1915-03-13ee

The war that was supposed to be over by Christmas was still raging in March, 1915. In fact, it was escalating.

Hamiltonians were finally in the trenches and the dreaded telegrams were starting to arrive, informing families of the deaths of loved ones in battle.

The war was dominating nearly every phase of Hamilton life. One impact of the war was positive, however. Its impact on the local economy.

An article which appeared in the March 13 1915 issue of the Hamilton Times began as follows :

“That Hamilton has benefitted largely by the governments of France, Russia and Great Britain placing war orders in this country is shown in the fact that up to the present time orders amounting to $12,000,000 have been given to local manufacturers.”¹

¹ “Orders for Shells Reach $12,000,000”

Hamilton Times.   March 13, 1915.

The $12,000,000 order referenced was just for shells and their component parts. Orders had been also placed from Hamilton firms for shoes, uniforms, hats, wire fence, kitchen stoves and more, totally nearly $18,000,000 totally for local companies up to mid-March 1915.

As regards the shell orders, largest of all the orders by far, many Hamilton firms had to react quickly to be able to fill them :

“Many of the large east end plants have constructed new buildings, while others have taken out machinery that they had in their plants to make room for that which would be necessary to make the shells. Other plants have been working night and day on the orders.

“The largest shell orders were received by the Chadwick Brass Company. In all, the orders amounted to 400,000 shells, the Steel Company of Canada received the largest order for cartridge clips, amounting to 420,000 in all.

“The Canadian Westinghouse Company have the largest order for plugs and sockets, in all amount to 150,000.

“In nearly every case, the plants receiving these orders have been urged by the War Office to get busy at once, and as soon as one order is completed, there will be another forthcoming.

“The shells being made in this city, it has been stated, are unequalled in quality and workmanship by any other city’s work, taking the whole output of the city into consideration.”¹