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Anniversaries 1900/1920 - Perth Courier

supplied by Christine M. Spencer of Northwestern University, Evanston, Il., USA.

  c-spencer3@northwestern.edu


Perth Courier, March 9, 1900

On the evening of 1st March, Mr. and Mrs. John Cameron with a few of their friends, celebrated the fiftieth anniversary of their wedding.  Mr. Cameron was born in Argyleshire on the Island of Tyree in 1818(?), came to Canada with his widowed mother in the year 1820, spending their first ten years of Canadian life in what is now the city of Kingston.  From there the family moved to the Township of Dalhousie, he going to Perth where he worked as a wood worker for 14 years.  Three summers he spent as a tailor on Lake Ontario; was a volunteer at the time of the rebellion but was never called up to active service.  He was married to Effie McInnes, daughter of Archie McInnes of Dalhousie in 1850.  After spending a short time with his newly married wife, he went to the state of New York and worked on a farm to earn more money to start on their new farm on the 11th Concession of Osborne, Huron County, where his wife joined him the following summer.  Here they built their first log cabin and lived there until 1876.  Having no family they sold their farm and retired to their nice little cottage on the 6th (?) Concession of Osborne where they have lived comfortably ever since.  Having spent 80 years in Canada, Mr. Cameron is able to tell of many hardships and also of the pleasures of the early settlers for the people lived very happily in those days.  Mr. Cameron took an active part in everything that pertained to the interests of the country.  He has never been treated by a doctor in his life, is a great reader.  In religion he is a Presbyterian and in politics a Liberal.

Perth Courier, March 16, 1900

Mr. and Mrs. George Poole and the Misses Bertha and Ethel Poole attended the Golden Wedding of Mr. and Mrs. John Jackson near Lanark on Thursday last.

Perth Courier, July 6, 1900

On the occasion of the Golden Wedding of Mr. and Mrs. Archibald McDougall of Pilot Mound, Manitoba, mentioned in a late issue, the aged couple, among the other congratulatory letters, received the following from an old friend, S. H. McEathron, who was a resident of Perth fifty years ago: The writer being unable to be present at the 50th anniversary of our host and hostess has requested the privilege of contributing some lines which he hopes will be acceptable to the company. The earliest remembrance of our host is that of an honest country lad occasionally visiting the town of Perth where his parents were well known as upright and respectable citizens of North Sherbrooke.  As the children approached their majority it became necessary for some of them to leave the farm and seek employment elsewhere.  A congenial situation was found by our host in the commercial establishment of the Hon. William Morris of Perth where he remained six years. Similar circumstances brought to the writer’s acquaintance our worthy hostess, a modest and unassuming lass just blossoming into womanhood, visiting the store where I was employed with her parents and purchasing dainty and inexpensive articles.  During temporary visits to town we all became intimate and formed friendships the pleasing memories of which have been the benediction of our life.  It is a pleasing reflection that we do not forget the weekly debating club in Perth where our host was a “foeman worthy of his steel”.  It was there amid such happy surroundings that our now aged friends formed the attachment that resulted in their marriage on the 21st June, 1850 at the home of the bride’s parents.  They lived in Smith’s Falls for 15 years.  Here they met their first great sorrow in the death of their first born—a lively daughter—and afterwards of a bright son.  Mr. McDougall took an active part in the municipal and educational interests of the town and was held in such high esteem that on leaving, the citizens assembled in a public meeting and presented him with a commendatory address and other testimonials of respect, recognizing his valuable public service. Mrs. McDougall filled her place with equal ability and she was equally appreciated.  In the fall of 18??, our friends moved to Seaforth, Ontario where their flattering prospects were terminated on December 18, 18?? By a disastrous fire which destroyed the principal part of town.  In this misfortune they lost the accumulation of 15 years.  In October of 1869(?) they again changed their residence to Paisley, County Bruce.  In the latter place they were as active in public matters as they had been in Smith’s Falls and were equally esteemed. Uniting with the Baptist Church in Perth, he in 1845 and she in 1848, they have always taken an active part in all church work in the several communities where their lot has been cast.  Their home in Smith’s Falls has been termed the “Baptist Hotel” where many a weary Baptist ministers and missionaries found a welcome resting place. Three sons and two daughters were the fruit of their union one daughter and one son are sleeping in the humble cemetery of Smith’s Falls.  One son is a jeweler in Winnipeg; the other son is a farmer near Pilot Mound, Manitoba.  The daughter is with her parents, caring for them in their declining years. The McDougalls came from Scotland.  He is the son of Duncan McDougall, who with a thousand fellow passengers embarked from Argylshire in 1821 under the auspices of the British government and settled in North Sherbrooke Township.  The father of our hostess was John A. Murdock a gentleman of learning and intelligence for many years superintendent of schools in the county of Lanark. Although the labors of a long and active life have bowed the frames of our aged friends, the cares incident to humanity have ploughed furrows on their brows and time has traced lines on their countenances, but these have not diminished their respect and attachment for each other.

Perth Courier, April 11, 1902

Harper:  Quite a number of guests assembled at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Butler here on Wednesday evening to celebrate their Golden Wedding.  Mr. and Mrs. Butler received many presents and an enjoyable time was spent by all.

Perth Courier, November 29, 1901

Mr. and Mrs. William Dowsley of Frankville were married fifty years ago when she was a girl of 16 and he a sturdy young man of 20 years.  Not a link is broken in the family circle.  They celebrated their Golden Wedding last week.  Gazette

Perth Courier, December 6, 1901

Friday, Nov. 22nd, was the 25th anniversary of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. P.N. Sinclair of this town and the event was fittingly celebrated in the evening by the family and friends, about forty of whom gathered to extend congratulations.  The early part of the evening in a thoroughly enjoyable game of crokinole after which the party sat down to a sumptuous repast.  When the delicacies had been partaken of, brief but warm addresses were made by Rev. D. Currie and others congratulating Mr. and Mrs. Sinclair on the completion of 25 years of married life and expressing the good wishes of all that they might have many more years of happiness, health and prosperity together.  Mr. Sinclair briefly replied.  The remainder of the evening was spent in social intercourse and singing. The house was beautifully decorated with natural flowers, roses, carnations, etc.  Mr. and Mrs. Sinclair were the recipients of many silver tokens of the esteem in which they are held by their many friends.

Perth Courier, December 20, 1901

On Wednesday of last week, a number of friends and relatives from Perth and elsewhere met at the residence of Mr. John McCallum, Smith’s Falls, to celebrate his Golden Wedding.  On December 11, 1851, 50 years ago, Mr. McCallum was united in wedlock with Miss Grace McQueen in Kardiasa(?), Argyleshire, Scotland, where three of their children, Neil McCallum, of this town, and two sisters were born.  In 1859 they came to Canada and settled in Perth, where he and his family regularly attended Knox Church.  From Perth they moved to North Elmsley and in 1867(?) or 1887(?) they moved to Smith’s Falls.  Since coming to Canada, two sons were born and now their descendants number twenty in all, many of whom rejoiced with the aged couple in their jubilee.  The celebration was most hearty and enjoyable, a testimony to the enduring joy of a happy marriage and the devotion of children and friends.  Mr. and Mrs. McCallum, although their locks are silvery, are still vigorous and Mr. McCallum takes his place as a leading and one of the most citizens of Smith’s Falls and regularly attends St. Paul’s Church.  Two of their sons, Neil and James, with their families, are respected citizens of this town. The Courier wishes to join many in the congratulations to this genial couple and trusts they will be spared to spend many more years together.

Perth Courier, April 11, 1902

On Wednesday of last week Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Butler of Harper celebrated with their seven children, fourteen grandchildren and two great-grandchildren the 50th anniversary of their wedding, which was performed in St. James Church, Perth on the 2nd April, 1852, by the rector at that time Rev. James Harris.  The anniversary was held at the homestead where Mr. and Mrs. Butler have spent so many happy days together.  All the living children were present.  Of these, William H. Butler lives on the homestead; John Butler is at Harper; Thomas G. Butler is in Westport; Joseph H. Butler is at Ottawa; Alice (Mrs. John Thornton) is on the 8th Line Bathurst; Florence (Mrs. W.E. Cameron) is at Wemyss; Lily (Mrs. John J. Dier) is at Westport.  Three of the other children died in infancy.  Another, Jane (Mrs. James Chaplin) died several years ago but was represented by her daughter Mrs. Joseph Warren whose two children, the great-grandchildren, were present.  The family are remarkable for their weight.  The parents and seven children weigh a total of 1,834 pounds.  Mr. Butler’s four brothers are:  William Butler of Ottawa; John Butler of Arnprior; Joseph H. Butler of Newboro; George Butler of Perth; and his sister Mrs. John Warren of Oso were all present as were also Mrs. Butler’s two sisters Mrs. Benjamin Cavanagh of Wemyss and Mrs. Walker of Markdale and her brother William of Ottawa.  In all, 70 guests assisted in the celebration.  The task of entertainment devolved upon Mrs. W. H. Butler who lives on the homestead and who did everything with such charm that praise was heard on every side.  After the wedding dinner Rev. C.A. Heaven delivered a congratulatory address expressing the joy all present felt that it was possible to celebrate such an occasion and uttering the hope that Mr. and Mrs. Butler might be granted many more years together.  After this, an address was read on behalf of the children which was full of warmth and love.  Among the presents received were twenty dollars in gold and many golden ornaments and articles of use.

Perth Courier, June 20, 1902

On Monday last a family gathering took place at the home of Mr. and Mrs. John G. Campbell, D’Arcy Street, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their marriage or as it is termed in a fine old phrase handed down from long ago, their “golden wedding”.  On the 16th of June, 1852, John G. Campbell and Helen Isabella Murdoch were made man and wife at the home of the bride’s father, John A. Murdoch of Bathurst, Superintendent of Education for the district, their wedding trip being to their new home in the county of Lambton, where the Hon. Malcolm Cameron, a friend of the families, had established a settlement.  After a few years they returned to this county, where they have resided ever since, the latter thirty years of so of their lives having been spent in Perth.  The golden anniversary gathering was a very happy one and parents, children and grandchildren met together and found mutual enjoyment and pleasure in family intercourse.  The usual mementos were not forgotten nor were the heartfelt congratulations of outside friends all of whom wish most sincerely there will be a diamond celebration in the same home when twenty five more years have passed by.

Perth Courier, June 27, 1902

On Tuesday, June 17, Mr. and Mrs. Abel Wright, formerly of Oliver’s Ferry, celebrated at their residence, 332 Baker Street, Own Sound, the anniversary of their Golden Wedding.  It was made the occasion of a family reunion.  The family there were present:  Thomas Wright and family of Chatsworth; Mr. and Mrs. Abel Wright and family of Markdale; Mr. and Mrs. H. D.(?) or B.(?) Armstrong and family from Paniswick(?); Miss Maggie Wright and Dr. A. F.(?) Wright of Plainville, N.Y.  Besides these, there were present John Dobie, Master Somerville Dobie, Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Dobie of Chesley and many other friends.  Mr. and Mrs. Wright received a purse of gold from the family and several other valuable and useful presents.  Altogether a very enjoyable day was spent.

Perth Courier, July 18, 1902

Twenty five years ago last Friday, July 11, John A. McLenaghan of Drummond and Elizabeth McIlquham were united in wedlock by Rev. Jas. Wilson, Presbyterian minister, Lanark, at the residence of the bride’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. James McIlquham, lower Mississippi bridge, Drummond.  A quarter of a century elapsed and on Friday last came round the silver anniversary of the happy event and the occasion was duly celebrated.  Mr. and Mrs. McLenaghan reside on the old Gould farm, Balderson, a beautiful and fertile expanse of 158 acres teeming this year with a wealth of luxurious crops including the finest yield of barley to be seen in this county and at their comfortable home fifty friends and neighbors came over to celebrate the event all showing their appreciation of the social and personal qualities of the host and hostess by bringing suitable presents in commemoration of the event.  The Rev. J.S. McIlraith of Balderson presided at the festive board where a sumptuous repast was partaken of and made a suitable and happy address of the occasion of the silver wedding and the principals.  Besides the guests, the family of Mr. and Mrs. McLenaghan, numbering six  daughters and one son, were present.

Perth Courier, February 2, 1903

The house of Mr. and Mrs. John Bowes of Harper was the scene of a brilliant event Saturday evening Feb. 14.  The celebration was of Mr. and Mrs. Bowes’ Silver Wedding Anniversary.  About 45 invited guests were present among them being the groomsman.  The bridesmaid was unable to be present owing to her home being in the west.  Dinner was served at 4:30 and the remainder of the evening was spent in games, music and social intercourse.  Mr. and Mrs. Bowes were the recipients of many beautiful gifts.  May they live to celebrate their Golden Wedding.

Perth Courier, Feb. 27, 1903

Fallbrook:  Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Bell had a party last week to celebrate their Silver Wedding Anniversary.

Balderson:  Mr. and Mrs. Charles Bell celebrated their China Wedding Anniversary on Thursday and entertained quite a number of friends and acquaintances who congratulated them on the 20th anniversary of their marriage and wished them many happy returns of the happy event.

Perth Courier, August 21, 1903

Christie’s Lake:  Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Marks of “Lake View Farm” will celebrate their Golden Wedding on November 18, 1903. 

Perth Courier, November 27, 1903

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Marks of Christie’s Lake celebrated their Golden Wedding on Wednesday of last week and were surrounded by a large number of relatives.  Fifty years ago Mr. and Mrs. Marks were married in Perth and have resided on the homestead during that long span of life.  The Golden Jubilee of the venerable couple is of interest not only to the residents of this town and district but also the people of all the towns and cities of Ontario on account of the frequent visits to those places of the three dramatic companies owned and managed by their three sons.  R.W. Marks brought his company over from New York to play in Kingston last week so that he could be within easy traveling distance of Perth.  The genial R.W. was the only son who was able to get home.  Tom Marks and his company are in Michigan and Joe, Alex and Ernie are in St. Thomas.  Mr. and Mrs. Marks have a right to be proud of the achievements of their sons.  The Courier’s wish is that their declining days will be blessed with happiness.

Rev. A.A. Scott who for 25 years has been the pastor of Zion Presbyterian Church in Carleton Place, celebrated his 25th wedding anniversary last week by opening a house to the congregation on Thursday and Friday afternoon and evening.

Perth Courier, Feb. 5, 1904

Mr. and Mrs. W.J. Miller of Carrievale A - - - were married on December 25, 1878 by Rev. John Brown, then pastor of the Congregational Church in Lanark Village.  They lived for nine years in the Township of Lanark two miles from Lanark Village.  In 1887 they moved to the vicinity of Brandon where they remained four years and in 1901 they went to live near their present home.  On Christmas Day they celebrated the 25th anniversary of their marriage.

Perth Courier, Feb. 5, 1904

On Friday, January 22, a number of friends of Mr. and Mrs. T.B. Caldwell assembled at their house to congratulate them on the occasion of their Silver Wedding anniversary.  Many were the kind wishes received by them on that day.  Early in the evening they were waited upon by the heads of the departments when Mr. T. Costello read an address expressing the good wishes of Mr. Caldwell’s employees.  After the reading of the address, Mr. and Mrs. Caldwell were the recipients of a beautiful sterling silver tea service from the overseer and office staff of the Clyde Woolen Mill.  The surprise of the host and hostess had scarcely abated when they were presented with a unique and pretty oxidized silver gypsy sugar bowl suspended on a rustic tripod, the gift of the managers in the store, office and saw mills.  The remainder of the evening was spent in amusements of all kinds consisting of songs, games and dancing.  Most of the Bohemian Club were present and enlivened the evening by their happy rendering of several ballads.  A splendid repast was served after which the surprise party dispersed to dream about the happy evening they had spent.  Mr. and Mrs. Caldwell are very grateful for the kind expressions to them.  They also received many other tokens of kindness from others.

Perth Courier, May 13, 1904

Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Miller residing in Elizabethtown, a short distance from Brockville, have just celebrated the 55th anniversary of their marriage.  Both are hale and hearty.

Perth Courier, May 27, 1904

Mr. and Mrs. John Ferguson of Wolford celebrated their Golden Wedding on Monday, May 23.  Mr. Ferguson is one of the most respected persons in the Rideau District and enjoys a reputation of being a clear and strong thinker, a man of independent mind and a loyal, public spirited citizen.

Perth Courier, December 16, 1904

A very pleasant and notable event occurred at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Menzies on Wednesday, December 7, when Mr. and Mrs. Menzies celebrated their Golden Wedding.  They were married on December 7, 1854 and are both hale and hearty.  A rare coincidence with the affair was the presence of Mr. and Mrs. Menzies’ bridesmaid and groomsman in the persons of Mrs. A. H. Norris of Althorpe and Mrs. William Menzies of Lanark.  (Transcriber’s note, this must have been a typo, one of these was a “Mr.” not a “Mrs.”)  Not often do all four live so near each other for fifty years and be present at the Golden Wedding.  Besides a goodly number of friends and relatives, all their own family were present except Mrs. Dowdall of Portland, Oregon and Miss Lizzie Menzies of Salem.  After all had heartily partaken of a bountiful supper prepared for the occasion the remainder of the evening was enjoyable spent in singing and various other amusements.  The many beautiful presents which the worthy couple received testify to the high esteem in which they are held in the community.  That they may spend many more years in comfort and happiness is the wish of their numerous friends.

Perth Courier, Feb. 3, 1905

The Lanark Era last week published a long account of the Golden Anniversary of the wedding of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Baird of Motherwell, Ontario on Friday, December 30.  The old couple are natives of Lanark and have many relatives in this district.  Mrs. A. Stewart of Balderson is a niece.  Mr. and Mrs. Baird were blessed with a large family of seven sons and five daughters in all, not one of them being absent from the parental home at the time.  The children presented their parents with a most handsome illustrated address, the workmanship of which was executed in New York.  In addition to this, a purse containing $60 in gold was given to the mother while the father was made the recipient of a pair of gold spectacles.  Charles Baird and Agnes Browning were born in Lanark Village of Scotch parentage and when the former had attained manhood years he went west to Fullerton Township in 1851(?) to spy out the land.  They were married in 1854.

Perth Courier, April 13, 1906

Mr. and Mrs. James Crosbie celebrated their Golden Wedding on the evening of the 28th ult.  Mr. Crosbie is a native of Scotland.  When a child, his parents came to America settling in Dalhousie where he has since resided.  Mrs. Crosbie whose maiden name was Jane Richmond, was also a native of Scotland.  She with her sister Isabella, orphans, aged respectively 12 and 10, came to live with their aunt near Middleville.  Mr. and Mrs. Crosbie were united in marriage by Rev. James Geggie(?) in the manse at McDonald’s Corners and then took up residence at Isadore(?) where they have ever since resides, their industry and frugality gaining for them a beautiful home and every comfort in their declining years.  On the evening of their anniversary they were surrounded by their children and grandchildren and a few acquaintances who, after partaking of a sumptuous repast, spent a very pleasant evening in music and dancing and well rendered recitations by the children, and games.  The many and costly presents which they received testified to the love and esteem in which they are held.  Their children are as follows:  James, their eldest son and George their youngest son are still under the parental roof; Mrs. David Horn at Middleville and Mrs. Robert Horn at Hood’s.  The whereabouts of their second son William are unknown.  Mr. Crosbie will be 80 years old and Mrs. Crosbie will be 71 if spared until their respective birthdays.

Mr. and Mrs. S. H. McEathron of Huron, South Dakota celebrated their Golden Wedding Saturday, March 17, says the Daily Huronite of March 16.  Some fifty or more friends of the aged couple responded to invitations sent out and all present spent a very enjoyable evening.  Elaborate and appetizing refreshments were served.  The parlors were most prettily decorated with pink, white and yellow carnations while larger bouquets of daffodils and hyacinths adorned the mantels and stands.  Mr. and Mrs. McEathron were the recipients of many and costly presents bestowed upon them by their friends.  Aside from the other gifts they were presented with was a purse of gold including a very liberal gift from the Baptist Church which Mr. McEathron has served in the capacity of deacon for the past seven years.  The souvenirs of the evening were golden hearts.  Mrs. McEathron’s maiden name was Eliza Ann Ross and she was born In Cababra(?) Alabama on Feb. 10, 1833.  She is the only native of Alabama living in this city.  Mr. McEathron was born in Perth, on September 5, 1833.  They were married on March 17, 1856 by Rev. J. E. Ambrose at Lena, Illinois.  Both Mr. and Mrs. McEathron are Baptists from the ground up.  Mrs. McEathron was baptized in the Atlantic Ocean when she was eight years old.  Mr. McEathron was baptized when a small boy in the River Tay.  They moved to Beadle(?) County in 1897 and for a number of years lived on the McEathron ranch northeast of Huron and since 1902 have resided in this city.  J.W. McEathron of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, a brother was the only relative present from outside the town.

Perth Courier, April 13, 1905

On May 3 Mr. and Mrs. Michael Hovey of Arnprior are to celebrate the silver anniversary of their marriage.

Mr. and Mrs. Jas. H. Wylie of Almonte celebrated the 50th Anniversary of their marriage at Burnside on October 15, says the Gazette:  “Mr. Wylie was born in Perth on July 11, 1825 and is now in his 82nd year.  Mrs. Wylie was a daughter of the late Peter Maitland of Kilmarnock.  They came to Almonte in the early years of the town and Mr. Wylie has been closely identified with its growth and progress since then—so much so that for many years he was the central figure around which many of the interests of the town were clustered.  That being the case it was no wonder that so many townspeople were so interested in the present occasion and that so many messages of congratulations and good wishes from beyond their own home reached Mr. and Mrs. Wylie.  Only immediate relatives were present among them being the three sons and four daughters, an unbroken family circle.  A remarkable thing in connection with the family history is that not a single break has been made in the circle.  Our wish is that Mr. and Mrs. Wylie, their seven children, their spouses and their 18 grandchildren be spared to enjoy many more years.”

Perth Courier, April 20, 1906

The 25th anniversary of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. William Barker, 8th (?) Line Ramsay, was celebrated on April 12.

Perth Courier, July 7, 1907

Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Brady of Manion celebrated the 40th anniversary of their marriage this week.  They were remembered in many ways by their host of friends who expressed the wish that they might live to celebrate their Golden Wedding.

Perth Courier, Jan. 30, 1908

Reeve James Allan and his wife of the Scotch Line celebrated the 25th anniversary of their marriage the other evening.  They were married on Jan. 19, 1883 and have always resided on the Scotch Line.  A large number of their friends and relatives were present and made the evening a very pleasant event.  All wished Mr. and Mrs. Allan many happy returns and the hope was expressed that they would both live to enjoy the Golden Wedding.

Perth Courier, Jan. 15, 1909

‘Tis a far cry from 1859 to 19098 but the space was spanned successfully and with constant faith in each other by Mr. and Mrs. James Noonan of D’Arcy Street.  On the 10th January, 1859 in St. John’s Church, Perth, James Noonan was married by Rev. Father John McDonagh to Margaret Hogan, daughter of Daniel Hogan of Bathurst and on Monday of this week the Golden Wedding Anniversary was duly celebrated.  “Tis an event few are privileged to enjoy and the distinction that had come to Mr. and Mrs. Noonan is all the more to be recognized.  Fifty years is the best part of our natural lives.  In that great span are crowded many joys and many sorrows, many failures and many successes yet they make up life and few of those who experience them wish they had never tasted life.  Life loomed large and bright to the two elderly residents on the morning of the 10th of this month fifty years ago and it is only natural that the day’s events should be remembered and recounted by the principals and their friends who were present.  The ceremony, of course, had its after celebration then in vogue and the banging of the crane was honored in thronging merriment and fun. The assistants in the wedding 50 years ago were Miss Catherine Tovey, daughter of the late James Tovey, now Mrs. Michael Murphy of Drummond Street east as bridesmaid and James Brady of Bathurst, groomsman and they were among the honored guests on Monday’s festive occasion.  The good father who celebrated the nuptial mass has long since gone to his reward. Richard Hogan of Bathurst who played the old fashioned fiddle fifty years ago for the young couple and their friends was present on Monday and again displayed his skill with the bow taking keen delight in playing for one set, formed of the bride and groom, bridesmaid and groomsman, Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Brady and Mrs. And Mrs. James Balderson(?), all of whom are relatives of the principals and were present at the wedding.  Other relatives present then and now are Mr. Leacy(?) of town; Mrs. Richard Hogan and Mr. Pete Noonan of Bathurst; D.R. Noonan and Michael McC - - - of town.  It is needles to say that the spirit of Monday’s occasion was entered into as freely as the primary event on the marriage day.  Guests were present from many quarters and had their tokens of respect and esteem to the venerable couple.  Mr. and Mrs. Noonan are natives of Bathurst and for 31(?) years lived on Lot 17, 2nd(?) Concession.  Mr. Noonan’s (two illegible words) in 18?? They moved to Glen Tay and 7(?) years ago they came to Perth to reside.  He was a successful farmer but he will be remembered best by the community as a cattle drover in which occupation he is still engaged.  Even with the weight of years he carried it is not a difficult task for him to walk in from Elliott or Manion(?) on a cool summer evening.  Mr. Noonan has the advantage of a good common school education, was diligent in his studies and although obliged to work hard, became a master of much useful information and  knowledge.  He took a deep interest in municipal affairs and served his township in council for 20 years.  He was a reeve and deputy reeve and as such a member of the county council, sat at the last session of the United Council of Lanark and Renfrew.  He was a county warden in 1887.  Mr. Noonan was and still is a stickler for correct procedure according to municipal law and always regarded the electors confidence so expressed at the polls as a sacred trust.  Of late years he has served the county as auditor.  Politically he is a Conservative and a staunch supporter and worker for Hon. John Haggart.  Six sons and one daughter survive and the grandchildren number 35.  The family are John and James, butchers in town; Richard T., clerk of Burgess; William, a blacksmith at Balderson; Peter, a miner in North Burgess; Daniel of the C.P.R., a brakeman at Smith’s Falls and Mrs. William DeWitt of Elliott.

Perth Courier, Feb. 19, 1909

Mr. and Mrs. W.R. Tennant recently celebrated their 25th anniversary at their big bright home in Lanark.

Perth Courier, August 27, 1909

The home of Mr. and Mrs. Henry McDonald, Sr., Drummond, was the scene of a most joyful and delightful occasion on August 24 when they celebrated their Golden Wedding.  Mr. McDonald and Miss Dick of Perth were married on August 22, 1859 at the manse, Lanark by Rev. Mr. Fraser.  All these years, their married life has been spent in Drummond where two sons and two daughters (one deceased) have grown up around them.  Living in a community among many friends and numerous relatives those fifty years, have been full of much happiness, comfort and prosperity.  Mr. and Mrs. McDonald are rich in possessing 13 grandchildren.  All their children were present on this the 50th anniversary of their marriage.  A splendid wedding dinner was served.  Although the “bride and groom” are so well advanced in years, they are still young at heart.  The joy of the Lord has been their strength.  None entered into the festivities more than the “happy couple”.  At the close, the bride and groom of fifty years were presented by their children with golden gifts.  Mr. and Mrs. McDonald have been members of the Presbyterian Church for thirty years.  Their family are active working members also many of their grandchildren.  Mr. McDonald has held the office of township treasurer for 27 years,

Perth Courier, September 3, 1909

Mr. and Mrs. Jno Splane went out to Drummond on Monday last to be present at the 50th Anniversary of the wedding of Mr. and Mrs. McDonald.

Perth Courier, November 19, 1909

Mr. and Mrs. William Burns of Darling celebrated the 25th anniversary of their wedding on the 5th inst.

Perth Courier, Jan. 21, 1910

Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Woods of Lanark celebrated the golden anniversary of their marriage on January 2, 1910.  Mr. Woods was born in County Tyrone, Ireland on October 31, 1927.  He came to Canada in 1840, settling in Lanark Township in 1841 and retired in 1892 and after six years at Carleton Place, went to live at Lanark Village where he has resided continuously ever since.  Mrs. Woods’ maiden name was Ellen Smith.

Perth Courier, May 24, 1912

The social function of the season in Perth was an at home reception held on Tuesday evening by Judge and Mrs. Senkler, the occasion being the 50th anniversary of their wedding.  All their immediate family and relatives within distance were present and a large number of citizens from Perth and other towns in the county called to congratulate them.  It was a source of pleasure to all to find their host and hostess in good health and keen enjoyment of the event and the fond memories it called up of other days.  From the Bar of the county and court house officials, Mr. and Mrs. Senkler received a cabinet of sterling silver beautifully engraved.  The address accompanied it was read by E.G. Malloch, K.C., Crown Attorney.  The church, which both have served so long and faithfully, remembered the occasion and through its present officials of the parish bore its words of esteem and congratulations.  Among the out of town guests were:

Mr. and Mrs. B.E. Chaffey of Winnipeg

Mrs. Albert E. Senkler, St. Paul, Minnesota

Miss Malloch, Hamilton

Mr. and Mrs. E.S. Senkler of Bowmanville

Dr. and Mrs. Gardiner of Kingston

Miss Senkler, Judge and Mrs. Reynolds, Mrs. W.T. Reynolds, Lt. Col. W.S. Buell of Brockville

Mr. and Mrs. J.P. Tett, Miss Tett, Dr. R.H. Preston, Newboro

Mr. and Mrs. B. Tett, Bedford Mills

Dr. and Mrs. Morgan Senkler of Westmount

Rev. Dr. and Mrs. Hart, Winnipeg

Dr. R.F. Preston, M.P.P., Carleton Place

Mr. T.B. Caldwell, ex M.P., B.A.C., Caldwell

Mrs. W.C. Caldwell, Lanark

In consideration of the event, one must not overlook the biography of Judge and Mrs. Senkler.  The judge is an Englishman by birth having been born in Doching(?)Docking(?), Norfolk County, England on 15th Jan., 1838.  He as a son of Rev. Edmund John Senkler, M.A. of Cains College, Cambridge, a clergyman of the Church of England.  His mother was Eleanor Elizabeth Stevens, daughter of Rev. William Stevens, M.A., of Sedberg(?), Yorkshire, England.  The parents of Judge Senkler with their family of nine children came to Canada in May of 1843 locating in Quebec where for some time Rev. Mr. Senkler was a rector of the high school.  Later he moved to Sorat(?) and in September of 1847 he moved to Brockville where he died on October 28, 1872.  Mrs. Senkler followed him to the grave on 16th March, 1873.  The education of Judge Senkler was the care of his father and the future judge commenced life in mercantile pursuits.  With the desire for law uppermost in his mind, he studied with Hon. A.N. Richards, the late Lt. Governor of British Columbia and also with the late Hon. Edward Blake.  He was admitted as solicitor during the Michaelmas term of 1860 and was called to the bar in Trinity term, 1861.  The judge began his practice in law in Brockville first with the late J.D. Buell then with Hon. A.N. Richards and lastly with his brother the late Edmund John Senkler (afterwards county judge at Lincoln) and continued in Brockville until December of 1873 when he was appointed Judge of the County Court and County of Lanark, succeeding Judge Malloch.  Then following this appointment others came:  on the 15th October, 1875, he was appointed Master in Chancery here by the judges of he court; on the 10th October, 1877, Referee of titles by the Judges of the Court of Chancery; on March 14, 1882 local judge of the High Court of Justice for Ontario; and on October 26, 1885 revising office for South Lanark by the MadDonald government.  Judge Senkler has taken an active interest in church, education and military matters.  He has helped to organize the Brockville light infantry attaining the rank of ensign.  True to the traditions of his house, he is a member of the Church of England and served as church warden in St. Peter’s Church, Brockville and St. James Church, Perth for several years.  For 31 years he has represented the Perth parish at synod and much to the regret of St. James Church, declined re-election at their last vestry meeting.  In educational matters, Judge Senkler has devoted much interest and energy.  He is a member of the Board of Education, first representing the county as Collegiate Trustee and since 1892 has been a public school trustee for the centre ward.  He was chairman in 1893 and 1894.  the judge is especially concerned with public school affairs.  His Honor served the town on the public library board being an appointee of the town council and for several years has been chairman.  The marriage of Judge and Mrs. Senkler took place on May 21, 1862 and was celebrated by the late Rev. Dr. Adamson in the Episcopal Cathedral in Quebec.  Mrs. Senkler is a daughter of the late Benjamin Tait of Newboro who at that time represented South Leeds in the Parliament of Canada and who sat for the same riding in the first parliament of Ontario.  The issue of this marriage was two daughters and one son.

Perth Courier, October 25, 1912

Mr. and Mrs. James E. McCann of Westport celebrated their Silver Wedding on Saturday, October 5 by entertaining a number of friends.

Mr. and Mrs. W. A. Hunter of Pembroke celebrated their Golden Wedding on October 15.

Mr. and Mrs. Charles O’Reilly, the genial host of the Hotel Rideau and his estimable wife, Smith’s Falls, celebrated last Friday the 20th anniversary of their married life and were the recipients of many warm congratulations from their friends.

Perth Courier, November 15, 1912

Mr. and Mrs. Peter R. McTavish of North Elmsley celebrated their 25th Wedding Anniversary on the evening of November 9.  Mrs. McTavish looked very becoming in her wedding dress of garnet satin; they enjoyed a quiet evening by themselves.  Mr. and Mrs. McTavish are both hale and hearty.

Perth Courier, Feb. 13, 1914

Drummond Township honored Mr. and Mrs. Thomas H. Ireton last Friday evening, the occasion being the 25th Anniversary of their wedding and in the merry throng of 200 or more, they gathered in the Orange Hall.  There were many well wishers beyond the bounds of the township.  Thomas H. Ireton and Margaret Elizabeth Cunningham, daughter of the late William Cunningham of Drummond, were united in marriage on feb. 6, 1889.  The marriage took place at Christ’s Church Cathedral, Ottawa by Rev. Canon Muckleston, formerly of Perth.  The bridesmaids were Miss Sarah A. Willows, a friend of the bride and the groomsman Thomas R. Ireton, is a cousin of the groom.  The family consists of four sons:  Thomas W., and George at home; Harry of Toronto University; Allan at the Perth Collegiate Institute.  Since their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Ireton have lived on the 7th Concession Drummond.  Beautiful gifts in silver cut glass and china spoke to the esteem all hold for Mr. and Mrs. Ireton.  There own immediate neighbors presented a beautiful silver service.  Dancing was a delightful pastime thoroughly enjoyed, music being furnished by Messrs. Richard Dowdall and son Lorne and Richard Doyle.

Mr. and Mrs. John Dunlop, Union Hall, celebrated the 50th anniversary of their marriage at their son William.  The bride was Euphemia Stevenson.  The bridesmaid was Miss Annie Scott who was present and the only living witness of fifty years ago.  Mr. Dunlop, although not in the best of health at present, belongs to a long lived race.  His brother, Charles Dunlop of Pakenham, who is in his 90th year, was able to drive that distance with his son John to attend the dinner and reception.  Two sisters living in White Church(?), Ontario are both advanced in years one being 82 and the other 87.  The late Mrs. McLean of the 7th Line Ramsay was a sister who died September 19, 1900 and was then 86.  Mrs. Dunlop was Euphemia Stevenson, daughter of the late Alexander Stephenson and sister of the late Norman and Andrew Stevenson who died in Almonte a few years ago.  Two sisters were the late Mrs. Thomas McFarlane near Carberry, Man., and the late Mrs. John Rintoni(?) near Wingham, Ontario.

Perth Courier, June 26, 1914

Edward Welsh, who operated a shingle mill at Playfairville about thirty years ago was one of the early immigrants to the Canadian west in the ‘80’s.  He was a well known resident of Playfair district who to distinguish him from others of the same name was called “little” John Playfair.  Mr. and Mrs. Welsh are both living yet which their many friends in the old place and elsewhere will be glad to learn.  Lately they had their Golden Wedding which is thus described in the Baldur, Manitoba Gazette:  Mr. and Mrs. Edward Welsh, old residents of this town and district, were the central figures in a very interesting event when on the afternoon and evening of Thursday, May 21, surrounded by six children and grandchildren to the fourth generation, brothers and sisters, nephews and nieces, grand-nephews and nieces, friends and neighbors, they celebrated their Golden Wedding and despite the years, the toil of the journey and the battles, by the way the faces of those two shone as radiantly as in youth as they received and entertained the merry crowd of young and old who came to rejoice with them in their attainment to a half century of happy wedded life.  Three stalwart sons, William of Baldur; George of Plunkett, Sask., and Fred of Baldur, were present to rejoice with their parents on this happy occasion.  The only real cloud on their sky was the absence in the far west of their only daughter Mrs. Smith.  Many little gifts accompanied by good wishes marked this day, one of the features of which was the presentation of a purse of gold to the bride and groom of fifty years ago, as a token of the kindly feelings of those about them and reminder of the wealth that belongs to the man and his mate who have been spared to each other for five decades.”

Perth Courier, Jan. 29, 1915

Photos Accompany This Article in the Paper

Wednesday, Jan. 20 was a day long to be remembered by Mr. and Mrs. John Malloch of Drummond and for the remainder of their lives will be a day to look back on with pleasant recollections.  To comparatively few couples is it granted to live together a full half century and the completion of fifty years of married life was the occasion of the happy event which took place on Wednesday last.  The gathering numbered 25 or 30 and included all of the family with the exception of two of the children who are living in Saskatchewan.  Among the gathering were four who were present at the happy event of a half century ago those being William McLaren and Christina McLaren of Drummond, Mrs. James Horton of Herron’s Mills and Mrs. John Kelly of Drummond, formerly Miss Janet Stewart, sister of Mrs. Malloch.  Rev. Mr. Grieg of Balderson was also present last Wednesday.  A splendid dinner and social intercourse and felicitations to Mr. and Mrs. Malloch were the order of the day which was greatly enjoyed. Mr. and Mrs. Malloch were married in Perth by Rev. J.B. Duncan on Jan. 20, 1865 and spent the whole of their married life in Drummond and Mr. Malloch himself was a native of that township having been born on the farm on which he is still living.  His parents came to Canada in 1832 from Perthshire, Scotland.  Mrs. Malloch’s maiden name was Mary Stewart and she was a native of Sterlingshire, Scotland, coming to this country with her parents in 1846 when she was only two years of age.  Mr. Malloch is now 70 years of age and his aged partner is 71 and both of them are in the full enjoyment of health.  It is interesting to note that the bridesmaid and bridegroom of the event a half century ago are still living.  They are Mrs. James Herron of Herron’s Mills and George Patterson of Almonte.  This union was blessed with eight children:  Mrs. George Lewis and Daniel Malloch of Drummond; Miss Maggie of Saskatoon, Sask.; and John Malloch in Kinley(?), Sask. And William, Annie and Duncan and James at home.

Perth Courier, November 8, 1918

On Tuesday night the residence of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Taylor shone with an extra illumination and movement inside, indications that something more than ordinary was in progress there.  The solution was that a special car—the “Glasgow” had just arrived on the Perth local from Montreal bringing in it 14 residents of that city and the object of their visit to aid in the celebration of the Golden Wedding of Mr. and Mrs. Taylor.  The occupants of the special car were relatives of Mrs. Taylor and among them and the manager of the merry company was H.E. Suckling(?), brother-in-law of Mrs. Taylor and Treasurer of the Canadian Pacific Railway. 

Fifty years ago Henry Taylor, a young man from Scotland’s capital city and Miss Sarah Massey, daughter of the late Rev. Samuel Massey, were united in the holy bonds of matrimony in Montreal by Rev. Henry Wilkes, D.D., pastor of the leading Congregational Church in that city.  A few years afterwards the young couple moved to Perth where Mr. Taylor had purchased a hardware store and where they have remained most of their fifty years of married life, honored and respected citizens.  Mr. Taylor for years filled with efficiency and rectitude the position of police magistrate of the town.  During all these years they have seen numerous married couples, their peers in age and vigor, pass away from life but they have lived on in health and strength until the jubilee of their married life was reached and the time for the celebration of their Golden Wedding came.  Their many friends in town and elsewhere remembered them and the occasion with gifts of china, silverware, pictures, flowers, etc., and among these tokens were boxes filled with golden coins of the realm.  One of these came from Mrs. George Mansay(?) Massey(?) of New York, sister-in-law of Mrs. Taylor.  This anniversary brings up the thought that very few married people are given by Providence the opportunity of having a Golden Wedding demonstration and so there should be in its celebration a golden thread of joy and thankfulness by all interested in such an event.

Perth Courier, September 17, 1915

Mr. and Mrs. J.W. Gamble celebrated the 25th anniversary of their wedding at their home on Wilson Street on Friday evening last.  Mr. and Mrs. Gamble have resided in Perth all their married life and Mr. Gamble has been a successful artisan for many years.  He is a son of the late Andrew Gamble of Wemyss while Mrs. Gamble’s maiden name was Margaret Bowles(?), daughter of the late James Bowles(?) of Perth.  126 guests sat down to the anniversary supper and about 9:00 dancing commenced on the spacious pavilion erected on the lawn and continued until 4:00, splendid music being provided by the Machine Gun Orchestra.  Mr. and Mrs. Gamble have a wide circle of acquaintances and enjoy the respect and esteem of all.  A very pleasant and interesting feature of the wedding anniversary was the presence of the fourth generation:  Mrs. Andrew R. Gamble; her son J.W. Gamble; his daughter Mrs. Garnet King and her little son George.

Perth Courier, February 9, 1917

Not transcribed in full

The Vancouver World of Saturday, January 27 contained the following in regard to the Golden Wedding of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Lillie, 2100 Third Avenue, Kitsalano(?), when they celebrated the 50th anniversary of their wedding day by many members of their family and a large number of friends.  With the exception of two daughters who were too far away to be present, all of their eight children were home for the happy occasion.  Mr. and Mrs. Lillie were married in Perth in 1857; Mrs. Lillie being the former Miss Bessie Quigley of Perth.  They resided until 1900 in Perth where Mr. Lillie owned and operated a foundry and factory.  In 1900 they removed to Nelson(?) B.C., and in 1903 to Vancouver and have resided here since.  Mr. and Mrs. Laurie have eight children:  Mrs. S.(?) C. Thornbury of Perth; Mrs. W. Jackson Hogg and Mrs. F.A. Clelland(?) of Vancouver; Mrs. H.C. Hodgson of Winnipeg; Mr. W. G. Lillie of Vancouver; and Mr. T.L. Lillie of Chilliwick(?).  With the exception of the oldest and youngest of the family, Mrs. Thornbury and Mrs. Hodgson, all were present at the Golden Wedding Celebration.  Of their 12 grandchildren, six were present.

Perth Courier, Feb. 28, 1917

Mr. and Mrs. James Coleman of Winnipeg recently celebrated their Golden Wedding.  Fifty years ago they were married in Carleton Place and for the last seven years have made their home in Winnipeg. 

Perth Courier, March 30, 1917

The cozy homestead of Mr. and Mrs. Robert McLachlin near Franktown was the scene of a most enjoyable occasion on Thursday evening of last week it being the 25th anniversary of their marriage.  A bountiful supper was daintily served to a large company of invited guests, after which Rev. J.W.S. Lowry in a complimentary speech extended the greetings and congratulations of all present to the host and hostess and wishing them many more years of happy life. Rev. W.A. Dopson, in responding to the toast returned thanks for the kindly wishes.  The remainder of the evening was spent in social pleasure until the midnight hour when “Auld Lang Syne” was sung and the company dispersed.  In testifying to their affection to Mrs. McLachlin, many of the ladies presented her with useful and handsome presents.  The guests included Rev. and Mrs. Dopson, Mr. and Mrs. C.F. Taylor, Mr. and Mrs. A.C. Brown, Mr. and Mrs. Mort Brown, Mr. and Mrs. J. Warren, Mrs. William Findlay, Mr. and Mrs. John Findlay, and George Findlay of Carlton Place; Mrs. John M. Ferguson of Smith’s Falls; Miss Dalgleish of Ottawa; Mr. and Mrs. John H. Ferguson of “Riverside Farm”; Mr. and Mrs. Peter McLaren of Beckwith; J. Downey of Alberta; Rev. Mr. and Mrs. Lowry; Mr. and Mrs. Robert Davis, Mr. and Mrs. John Hughton and Mrs. Peter McEwen, Franktown.  Mr. and Mrs. McLachlin are widely known and respected residents of Beckwith and their many friends hope and pray that they may be long spared to each other and the community.

Perth Courier, June 8, 1917

On Sunday, June 3, the family of Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Brady, 3rd Line Bathurst, gathered at the home of their parents the occasion being the 50th anniversary of their marriage.  The are both enjoying the best of health, attended St. John’s Church that morning in which they were married on June 3, 1867.  Mr. Brady has five brothers and five sisters living out of a family of fifteen. Mrs. Brady (nee Mary Hogan, daughter of the late Daniel Hogan) has one brother living, Mack Hogan, 3rd Line Bathurst.  Mr. and Mrs. Brady have a family of ten children and all were present at the anniversary with the exception of Mrs. Peter Jackman of Cobourg who was unable to be present owing to the illness of her son Arnold.  The members of the family are:  Mrs. J.E. Crawford, Perth; Mrs. John Mackler, Balderson; Mrs. Peter Jackman, Cobourg; Mrs. Louis Pennett, Harper; John Brady, Balderson; Mrs. D.A. O’Neill, Toronto; Messrs. Daniel, William and Thomas Brady of the 3rd Line Bathurst; and Richard Brady of Regina who with Mrs. O’Neill, arrived on Sunday afternoon giving the gathering a surprise as they were unexpected.  Mr. and Mrs. Brady were born on the 3rd Line Bathurst and have resided there all their life.  Mr. Brady is 80 years old and Mrs. Brady is 72.  The family including Mrs. W. J. Lee and Miss Catharine Brady of New York, children of Mr. Brady’s brother John, deceased, and who lived with Mr. and Mrs. Brady, presented their parents with a purse.

Perth Courier, November 2, 1917

Friday evening last members of St. James Church congregation gathered in the school room of the church to the number of fifty the occasion being the 25th anniversary of the marriage of Rev. and Mrs. D’Arcy Clayton.  The day was not allowed to pass without some tangible expression of appreciation of Rev. and Mrs. Clayton’s work in the congregation in that they were presented with a handsome cabinet of silver and an address.  Judge Senkler made the presentation of both.  Following the address, a short program was given, consisting of a piano solo by W.R. Spence, solos by Rev. D’Arcy Clayton, Mr. Allen McMartin and recitation by Miss Jane Relyea.  (Transcriber’s note, the text of the address was not transcribed here.)

Perth Courier, January 11, 1918

David Cameron, one of the well known men of Beckwith, recently passed the fourscore mark in excellent health and vigor of mind, body and spirit and is receiving the warm congratulations of all.  A short time ago he covered the territory of two or three concessions in the coldest weather, soliciting funds for the Canada Bible Society and made a successful canvas for the great work.  Mr. and Mrs. Cameron are drawing near to the Golden Wedding of their marriage and are in excellent health after fifty strenuous years.

Perth Courier, Jan. 25, 1918

Reeve William Pattie of Carleton Place, who is attending the County Council this week, returned home on Thursday the occasion being the time of his Golden Wedding anniversary on Thursday evening.  Mr. and Mrs. Pattie, it is hoped, will have many happy years ahead of them.

Perth Courier, March 8, 1918

Friday, Feb. 22, Mr. and Mrs. David Cameron of Beckwith, observed the 50th anniversary of their marriage by a family reunion when all the family were present except Mrs. Burroughs whose home is in Saskatchewan.  On Feb. 22, 1868, David Cameron and Madeline Robertson were married by Rev. James Caswell, the ceremony taking place in Carleton Place.  The young couple made their home in Beckwith where for fifty years they have enjoyed their companionship.  At the reunion on Friday, the sons-in-law were present with their wives and many of the grandchildren and a very happy day was spent.  The bride and groom of a half century ago were presented with an address accompanied by two handsome easy chairs and a number of gold coins.

The address is as follows:

Dear Mother and Father:

We, the members of your family, desire to convey to you our congratulations on this the celebration of the 50th Anniversary of your wedding and we hope that you may long be spared to us to share in our joys and sorrows as you have done in the past years.  Our spiritual and material welfare have always been uppermost in your minds and you have guided us much by precept and example and we shall carry with us fond memories of pleasant days spent with you.  As a small token of our love and gratitude we ask you to accept these two chairs and we pray that God will bless the remainder of your days with good health, comfort and happiness.

Mary (Campbell)

Janie (McLaren)

Marguerite Cameron

A J Cameron

Madeline McLaren

Grace H. Cameron

Cecilia (Burroughs)

Mabel Lamson

Perth Courier, March 15, 1918

In the township of Loughboro on March 4, 1868, George H. Horning and Eunice Buck were united for life at the home of the bride’s parents by Rev. F.B. Stratton.  On Monday of last week just fifty years later, the members of the family born from this union, in this case eight with the exception of a daughter Mrs. Perkins in the west who was not able to be present at the house of their parents in Smith’s Falls together with grandchildren and a few friends and neighbors, to make merry with the bride and groom of fifty years ago.  The members of the family are:  Mrs. D.A. McLaren, Perth; Mrs. Z.S. Bolton, Mrs. J.H. Forbes of Merrickville; Mrs. B. Grennon and Miss Minnie Horning of Smith’s Falls; Mrs. Fred Perkins of Walnwright(?), Alberta; Messrs. D. Horning and Fred Horning of Smith’s Falls.  All present joined in the hearty congratulations to the aged couple and the family presented them with a beautifully worded address accompanied by a purse of gold and many other gifts which were brought or sent to them.  The day was spent in a real old fashioned family reunion and in the evening a wedding dinner was served.  Mr. and Mrs. Horning lived during the early part of their married life in Loughboron township which is near Kingston.  Later, they took up residence in Drummond but for the past eight years have lived in Smith’s Falls.  Mr. and Mrs. Horning are both in good health.

Perth Courier, March, 1918

Mr. and Mrs. David Campbell of Rideau Ferry celebrated their Golden Wedding at the home of Mrs. Anna Crosby, 37 Broadway, Rochester, New York.  Mr. and Mrs. Campbell were married at Rideau Ferry and have continuously resided there.  Mr. Campbell is well known to the travelers on the Rideau as he has been the bridge tender at Rideau Ferry for 27 years.  Mr. and Mrs. Campbell have 8 children living, 21 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.  The wedding anniversary was spent pleasantly in a happy reunion and many gifts in gold were brought or sent to the bride and groom of fifty years. Congratulations were also sent from friends in Rochester, Syracuse, Cleveland, Buffalo, Smith’s Falls, Perth, Montreal, Toronto and other places.  The children are:  William of Rideau Ferry; Frederick of Montreal; Leslie, Archibald and Mrs. Anna Crosby, and Mrs. Ida Sprague of Cleveland; and Mrs. H.M. Peterson of Syracuse, New York.  (Transcriber’s note:  It looked like Leslie, Archibald and Mrs. Anna Crosby were all from Cleveland as it was a comma, not a semi-colon which separated these names, yet above it said Mrs. Anna Crosby lived in Rochester.  Not sure on this)

Perth Courier, April 5, 1918

Mr. and Mrs. D.J. McGuire of Lanark celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary on March 25. A number of their friends gathered and a social time was spent.

Perth Courier, July 4, 1919

A very enjoyable event was participated in by a number of the friends of the family of Mr. and Mrs. John Hazlett, Nowboro, when on June 16, they celebrated their Golden Wedding.  They were entertained at the home of their daughter Mrs. Nelson Matice on the banks of the Rideau Lake in a beautiful spot for such a gathering.  John Hazlett and his bride Miss Fannie Johnson were united in marriage on June 16, 1869 at Elgin by rev. David Savage, assisted by Rev. “Duddy?” Howard, both old warriors of the early days.  The union was blessed by two sons and two daughters all of whom live to enjoy the anniversary:  William Hazlett of Rochester, N.Y.; Morton Hazlett, who is in uniform in Uncle Sam’s army; Mrs. Deering of Watertown, N.Y. and her family; and Mrs. Nelson Matice of Newboro.  A gathering of 20 or more friends of the honored couple were present including the bridesmaid of the marriage of fifty years ago.  A splendid dinner was served under the trees amidst oceans of flowers, after which Rev. G.D. Bradford spoke a few words of congratulations to the couple.  John Hazlett is an honored member of the community and has been for many years the efficient librarian for the Methodist Sunday School and still retains his place among the youth of the community.  The couple received many suitable and appropriate gifts for the occasion.

Perth Courier, October 31, 1919

Last Monday October 27, the 60th anniversary of the wedding of Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Lister, West Ward, was celebrated when many friends gathered at the home to offer gifts and extend congratulations.  The interior of the home was lavishly decorated with a great number of beautiful flowers which were sent from Perth and distant friends.  Refreshments were served during the afternoon and evening and the anniversary was a most happy and interesting occasion and one long to be remembered.  Mr. and Mrs. Lister were united in marriage by Rev. R. L. Stephenson, M.A., Rector of St. James Church, on October 27, 1859 and have resided in Perth ever since.  Mrs. Lister’s maiden name was Ann Oates of Drummond and she came to Canada from Ireland with her parents.  Mr. Lister was born in Edinburgh, Scotland  and the family was one of the best known and respected in the olden times before death and removal otherwise thinned their ranks.  Mr. and Mrs. Lister were blessed with a large family and with one exception, John, all are living:  Misses Jennie and Maggie at home; George A., James and Mrs. A. McLaren of Winnipeg; Mrs. James Daniels of Windsor; Mrs. John Black of Smith’s Falls.

Perth Courier, November 7, 1919

Photo of Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Lister of Perth, who celebrated their Diamond Wedding on October 27, 1919 (see article above)

Perth Courier, Jan. 16, 1920

There was a family gathering at the home of Mr. and Mrs. George Illingworth on New Year’s Day in Almonte, the occasion being the 50th anniversary of their wedding.  The guests were the sons and daughters, the grandchildren and great grandchildren of the happy couple.  Fifty years ago Mr. and Mrs. Illingworth were married by Rev. Mr. Gordon, who was then minister of St. Andrew’s Church and the ceremony took place at the residence of the bride’s parents, the late Mr. and Mrs. Berryman of Almonte.  To them five children were born, three sons and two daughters, all of whom were at the golden reception except William who resides in Toronto and due to illness could not be present.  The sons are Robert and John B. in Almonte; William in Toronto; Mrs. George Cook of Almonte; and Mrs. Gould of Ottawa.  There are fourteen grandchildren and two great grandchildren.  Mr. and Mrs. Illingworth have resided continuously in Almonte and for the past 34 years have carried on a most successful grocery business.  Both are hale and hearty and able to actively conduct the business without help.

An event of unusual interest took place on Wednesday evening December 31 at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Jas. D. Robertson at 8:00 when their youngest daughter Edith Jean was married to W. J. Anderson, the marriage being performed by Rev. S. Gorley Brown in the presence of a number of guests and relatives.  What lent a special interest to the affair was the fact that the 50th anniversary of the bride’s parents was being celebrated the same evening and every member of the family of nine was present at the double event.  Those coming from a distance were:  George from Grand Prairie, Alberta; Edward from Vegraville, Alberta; Elizabeth (Mrs. A.H. McLaren) from N. Battleford; and Sadie (Mrs. W. J. Haire) from Toronto.  The other members of the family are Mrs. A.W. Matthews of Ramsay; Ethel, Edith and Ernest at home.  At the conclusion of the ceremony a supper was served the table being prettily decorated with carnations and ferns and appropriate toasts were given by Mr. Brown emphasizing the uniqueness of the event where so large a family were able to be together after so many years of separation without a break in the family circle.  The ceremony of fifty years ago was performed by the late Rev. Howard D. Steele at the home of the late Mrs. William Scott on the 1st Line Ramsay.  Mrs. William Robertson was Miss Sarah J. Scott.  After a couple of hours of social enjoyment Mr. and Mrs. Anderson left for their home on the 9th Line Ramsay the farm recently purchased by Mr. Anderson from Mr. D. Drummond.  Almonte Gazette

Perth Courier, March 26, 1920

Mr. and Mrs. James Cummings of Cobden celebrated their Golden Wedding recently.  They were both born in Dalhousie township and have both reached their 77th year.  Mrs. Cummings’ maiden name was Mary Storie and at her home near McDonald’s Corners in 1870, Mr. and Mrs. Cummings were married.  Shortly afterward, they moved to a beautiful and valued farm on Zion Lane, Ross township, now occupied by their son William.  For 37 years they labored successfully on the farm.

Perth Courier, May 21, 1920

Mr. and Mrs. Albert Bingley of Poland celebrated their Silver Wedding at their home at “Glennburnie” on Friday evening, May 14.  Twenty five years ago Mr. and Mrs. Bingley were united in marriage by the late Rev. James McIlroy who for a number of years ministered to the people of Poland.  The bridesmaid was Mrs. E. J. McFarland of Lavant Station, then Miss Belle Paul of Lavant and the groom was supported by his brother, Mr. C.D. Bingley of this village.  Both bridesmaid and groomsman were present at the anniversary celebration.  Many guests had been invited and the splendid, commodious home of Mr. and Mrs. Bingley was well filled.  Both possess the gift of making everyone feel at home and under their hearty welcome even the most reserved warmed up to the pleasant occasion and good conversation.  The wedding was everything that could be desired even to the bride’s cake crowned with orange blossoms and served with ice cream.  There was a beautiful array of wedding gifts.  The table in the hall upstairs fairly groaned under the load of silver, which bears silent testimony to the esteem and good wishes of those who were present.  These tokens of good will, will no doubt help to remind Mr. and Mrs. Bingley for many years to come, of the high place they hold in the estimation of the community.

Perth Courier, July 16, 1920

Mr. and Mrs. William Hazelton of Renfrew County celebrated their Golden Wedding Anniversary.  Mr. Harper was born at Perth and is a grandson of the late Col. Taylor, M.P.P. of Perth.

Photo accompanies this article

On Tuesday, July 6, Mr. and Mrs. David Brownlee of Harper celebrated their Golden Wedding.  On that date in 1870 Elizabeth Lindsay of Renfrew and David Brownlee of McDonald’s Corners were united in marriage by Rev. Mr. Thompson of McDonald’s Corners.  The bridesmaid at the wedding, Mrs. Jas. Storie of McDonald’s Corners was present at the Golden Wedding.  Those of the family present were Mrs. Fred Darou of Fallbrook; Robert and Mrs. A.M. Sinclair of Rocanville(?), Sask.; James of Sudbury; Mrs. John Gibson and Mrs. Ewen Cameron of Harper; Mrs. Henry Cameron of Wemyss.  Two boys, Findlay and George of Rocanville(?) were unable to attend.  At 5:00 a tastefully and bountiful repast was served on a long table placed on the lawn and about 140 guests sat down to enjoy the good things.  Toasts were given to the “Golden” bride and groom by Rev. G. Treanor(?) of Balderson and Messrs. A.M. Leighton of Perth and G. Cunningham of Harper.  The evening was spent in a social way, with games, music, vocal, instrumental and victrola.  Those attending from a distance were Mr. and Mrs. R. Brownlee and child and Mrs. A.M. Sinclair of Rocanville; Mr. and Mrs. J.W. Brownlee of Sudbury; Mr. Jno Hannah and Jas. MacDonald of Fisher, Minnesota; Mr. and Mrs. J. Kimberly of Peterboro; Mrs. M. Todd of Smith’s Falls; Mrs. M. Rogers and Stuart and Mr. and Mrs. J. Holliday of New Boyne.


Posted: July 05, 2005.