1915-01-23a

Hamiltonians had known of the overrunning of Belgium by the German army six months earlier. The stories of the suffering of the Belgian citizens had often been written about in the local press, extensive fund-raising efforts had been held to raise funds for the relief of Belgium had been held.

But on January 22, 1915, Hamiltonians had the opportunity to see the effects of German invasion of Belgium when two young girls arrived in the city:

“Two strange little visitors landed last evening off the 6:30 train from New York. As the strangers were led out of the station through the snow storm, the two presented an odd sight.

“The visitors were Belgian children, young sisters, aged about 10 and 13 years.”¹

¹ “Belgian Waifs Arrive in City”

Hamilton Times. January 23, 1915.

It was known that the girls were coming so they were greeted by a woman who took them in hand:

“They presented a pathetic picture as they trudged beside the Travelers’ Aid worker, dressed in plain black frocks, the short sleeved leaving their arms bare to the wind and cold. Ordinary black caps, such as boys wear, were their head covering.

“The elder of the two lugged in one hand a small bag and in the other an immense oblong cardboard box strapped with ropes. The younger sister carried a big bundle, almost as big as herself, tied in checked gingham.”¹

The girls, Susanna and Margaret, (their surnames not released) were taken to the Y.W.C.A. building on Main street:

“On arriving at the Y.W.C.A., the children seemed much astonished at the lights and surroundings, and smiled wonderingly. They were taken into the kitchen and given big drinks of warm milk, and after a hot bath, were put to bed, where both were soon fast asleep.”¹

The Spectator reporter asked for and received permission to take a glance at the sleeping refugees:

“As they lay in the abandon of childhood’s sleep, they might have acted as models for Reynolds’ beautiful cherubs.

“The features of the children were of a distinctly Dutch cast, with reddish-blonde hair; blue eyes; round, chubby faces with rosy coloring, and bright scarlet lips.

“Both little girls were plump and looked exceedingly healthy, although poverty-stricken as to dress and accessories.”¹

The girls were awakened early, given a hearty breakfast, then driven from the Y.W.C.A. to the train station to catch a train to Owen Sound where they were to meet their aunt.