest you to hear a few words about the 186th since arriving in England.  Personally, I spent a few profitable evenings with you in your Services, with pleasure; as also Sabbath Services.  I know you have the Cause at Heart, equally with us!

You may receive word from some of the other boys, I hope you do.  There is nothing very great transpired in the lives of most of us, since leaving you.  Other than our training, which has, of course been more severe.

In this regard we certainly came up against it.  Some of the boys used to find fault at home; they’ve had a reason since then.  You read of the misfortune of our ship before reaching Liverpool – hitting a mine, no doubt!  Well our misfortune was small, no doubt!  Then, we put in a couple of weeks in Quarantine, in tents in snowy weather – I believe all troops are shut in for this Period – undergoing Medical Exam and such preliminaries.  Food, I may say, was not as plentiful as that we were used to.  However, every day draws to a close, as did this one.  We are removed into Huts – this is how the troops are housed over here.  Huts about 60 X 40 feet holding some 30 men – formed in the Order of a Battalion – A B C D, four deep.  For see, each letter a row of huts and there are 10 huts in a row.  Beside these are the Officers’ Quarters, formed up likewise.  Then there are many huts for other purposes.  The sanitary conditions are fine.  I may also add, there are well built roads for traffic.  

Our day’s work – for number of hours here, is similar to that in Canada.  True sometimes there is a night raid to the trenches.  There are well constructed trenches here, some five miles of it – there we use bombs and Star flares, something like those used in France.  Indeed, the conditions are similar – some of our Officers being returned men.

We had the experience the other night, of digging trenches on a dark night, well, wasn’t bad, then at midnight we – a party of us – were detailed to carry some food and tea.  It is a splendid part of England for War Purposes, where we are situated.  The Hampshire Hills are high and pine covered.  The English Cuckoo wild pigeon abound here, as does also the wonderful little skylark.  When we were in our tents in the snow – very early in the morning, you could hear the cheery skylark, before rising.

There are many lovely walks among the hills and I may say they are fairly well patronized.  There are many houses away from the tops.  Besides the inhabitants there are countless soldiers!  But still, one is lonesome in a crowd sometimes – indeed it isn’t that often where we desire our best pleasure, but rather in the Quieter aspects!  A Soldier I met the other Sabbath evening, said to me in one of these walks, “You wouldn’t know think there was a war on here, would you?”  This was the Real Solitude of the Hills.

Some parts of England are flatter, of course.  I may just add there are many fine homes in the Old Land.  The term is well said – “The Stately Homes of England!”, and I am pleased to add, the people correspond.  Although I’m English born – I’ll say – there are no finer people than one meets here!

Well, I’ve said more than I intended, perhaps so will close with saying – some of the boys are gone over – some are going, – others of us, the last – but not least – we are waiting our orders!  We are in good spirits. 

There is no one writing me from Park St., so I’ll just drop a hint.  I’m unmarried and looking for the Real Thing!  I have an Idea that I may still be so after the War.  You see, I am bold, I propose I’ve been slow moving too!  You will excuse me I’m sure!  Well, Goodbye.  Hoping somebody will write.

P.S.  You may expect to hear from me later.

Faithfully Yours,

Ernest W. Wheeler

17 Stanley Ave, Chatham, Ontario, Canada

France

June 22/17

Dear Miss Reid, –

Your welcome letter of May 24^th received and to say I was glad to hear from you is not enough.  Also, I was interested very much by Bob Cunningham’s letter.  He seems to have had a very nice trip over and having a nice time in England.  I was very glad to leave England for I had no relatives or friends there at all.  Canada is where I belong.

Say, will you send Hillman Snells address sometime?  I would like to get in touch with him and write him a letter.  I saw him once, but could not speak to him.

I suppose you are still at your old post, dealing out the books to the young folks.  It is a wonder my young brother isn’t over to see you very often for he was a regular worm for books when I knew him last.  That seems funny to say “when I knew him last” but I even have a baby sister I have never seen. 

Well, Miss Reid forgive this scrawl and also the brief letter.  But that is all I can find to say.  So, I will close now.  Hoping to hear from you soon again.  Good bye.

Yours sincerely,

Pte. L. Morrison

Stanley Ave, Chatham, Ontario

Somewhere in France

January 2, 1917

Dear Miss Reid –

I received a parcel from you on this morning’s mail and I was surprised to know you knew where I was and knew my address.  And I may say it was certainly an agreeable surprise for that chocolate candy was lovely.  And also, I was wondering where my next clean handkerchiefs were coming from until you solved the problem for me.  Thank you ever so much for it and you may be sure your kindness will not be forgotten. 

How is everything in old Chatham?  I suppose you are still in the same place in the library and with your girls at old Park St.  I suppose you remember your old “boys” quite well yet and also suppose they are all out here.   If not, they should be, shouldn’t they?  My brother tells me Hillman Snells is out here with the artillery.  Do you ever hear from him? 

I am going to give you my address to you and hope you will write to me, for I should like very much to hear from you.  The address is:  No. 226143 Pte. Leslie Morrison, ‘B’ Squadron, Canadian Corps Cavalry Regiment, B.E.F. (British Expeditionary Force), France.  Not so bad after all is it.  Well, Miss Reid, I guess I have told you nearly all I know to tell.  Let me know all about yourself and as much about home as you can.  I shall always be glad to hear and will answer as soon as I can.

Good-bye for this time,

Your sincerely,

No.  226143, Pte. Leslie Morrison

From

E.V J- 338454

Witley Camp,

Hissey Eng,

C.O.P.A

My Dear Friend Jeanne,

Have been going to write for some time so here goes. I can scarcely realize I am often away from all my friends as I am among all Canadians is not too bad. I left Toronto first part of June and spent most of months on water arriving here last of month. We were in Frensham Pond a recreation camp for two months and liked it there since as it was a rally spot. We got few days leave on the first of August and spent most of time in Scotland. Were in London first day, train at night for Edinburgh arriving there at 4:45a.m. Unable to get any accommodations in the hotel time we left same night for Glasgow.

We remained in Glasgow for three days and had a real good time till four of we boys were together. The last day we spent in London. Took in St Pauls cathedral, a show, and had a chicken dinner. In Edinburgh we were through eastile was going to Toerbs Bridge but over time would not allow.

In Glasgow were at The Clyde passed the ship yards and was a fine trip and surprising how many ship are being built. We took in Hock Homond Trip and went by The Hock in boat. The Scenery grand but was cloudy day and could not get on after we were through Botania Yardaw also I were park. In London we took her passed war office, Parliament Building, Westminster Abby Leister and Halgar for Westminster Bridge and along the Thames. The Profile in Scotland certainly used us fine more so than the profile here and believe when I get next leave will go there again and the eating is better there than here in this camp. A little over a week meet all kinds of boys you know and feel at home only get a little tired of the drill the same old thing all the time.

Well Jeanne how are you and do you ever get to Toronto to see Eihel and Byron. Wait until I return and we will arrange a trio there and I do believe we would have some time. How is Chatham? I am taking the liberty of waiting hoping it may be alright as I do not think you would get married without consulting me. Are you still in the same position often thought of looking over your city but never could get there. We get up at 6 o’clock and if I believe a little early. We have to arrive roll call at 9:30 pm so do not get much sleep. We have large miss room seats about 300 and have Three seating tables in our Valley alone. The food come on tables from end and the fellows at lower end get the small share are called the Belguimes. We have half holiday Wednesday and on Thursdays and shortens the week. How is Eva Pain, I believe you told me she was to be married.

The war news has been very good lately and hope to may continue. I have to take a course in driving and it will take some time before I go to France. I would be delighted to hear from you as getting letters is one of the greatest pleasure we have.

Hoping you are enjoying the best of health

E.V. J

From

Pte. R.M. Buckingham 189492

No. 189492 Pte. R.M. Buckingham

Dock View Road,

Red Cross Hospital,

Barry, S. Wales,

November 17, 1918

Dear Miss Reid,

Your pacel came today and was a dandy. Can’t thank you have enough for us. Every thing was in good shape and we certainly did enjoy it. We have 8 chaps in my ward and some mixture Scotch, French Canadians, Australian, English, and of course yours truly.

Please thank Miss Wray and Miss Payne for sending the little donations. Appreciate good old Canadian produce even if we are in Hospital. We are going away from here to another place in Wales.

They are moving all Canadian & Australians from here. Have been out of bed for 3 weeks and it seems a real treat lying in a bed. Very glad that Hillman Snell got back to Canadian O.K.

Expect Chatham went wild when the armistice was signed. We certainly had a great time here.

Like it a great deal in Wales and only wish I could stay in our dear old hospital a few weeks longer.

Today is a swell day and Sunday and all.

Will close now.

Best to all.

Bob.

——————————————————————————————————————–

Letters to Miss Jeanne Reid

From

Pte. Robert M. Buckingham 189492

December 4, 1918

189492 Pte. R. M. Buckingham

Cavalry Barracks,

Newport Mon,

South Wales,

Dec. 4. 1918

Dear Miss Reid,

Received your letter dated Oct. 7^th today. I wrote you a couple of weeks ago thanking you for your darling parcel. In case you didn’t receive it I wish to again tell you how glad I was to get it, and also ask you to convey to Miss Wray and Miss Payne my sincere thanks for their donation. Everything was in grand condition. So glad you are feeling A1 and have escaped all fears which have held dear old Chatham in their grasp for a few months.

Don’t know when I will get back home again but feel sure it is to come in a few months so am not worrying. Have been moved of late. Wound is getting along pretty good excepting it had a hemorrhage and on account of it healing can wok fairly now so can’t complain when you see some poor boys.

Must Close now.

A Merry Christmas and Happy New Year & best to all.

Bob.

From

Pte. Leslie Burke 189330, 18^th Battalion, CEF

Postmarked- Basingstoke, England (7/03/18)

Pte. Leslie Burke

189330, 18^th Canadians,

c/o 4^th Can. Gen. Hospital,

Ward E6,

Basingstoke, Surrey,

Dear Miss Reid,

Just a few lines, it may interest you to know I am getting better from a long illness of 12 weeks, I have been in different hospital I had a letter from Mrs. Burke with your address today. I wish you good luck and happiness I am improving a bit and expect I shall be all right now when I get out of here. I caught trench fever in France I am sorry to say that many of the old boys have gone. Ones we all loved. I shall hope if God is willing to return to Mrs. Burke. I hope you will often think of me. It is not always a white cot and nurses. I have helped to bury some of our lads Poor Boys. Well I can’t tell you more I shall hope the future will be brighter for us all. I must close now ever your sincere friend.

I have just read a wonderful book by H.G. Wells, Mr. Britling sees it through and “options” by O’Henry either of which names do credit to the shelves of the library if they are not already there. They are good reading instructive and above all fine samples of thought and of the knowledge of people.

Well I must really go to bed.

Bon swar mon ami.

Leslie Burke.

——————————————————————————————————————–

Letters to Miss Jeanne Reid

From

Hillman

January 4^th, 1917

Dear Miss Reid,

You should really have taken me to task for not writing sooner. Am afraid I am as lazy out here as I used to be in Sunday School. The mail has been quite backward lately so was delighted to see a cheerful note from you.

Tell Fraser to make good use of his feet for Canada is to be preferred to France any day. Bob seems to be an industrious chap with his letter writing. I must try and get him to drop me a few lines once in a while. Maybe Wesley B. will land nearby with his plane and pay us a visit. I am hanging on to the snaps to show Bill Anderson when he returns from leave, which he is at present enjoying in Scotland.

Surely you don’t expect to find large numbers of young men at league in these times. I guess it is up to the girls to carry on. Wish I was there to hear Dr. Daniels I used to like him very much.

It is some job after mass writing to all the people who have remembered you. I wish I had that typewriter in the library.

Got started in our signaling classes this a.m. hope to get some good practice in before leaving this burg. The other signaling N.C.O. and myself have quite a nice billet, at least the bed is a fair imitation of home. The lady always has coffee ready for us when we come in. Well must write one of my numerous Aunts now. Will try to better in the future with my pen.

Sincerely,

Hillman

From

Edward V. Grassie, C.A.M.C. 338454

Bramshott Camp,

June 5/19

Dear Jeanne,

I am in Board room ready for work and it is only 8:45 a.m. so will commence a letter to you this will be my last letter to from Bramshott as I expect to be leaving here for Whitley Camp June 9^th . I am being sent there for return to Canada and may be there from two to six weeks.

While I am waiting I will get leave and am counting on going to Ireland. Wish you were here go along. I’m sorry I can not [go] direct to boat from this camp as I will have to attend parade at Whitley and that will be something new for we fellows from Dental Camp.

We are very comfortable here as four of us have a hut to ourselves I have a camp bed and very little to do.

We play tennis most every day for one hour have a stand in with some of the Boys in Officers mess and get the odd lunch from them. Last Sunday I was to hear Mrs. Pankhurst speak in one of the Y’s and she very good. She spoke to us as a mother would speak to her sons of course her subject was on Women’s rights. It was on Sunday night and we had a sacred concert heard some good singing.

I received your letter about one week ago and as I seldom get any mail anymore was very welcome.

I remember those little baskets Ethel gave us and did I tell some person was kind enough to steal the egg out of mine which made angry but such is life in boarding house’s.

I have not attended anymore dances since the one in Scotland. I will say the Girls over here are not to be compared with you Canadian Girls.

I will tell you what I think of the Irish when I get over.

No doubt your nephew is home before this I wonder if he came through this Camp if so I might have made out his Dental Certificate. Does he live in Chatham if so I may have meet him when I come to see you. What is your opinion of Daylight saving I was in it in civilian life. I have just received a letter from my sister in law in it no news as they are expecting me home before I receive it. I am sorry to say I have not heard from the Burr’s since last fall.

I hope to be back in Hamilton when peace is signed.

Algar my boy friend is a great friend of a priest at the R.C. Hut (father Kelly) and he is a fine fellow so we go there every night for lunch at 8:30 and they make us special coca think they think we are R.C. but none of us are but we should worry as long as we get the coca.

Yesterday was Derby Day and the favorite ran absolutely last.

I will keep writing to you but although I like getting letter you better not write any more overseas as I may be home early in July. Tell your sister-in-law I am counted on finding out all about the joke I was supposed to get. Hoping to.

See you soon.

Remain

Ed.

Bramshott Camp,

May 15/19

Dear Jeanne,

I received your letter Tuesday and was very pleased to get same as it had been some time since I had heard from you but I understand you have been busy and would of enjoyed very much being there to see you as ( Mrs. Jonathan Highborn) I believe you must have a good time in Chatham to bad it is not a large city like Hamilton.

I still have the pieces of poetry you sent me of Chatham tucked away in my trunk. I am pleased to tell you we expect to leave this camp very soon as several of our Boys have gone this week and the few who are left are doing very little. I am afraid if they keep me here much longer I will be getting lazy as we are not worked very hard in Dental Corps.

I am glad to hear of you being in Toronto sorry I was not there as we would of probably tore Burr’s Store down.

I must thank you for the Easter greetings and will say you are the only who who sent me an Easter card.

When I see you, you will have to tell me all about Aunt Susan’s visit and must have been a success imagine taking the sum of money you did think probably we had better go on stage but the only thing I could do would be to take tickets or probably act as usher.

The other boys as well as myself enjoyed Jeff & Matt and I have them pinned up in our board room.

I think the Paris- Gun one is the latest over here they are just coming to spring the old jokes we had in Canada before the war broke out.

Later after tea- We were told to report at our Quarter Stores when we arrived we were given 1 pair of socks, tooth bush, tooth paste, shaving stick, pack of tobacco & several packs of gum do not know who is giving it to us but guess they are from Canadian Government. The socks have been knitted at Victoria B.C. also a cake of soap.

I have just had a game of Tennis we lost. We play at the Y.M.C.A. We have a football, Baseball outfit also a Softball outfit but the weather the last few days has been to warm for playing ball. I spent last weekend at the Witley Camp with some of my old friends of the Artillery and had a real good time. Two weeks ago I was to London to see the Review of the Colonial Troops. A Wandy parade and the Canucks lead the parade something like 5000 strong. Followed by Aussies or Australians about the same in number then the New Zealand and Newfoundland. I watched it from the Strand and think all of London were trying to see them from same place as the crowd were so thick they were walking on one another. I believe the Burr’s would be some what excited when they could not find you. Just know I can not say what time I will be home as one never knows in army just where he is at. I would like to go to Detroit with you and would and have been counting on visiting you for a long time so hope we can arrange it when I return. I have a sister living in Rochester and I have promised her a visit when I get back home.

The fellow I sent with for the Views of Scotland forget to get them and has got a discharge.

Speaking of my hair it is growing and is about half inch long but would prefer sending you a snap with my cap on.

The answer to the 40lbs. Affair is 1.3.9.27. They total 40 and you can weigh anything from 1-40lbs.

I am enclosing a leaf about imported brides thought it rather funny when reading it.

I am surprised at you keeping such late hours as three a.m. I used to myself but do not believe I could stand it now as I have the habit of returning about 10 or 11 p.m.

we are having a Tennis Tournament Saturday we will get one game anyway rhat is the main thing we are not very class player. Hoping to soon hear from you again but after you receive this you had better not write me to over here anymore as I hope to be on my way.

Renain Sinc

Ed.

From

Gnr. Edward W. Grassie

Postmarked Nov. 25 1918

“Canadian Soldiers Letter”

“A” Battery,

Reserve Brigade C.E.F.

Small White greeting card 11.5cm X 8cm

Cover: embossed “With All Kind Thoughts”

Inside: A wealth of beauty may this Season hold
And every coming day new joys unfold.
M.S.H

Warmest Christmas Greetings
And every Good Wish for a
Happy and Prosperous New Year.
From
Gunner Edward W. Grassie

Canadian Field Artillery- Overseas                                                               Christmas 1918

From

Oliver Roy Reid, Spr. 166271

December 2, 1918

Belgium

Dec, 2/18

Dear Jeanne & All-

Your very welcome letter of Nov. 3 received today & as usual very pleased to hear from you. I have very little time to write these days as we are on the march into Germany almost steady every day so I will just be able to drop a line now but will try and make up for it when we get over the Frontier which wont be long now. I had quite a surprise today in a letter from Frank he is O.K. and in the Southern States has been in the army for 15 months but was unlucky enough to be kicked by a horse before his battery left for this country so was held there & has a good job. He says he doesn’t think he could stand a letter from home so maybe I had not better send his address until I explain to him that everything is alright he has sure done some traveling since he left been all over the States and South America. Sorry to hear Pen and Pat also Granding have been laid up with the “Flu” it must be very serious hope they are all together better now, guess some of my letters must have gone astray Jeanne as I have written pretty regular.

I have returned to the Battalion and am on the Postal staff so aught to have a little better luck with my parcels than last year that is if they get this far. Guess you have had a great rejoicing over there since the armistice was signed we can hardly realize it is over yet it seems very strange there are no (iron Rations) flying around, I expect it will be March before we got on our way home but they can send me as soon as they like, I think I ought to be in the first bunch according to service & being married hope so anyhow. Heard today that Joe Pleasence was killed it is outright, it seems hard luck for a fellow to be just out here a few weeks and get an R.I.P & Joe just landed in time for the last scraps or two. Well folks I must close for this time as I have several other letters to write. Hoping all are real well & to hear from you again soon.

Love to all

Roy.

Notes: Oliver Roy Reid page is in the IODE Books of Remembrance with photograph.

Pleasence, Joseph W. Pte. 3132554. 87^th Bn. KIA. 29/09/1918

From

Sergeant R. Buckingham

April 12^th, 1917

Bramshett Camp,

Near Liphook Station,

Hants, England,

April 12, 1917

Dear Miss Reid,

How are you these days. Here I am away over in England enjoying the best of health and camp life. At preventive are in a quarantine Camp, before we go to our permanent camp which is just across the road. We are under canvass at present and it is very cold these nights, as for the last three mornings we have got up to look out upon a great white sheet, but as soon as old king Sel comes out it soon goes. We had a most enjoyable passage across the ocean, taking about nine days in all from the time we left Halifax Harbor. We left Chatham on a Thursday three weeks ago tonight, and got to Halifax late Sunday night following. We board the S.S. Lapland, a large and luxurious boat, and went out into the Halifax Harbor and lay there for three days. On the next Wednesday we hove up our anchor and our eyes turned towards the new land or “Over ’eme” as the English boys say it.

The voyage was very calm, until the next Monday when it began to roll and I felt the effects of the rolling but not entirely under the weather. We had a little excitement when we landed at the mouth of the Mersey, just before we prepared to land at Liverpool deck. It was about 1:30 a.m. in the morning when I heard a pal of mine yell, “ Come on Bob she has been hit”. At first I didn’t know whether it was a dream or not but soon came to my senses when I heard the boys rushing for the upper decks. I soon got out of bed and in a jiffy was up on deck, even though spassely clad, and believe me it was some cold up there in the raw wind which was blowing off the seas. We had been hit by one of those awful things which are a menace to shipping, A German mine, and it blew a hole in our bow 3′ by 4′ and the water was fast-coming. We were ordered to move to the back to the boat in order to hold the boat up out of the water as high as possible. In the excitement that followed the explosion a number of the boys were hurt, but not seriously, one poor fellow from the 24 Battalion, Montreal, could not be found at the roll call, and it was concluded he had been killed and blown out through the hole. We then got on the train at Liverpool and such trains. The engines are very small and the cars similar to that, neither one being much larger than a good sized motor car but they can surely go.

I will drop you a card or letter later on when I go on my leave telling you about my travels. If you get any spare time just drop me a line, and be sure and do that,

With best regards to all,

From your old Sunday school kid,

Bob.

Now don’t forget an old friend.

From

Pte. L. Mornedes

June 22/17

Dear Miss Reid,

Your welcome letter of May 24^th received and to say I was glad to hear from you is not enough. Also I was interested very much by Bob recommendation letter. He seems to had a very nice trip over and had a nice time in England. I was very glad to leave England for I had relatives or friends there at all. Canada is where I belong. Say, will you send Hillerman address sometime I would like to get in touch with him and write him a letter. I saw him once but could not speak to him.

I suppose you are still at your old port dealing out the books to the young folks. It’s a wonder my young brother isn’t over to your place often for he was a regular worm for books when I seen him last. That seems funny to say “when I saw him last” but I even have a baby sister I never have seen. Well Miss Reid forgive this tiny letter. But that is all I can find to say. So farewell for now, hoping to hear from you soon again. Good-bye

Yours Sincerely,

Pte. L. Mornedes