PARIS REMEMBERS Two World Wars changed the Town of Paris Forever

In the years leading up to 1914, the people of Paris viewed war as the ultimate adventure They associated war with historic triumphs like the Plains of Abraham, Queenston Heights, Waterloo, and Trafalgar moments when soldiers earned honour and the civilian population celebrated their victories vicariously Military events were intertwined with social gatherings and grand spectacle. In 1912, the establishment of the 25th Brant Dragoons company in Paris and the conversion of the old Central School into an armory reflected this connection.

On the night of August 4, 1914, news reached Paris between nine and ten o'clock that war had been declared between Great Britain and Germany In response, the Citizens' Band gathered opposite the fire hall and began playing patriotic songs. The stirring notes of the national anthem, "God Save the King," and other familiar tunes drew a large crowd. The people joined in singing and cheering enthusiastically. Later, the Boy Scout Bugle Band paraded through the town, accompanied by torchbearers The cheers for King George V echoed continuously. Alfred Scott, a plumber, local scoutmaster, and reservist in the 2nd Battalion of the West Durham Light Infantry, became the first Paris resident to be called for active duty. His departure on August 6, 1914, was marked with a grand send-off by the citizens of Paris. During the war, the Canadian government provided a monthly separation allowance of $20 to the wives of enlisted soldiers. Husbands were required to give half of their monthly pay, approximately $16.50, to support their families. However, if there were children, the families often faced financial hardship.

To alleviate the hardships faced by soldiers' families, the Patriotic League was established in August 1914 with the aim of raising funds Shortly after the war began, the league provided support to ten families in Paris. Over time, the league managed to raise a total of $1,940, continuously collecting funds throughout the war Members of the Prince of Wales Chapter, Daughters of the Empire, tirelessly sought subscriptions for the purchase of a machine gun, which would accompany the Paris boys to the front lines. Mr. and Mrs. John Penman also made a generous donation of another machine gun. In Paris, $2,001.13 was collected to purchase a MotoAmbulance to be given to the Red Cross Ditty bags, packed with handknitted socks, toiletries, cigarettes, and treats, were sent to the soldiers who eagerly awaited these thoughtful gifts. The first high explosive shell manufactured in Paris was proudly displayed in the window of J H Fisher and Sons store, showcasing the town's contribution to the war effort.

At around 4 a m on November 11, 1918, the news arrived that an armistice had been signed to end the Great War. However, this information was withheld until 6 a.m. when it was officially announced to the citizens of Paris Bells rang, whistles blew, and people poured out onto the streets to celebrate. By 8 a.m., Mayor Robinson addressed the crowd with a few brief words, followed by hymns, prayers, and the National Anthem It was a moment of gratitude and jubilation for the people of Paris.

Continued page 14