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Lorsque le document est trop grand pour Atre reproduit en un seul clichA, il est filmA A partir de I'angle supArieur gauche, de gauche A droite, et de haut en bas, en prenant le nombre d'images nAcessaire. Les diagrammes suivants illustrent la mAthode. ata lure, : 2X 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 6 ^■■ ^OHmiffmrmM—nmm ,■/■ f»?^f!lfWPiSFW*il 4j«' ^p i?uW 6'tL/^. A SHORT HISTORY or Court Pride of Ontario, . . . Mo. 5640 . . . Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, 1671 1596 Ancient Order of Toresters Compiled and Written bv JOHN B. BUCKINGHAM, P. H. C R. Secretarv of the Court. With Introduction l)v J. Watson 5tel-MIN('.. ^^jf^JlPd^ The brother who took the initiative i < the prelimi- |fi— I nary meetings of the Order in Hamilton was Thomas ' H. Buckingham, tlien a member of Court No. 1701, ^^OW^ Derby, Enulaiid. He, in connection witli J. Barber, C. Hurton, J. James, J. Sliuttle, G. Collis, .1. Clark, G. Maddocks and others, most of whom had l)een or were still members of the Order in England, conceived the idea of openinK a Court in Canada ; they beii'^-, unaware at the time that Courts had recently been opened in Toronto and Ottawa. On September 18th, 1871, in response to an adverfioe- ment in the local papers, some forty gentlemen assembled ♦ Dan. Black's Club House ("l.ich stood immediately north of our present Foresters' Hall), to consider what steps should be taken. It did nor take long to ! ide, for a motion was made to establish a Court at tlie earliest opportunity. The publicity thus given opened up communioa- tion with the newly-opened Court Hope of Canada, No. 5604, in Toronto, where Bro. T. Buckingham went for information. He found the Court held at the Gloucester Arms Hotel, corner of King and Berkeley streets, and was introduced to Bro. R. W. Abell, P.D.C.R. of the Hereford District, who was the Secretary and prac- tically the founder of the Order in Canada. From him he received valuable information as to the establishment of our Court. At a subsequent meeting, held October 24th, medical certificates were received and the application fees (25 cents) paid, and the name of the Court, " Pride of Ontario," and the nights and place of meeting were decided upon. The necessary fees, application for Dispensation, etc., for the opening of the Court, were sent to Court Hope in To- ronto, and thence to the High Court in England. Adjournments were made from week to week, until news came that the necessary authority had been given. In the meantime the candidates for Forestric honors were not idle, and had talked the matter up among their friends so that their numbers luid considerably increased, and the members had become so thoroughly acquainted with each other during these weekly social meetings in Dan. Black's parlors, that it was a time to be regretted by mine host when the Court was instituted. A communication from Court Hope, Toronto, stating that the officers would be present to open the Court on Thursday, December 19th, 1871, was received with much gratification, and a large delega- tion met them at the station. The deputation consisted of Bros. R. W. Abell, P. D. C. R. ; E. Fields, C. R. ; T. Seaborn, Treasurer, and C. Wilson, S. C R., and they were escorted to the Club House, where the inner man was satisfied and preparations made for the great event — the institution of Ancient Forestry in Hamilton. In the evening the opening officers, with the members of the Order bplonging to other Courts, opened in tlie name of Court Hope of Canada, No. 5604, and initiated fifty-two members into the simple teachings of true Forestry. The Dispensation was then read aloud, and Court Pride of Ontario, No. 5()U), was declared duly find legally opened. The following -.nem- bers were elected and installed to the several positions as the first office bearers —Joseph Jamea, C. R. ; T. "H. Buckingham, S. C. R. ; James Claik, Treasurer ; George Collis, Secretary ; David Sharp, S.W.; J. B. Buckingham, J. W. ; Samuel Glazzard, S. B. ; G. Buckingham, J. B. ; J. T. Hill, Sub-Secretary ; Dr. C. F. BuUeu, Medical Officer ; James Baines, John Morley, and William Marsh, Trustees ; W. Grover, J. B. Buckingham, and "VV. Hatchard, Auditors ; G. Maddock, S. Glazzard, J. Clark, J. B. Buckingham, and J. Day, Committee to draw up By-laws, The opening expenses were paid and votes of thanks tendered to the visitors, and replied to, when the Court was closed and adjourn- ment made to the dining room, Avliere a sumptuous repast had been provided, to which the newly made followers of Robin Hood did justice. Toast, song, speech and sentiment were the order for a few hom's, and by daylight the next morning most of the members reached their homes. Tims it was that Court Pride was started on her mission of relieving distress, aiding the weak and comforting the mourner. 1871-1876. The first ([uinquennial period of a Society is somewhat experi- mental ; especially was it the case with Court Pride. The High Court in England, and the proposition to form a District, with the threeCourts then in Canada, business of which very few knew, put the thoughts and energies of the new Court to the test, especially as the local wants were soniewliat of an uncertainty. However, the officers went in with a will, and at several meetings very little was done but to initiate new members who were coming in very fast. On February liith, 1872, a motion prevailed to celebrate the opening of the Court by holding a supper. A com- mittee of nine wore appointed with power to add to their number. The supper took place at the St. James Theatre (now the Odd Fellows' Hall), John Street, when over two hundred sat down. The first f^eposit was made in the Bank of British North America, when floO.uo was banked. On the same night a resolution I was adopted, to procure a suitable hall ; another was tliat one black ball in ten disqualified a candidate in the ballot. The members previously had been admitted by a majority show of hands. Another resolution was that an Investigation Committee be appointed on all candidates, and still another was that no smoking be allowed in the Court room. Previous to this smoking was permitted. These reforms were looked upon as extremely radical by some of the members who had been used in the old land to meet in taverns and have their glass and pipe in the Court room during business hours ; but they were adopted, and on motion, March 12th, it was decided to move to the Templar's Hall, corner of Macnab and King Streets, that the removal be advertised in the city papers and the members form a procession to the new hall. A motion to form a Juvenile Branch was laid on the table for future consideration, a number of the members thinking they had enough to do to get themselves into good shape first. On March 21st the members of the Court in a body, headed by the Thirteenth Band, proceeded to the new hall, the Chief Ranger carrying the Charter, the Woodwards and Beadles their axes and spears. March 28th, Bros. G. Maddocks and G. Collis were appointed delegates to represent the Court at the inaugural meeting of the Toronto United District, and Bro. Maddocks was elected District Chief Ranger. April 4th, an application for a dispensation was received from R. Omand, Alf. Richmond, T. Tyson and six others to form a new Court, to be called " Maple Leaf," with Bro. Geo. Maddocks as Chief Ranger. It was granted. On the same evening a resolution was passed to hold a Fete and Gala at the Crystal Palace on Dominion Day, which proved very successful, about $200.00 being realized and went to form the nuclevis of a Widow and Orphan Fund. On May 9th the following strange-looking resolution was passed : " 'iii.it no member be allowed to bring up in the Court for discussion any per.sonal matter." On June 20th the election of officers took plac(3 and the term ended with bicker- ings and feuds between the several cliques which had been formed between the members of the several factories and works, and the want of a firm presiding officer was never more manifest. July 4th the second term opened with E. Appleby, C, R. ; .1. B. Buckingham, S. C. R. ; J. Clark, Treasurer; J. T. Hill, Secretary, and Dr. C. F. Bullen, Medical Officer ; G. Maddock and W. Davis, District Delegates. .July 18ra the Secretary left the city and W. Davis was appointed in his place. A s[)ec,ial sunmioned meeting was held on August 15th to consider the action of the District, respecting regis- tration fees, benefits, officers* salaries, etc. The By-laws of the Court were also amended so that the i^ecretary was to receive 20 cents per member per annum, and the? Woodwards one cent per member for term of office and to deliver all summonses, and the Treasurer's and Sub-Secretary's offices were to l)e considered offices of lioiior. This I i I I i was a stormy meeting;. September 12th permission was granted to E. Avery, D. Reid, W. Dodson, J. Dodson and others to open a new Court to be called " Excelsior," with J. B. Buckingham as Chief Ranger. An application from a gentleman in St. Catharines to open a new Court was received and sent to the District Secretary. The same evening a motion was adopted to close the Court to membership, to allow Court Maple Lea£,and the proposed new Court, Excelsior, to get members. November 12th a committee of sixteen was appointed to prepare for the first anniversary, the members being evidently in favor of large committees. During this term the division of Funds and the books got terribly muddled through the want of knowledge in the workings of the Order and the incapacity of the Secretar3'. The dis- cussions which this caused were far from pleasant, until on November 21st a resolution was adopted that all books and papers be handed over to the Auditors appointed by the District for examination. This state of affairs was even too much for the District Aiiditors, who gave a partial report and recommended that a new set of books be procured for the next term. The anniversary supper was all that could be desired, the Mayor of the city and many influential citizens and repre- sentatives of sister Courts being present. The first year closed with two hundred and twenty-five members, at an average age of twenty- eight years. If ever a Society required careful legislation and efficient officers to steer it clear of trouble, it was Court Pride during its second year, The unparalleled success of getting members had completely' buried all other ideas. The go-as-you-please style of orator^-, the indiscreet remarks of the members, and the general uproar that had characterized many of the meetings, ^nd which went unchecked by the Chief Rangers, made it a somewhat difficult matter to secure a presiding officer. However, one was found in Bi'o. Geo. Richmond, who accepted the position, and by his resolute manner and knowledge of rules of order the members soon found they had to obey the gavel in his hand. On January 2nd, 1873, the Court started off witii O. Richmond, C. R.; C. Williams, S.C.R.; J. Clark, Treasurer ; .J. Green, Secretary ; and Dr. C. i\ Bul- len. Medical Officer. By-laws for a Widows and Orphans' Fund were adopted at this meeting, l)ut the scheme was not successful. February 10th, a joint meeting of tlie three city Courts was held for the purpose of renting or lea.sing a hall, the Good Templars being about to give up the then meeting place. Arrangements were made to lease the hall, and we held the first meetings with a Inire floor and no furniture. April 18th, a committee was ajipointed to collect subscriptions towax'd buying a banner. The banner was soon procured and was one of the features of the Fete and Gala held on May 24th. < to BW lief a le I to Under the auspices of Courts Maple Leaf and Excelsior, a joint excursion by the Great Western Railway on Dominion Day to visit Court Beaver, of St. Catharines, accompanied by St. Patrick's Band, was successful in every way, but financially. On July 3rd the second term for the year was inaugurated with but little change in the officers (Bro. C. Hall being the S. C. R. in place of C. "Williams). During this term the business of the Court was getting more in order and the meetings were more interesting ; still there was some ill-feel- ing displayed when anything of an extraordinary nature was brought up. The effect of the first yearV misgovernment was being felt, and while a large number of members were initiated, a larger number were suspended. December 18th a resolution was passed to apply for a dis- pensation to open a Court, "Perseverance," at Guelph, which was done later, several of our members attending at the opening. The second year closed with two hundred and nineteen members on the roll, at an average age of twenty-eight years. The Court commenced its business early in the new ■ fit^j^ year, 1874, by holding its first meeting on January 1st, '"* ^ the officers being: C. Hall, C. R. ; J. Baker, S. C. R. ; ^' J. Clark, Treasurer ; J. B. Buckingham, Secretary, and C. F. BuUen, Medical Officer. The balance sheet for the preceding term being very unsatisfactory, a special Audit Committee was appointed, composed of the C. R. and Secretary. When the books were overhauled from the opening of the Court, several errors were found, not only in the previous Secretary's statement, but in the one prepared by the District Auditors. The report w.is accepted by the Court, and from that time the finances of the Court have been well looked after. A series of fortnightly ten cent concerts were very suc- cessful ; and to see a number of the officers and members with burnt- cork faces in an amateur minstrel show was a sight worth seeing. However, the entertainments were successful, some $35.00 being handed over to the Secretary to reduce the debt of the Management Fund. February 10th was a memorable night, there being no less than four members up to answer charges before the Arbitration Com- mittee : One for not sending his declaration off the Sick Fund, two for stealing a block and tackle from a member of the Order, and one for drunkenness and wife desertion. The first offender was dismissed with a caution ; the remaining three were expelled. February 12th an application was received from Hancock, Mich- igan, to open a new Court. The matter was referred to the District, and the D. S. opened Court Rising Sun, No. 5090, having to travel hundreds of miles by road. May 21st a deputation of ladies (wives of members) waited upon the Court and presented the members with three pictures, to adorn tlie walls with. They were graciously received with thanks. At this meeting it was deemed advisable to 10 have a Dominion flag, and a committee was appointed to procure one. A joint excursion was arranged for, to take part in a large demonstra- tion, to be held in Toronto. The ste-imer " Osprey " was engaged, and Professor Hand presented the committee with a number of water fire- works, which were much appreciated. Our shai-e of the proceeds of this excursion was $45.00; the committee being entertained at supper by Bro. Dan. Black into the bargain. The term was more satisfactory than any yet held and the pros- pects for a successful future were good. July 2nd found the Court with the following officers; J. Baker, C.R.; W. Monk, S. C.R.; J. Clark, Treasurer ; J. B. Buckingham, Secretary ; C. F. Bullen, Medical Officer. The question of joining hands with the two. sister Courts in District work was discussed by the members, and on August 13th a resolution to socede from the Toronto United District and join the Hamilton United District was unanimously adopted. At the suc- ceeding District meeting, after some opposition from the former District, the Court left and joined its prospects with the Hamilton Brethren. The question of inaugurating a Subsidiary High Court for America was brought up and introduced by a circular from the Cleveland (U.S.A.) District, and a resolution was passed on October 22nd that the Court take into consideration tho propriety of forming a Subsidiary High Court ; but after a number ci meetings and consider- able correspondence it was thought advisable to wait a little longer. One of the Courts in the city voted in favor of the scheme. The removal of the Great Western Railway shops from the city was a severe blow to the Court, as a large number of the members were removed to London, St. Thomas, Stratford and Brantford. Some of them took their Clearances and were not lost to the Oraer, but others grew careless and neglected to keep up their memberships. Bros. T. J. Priestland and G. Buckingham, then members of the Court and working in Brantford, set about to open a Court there, and with the assistance of some local brethren were successful in estab- lishing Court Endeavour, the opening officers being sent from this Court. The third anniversary of the Court was celebrated by a supper in our own Hall. It was not to exceed thirty cents each, and proved to be, in spite of the cost, one of the most successful reunions the Court ever held. The lady friends of the members went in with a will and cooked fish, flesh and fowl, with vegetables and pastry galore, and a thoroughly enjoyable time was spent. The year closed with one hundred and ninety-eight members, being a loss of twenty-one. The fourth year, 1875, was ushered in with Bros. W. Monk, C. R.; J. W. Sinclair, S. C. R. ; J. Clark, Treas- urer; J. B. Buckingham, Secretary, and C. F. Bullen, sJ Su'-geon. On January 28th an application for incorpora- tion as a Court was signed, sealed and sent down to Toronto, as j_^^__^^j^ii^ re one. onstra- Bd, and er fire- eeds of supper 11 desired by the Act of Parliament, 1874, and we became a body cor- porate. A Mutual Provident Assurance Association was formed on the assessment plan, the members paying fifty cents at each death ; but it was not a success. Three of its members died in close proximity to each other, and the members failed to pay their assessments. The Fete and Gala, held at Swinyard's Grove (corner of Queen and Aber- deen avenue, long since built on), was a grand success, and was got up jointly by the three city Courts. The next term found C. Williams, C. R. ; W. H. Marten. S. C. R. ; W. Monk, Secretary ; J. Clark, Treas- urer, and C. F. Bullen, Medical Officer. Bro. J. B. Buckingham was presented with a magnificent gold and silver medal on his retirement from the Secretaryship, as a slight token of regard. On August 18th (Civic Holiday) an excursion to Brantford was taken, where the mem- bers were received right royally. The event has never been forgotten. On September 10th the Juvenile Branch was instituted, but not with- out opposition, as some of the older members thought it would be ridiculous to have boys in parades and as members of a Secret Society. However, the Branch was inaugurated with a large number of mem- bers and W. Monk, P C.R., as President. The Branch is now the strongest on the continent. The Contingent Fund of the Court,was started during this term by reducing the contributions to the Sick and Funeral Fund, as the members were paying more than the Hamilton United District Laws called for. On September 23rd several members were initiated for the purpose of forming a Court in Thorold, and the papers were handed over to the District officers. The following motion, passed on Novem- ber 11th, shows how carefully the Funds were husbanded by the members: " Resolved, that while recognizing the desirability of a sufficient stock of goods for the use of the District, we cannot look with indifference upon the resolution submitted at the last District meeting, authorizing the Secretary to order goods from the Executive Council, ndver stating to what extent or as to the amount of the Soci- ety's moneys which were to be expended ; thereby introducing a prece- dent which may cause us eventually to regret its having been placed on the minutes, a. . we believe it to be quite in opposition to the spirit of our Constitution and the best interests of the District." The anniver- sary was celebrated by having a supper at the Dominion Hotel on December 17th. The year closed with two hundred and ten members, a gain in membership and an increase in funds. The first term of the year 1876 brought a distinguished member of the Court into the chair, in the person of Past District Chief Ranger, Geo. Maddocks, with Geo. Stranks S. C. R.; J. Clark, Treasurer; J. B. Buckingham, Sec- retary, and Dr. C. F. Bullen, Medical Officer. January 9th, the Court attended divine service with sister Courts and the Canadian Order of 12 Oddfellows, M. U. ; the proceeds of which were devoted to the poor of the city. A goodly surn was realized. January 27th, a proposal was made in the Court to take up a subscription to buy instruments for a band to be attached to the Juvenile Branch. The project was event- ually given up for want of encouragement. The; first break in the list of Past Chief Rangers took place on June 2nd, when J. Baker, P.C.R. died ; and during the same week another brother died, and as both belonged to the Mutual Assurance Society, which had been called upon to pay an assessment for a member of another Court, the strain was too much for the members and was the cause of the Society's collapse. At the semi-annual election Bro. Geo. Stranks w^as advanced to the Chief Ranger's Chair, J. Day, S.C.R.; the Treasurer, Secretary and Medical Officer being re-elected. On August 28th the Court took part in a Fete and Gala at the Crystal Palace, which was successful in every way but financially, the Court having to subscribe its share of the loss, amounting to $31.48. September 21st, the following resolution was sent to the District meeting : " That a committee of five members be appointed to find out the best means to make the initiatory ceremony more attractive, and report at the next District meeting." Nothing further of importance marked the term, and the first of the quinquennial group of the Court closed with two hundred and eight members, at an average age of twenty-nine years, and a cash re.serve of S3050, having paid out for sick pay $2202.67 ; for funeral claims, $375, and for donations, $326.28, during the five years. 1877-1881. 1877 The commencement of the second group was not chai'acterized witli any startling event, and other than the experience the members had gained from the work- ings of an English Society in a colony with its many impossibilities and a division of ideas as to what was the right course, we launched out in our work of relief. The year 1877 opened with Bro. J. Day, Chief Ranger; W. H. Hunt, S. C. R., the Treasurer, Secretary and Medical Officer being again re-elected. On January 25th the first fraternal visit from Court Excelsior, No. 5743. was made, with Bro. .Jesse Chapman as their Chief Ranger. The novelty of the visit was the cause of a large meeting and a general good time was indulged in. A return visit was n;ade to Court Excelsior at the next meeting. On April 29th the Court attended church service with the St. George's Society. The Court advanced the sum of $140 to a mem- ber of Court No. 1728, London, England, who had been very sick. The amount was returned in due time, showing the great advantages of the Order in the Colonies. June 28th the Court was honored by a visit from Bro. W. T. Davies, D.C.R., of Stratford, who was received ■^wwimiw Id right royally. Bro. Adam Lamrock, a member of the Court, who had been ailing for some months, died in the Toronto lunatic asylum, and was buried in this city. The Fete and Gala at the Crystal Palace on Dominion Day proved financially successful. The second term found Bro. W. H. Hunt, Chief Ranger; B. Boreham, S.C.R., the Treasurer, Seci'etary and Medical Officer being I'e-elected. August 9th the banner was loaned to Court No. 5835, Stratford, and four members were sent along to take charge of it. September Knh a letter of condolence was sent to the District Chief RHnger,Bro.W.T. Davies, of Stratford, on the death of his wife. At the next meeting, September iJOth, the nucleus of Court Pride of theValley, Dundas, was initiated, and an order was sent for the necessary goods and charter, etc. Bros. Nickelson, Chaplin, Rodd and Weston were a delegation from the proposed new Court. The opening of the Court was attended with much ceremony, a large number of the members being present, the conveyances being gratuitously provided by the members. At the next meeting the mem- bers of Court Pride of the Valley paid a fraternal visit and were well received. A matter of unusual interest was considered at a joint meeting of the city Courts on November 28th, when it was decided to procure a musical instrument for the use of tlie Court room and to carpet the floor. A per capita levy of seventy cents was made on all the Courts, to be repaid in two years. The Secretary of the Court being taken ill with tj'phoid fever and his life being despaired of. the Court appointed a nurse and engaged extra medical advice. He ultimately recovered and resumed his position in the Court. The year closed with the membership reduced to one hundred and fifty-seven. -i^W(5^ During the first term of 1878 Bro. B. Boreham was l§dom of such a principle has been apparent on several occasions since. The Convention was duly held in Toronto, with forty delegates representing six Districts and Courts. A very crude idea of a Subsidiary High Court (as we see it now) was adopted, putting down the whole expenses to run it at $150 per annum, the membership in the Dominion at that time being about 1950. The brethren in Toronto were exceedingly kind to the delegates and votes of thanks were tendered to them from all quarters. The visit of the Princess Louise and the Marquis of Lorne to Hamilton could not be allowed to pass without the followers of Robin Hood showing their loyalty, and all the Courts in the city combined to illuminate the Hall, each Court paying its share. The Court took part in an enter- tainment in Dundas on December 19th, under the auspices of Court Pride of the Valley, and closed the year with one hundred and thirty- three members, the lowest number it ever had since the opening night. The year 1880 was inaugurated with Bro. Harry Nicholson as Chief Ranger; R. Jocelyn, S. C. R. ; the Secretary and Medical Officer being re-elected. J. C.'ark was elected Treasurer. This term was taken up prin- cipally with the discussions on the proposed S. H. C. General Laws, and many letters were written to and answers received from the District ofHcers and committee in Toronto. A grand Fete and Gala was held on Dominion Day, which, though successful, eventually proved dis- astrous to the Treasurer of the Court. He appropriated some of tlie money and goods collected for prizes to his own use ; he was tried by the Arbitration Committee, found guilty, and fined $25 and suspended for three months. This decision he defied, and was expelled from the Order. The second term found R. Jocelyn, C R. ; W. Maxim, 3. C. R.; C. Grundy, Treasurer ; the Secretary and Medical Officer being re- elected. Julj' 8th was a memorable night. The By-laws were amended, giving the C. R. and Seci-etary power to engage a nurse for urgent cases of sickness, and raising the sick benefit to $1 per week, and funeral benefits to $100, and $50 for member's wife. The format' in of a Contingent Fund on the same lines that we now enjoy, and the printing of meeting date cards were also agreed upon. On October 14th the Secretary was presented with a handsome silver watch, procured by subscriptions by the officers of the Court, as a token of their regard. The Sanctuary of Shepherds paid a fraternal visit, accompanied by Past Pastor Collis and others, on November 5th, when ap enjoyable evening was spent. The year closed with one hundred and thirty-six members, being an increase of three. 17 The teiitli year oi)one(l with Rood pvonpects. The dull times seeiniiinly hiul passed, and tlie members were enthusiastic for a Subsidiary High Court. Tlie executive officers were Wm. Maxim, C. R. ; W. Brend, S. C. R. ; tlie Treasurer, Secretary, and Medical Officer beiufj; re-elected. On March lOth the Court paid a fraternal visit to Court Excelsior, and was well received. The disaster on the River Thames in London, Ont., on May 2ith, when a pleasure boat capsized, brought forth a resolution of condolence and sympathy, as the Chief Ranker of one of the Courts lost his life, as did many friends and relatives of the members in sev- eral Courts in London. The officers for the second term of 1881 were W. .1. Brend, C. R. ; T. Lewi.s, S. C. R. ; C. J. Grundy, Treasurer ; J. B. Buckingham, Secretary, and Dr. James White, Medical Officer. On August 4th a letter was received from H. Lucas, P. D. C. R., Chairman of the S. H. C. Committee, stating tluit the Charter for the establishment of a Subsidiary High Court for Canada had been granted in England to our representative, Bro. Charles Lanning, P. U. C. R. The news was received with the " Foresters' Fire," and ably acknow- ledged by District Chief Ranger Bro. W. H. Hunt. August 18th the first delegate to the S. H. Court was elected in the person of the Secre- tary. On October (Jth the Court took part in a joint reception of the Wentworth District, to welcome Higli Court Delegate Lanning, who was accompanied by H. Lucas. The meeting was a magnificent one, and showed great loyalty to the parent Order. The affair took place at the Revere Hotel. Monday, October 24th, was a day long to be re- membered in the annals of Forestry — the inauguration of the Sub- sidiary High Court of Canada by the unanimous action of the delegates assembled. Canadian Foresters had adopted a kind of home rule. The representative from this Court was lionored by an appointment as Auditor, besides being placed on several important committees. He was also appointed to send a report to the " Foresters' Miscellany," in England. The second of our quinquennial groups closed with one hundred and forty-six members, at an average age of thirty-five years ; with $4345.73 balance in the Funds, having paid out in the five years for sick pay, «2489.2i) ; for funeral claims, SfiOO.OO, and donations, $329.45. M 1882-1886. 1882 We started off in our eleventh year with a great deal of confidence that we were to be the Banner Court of the Order in Ontario; and while we had a long way to go and ''^ax a hard task before us the members were determined. The Order in Canada, being under its own government, was better under- stood, and the result of close training had given the officers of the Court a better idea as to its needs. The want of a Foresters' Hall was :» felt and other matters of importance made the meetinRS more inter- esting. On January ")th 18H'2, Bro. W. H. Corry was Chief Ranf?er, James Brown, S.C.R. The Secretary and Treasurer were re-elected and Dr. Wolverton was chosen Medical Officer, Dr. White having resigned. A motion prohibiting li(iuors being brought into and consumed in the ante-room was adopted, and also was one in favor of building the Foresters' Hall. On April 27th Charles Lanning, S.H.C. Secretary, paid a fraternal visit, encouraging the members on in the good work, and was entertained by tlie Court. May 2tth, the Court accompanied Court Maple Leaf on an excursion to Buffalo. The second term opened with Bt*o. W. J. Harris, Chief Ranger, G. Maxim, S. C. R., the remaining officers being re-elected. The Court took part in the Subsidiary High Court Demonstration in Toronto on Monday, August 2lst, and at the subsequent High Court Meeting, four of the members of this Court were elected to positions on the Execu- tive Council : viz,— J. B. Buckingham, H. C. R. ; C. Williams, H.C.T. ; W. H. Marten, H.C.S.B. ; and T. M. Davis, H.C.J. B. It was during this term that the Court was re-incorporated as a branch of the Subsidiary High Court. On October 25th, Bro. W. J. Vale, D.C.R., paid the Court an official visit and was warmly received. He gave a very instructive address, which was greai'y appreciated by the members. The year closed with all the members of the Court regis- tered as members under the S.H.C, the District having been dissolved. The year 188B opened with the C. R., Treasurer and Secretary re-elected; Bro. W. P. Smith, S. C. R., and Dr. White, Medical Officer. The year promised to be an extraordinary one, as the High Court of Canada was to be held in Hamilton the following August and a strong Union Com- mittee had been appointed to carry out the details. February loth the Court received a visit from the Hamilton Executive Council, and they were heartily welcomed. The several officers made speeches, after which they were entertained by the Court, there being quite a large number of visiting ln*ethren present. On March 10th a resolution to advance the sum of $H300 to the Hall Company for the purpose of build- ing the Foresters' Hall, was adopted. On June 2fith a very successful four-days' excursion was taken to Detroit by the city Courts, and it was well patronized. The Trustees, Bros. Bainei?, Morley, and Jocelyn, were presented with silver medals, as marks of esteem, from the Court on July 5th. On the same date the following officers were elected: W. P. Smith, C. R. ; J. Millman, S. C. R. ; the Treasurer, Secretary and Medical Officer being re- sleeted. On July 19th a cheque for $50 was sent for the relief of the tiood sufferers in London, Ont., many families being left destitute by the unprecedented overflowing of the River Thames. The High Court week will long be remembered by those who took part. The Church parade was on Sunday, August 26th, i& the service beinp: held in Christ's Church Cathedral, Rev. Dr. Mock* ridge oihciatiiiK. The inaKnificent demonstration, on Monday, August 27th, the trip to the Beach and the many social gathorings, together with the husiness of the High Court and the establishment of Pioneer Conclave, No. 1, Ktiights of Sherwood Forest, gave the members of the Court and Order a variety of excitement, which will not easily be effaced from their memory. At the meeting on August HOth the Court was honored by the presence of P. H. C. T. Bro. C. Wilson, one of tlie charter mem- bers of Court Hope of Canada, No. SfiOi, and one of the opening otHcers of this Court. H. S. C. 11. Bro. Newman, of London, and D. C. R. Bro. J. Foot, of Stratford, were also present, and a very enjoyable evening was spent. The Fete and Gala netted $H') to each Court taking part, and the members of the Court on the committee were presented with testimonials at the close of their labors. 1884 The only change made in the executive officers of the Court at the commencement of 1881 was that of R. Phillips, as S. C. R. ; the remainder being re-elected Ou January 7tli the Court donated t'J'y towards the .Juvenile Foresters' Library .' " ud. On January 31st applications for member- ship from His Wor. nip the Mayor, J. J. Mason, and the Hon. J. M. Gibson were accepted, and they became honorary members. On February 28th the Knights of Sherwood Forest made their first appear- ance in uniform, by paying a visit to the Court, and were enthusiastic- ally received. April 10th a Sick and Relief Committee was appointed, consisting of twelve members, to be divided into four sub-committees. This formed the basis of our present By-law. The Court accompanied the Uniform Branch to Buffalo at their excursion on May 24th. The Courts moved into their new quartei's in the Foresters' Hall, which event was celebrated by an oyster supper and concert, with addresses from many of our prominent members, The C. R. for the second term was R. Phillips, who did not live to fill the term, he dying after a brief illness on September 15th. The S. C. R. was J. Emery, the remaining officers being I'e-elected. On August 25th the Court took part in the High Court Demonstration ,';: London, which was financially successful. On October 23rd T. G. Priestland, D.C.R., paid his official visit to the Court and congratulated it on its steady progress. November 6th saw the Uniform Branch visit the Court, and speeches, interspersed with music and song, made up a pleasant re-union. The thirteenth anniversary of the Court was celebrated by having an oyster supper with full toast list. The year closed with two hundred and seventy- six members. i; I 20 -ii^WtffiJ^ The year 1885 opened very auspiciously, with J. l88^ Emery, Chief Ranger, J. Huglies. S.C.R., the remainder ''n>(TQ/^AKotv?' °^ ^^^® executive othcers heinj? re-elected. Bro. J. Welby. ^^^.[jy-^ the first chairman of the Hall Committee, resigned his position and was presented with an emblematic gold pin, as a mark of the Court's appreciation of his services. The Juvenile Foresters' Drill Corps, under the command of Ca!)tain J. Hughes, paid the Court a fraternal visit on January 29tli. The skillful drill executed by the boys was much appreciated. The death of P.C.R. Bro. Joseph James, the first Chief Ranger of the Court, on February 12th, cast a gloom over the members, and although he was a member of Court Metropolis, London, England, he had by his true Forestric principles endeai-ed himself to the Court. Arrangements were made for his funeral, and he was buried with Forestric honors. On May 21 th a very successful excursion was held lo Gait by the united city Courts, the members from this Court on the committee being presented with gold pins. The second term of the year was somewhat interesting on account of the action taken b.y the Stratford Executive Council claiming there was to be no High Court ^[ee ting that year ; while a large majority of the Courts claimed there should be one. Bro. R. Jtosiman,of Court Hope of Canada, No. 5U()1, Toronto, came to the rescue by sending a circular to all the Courts. Tliis Court adopt'ed the suggestion and sent a delegate. The otficprs for this term were W. H. Marten, Chief Ranger, W. R. Tribbeck, S.C.R., the others being re-elected. It was at this election that the first member from the Juvenile Branch took office, in the person of Bro. Duncan Grigg, as Sub-Secretary. The introduction of literary entertainments after the routine business had been disposed of proved very interesting, and several very good programmes w^ere rendered by members of the Court. This compara- t^ively new feature proved beneficial to the attendance at the meetings. The High Chief Ranger, Bro. Foot, honoi'od the Court with his presence at the anniversary entertainment, as did also the then Mayor, Bro. J. J. Mason. The celebration was entirely successful. The memberslii|) at tb(> close of the year was two hundred and ninety, at the average age of tliiily-two years. ^^^^^ Tlieyear 1SS(; was some^viiat noted, as the mortality was the highest yet expeiiouced ; iIkj losses Ixsing three ^ _ UKMubers and tliree memiiers' wives. The officers were •y^%^j^^^ for tlie first term : A. E. Smith, Chief Ranger. R. A Realf, S. C. R. ; the remainder being re-elected. The transfer of $500 from the Management Fund, whicli had grown Ijeyond i>ropoi-tion, to form tlie nucleus of the Contiibution Aid l''und, took i)lace, and the By-law was altered to make provisiou for a contribution to this new Fluid. On ^larch '2'ith the Court entertained the Juvenile Branch and Drill Coriis, v hen the lioys had a good time. i886 21 Bro. J. Watson Stead (now editor of The Ancient Forester), at a subsequent meeting read a verj'^ interesting paper on tlie benefits of Medical Aid Associations, in connection with Friendly and Benevolent Societies. A committee was appointed to consider the advisability of the establishment of such an Association in Hamilton. Circulars were sent to all the Societies in the city to meet and consider the mcatter on May 31st, when the (question was fully discussed by the representatives present. Owing to the apatliy shown by some of the sister Societies, the idea was allowed to diop until the A. 0. F. could support such a scheme on its own responsibility. July 1st saw R. A. Realf, Chief Ranger ; J. P. Blackhall, S. C. R.; the remaining officers being re-elected. On Sunday, August I8th, the Court attended divine service at Dnndas with Cou't Pride of the Valley. The High Court Demonstration in Str; tford was well attended and will long be remembered, as it rained most of the day. The excursion from Hamilton proved a financial failure. The Court's fifteenth anniversary was celebrated by holding a concert and ball in the Foresters' Hall on December 10th, The Iftth was a day of mourn- ing, for on that day our Chief Ranger, Bro. R. A. Realf, died in the hospital with typhoid fever. He was a young man in the midst of a useful career, and was cut off, far away from every relative, after a few days' sickness. Ho was buried from the Secretary's residence, attended by the members of the Order, the Knights, and the Sons of England. Thus the year closed with its seasons of sunshine and shade, the membership being three hundred and twenty. The third iiuinquonniiun ended with the year, the Court being worth $(h158.23, with a. expenditure of SliisT.Gl for sick pay, $1100 funeral claims, and S7f);5 for donnvions. 1887 1 887-1891. Tiie sixteenth yenr opened witli the veterans of the Cou.-t takii'g part in tlie ol'liiial duties, four of the cb .rter members being officers, namely: Bros. .T. Baines, C. R.; J. Siuittle. S. C. R. : T. Ajiplcton, .T. W., and J. B. Buck- ingham, Secretary. TI.0 Tr.'asurcr was re-elected, and Dr. R. R. Wallace was ap[)ointed Medical OfHc(>v, in place of Dr. J. White, who resigned, much t J the regret of the membrrs. An agitation was got i;p early in the y:'ar to endow a cot in the ('ify Hospital — to be called the Foresters' (Jot. Delegations waited upon the proper authorities, but cc'd nuike no definite arrangements. Tliey were promised re- duced rates for members of th(> Order at the City Hospital when necessary. Janutiry "iTtli a man, purposing to be a member of the Order in a Court in Brooklyn, waited on the officers, and having the passwords, signs, etc., was advanced the sum of $7.50 by the Secretary. ^2 He proved to be a fraud, and the Court granted the amount to the Secretary. On March 4th it was decided to invest $150 in a banner and procure a new set of officers' ribbons. May 21th an excursion was run to J?aris and was very successful, excepting a delay at Copetown of four hours on thd return trip, when the party was entertained at Mrs. McCarty's residence. June 21st was a memorable day ; it being the Jubilee anniversary of Her Majesty's accession co the throne of England. A joint demon- stration was held by all the Societies with tableaux cars. The A.O.F. car was represented w'.ch the shield of the Order, supported by Robin Hood and Little John, with dogs, a lamb and shepherd, Juvenile Foresters, boys and girls on beautiful green turf, and vari-colored ribbons floating from all sides made a very effective car. The Knights of Sherwood and all tlie branches turned out well, and altogether the Order made a magnificent appearance and was warmly congratulated by the local press. The second term found J. Shuttle, Chief Ranger, T. Appleton, S. C. R., the remainder of the executive officers being re-elected. On August 25th the Court was honored with a visit from P. D. C. R. Bro. E. J. Salmon, of British Columbia, who was received with the " Foresters' Fire." He gave a very interesting account of the working of the Order in his Province. The excursion to tlie High Court Demonstration at Brantford was a financial failure, the Court having to pay its share of tlie loss. The sixteenth anniversary of the Court was held in Alexandra Arcade, when a concert, ball and banner pres- entation took place. The affair was eminently successful and the sum of $36 was realized. Tlie D.C.R., Bro. J. Young, visited the Court on December 13th, and reported everything to his entire satisfaction. ^^^^^ The officers for the year 1888 were : Bro. W. P. Smith, 1R88 I CJhief Ranger, E. Swann, S. C. R., the Secretary, Treas- ->«^ii^^- urer and Medical Officer being re-elected. Bro. W. ^^^%^ Williams presented the Court with a photograph of the fourth Executive Council, and received the thanks of the Court through tlie D.C.R. On March 8th the Rev. C. H. Mockridge, D. D. was initiated as an honorary memlier, on which occasion he was preseented with an H.M. Regalia. The Knights of Sherwood Foi'est, under Captain Stark, paid the Court a fraternal visit on Maj' 31st, and an enjoyable evening was spent. The Court granted permission and appointed a committee to open a Circle of the Companions of the T'orest, which was ultimately accomplished, Bro. J. B. Buckingham being the first Chief Companion. Tlie Higli Court Demonstration was held under the aus[)ices of of the city Courts at the Dundurn Park on July 1st, Dominion Day, when a large concourse of membei's and visitors attended. The Court's share of the proceeds was $18. 23 Tho officers for the second term Avere E. Swaiin, Chiejf Ranger ; D. Griffg, S. C. R. ; the remainder of the officers being re-elected. This was the first election in which an ex-Juvenile member had been chosen for an executive office, the S. C. R. being that officer. On the retirement of Bro. W. P. Smith from the office of C. R., he being the first and only member who had served in that capacity for three terms, the following letter was engrossed, framed and presented to him : ANCIENT ORDER OF FORESTRES. CouuT PuiuK 01-' Ontario, No. 5f,iO. That whereas our worthy Brother, W. P. Smith, having retired from the Chief-Rangership of tliis Court, we cannot allow the occasion to pass without in some slight degree acknowledging the kindly offices rendered by him during the past terra ; That whereas the Court has passed through one of the most suc- cessful terms since its organization during the occupancy of our brother in the Chief Ranger's chair, and that he is the tirst member of the Court who has served in that position for three terms; Be it therefore Resolved, that the thanks of this Court are due and are hereby tendered to Bro. Wm. P. Smith for the assiduity, zeal and patience displayed by him as Chief Ranger ; Be it further Resolved, that these resolutions be engrossed on the minutes. Signed: E. Swann, C. R. ; J. Shuttle, P.C.R ; J. Baines, P.C.R.; W. H. Hunt, P. D. C. R. ; W. H. Marten, P. H. C. S. B. ; J. B. Buck- ingham, P. H. C. R., Committee on Resolutions. The annual sermon was preached on July 29th at Christ Church Cathedral by the Rev. Bro. C. H. Mockridgo, D. D. On October 18th the Court presented gold headed canes to Bros. Smith, Buckingham and Whitby, as members of tlie Fete and Gala Committee, for the work done by them. On December HOth the resignation of Bro. J. Baines, who had been Trustee for the Court for seventeen years, was received. The Court presented iiim with a gold headed cane and an engrossed address, beautifully framed. As ([uite a number of the members of the Court were going to Stratford on account of the removal of tho O.T.R. car-works to that place, a general good-bye was extended to them. The anniversary of the Court was held at the Palace Rink, when a concert, ball and parlor games were indi Iged in and proved highly successful. The Court contributed its share in the purchase of tlie plot of land in rear of the Foresters' Hall, and closed thq year with three hundred and ninety-four members; having initia- ted ninety-three new members, at an average ago of twenty -four years. i-'ihfi III iiMirtMawwi if:- 24 Bro. Cliarlps Parsons wns Chief Ranjxer at the com- 1889 I '"6"'"*'"iP"<' of '1"^ .V««'i' l''^89, with A. E. Cutbush, S.C.R.; -......' l)i". Wallace, Treasure", and J. B. Buckingliam, Secre- '^MM\m^ I'fii'y. On January 21tn four candidates from the Juven- ile Braucli were proposed, the laroest number ever transferred on one night. Their names were H. R. Gillespie, A. Martin, J. B. McCallum, and J. W. Board ; all of wlioin are members to-day, and three of them Past Cliief Rangers. Two of them have represented the Court at High Court Meetings. On March 21st the C. R., S. C. R., and Treasurer resigned tlieir positions, when A. E. Smith was elected C. R., C. J. Aikens, S. C. .11.. and C. Grundy, Treasurer. The Hall Company had a joint Demonstration at Dundurn Park, which ja-ovi^d a financial failure, the loss to this Court being SH5. The second term of this year W. H. Marten was Chief Ranger ; J. W. Aikens, S. C. R. ; J. Millman, Treasurer; the Secretary and Medical Officer being re-elected. The Court took part in an excursion to Toronto, to attend the High Court Demonstration, which was not financially successful, on August 2