1915-05-15gg

For the thousands of Hamiltonians filling the route of the great Military Parade of April 12, 1915, the presence of several motion picture cameras and operators was noted at the City Hall and several other locations.

Just over a month later, the film shot that day, along with much additional regarding Hamilton’s military units were ready to be shown to the public.

Following is how that opportunity to see the films was announced in the Hamilton Spectator of May 15, 1915:

“ A pleasing feature in connection with the Savoy’s picture policy, which goes into effect on Monday, will be the showing of pictures of Hamilton khaki-clad fighting men, the boys who have helped to win imperishable glory for the Dominion.

“Pictures will be shown of the artillerymen with the famous Fighting Eleventh, the crack Hamilton battery, which has made a name for itself on the bloody soil of Belgium; the 13^th and 91^st boys who took part in the brilliant charge at Langemarck and who suffered so heavily in the terrific fighting of the past few weeks, the ambulance men and engineers, some of the Princess Pats, the army service corps and other units that have gone from here.

“Pictures will also be shown of the second contingent men under Lieut.-Col. McLaren and the ambulance units, commanded by Lieut.-Col. Rennie and Lieut.-Col. Farmer.

“Many of the boys with the first contingent, as related in press dispatches for the past month or so, have been wounded or given up their lives in the fight for freedom’s cause.

“The display of the pictures at this time seems particularly appropriate and should prove a factor in stimulating recruiting when the call comes for the fourth contingent.”¹

¹ “Hamilton’s Heroes : Savoy Will Show Pictures of Fighting Men From Here:

Hamilton Spectator.   May 15, 1915