On the Trail of Poppies
The Dalkeith Historical Society (DHS) wanted to do something to remember and honour the local men and women who bravely fought in the Great War. On The Trail of Poppies was celebrated from September 10 to 13.
The four day celebration included music, entertainment, food, and memorabilia such as photos, letters, and much more. The walls of the Robertson Clark building were lined with photos and paintings. Frances Fraser of the DHS said there were 140 names of soldiers from the great general area that served including three nursing sisters, and two doctors. Photos of soldiers who had made the supreme sacrifice contained a small poppy in the corner.
A souvenir program created by DHS entitled On The Trail of Poppies included memorabilia, newspaper clippings, information, and photos of soldiers from the area. The majority of the boys listed in the book were born and raised in, or had a connection with Dalkeith and Lochiel. Others came from neighbouring communities.
At Thursday’s opening event there was an exhibit called On the Home Front, Quigley Highlands Pipes and Drums, and impersonator Gary Carpenter. “It was a very touching night,” said Rosalind Charest of the DHS. “Everyone got to light a candle in memory of a soldier. Pierre Lemieux was here too.”
Fraser created a book with pages of in- Photos of local soldiers who fought in World War I were on display at the Robertson Clark Hall during the On The Trail of Poppies WWI Tribute. formation, photos and letters from local soldiers. “Each soldier has a title page,” said Fraser. “Some have letters from home, and information on where they were and their rank. Some have nothing at all. The Gelineau family had five siblings that went to war, four brothers and a sister.”
Historians, children’s activities, and reenactments were all part of the event. The SD&G Army Cadets and Pipe Band, under the direction of Commanding Officer Steve Campbell, performed manoeuvres, drum rolls, colour party drills, and honour guard duty.
The last day, September 13, included the re-enactment of the Christmas Tree Truce of 1914 at the Laggan soccer field, with the unveiling of a wall mural created by local artists Susan Jephcott, and Maggie Dean on one of the buildings behind the Robertson Clark Hall.
The event finished off with afternoon tea and door prizes. A closing ceremony will be held on Saturday, November 7.