1914-01-28ak

As 1914 began, the city of Hamilton had a very high percentage of its population which claims Germany as their country of origin, or where their parents had emigrated from to come to Canada.

          A prominent organization for Hamilton’s German population was the Germania Club.

          On January 27, 1914, a special celebration was held at the Germania Hall.

          Coverage of that event in the Hamilton Herald follows :

          “A smoker was held last night in the Germania hall, the occasion being the birthday of the Kaiser.

          “George Scnabel presided and proposed the toasts, Der Kaiser was drunk enthusiastically, after which a speech on the kaiser was made by G. B. Dinkel. Mr. Dinkel is an old Bavarian soldier who served his country and distinguished himself during the Franco-Prussian war, and received a decoration there for distinguished service.

          “He spoke on the Kaiser as the ideal Christian, the first diplomat in Europe, and as a true family man. His speech, which was one of genuine patriotism, was applauded to the echo by his compatriots.

          “Mr Maich entertained the gathering by songs, and was followed by Max Stolpe, who was one of the chief entertainers.

          “The dinner was prepared by W. Kleman, manager of the club, and was greatly enjoyed. A vote of thanks was tendered Mr. Kleman for his excellent fare.”¹

               ¹ “Hoch Her Kaiser! : Germania Club Members Celebrated His Birthday”

          Hamilton Herald.   January 28, 1914.

          It was a convivial gathering at the Germania that evening. Those in attendance had absolutely no suspicion that in eight months’ time, the Germania Club would be forced to suspend operations, and many of those who had gathered to celebrate King Wilhelm’s birthday would opt to change their names to avoid any Germanic association.

          As for Kaiser Wilhelm, it is safe to assume that the dinner on January 27, 1914 would be the last ever held in Hamilton in his honor.