A partial history.
The sources used in this document are a brief entry in “Historic Bathurst” by A.J. McCarthy (page 114), “The Marco Polo and Sam Napier, Two Legends, One Story” by Gail MacMillan and the “By Laws and Minutes of Bathurst Curling Club” made available by the family of the late J. Huntly Ferguson.
The McCarthy references are identified simply as (1) while page number and date indexes the ‘Minutes’ references to the original volume. The balance is anecdotal information.
JimDuncan 2002
All ‘History’ is ‘His Story” in terms of the writer. The historian selects what he feels to be of interest and importance and thus selects the emphasis placed on the facts. My narrative notes amounted to some 25 hand-written pages from which I derived the following text. Anyone wishing to take a different approach is welcome to select from the material contained here and augment it with his or her own material. I hope that this will provide some information and pleasure to the Curling Club members, past and present.
There is continuity from 1909 to 1918 followed by a gap in the minutes for the 18 years between 1918 and 1936. The minutes then continue to 1964. I have no explanation for the omission and can only conjecture that somewhere there is, or was, another book of minutes covering the years 1918 to 1936.
The record does, however, cover the years of the two global conflicts of World War I and World War II. Canadians in the first war made a reputation at Vimy in trench warfare and Captain Brown shot down the famed ‘Red Baron’ Von Richtoven in the dawn of aerial warfare. In the 1940’s, there was Canadian involvement in the
There are also seemingly limitless trips to
Last, but not least, is the attitude evident from the record. The attitude to women curlers is extraordinary with the ‘club rooms’ being strictly male territory. The women, within memory, had their club upstairs and entered the ice shed without ever sullying the male domain unless invited. The High School rules are fair, but the attitude inferred is very ‘old school.’ The ultimate expression of this attitude is in the ‘Bar Rules’ as published. Strictly limited hours allowed for “refreshment” for a period of “not more than 30 minutes” following a game and the practice of ‘treating’ other players was discouraged. This does not compare well with the anecdotal evidence of “refreshment” and it is telling that there is a note that members should stop stocking their lockers with booze! This and anecdotal tales of “The Noodniks” clearly show the hypocrisy in the executive and the record.
It has been a fascinating excursion in to these past years.
HISTORY
There exists anecdotal evidence that Curling may have begun in
It is known that the game was originally played outdoors and legend has it that small pails were used as a target and that they were sunk in to the ice providing the original ‘button.’ True or not, there is still an outdoor tradition with the “Grand Matches” held at
A belief also exists that two monks from Paisley Abbey, near
The Caledonian Curling Club was formed, in
Each of these ancient and idiosyncratic sports has found home and able proponents, in
It is evident from the minutes of the club that from 1912 on there were annual meetings of the New Brunswick Branch of the Royal Caledonian Curling Club to which
Golf and Curling are unique in that they are the major sports where players shake hands before and after play, referee themselves and where fair play, sportsmanship and post-game friendly association are inherent parts of the game. It is tragic that the advent of television coverage has spread their appeal to massive audiences while burdening the games with a plethora of rules and officials. This has had the affect of making the competition standard too high for the club player and, oddly, contributed to an increase in golfers while there has been such a drop in the number of active curlers that many clubs are facing financial ruin.
Curling in
A mere forty years after the formation of the Royal Caledonian ‘Mother Club’ in 1842, hardy souls were out curling on
(1) In 1884 a sheet of curling ice was included in an ice rink built on
Sixteen years pass before there is any further record of organised curling. In1907, in traditional fashion, it was back to the roots of the sport and outdoor games were held on
Two years later, in 1909, a combined Curling and Skating Rink was built on St. Andrew’s Street on the site of the present club.
(11) December 21st, 1909: “On motion E.P. McKay was elected Chairman” “On motion it was decided to proceed to organise a Curling Club” “On motion it was decided that the name of the club be ‘The Bathurst Curling Club’” The founding members were: “E.P. McKay, P.J. Veniot, Henry White, J. McNichol M.D., Jnr J. Harrington, H. Bishop, T.M. Burns, F.O. Landry, F.J. Melanson, J. Bennet Hachey, Cha’s H. Ellis, J.G. Stout, A. Gatain, H.H. Murray, William Gammon, George Gammon, A. O’Donnell, Gordon Read, Ernest Branch, Fred Gatain, J.B. Mullens, A.W. Ramsay, P.J. Burns, J.H. Kent, J.D. MacMillan, B.C. Mullens, J.P. Leger, P.J. Leger, R.G. Duncan M.D., Jake White, Jr. Arthur McKendy.”
“ Moved by J.J. Harrington, seconded by P.J. Veniot that the Office Bearers be a President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer and a Committee of Management consisting of the above plus three other members …” “On Motion the following Officers were elected:
President J.P. Burns
Vice President E.P. McKay
Secretary P.J. Veniot
Treasurer R.G. Duncan M.D.
Additional Members H. White, Cha’s H. Ellis, J.B. Hachey”
“Moved by J.B. Hachey seconded by H. Bishop that annual fee be $0.25 per member and a Rink Fee of $5”
(12) December 28th 1909 “Moved by E.P. McKay, seconded by H. Bishop, that all clergymen of town and village of Bathurst be elected honorary members.”
“A nominating committee of H. White, S. Williamson and B.C. Mullens selected the following as skips: T.M. Burns, E.P. McKay, Arthur Gatain, Dr. R.G. Duncan, P.J. Burns, A.W. Ramsay, J.B. Hachey, P.J. Veniot, Joshua Gammon, Henry White and Samuel Williamson.
With the club duly organised and the officers and skips selected (not to mention the altruistic benefits of being on the good side of the clergy) the club began play.. This was at a time when there was, apparently, a devastating fire in Campbellton:
(17) November 21, 1910: “…Moved and seconded in amendment that the Management Committee be directed to offer use of ice to Campbellton Curlers any time Committee should see its way clear to be able to do so.
Moved and seconded that the Bathurst Curling Club express its sincere regret at the loss suffered by the Campbellton Curlers in the fire that destroyed their town, and that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Campbellton Club.”
Life – and curling – went on and, in the following year, there is the first mention of play against touring Scottish Curlers. This is a tradition that continues to this day. ( I remember (neither well nor entirely) participating as a member of such a team in the 1980’s along with Charles Roy, Frank McDermott and Daniel Nelson) In 1911 there was a meeting:
(21) December 6th 1911 “…to consider an invitation to send one or two rinks to St. John to play against the Scottish Curlers when in that city” followed by: December 8th “ …The Secretary was directed to notify St. John Curlers of acceptance of an invitation to play Scottish Curlers in St. John and that the Club would send two rinks.”
By now the club was beginning to develop. There was a need for operating funds and a desire for an identity as shown by the following three meetings:
(24) March 4th, 1912 “On motion, J.G. Stout seconded by J.McIntosh, a committee of three was appointed to choose club colours and report at our next regular meeting. The President appointed J.G. Stout, Jos. McIntosh and H. White”
“Moved by E.P. Mackay and seconded by R. Rogers that an assessment of $0.25 per month be made on each member, from March 1 to December 1 for general Club purposes.”
(25) April 1, 1912:”The Secretary read a communication from the N.B. Branch of the Royal Caledonian Curling Club. On motion it was resolved that the Bathurst Curling Club be affiliated with the New Brunswick Branch of the Royal Caledonian Curling Club.”
(27)December 2nd, 1912:”It was decided by a majority vote of the meeting that the colours of the Club be Dark Blue and Gold.”
The Curling Club and the ‘Dominion of Canada’ now moved in to the first global conflict: World War I. There was to be little affect on the club and things were still reasonable – (35) February 23rd 1914: “… Mr Fenwick states that they will put up an oyster supper at $0.50 per plate with a guarantee of fifty plates. Accepted” – but the record shows that world events impinged.
(42) November 15th, 1915: “Moved by Mr. Mackay and seconded by Mr. Lavallee that G. Hubert, Ed. White, Dr. Coffyn, Mr. Turnbull and all who have enlisted be retained in active membership without fee.”
(43) December 16th, 1915: “The President, in response to enquiry by F.J. Melanson, says that there will be no curling in the rink this winter”
‘Moved by Mr. Stout seconded by Mr. Mullins, that a committee of three members be appointed to look at the obtaining of suitable rooms for the Club to report to he sundry who shall call a meeting. Carried.”
Note: A.J. McCarthy (1) states that “Another interruption to the game came in 1913 when the building was used as a barracks during the Great War.” The minutes refute this. It may be that the building was used between December 1915 and November 1916 as a barracks, as the club rented rooms [(44) December 1915] in the
There is reference to a rather confusing element of the club’s history. The property used by the club was owned by a holding company called the ‘Bathurst Curling and Skating Company Limited.’ This entity ‘rented’ the club facilities to the Bathurst Curling Club. The situation was to grow even stranger when, after the Second World War, the Curling Club owned the majority of the shares of the Curling and Skating Company from which it rented the facilities. The answer must lie in liabilities issues for the directors requiring the existence of an incorporated Limited Company. The holding company no longer exists.
Another matter of interest is the number of members who owned their own ‘set’ (two) of curling stones. When clubs played out of town, they frequently brought their own stones and there are records such as
(51) February 6th, 1918: “Moved by B.C. Mullins, seconded by F.P. Galtain that R.C. Rogers and A.C. Branch be appointed to convey Curling stones to and from the station”
Out of town play was a big part of the club records. (47) June 5th, 1917: “Moved by B.C. Mullins, seconded by A. Branch that Mr. Stout be elected as a delegate, with the president, to represent the Bathurst Curlers at the meeting of the North Shore Curlers Association, January 6th, 1917 at
It was also in 1917 that W.J. Napier, elected to put up a silver cup for play between eight teams from
Sam Napier: 1837-1902
After emigrating from
W.J. Napier, in an undated letter reproduced here, described the reasons for his philanthropic provision of a very valuable trophy:
(Illegible)
I joined the Bathurst Curling Club in 1891 and was an active member of it till I moved to Campbellton, July 1st, 1897 where I immediately joined the Campbellton Club.
When I saw the same skips elected year after year at Bathurst and then in Campbellton with those who became members in later years continuing in the same positions, the thought occurred to me to contribute a cup to be played for by rinks skipped by the younger members and in 1917 I requested permission to do so, and in due course obtained the consent of both clubs.
I then decided to put up the cup for annual Competition between eight rinks from the
Yours Truly
W. J. Napier
(53) November 25th, 1918: “Moved by Stout, seconded by Gatain that W.J. Napier be appointed honorary member of the Club and be notified to that effect.”
(54) December 2nd, 1918: “Moved by Dr. Duncan, seconded by Land Bishop that the following members of this club who are at the front should be tendered with resolution that they are elected honorary members of this club: Harold Kent, Phil Andrews, Jack Kennah, Harold White, Mr. Dove, Mr. Youngclause, Orvel Landry and Edmond White.”
Interregnum.
There are minutes for the Spring of 1919 [(56) March 3rd, 1919] and the next in the record book are for late 1936 [(205) November 16th, 1936]. The page numbers infer that there should be continuity and continuation. It may only be a case of finding the record, should it still exist, but there is the possibility that the record may have been lost in the 1940 fire as the current book was in use – and presumably at the home of the secretary – at the time while the missing part was, by then, a record and may have been another book, stored at the club.
In any case, ‘Here endeth the first chapter!’
For the 1936/37 season there were about forty three members [(207) December 29th 1936] and it may be noted that in the 1909 to 1918 era the average seems to have held at about 45 to 55 members. The silver cup put up by W.J. Napier was still extant, and still being played for:
(209) February 1st, 1937: “It was moved by P.S. Andrews seconded by L.A. Nix that this club challenge for the Napier Cup and have the Secretary notify the Campbellton Curling Club for a date that would suit both clubs.”
There is also another interesting competition referred to in the Spring:
March 1st, 1937 “A good suggestion was made by Mr. Mullins that the Ladies want to challenge the men for a game and upon motion it was left to the Match Committee to arrange the play.” There is no further reference to this match or the score. This may, or may not be incidental.
As in every club and in every year, the raising of funds is a near constant occupation. In 1937 the Curling Club elected to hold a fair. This was no minor event, there were plans to have a band “parade the town” and play outside the club before going inside to provide music for dancing. The plan was laid at a meeting in August:
(210) August 10th, 1937 “After hearing the views of the different members it was moved by J.E. Connolly seconded by J.A. Kennah that a fair be held for one night and, if necessary, could be continued the second night by announcing same at the first night’s fair. The following committees were named with their respective chairman:
Premium and Purchasing P.S. Andrews, Chairman
Advertising D.W. Downing
Grounds J.A. Kennah
Ticket E.R. Rogers
Amusement Eldon Eddy
Musical Prof. R.L. Doucet
Refreshment A.E. Loosen, J.B. Gammon, Mrs. H.V. White
General Treasurer G.W. Ellis
(211) September 13th, 1937 “Mrs. H.V. White reported she had interviewed Mr. Buraglia and he proposed looking after the Hot Dog Counter, coffee etc. and would help in every capacity he could
Tony Assaff reported he and Clinton would look after the Tobacco Counter and would purchase all goods for the same.
Ice Cream Booth to be looked after by Philip Loosen
All tickets were in charge of E.R. Rogers
Dancing platform to be in charge of Eugene Trembley
Col. E.J. White volunteered to look after special wheel of fortune
Door Prize to be Excurtion (sic) ticket to Montreal P.Q.
Bingo Table by Ligori Doucet who is to be approached re same
Wheel of Fortune by Harold Crofoot
Lottery of large doll and carriage to be seen to by Mrs. H.V. White
Round dancing by Mr. Jones
The door to be in charge of G.W. Ellis and Mr. Lassard
All were asked to come and lend a hand to erect platforms and booths for the occasion.”
“…R.L. Doucet volunteered looking after the music for the dancing. It was suggested that the band be asked to play in front of the rink and if possible parade the Town so as to notify the people of the fair being held at the rink.
Mr. Downing reported all large posters had been made and are now ready for delivery. Clinton Gammon volunteered to take them up shore and Tony Assaff down the shore with others delivered about the town.”
As a result of all the organising and effort:
November 15th, 1937: “The President then reported for the Committee on the fair giving a full detailed statement of the amount realised and then took the opportunity to thank all curlers for their great cooperation in making it such a success. The net amount realised being $434.75
The fair became a fund raising tool and references to ‘the fair’ turn up in minutes over a number of years. In 1938 dollars, $435 was a substantial amount! With funds in place and a stable membership, the club began to look at the premises and at the financial structure which had the club renting premises from the Bathurst Curling and Skating Company Ltd.
In Europe, the clouds of another global war were gathering: Germany, under Hitler, was gathering to respond to the humiliation inflicted on November 11th, 1918 and the British Lion as still recovering from the slaughter in the trenches of WWI: In Bathurst, the concern was windows …
(214) December 17th, 1937: “ There being a very generous offer made by Dr. Jones, one of our enthusiastic curlers, in the sum of $50 to help pay for plate glass for the club rooms looking out on the ice.”
“ …Mr. Connolly was going to Montreal … reported that the same would be purchased for the sum of 36 cents per square foot and the installing and freight along with the glass would not aggregate more than about $90. This glass would be 3/16 inches thick and has been placed in several rinks in and around Montreal lately”
(215) January 3rd, 1938: “…it was moved by J.E. Connolly, seconded by L.A. Nix that this club accept with thanks the offer by our brother Dr. W.M. Jones and authority be given to J.E. Connolly to have same installed at once in the rooms …”
The Napier Cup game in February had the score recorded. It is shown here as an example of the kind of scores that the fifteen-end games produced. There were four teams playing in Bathurst and four in Campbellton, on the same day, no regular skips and fifteen ends per game:
(217) February 22nd 1938: “Napier Cup
At Bathust: J.H. Kent 20 West MacDonald 13
A.E. Loosen 16 A. Jardine 11
A.S. McIntosh 17 L.S. Webb 7
Dr. W.M. Jones 9 G.W.H. Perley 15
At Campbellton E.J. White 14 Bill Rogers 7
Alan Doucet 21 Roy Millburn 9
G.W. Ellis 12 Horace Jardine 10
E.R. Shirley 26 Horace Humphrey 8
135 80
Bathurst won by 55 points”
In December of 1938 [(222) December 5th, 1938] the Curling Club obtained a five-year lease of the club premises from the Bathurst Curling and Skating Company for the sum of five dollars per year. At the same time the Curling Club took ownership of 300 of the 1,000 shares of the company in payment for $1,500 owed for improvements. This process was to continue until the Curling Club owned the majority of the shares and provided the governing body of directors. Ultimately the Curling and Skating Company Ltd. would be disbanded.
In 1939 the Second World War began, throwing the world and the Dominion of Canada in to turmoil.
St. Valentine’s day 1940 was a watershed in the club – and not a happy one!
(239) February 14th, 1940: “(Curling Club Destroyed by Fire at 6.30 a.m.)”
“The President announced our unfortunate loss and stated that he had telegraphed to C. Allan Beatteay, Sec’y of the N.B. Branch of the R.C.C.C. as follows:
‘Curling Rink destroyed by fire last night. Have salvaged stand of Ganong Trophy and mug of Blair Trophy, will forward same to you by express for evidence. Any other information please advise’
A reply as follows was received:
‘Very sorry indeed learn loss Curling Rink and Trophies. Hope building well insured. Ttrophies covered. C.A. Beatteay, Secretary’”
If the wording appears stilted, it must be remembered that these were ‘Telegrams’ sent by Morse code and paid for by the word. Extra words meant extra money and even a period was the word ‘stop.’
The resolve of the club to get back in to business is evident as they named trustees of the ubiquitous Curling and Skating Company Ltd. And recorded:
“Now, therefore, be it resolved that the named trustees be, and are hereby authorised and instructed, to adjust the fire-loss with the Insurance Companies, and upon payment of the claims to deposit such funds in the name of the Bathurst Curling and Skating Co. Ltd. With any chartered bank in
Moved by J.E. Connolly and seconded by E.W. Eddy that this meeting assembled, decide now that we are to have a curling rink for the season of 1940 – 41. Unanimously Carried.”
The club canvassed the members at a March meeting to learn what form the rebuilt rink should have:
(243) March 4th, 1940: “ … The result was as follows:- 19 voted in favour of 4 sheets of ice, 3 voted in favour of 3 sheets of ice in the old location; 4 members preferred not to vote”
Along with numerous messages of regret and support from around the province, support was also to come from the business community. Although no amounts are mentioned, Bathurst Power and Paper is recognised, at another March meeting, thus:
(245) March 11th, 1940: “ It was moved by President A.E. Landry and seconded by Secretary Ernest R. Rogers that the Bathurst Curling Club in special monthly meeting convened, hereby unanimously express their warm appreciation for the generous contribution made by the Bathurst Power and Paper Co. Ltd. To assist the Curling Club and enable them to rebuild their rink recently destroyed by fire.”
Having addressed the ‘What’ and ‘When’ of the rebuilding, as well as the ‘How’ there remained the question of ‘Where’.
(245) March 27th, 1940: “ Moved by G.W. Ellis seconded by J.E. Connolly that this meeting decide now to rebuild the rink on the old site. Unanimously carried.”
“… Mr. J. Harper Kent reported seeing Mr. R.L. Weldon in
(246) June 3rd, 1940: “ Moved by Moe Dingoff, seconded by J.B. Gammon that the Building Committee be authorised to purchase sufficient roofing material to cover a building 150’ x 64’ in length and width. Motion carried”
“Moved by E.J. Melanson, seconded by J.B. Gammon that the Building Committee be authorised to purchase any and all material necessary … Motion Carried.”
(247) November 18th, 1940: “ The Regular Annual Meeting as called to order by the President at 8.00 o’clock p.m. in the New Club Room. … that owing to the unfinished condition of the rooms the meeting be adjourned until Monday, November 25th/40.”
The erection of the new building had cost $1,619 in Labour, $2,211 in materials and $13.54 in ‘National Defence Tax’ for a total of $3, 843.82. Of this $3,010 came from insurance and $461 in members contributions [(248) November 25th, 1940] leaving $347 either outstanding or in business donations which are not recorded.
(An interesting note here is a bill for $6.50 paid for a pipe sent to H.N. Ganong “on his temporary loss to Curling”)
The executive inheriting the new four sheet rink were:
(250) November 25th, 1940
President A.E. Landry
Vice President L.A. Nix
Treasurer D.W. Downey
Secretary E.R. Rogers
Chaplain Rev. D. Robichaud
Auditors J.P. Lessard E.J. Melanson
Mgmt. Committee J. Harper Kent, Wm. Gammon, F.J. Foley
Match Committee A.S. McIntosh, W.G. Chapman, P.S. Andrews
As the club went forward renewed, the war was going quite the other way. The submarine offensive in the
(250) November 25th, 1940: “In referring to the National War Emergency, he expressed assurance that every possible assistance would be rendered by the Club as and when the occasion presented itself.”
The main concern of the club at this time was to ensure that there were sufficient rocks to maintain play. To this end it was moved and carried [(251)November 25th, 1940)] that three sets of rocks be purchased from W.J. Kent and placed in play on their respective sheets of ice by the Management Committee. In addition, arrangements were made with the owners of stones to rent another eight sets for use on the fourth ice sheet under the direction of the Management Committee.
The purchased rocks were the best available. They were quarried on the
The practice of granting honorary membership to the clergy of
[(251)November 25th, 1940) “Additional Honorary Memberships were granted as follows: Claude Buraglia,
As the year ended [(253) December 2nd, 1940] Joshua B. Gammon indicated a willingness to loan the club $3,000 at 4% per annum against a mortgage. A.E. Loosen, P.S. Andrews and J.E. Connolly were the trustees for the Bathurst Skating and Curling Co. Ltd. and they were instructed to take the steps necessary to obtain the loan on these terms.
Of a more historic nature was the resolution passed at the beginning of 1941;
(256) January 6th, 1941: “ Moved by D.P. Connolly, seconded by B.C. Mullins and carried that the right to use one sheet of ice equipped with the unmatched Curling Stones, four evenings weekly, be extended to the members of the Ladies Curling Club …”
It is also of interest that at a meeting in April of 1941 [(264) April 7th, 1941] the three sheets of matched stones are valued at $750 while the City assessment of the land on which the curling club stands was $600.
In February 1942 there was an expression of interest by a number of High School boys in forming a curling club [(280) February 9th, 1942] providing facilities could be made available at a cost of $1 per member per season. This request was approved by the executive and it was decided that the Management Committee draw up a set of rules for High School Curling. From this process came the following rules:
(351) December 2nd, 1946:
BATHURST CURLING CLUB
REGULATIONS FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
The Bathurst Curling Club are pleased to offer to male High School students of Bathurst the privilege to participate in the healthful and gentlemanly game of curling under the following general conditions.
1. The student must be approved by the Principal of the School as having made satisfactory progress in his studies.
2. The students shall elect a slate of officers to be approved by the Principle who will be responsible to him and to the Bathurst Curling Club for their rules of play and behaviour whilst on the premises of the Curling Club. The Bathurst Curling Club will nominate one of their members to assist and coach the High School Curlers in the methods of play and the conduct of a curler.
3. The men’s club rooms and ice surface will be made available to High School students from 4.15 P.M. until 6 P.M. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays and from 9.15 A.M. to 12 Noon on Saturdays for the purposes of holding meetings and curling. No card playing or other forms of recreation will be permitted and it is to be distinctly understood that High School student members are not allowed in the Curling Club at any other time except by invitation or permission of the Management Committee
The Management Committee may at any time cancel or alter the allotted hours to suit the convenience of the Club and to cooperate as far as possible with the High School Curlers.
Profane language and noisy behaviour is unbecoming a curler and will not be tolerated.
Membership fee will be $1 per season which includes use of the curling stones.
The record for 1942 and 1943 indicates a vital and active club involved in play for numerous trophies and in far flung bonspiels. The R.C.C.C. proposed a uniform set of rules for the Dominion of Canada in 1942 and the
In 1943 W.J. Napier was made an honourary member for life in addition to the honour accorded him in 1918 [(297) February 1st, 1943]. Also moved and carried at this meeting was a provision to make the clubrooms available to members of the Forces when they were between trains.
A recurring problem from 1909 to today has been the recording of membership and the collection of dues:
(301) October 1st, 1943:
Dues Outstanding, October 1 1943
Paul Samson $5
Al Parsons $10
John Neal $5
Harry Meahan $10
These were the subject of constant lament by the auditors who wanted a list of members and a record of dues paid.
There was also a note that the Match Committee wanted to spend $16 on prizes for the winners of Club Matches for the year 1942/43 [(300), April 5th, 1943]. It was also in 1943 that the
By the end of 1945 there had been no mention of the war’s end, but there is a note that there were 28 listed teams – 112 playing members, at least [(339) December 17th, 1945] and in 1946 [(343, 344) February 11th, 1946] the club collected $1559 in dues.
As the club entered 1947 it entered three Junior teams in the Provincial competition
(359, 360) January 13th, 1947: “Moved by Mr. Edgar Melanson and seconded by E.E. Fleiger that we enter three rinks in the N.B. Junior Bonspiel … the following were elected: Garfield Stratton, Clinton Gammon and alternate skip Edgar Hachey. …”
Another innovation was implemented:
(367) April 22nd, 1947: “A report was made by Mr E.J. White re surfacing of Curling Rink and stated that the work had already been done by the Dexter Construction Company and Mr. White also stated that on account of this work being done we could expect to be curling somewhat earlier this year.
It was moved by A.E. Landry and seconded by Alvin Campbell that the action of the committee re laying of asphalt surface be approved.” (Cost $1,500)
The club was operating with a full slate of members and in 1948 [(385) October 15th, 1948] the auditors noted that the dues collected were the largest in the history of the club.
In 1949 the prosperity induced these thoughts:
(393) February 7th, 1949: “A letter from Carrier Engineering Limited regarding the installation of refrigeration equipment in our rink was read.”
(408) January 4th, 1950: “Moved by Ch. McArdle seconded by A.I. Tower that a study be carried out on the cost to install and operate artificial ice”
Included in these minutes is this interesting motion:
(409) Moved by Charles McArdle and seconded by Huntly Ferguson that the Management Committee take the necessary steps required to get club control of alcoholic beverages”
This is too good to pass up. Here are the rules as devised between the N.B.L.C.B. and the Curling Club:
(409, 410) January 16th, 1950
“Mr. President,
Pursuant to a resolution adopted by the Bathurst Curling Club authorising the Management Committee to obtain verbal permission from the N.B.L.C.B. to operate under absolute control, a canteen for the purpose of dispensing alcoholic beverages … After considerable discussion the following tentative rules were adopted for presentation to the Club hoping same shall be entertained and approved.
Control 1 A control board consisting of seven, with power to add, shall assume, with remuneration, responsibility for all purchases, sales, monies, operating periods, operating control etc. for the balance of the club year.
Hours 2 8 p.m. to end of curling plus a refreshment period of not more than 30 minutes Sundays excluded. Wednesdays 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.: Saturdays 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Special hours arranged by control board for inter-club events.
Monies 3 A canteen treasurer shall handle all canteen monies. Books of tickets shall be secured and sold at $3 per book. Positively no cash handled at counter.
Members 4 Members only may purchase books of tickets
Visitors 5 A visiting curler may obtain a special card entitling him to all club privileges during his visit. A member may apply for and be granted a special privilege card for a male guest proving (sic) member can assure the board that the said guest is non-resident and bona-fide.
Treating 6 All members must pledge themselves to abstain from and discourage the practice of treating fellow club members. This promise should be voluntary and recreated at each monthly meeting. Treating of visiting curlers is an act of courtesy and must be left to the pleasure of the member
Lockers 7 All alcoholic beverages must be removed from all private lockers: Stocking lockers with alcoholic beverages is strictly prohibited.
By-Laws 8 Providing Club Control is adopted, we, the Management Committee recommend a change in the by-law regarding new members. We believe your by-law committee might be authorised to amend present by-law as we are inclined to think that it is too flexible.
Personnel 9 We humbly suggest the personnel of the tentative control board, with power to add: President John Ferris, ex officio; A.I. Tower, A.M. McMurray, L. Schrier, O.G. Hinton, E. Hachey, Tony Assaff, J.H. Ferguson.”
Acceptance of the recommendations of the Management were moved and carried [(410)]. Anecdotal evidence, however, indicates that the habits of decades died hard. There is word of a group called the ‘Noodniks’ after Li’l Abner characters who were characters and a law unto themselves. They apparently existed in the basement, amidst some of those illicitly stocked private lockers, in a smoky card infested den. They were known and tolerated
(414) March 6th, 1950 “A report was heard from Gary Stratton that the Noodings (sic) have paid Charlie McCardle the sum of $145.35 for urinal installed in the basement and repairs to the furnace etc.”
There follows the beginning of a major change to the club. The question of artificial ice had been looked at before but the healthy financial state of the club and the income being generated by the sale of ‘alcoholic beverages’ led to it receiving much closer attention:
(415) April 3rd, 1950: “ … We the members of the fact finding committee appointed at your meeting of January 21st, 1950, authorised to look into the possibilities of artificial ice, four lanes, for the Bathurst Curling Club, wish to make the following report:
Under section (1) of your motion we were asked to procure estimates of the cost of machinery, piping and labour necessary to supply this club with adequate artificial ice, four lanes, we find that this could be supplied and installed at a minimum price of $19,200 and with a maximum price or cost of $25,000, the cost of the same would be governed to some extent by the alterations deemed necessary at or before the installation.
Under section (2) of your motion we were asked to determine, from a financial standpoint, whether the ice shed should be sheathed, before or after the installation of ice making and circulating material. From the observations made we are led to believe that sheathing is not essential.
Under section (3) we were instructed to estimate the average cost, less labour, of operating plant, estimates to be based on costs of operating plants in curling clubs elsewhere in
Under section (4) we were asked to make a complete survey of the Club personnel in an effort to ascertain the wishes of each member. In view of this request we received the idea of a questionnaire, which we mailed to each member, and from these we received 52 replies.
Those voting ‘Yes’ to #1 question, namely ‘Are you in favour of artificial ice for the Bathurst Curling Club?’ numbered 46: Those voting ‘No’ numbered 4 and those with no opinion 2
Those voting ‘Yes’ to #2 question, namely ‘Are you willing to invest in order to finance such a project?’ numbered 37. Those voting ‘No’ numbered 6, Noncommittal:6 With reservations 3”
It was then passed by a vote of 19 to 2 that the Bathurst Curling and Skating Company issue Bonds of $50 and $100 value bearing interest of 4% p.a. to the amount of $25,000 to be used to erect and install an ice plant [(416) April 3rd, 1950].
(430) April 9th, 1951: “Moved by
(432) August 26th,1951: “Mr. A. I. Tower stated that most of equipment was in for Artificial Ice Plant. Total amount owing on contract $3,766.51 and he stated $1,500 was to be retained and paid when the plant was in operation and pronounced satisfactory.”
The Club, at this time, set about tracing and obtaining the outstanding shares in the Bathurst Curling and Skating Company Ltd. On a minor historical note is the entry
(433) September 28th, 1951: “The President reported that John Ferris had written Sir James Dunn and he sent us 20 shares of Bathurst Curling and Skating Co. Ltd.”
In order to recoup some of the expence of installing the ice plant the club instituted requirement for each member to purchase a $100 debenture [(435) October19th, 1951], Room Members must purchase a $50 debenture and new curlers were charged $10 for the first year which was discounted against their purchase should they continue in membership.
(436, 437) November 7th, 1951: “ … the following resolution was read by Dr. Ingram:
Whereas the installation of artificial ice
1. Has subjected us to considerable expence
2. and ready money is needed
3. And that a true picture of active and room members is desired for the convenience of the Match Committee.
4. And in order to prevent friction and misunderstanding amongst the members of our club
A. Be it Resolved that all dues and monies owing to the club be paid up or arrangements made for payment by December 1st, 1951
B. Be it further Resolved that anyone found enjoying the facilities of the Club who have not fully paid up or have not made arrangements for payment, be asked to (1) make immediate payment as a token of good faith or (2) to be asked to leave the premises. …”
By
Social change was still creeping in. In October of 1952 the Ladies were asking for a clubroom similar to the Men’s. [(406) October 20th, 1952] and by November, the Club unanimously voted to renovate the women’s club room [(407) November 21st, 1952
In December there was an Industrial Bonspiel, which Huntly Ferguson reported as involving 262 curlers. A familiar theme surfaced early in 1953 [(409) January 19th, 1953] when a committee of Huntly Ferguson, R.A. Archibald and A.M. McMurray approached the “proper authorities” regarding a reduction of the tax burden on the Club.
Other fund raising activities included the sponsoring of a Hypnotist show, at the High School, [(412) October 19th and November 2nd, 1953] which netted “$110 thanks to the management of the show who took a loss” and the purchase of two slot machines (10 cent slot machines!) for the club [(420) January 3rd, 1955] and the heating system was modernised [(417) October 18th, 1954] by being changed from wood to oil.
By 1958 the club was competing as much as ever this was demonstrated by the following report by Huntly Ferguson:
(443) April 15th, 1958: “A complete report on curling was then reported by H. Ferguson. He stated that 809 games had been played locally with 106 matches played by the Club in outside Clubs. The McArdle rink with Clarence Doucet, Allan Doucet and Bill Davidson had been runnersup in the N.B. Provincial Spiel. The Stewart Trophy had been won by Dalhousie, the Dunn by
In August of 1959 it was decided to expand the clubrooms and $10,000 was delegated [(450) August 31st, 1959] and by December Tony Assaff reported [(455) December 7th, 1959] that $17,221 had been spent with $1,500 going to maintenance of the old building and $400 coming from the ladies. A bill was still outstanding for excavation of the basement and the net expenditure of $15,321 scribed as “ …well within the amount allotted to the building committee by the club …” - this makes interesting mathematics as the $10,000 was all that is recorded as assigned.
As it entered the ‘Swinging Sixties’ Bathurst Curling Club boasted 160 active curlers with 20 odd spares [(481) November 13th, 1961] and an expectation of 36 teams in the Turkey Spiel. There was a stirring in the Club that more ice surface was needed. Land was purchased at the corner of King and Dumaresque Streets as a possible alternate site and a committee was struck to study the situation. R.J. Keswick reported [(484) April 9th, 1962] that in round figures it would cost “ … a new ice shed of 6 lanes of 60,000 Plany (Plant?) 25,000 and head house 70,000 …” and [(485) May7th, 1962] “ … a new rink would be a 20 year venture with $200,000 as capital expenditure with the challenge of raising an additional $10,000 per year to meet the cost. It was moved by B. White seconded by D. Shirley that we hold the present lands and property and not invest in any additional. Carried.”
There was also the opportunity to purchase a strip of property to the East of the ice shed which would allow for expansion. An investigation was undertaken with the following report given by Huntly Ferguson:
(497) April 6th, 1964:
“It is now our firm belief and re3commendation that our club
(a) should proced with the sale of our present plant at a price of $5,000
(b) Purchase a new plant capable of handling six sheets of ice and
(c) To install a complete new lighting system in our present shed
(d) Purchase the Branch Property immediately
(e) Dispose of our property at King and Dumaresque Street
(f) To make long range plans for (1) renovating of present ice shed (2) to make long range plans for improving our head house
(g) Our firm recommendation is that the strongest possible Ways and Means Committee be appointed, again with a long range view in mind that they might be challenged to seek completion of these recommendations
After a discussion … it was moved by Ligouri Doucet seconded by Charles McArdle that the Executive be given permission to execute the recommendations of the committee. Carried.”
(498) April 19th, 1964:
“ It was moved by H. Ferguson that a committee be appointed to make a financial survey of the club with an objective of raising $40,000 with the possibility of erecting a new ice shed before our new curling season commenced in October this Motion was seconded by Tony Assaff and carried.”
The club was now set to bring the club to the design and condition that would take it in to the new millennium and hosting the 2003 Winter Games Curling.
(499) May 14th, 1964:
“Frank Hinde … gave a detailed report on what an expenditure of $100,000 would mean … At this time the President allowed plenty of time for a free discourse on the project … with Mr. Hinde finalising this discussion with a motion that the Ex. (Executive?) proceed with the erection of a five lane ice shed, this motion was seconded by Don McArdle … this motion was then put to the meeting and passed.”
“It was then moved by Sam Shirley seconded by Robert Keswick that the Executive, together with any members of the finance committee and building committee be given the power to commence renovations immediately with the alternate of putting in a five inch slab of concrete over the floor of the ice shed if it were deemed advisable to do so with the cost to be $5,700. Motion Carried.”
The asphalt floor does not appear to have lasted long. There was a great deal of discussion over drainage of the ice sheets. The melting of four sheets of natural ice required the provision of considerable drain tile. Digging up of the asphalt is never mentioned, but the drainage work does not include repaving costs either. The concrete floor in the ice shed not only provides a rentable facility in the summer, it greatly improves the ice making and disposal processes.
The extensive work had its price:
“ Mr Hinde finally moved with Vincent Callaghan the seconder that the qualification for membership in the Bathurst Curling Club, with the exception of first year members without previous curling experience, shall be, in addition to membership dues … that every member shall be holders of Bathurst Curling and Skating Co. Ltd. Bonds in the following denominations: Curling members $200 Club Members $100 Motion Carried.”
The modifications and funding moved forward apace:
(500) October 5th, 1964:”Tony Assaff reported for the building committee, stating that all problems had now been met and the finalising of the structure depended on Finances. He also reported on sale of
Vince Callaghan reported [(502) October 13th 1964] for the Finance Committee “ … that 92 members had agreed to purchase 18,750 in bonds with some members still indefinite in their decision to purchase …”
(503) November 9th, 1964: “Finance Committee: Vincent Callaghan reported that 70 had paid for bonds, forty had promised to purchase 62 had declined to buy and 13 members had left the area.”
“ The Treasurer reported that $49,000 had been paid to date on development and with donations expected we would need another $15,000 to pay all improvements.”
“Tony Assaff reported that work on the structure would be completed this weekend on the advice of the contractor.”
(504) December 7th, 1964: “A.J. Assaff reported that repairs to the main building were completed and that the contract for new ice shed and plant room had been finished …”
In completing the period covered by the ‘Minutes and By-Laws’ it is only fitting that we note the membership base and the continuing struggle to obtain all the dues;
(514) January 3rd 1966: “The secretary reported that 140 members had paid their dues in full, 32 made partial payment with approximately 25 no payment to date …”
This predicates an active membership of 197 members, numbers only dreamed of at the opening of the 21st century.
REFERENCES
(1) Historic Bathurst: A.J. McCarthy: Nimbus Publishing: 1999: p. 114
Curling in Bathurst dates back to 1883
The game of curling began in 1883 in Bathurst and “scratch” games were played on the ice of the harbour. Enthusiasm for the game caught on fast and the first indoor sheet of ice was prepared in a skating rink erected in 1884 by Edward D. Bassett. The rink was located on
The following year, Bassett built a curling ring (sic) with two sheets of ice adjoining a skating rink on the property now occupied by Elhatton’s Funeral Home on
The Bassett rink fell in to disrepair and a group of curlers built a new two-sheet rink in 1889 again on
In 1909, a combined curling and skating rink was built on St. Andrew’s Street where the present club now stands. Another interruption to the game came in 1913 when the building was used as a barracks during the Great War. Fire destroyed the rink in February 1940 and plans were immediately drawn up to replace it and the present four-sheet rink was erected.
(11) December 21st, 1909: “On motion E.P. McKay was elected Chairman” “On motion it was decided to proceed to organise a Curling Club” “On motion it was decided that the name of the club be ‘The Bathurst Curling Club’” The founding members were: “E.P. McKay, P.J. Veniot, Henry White, J. McNichol M.D., Jnr J. Harrington, H. Bishop, T.M. Burns, F.O. Landry, F.J. Melanson, J. Bennet Hachey, Cha’s H. Ellis, J.G. Stout, A. Gatain, H.H. Murray, William Gammon, George Gammon, A. O’Donnell, Gordon Read, Ernest Branch, Fred Gatain, J.B. Mullens, A.W. Ramsay, P.J. Burns, J.H. Kent, J.D. MacMillan, B.C. Mullens, J.P. Leger, P.J. Leger, R.G. Duncan M.D., Jake White, Jr. Arthur McKendy.”
“ Moved by J.J. Harrington, seconded by P.J. Veniot that the Office Bearers be a President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer and a Committee of Management consisting of the above plus three other members …” “On Motion the following Officers were elected:
President J.P. Burns
Vice President E.P. McKay
Secretary P.J. Veniot
Treasurer R.G. Duncan M.D.
Additional Members H. White, Cha’s H. Ellis, J.B. Hachey”
“Moved by J.B. Hachey seconded by H. Bishop that annual fee be $0.25 per member and a Rink Fee of $5”
(12) December 28th 1909 “Moved by E.P. McKay, seconded by H. Bishop, that all clergymen of town and village of Bathurst be elected honorary members.”
“A nominating committee of H. White, S. Williamson and B.C. Mullens selected the following as skips: T.M. Burns, E.P. McKay, Arthur Gatain, Dr. R.G. Duncan, P.J. Burns, A.W. Ramsay, J.B. Hachey, P.J. Veniot, Joshua Gammon, Henry White and Samuel Williamson.
(17) November 21, 1910: “Moved and carried that the Curling Room be used exclusively for Curlers and out of town Male Friends.” “ Moved and seconded that the secretary notify Campbellton Curling Club that they can have use of our ice at any time for a game by giving two days notice. Moved and seconded in amendment that the Management Committee be directed to offer use of ice to Campbellton Curlers any time Committee should see its way clear to be able to do so.
Moved and seconded that the Bathurst Curling Club express its sincere regret at the loss suffered by the Campbellton Curlers in the fire that destroyed their town, and that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Campbellton Club
(21) December 6th 1911 “The President stated that the object of the meeting was to consider an invitation to send one or two rinks to St. John to play against the Scottish Curlers when in that city”
December 8th “The Secretary was directed to notify St. John Curlers of acceptance of an invitation to play Scottish Curlers in St. John and that the Club would send two rinks.”
(24) March 4th, 1912 “On motion, J.G. Stout seconded by J.McIntosh, a committee of three was appointed to choose club colours and report at our next regular meeting. The President appointed J.G. Stout, Jos. McIntosh and H. White”
“Moved by E.P. Mackay and seconded by R. Rogers that an assessment of $0.25 per month be made on each member, from March 1 to December 1 for general Club purposes.”
(25) April 1, 1912:”The Secretary read a communication from the N.B. Branch of the Royal Caledonian Curling Club. On motion it was resolved that the Bathurst Curling Club be affiliated with the New Brunswick Branch of the Royal Caledonian Curling Club.”
“ Messrs. P.J. Burns and E.P. Mackay were elected representatives of the Club to N.B. Branch of the Caledonian Curling Club” (sic)
(27)December 2nd, 1912:”It was decided by a majority vote of the meeting that the colours of the Club be Dark Blue and Gold.”
(35) February 23rd 1914: “Josh gammon and Wm. Fenwick are requested to get up the lunch. Agreed. Mr Fenwick states that they will put up an oyster supper at $0.50 per plate with a guarantee of fifty plates. Accepted”
(42) November 15th, 1915: “Moved by Mr. Mackay and seconded by Mr. Lavallee that G. Hubert, Ed. White, Dr. Coffyn, Mr. Turnbull and all who have enlisted be retained in active membership without fee.”
(43) December 16th, 1915: “The President, in response to enquiry by F.J. Melanson, says that there will be no curling in the rink this winter”
‘Moved by Mr. Stout seconded by Mr. Mullins, that a committee of three members be appointed to look at the obtaining of suitable rooms for the Club to report to he sundry who shall call a meeting. Carried.”
(44) December 1915 Club to rooms in McKenna Building for $25/month
(47) June 5th, 1917: “Moved by B.C. Mullins, seconded by A. Branch that Mr. Stout be elected as a delegate, with the president, to represent the Bathurst Curlers at the meeting of the North Shore Curlers Association, January 6th, 1917 at Bathurst.”
(51) February 6th, 1918: “Moved by B.C. Mullins, seconded by F.P. Galtain that R.C. Rogers and A.C. Branch be appointed to convey Curling stones to and from the station”
Document:
(Illegible)
I joined the Bathurst Curling Club in 1891 and was an active member of it till I moved to Campbellton, July 1st, 1897 where I immediately joined the Campbellton Club.
When I saw the same skips elected year after year at Bathurst and then in Campbellton with those who became members in later years continuing in the same positions, the thought occurred to me to contribute a cup to be played for by rinks skipped by the younger members and in 1917 I requested permission to do so, and in due course obtained the consent of both clubs.
I then decided to put up the cup for annual Competition between eight rinks from the
Yours Truly
W. J. Napier
(53) November 25th, 1918: “Moved by Stout, seconded by Gatain that W.J. Napier be appointed honorary member of the Club and be notified to that effect.”
(54) December 2nd, 1918: “Moved by Dr. Duncan, seconded by Land Bishop that the following members of this club who are at the front should be tendered with resolution that they are elected honorary members of this club: Harold Kent, Phil Andrews, Jack Kennah, Harold White, Mr. Dove, Mr. Youngclause, Orvel Landry and Edmond White.”
[(207) December 29th 1936 “The President stated that we now had about forty-three members now enrolled and that it would be in order to have a motion to elect club skips for the season.”
(209) February 1st, 1937: “It was moved by P.S. Andrews seconded by L.A. Nix that this club challenge for the Napier Cup and have the Secretary notify the Campbellton Curling Club for a date that would suit both clubs.”
March 1st, 1937 “A good suggestion was made by Mr. Mullins that the Ladies want to challenge the men for a game and upon motion it was left to the Match Committee to arrange the play.”
(210) August 10th, 1937 “After hearing the views of the different members it was moved by J.E. Connolly seconded by J.A. Kennah that a fair be held for one night and, if necessary, could be continued the second night by announcing same at the first night’s fair. The following committees were named with their respective chairman:
Premium and Purchasing P.S. Andrews, Chairman
Advertising D.W. Downing
Grounds J.A. Kennah
Ticket E.R. Rogers
Amusement Eldon Eddy
Musical Prof. R.L. Doucet
Refreshment A.E. Loosen, J.B. Gammon, Mrs. H.V. White
General Treasurer G.W. Ellis
(211) September 13th, 1937 “Mrs. H.V. White reported she had interviewed Mr. Buraglia and he proposed looking after the Hot Dog Counter, coffee etc. and would help in every capacity he could
Tony Assaff reported he and Clinton would look after the Tobacco Counter and would purchase all goods for the same.
Ice Cream Booth to be looked after by Philip Loosen
All tickets were in charge of E.R. Rogers
Dancing platform to be in charge of Eugene Trembley
Col. E.J. White volunteered to look after special wheel of fortune
Door Prize to be Excurtion (sic) ticket to Montreal P.Q.
Bingo Table by Ligori Doucet who is to be approached re same
Wheel of Fortune by Harold Crofoot
Lottery of large doll and carriage to be seen to by Mrs. H.V. White
Round dancing by Mr. Jones
The door to be in charge of G.W. Ellis and Mr. Lassard
All were asked to come and lend a hand to erect platforms and booths for the occasion.”
“…R.L. Doucet volunteered looking after the music for the dancing. It was suggested that the band be asked to play in front of the rink and if possible parade the Town so as to notify the people of the fair being held at the rink.
Mr. Downing reported all large posters had been made and are now ready for delivery. Clinton Gammon volunteered to take them up shore and Tony Assaff down the shore with others delivered about the town.”
November 15th, 1937: “The President then reported for the Committee on the fair giving a full detailed statement of the amount realised and then took the opportunity to thank all curlers for their great cooperation in making it such a success. The net amount realised being $434.75
(214) December 17th, 1937: “ There being a very generous offer made by Dr. Jones, one of our enthusiastic curlers, in the sum of $50 to help pay for plate glass for the club rooms looking out on the ice.”
“ …Mr. Connolly was going to Montreal … reported that the same would be purchased for the sum of 36 cents per square foot and the installing and freight along with the glass would not aggregate more than about $90. This glass would be 3/16 inches thick and has been placed in several rinks in and around Montreal lately”
(215) January 3rd, 1938: “After having heard the different views along with those of Dr. Jones, who was so generous in his offering, it was moved by J.E. Connolly, seconded by L.A. Nix that this club accept with thanks the offer by our brother Dr. W.M. Jones and authority be given to J.E. Connolly to have same installed at once in the rooms and the balance due on same be raised by voluntary subscription and not to be taken out of club funds and also to have a committee appointed to raise that balance.
After the motion had gone through the Pres. tendered Dr. Jones a hearty vote of thanks.”
(217) February 22nd 1938: “Napier Cup
At Bathust: J.H. Kent 20 West MacDonald 13
A.E. Loosen 16 A. Jardine 11
A.S. McIntosh 17 L.S. Webb 7
Dr. W.M. Jones 9 G.W.H. Perley 15
At Campbellton E.J. White 14 Bill Rogers 7
Alan Doucet 21 Roy Millburn 9
G.W. Ellis 12 Horace Jardine 10
E.R. Shirley 26 Horace Humphrey 8
136 80
Bathurst won by 55 points”
(239) February 14th, 1940: “(Curling Club Destroyed by Fire at 6.30 a.m.)”
“The President announced our unfortunate loss and stated that he had telegraphed to C. Allan Beatteay, Sec’y of the N.B. Branch of the R.C.C.C. as follows:
‘Curling Rink destroyed by fire last night. Have salvaged stand of Ganong Trophy and mug of Blair Trophy, will forward same to you by express for evidence. Any other information please advise’
A reply as follows was received:
‘Very sorry indeed learn loss Curling Rink and Trophies. Hope building well insured. Ttrophies covered. C.A. Beatteay, Secretary’”
“Now, therefore, be it resolved that the named trustees be, and are hereby authorised and instructed, to adjust the fire-loss with the Insurance Companies, and upon payment of the claims to deposit such funds in the name of the Bathurst Curling and Skating Co. Ltd. With any chartered bank in
Moved by J.E. Connolly and seconded by E.W. Eddy that this meeting assembled, decide now that we are to have a curling rink for the season of 1940 – 41. Unanimously Carried.”
(243) March 4th, 1940: “ Moved by J.E. Connolly seconded by Louis Schryer and carried that the chair make a canvass of the members present to learn their sentiment in respect to the number of sheets of curling ice desired in a new rink. The result was as follows:- 19 voted in favour of 4 sheets of ice, 3 voted in favour of 3 sheets of ice in the old location; 4 members preferred not to vote”
(244) March 11th, 1940: “ It was moved by President A.E. Landry and seconded by Secretary Ernest R. Rogers that the Bathurst Curling Club in special monthly meeting convened, hereby unanimously express their warm appreciation for the generous contribution made by the Bathurst Power and Paper Co. Ltd. To assist the Curling Club and enable them to rebuild their rink recently destroyed by fire.”
(245) March 27th, 1940: “ Moved by G.W. Ellis seconded by J.E. Connolly that this meeting decide now to rebuild the rink on the old site. Unanimously carried.”
“Mr. N.J. Thibodeau was called upon and gave a very interesting report of his trip to the Dominion Bonspiel at
“ Mr. J. Harper Kent reported seeing Mr. R.L. Weldon in
(246) June 3rd, 1940: “ Moved by Moe Dingoff, seconded by J.B. Gammon that the Building Committee be authorised to purchase sufficient roofing material to cover a building 150’ x 64’ in length and width. Motion carried”
“Moved by E.J. Melanson, seconded by J.B. Gammon that the Building Committee be authorised to purchase any and all material necessary … Motion Carried.”
(247) November 18th, 1940: “ The Regular Annual Meeting as called to order by the President at 8.00 o’clock p.m. in the New Club Room. … that owing to the unfinished condition of the rooms the meeting be adjourned until Monday, November 25th/40.”
[(248) November 25th, 1940: Erection of New Building:
Labour 1,1619.34
Lumber, Materials, Supplies 2,210.94
National Defence Tax 13.54 3,843.82
Notes: Donations:
J.G. Chalmers $50 A.S. MacIntosh $25 L. Schrier $25
J.H. Kent $50 Moe Dingott $25 L.A. Nix $25 F.P. Veniot $25 H.C. Crofoot $10 J.R. Wood $25
H.A. Hinton $25 H.P. Emerson $5 Smith Morse $25
Orvan Hinton $25 A.E. Landry $25 E.P. McKay $20
Jack Kennah $25 Eldon Eddy $25 E.R. Rogers $25
Fred McCrae $1
$200 $115 $146
$461
From Insurance $3,010
$3471
(250) November 25th , 1940
President A.E. Landry
Vice President L.A. Nix
Treasurer D.W. Downey
Secretary E.R. Rogers
Chaplain Rev. D. Robichaud
Auditors J.P. Lessard E.J. Melanson
Mgmt. Committee J. Harper Kent, Wm. Gammon, F.J. Foley
Match Committee A.S. McIntosh, W.G. Chapman, P.S. Andrews
[(250)November 25th, 1940) “In referring to the National War Emergency, he expressed assurance that every possible assistance would be rendered by the Club as and when the occasion presented itself.”
[(251)November 25th, 1940) “Moved by D.P. Connolly, seconded by F.J. Foley that the Club purchase 24 sets of specially matched Curling Stones from W.J. Kent, which they have in stock; the same to remain the property of the Club and that a separate fee for use of the stones be paid by the Membership along with their annual dues. Motion carried.”
“Moved by D.P. Connolly, seconded by B.C. Mullins and carried that the Management Committee be responsible for the placing of the Club Stones upon the respective sheets of ice on which they are to be played; that they make arrangements with the present owners of stones for the rental of an additional eight (8) sets of stones to be used on the fourth sheet of ice, and that the playing of these additional stones be under the direction of the Management Committee.”
“Moved by D.P. Donnelly seconded by A.E. Loosen that Honorary Membership be granted to the clergy of Bathurst. An amendment to the motion was proposed by Rev. J.A. Cooper seconded by Rev. D. Robichaud that, in view of the financial needs of the club at this time, the Clergy should be required to pay the regular membership fee. An amendment to the amendment was moved by D.P. Connolly seconded by A.E. Loosen, and carried, that the question of the payment of dues by the clergy be optional with the individual but in no event should the fee collected exceed $7.50 for the ensuing year.
“Additional Honorary Memberships were granted as follows: Claude Buraglia,
[(253) December 2nd, 1940: “Whereas we have been informed that Joshua B. Gammon is willing to lend the Club the sum of $3,000 on a mortgage at 4% per annum and,
Whereas A.E. Loose, P.S. Andrews and J.E. Connolly are the legal trustees for the Bathurst Curling Club, holding in trust the shares of the Bathurst Curling and Skating Co. Ltd., issued to the Curling Club, now, be it
RESOLVED that the named trustees be, and they are hereby authorised and instructed to make such arrangements with the Bathurst Curling and Skating Co. Ltd. as may be necessary for the giving of the mortgage on the Rink property and on the basis mentioned.
(256) January 6th, 1941: “Moved by D.P. Connolly, seconded by B.C. Mullins and carried that the right to use one sheet of ice equipped with the unmatched Curling Stones, four evenings weekly, be extended to the members of the Ladies Curling Club”
[(264) April 7th, 1941: Assets – 24 prs. Curling Stones $750. Land, by Town Assessment, $600
[(280) February 9th, 1942: “It was announced that a certain number of high school boys had expressed the wish to start a curling club of their own provided the Rink facilities could be made available to them at a cost of $1 per member for the balance of the curling season. Following debate it was moved by A.E. Loosen, seconded by A.E. Landry and carried that the Management Committee be authorised and instructed to draw up a set of rules for the proposed Boy’s Club which would be submitted to the Club Executive for final disposition.”
(284) Mar. 9th 1942: “The Chairman reported that at a meeting of the Dominion Branch R.C.C.C. it was decided to draw up a set of Curling Rules which would be uniform throughout the Dominion of Canada …”
“On request a very interesting verbal report on the Dominion Bonspiel was given by P.S. Andrews who stated that the N.B. Rink had the largest gallery of any in play; they had won 6 games and lost 3 games all of which were interesting to watch; the 3 games lost were by narrow margins and looked like possible wins until the last ends were played. Many courtesies were extended to our Curlers and visitors alike by the three (3) Quebec Clubs”
(297) Feb. 1st, 1943: “Mr. R.A. Archibald made a motion that Mr. W.F. Napier be made an Honorary Life Member and that a suitable membership pin and scroll be secured and paid for out of Club funds this was seconded by J.E. Connolly”
“Mr. J.E. Connolly made a motion to have members of armed forces on leave be made welcome to hae use of the club rooms between trains. This was seconded by E.R. Shirley.”
(299) April 5th, 1943: “Mr Dan Connolly also reported that Senior Trophies of both New Brunswick and Quebec were held in New Brunswick for the first time in the history of Curling Games in Canada.”
[(300), April 5th, 1943: “Moved by E.R. Shirley and seconded by A.J. Foley that Match Committee be permitted to spend up to $16 for prizes for winners of Club Matches for year 1942/43.”
(301) October 1st, 1943:
Dues Outstanding, October 1 1943
Paul Samson $5
Al Parsons $10
John Neal $5
Harry Meahan $10
(339) December 17th, 1945: 28 teams listed; 112 active members minimum!
(343, 344) February 11th, 1946: Dues Collected; $1559
(351) December 2nd, 1946:
BATHURST CURLING CLUB
REGULATIONS FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
The Bathurst Curling Club are pleased to offer to male High School students of Bathurst the privilege to participate in the healthful and gentlemanly game of curling under the following general conditions.
4. The student must be approved by the Principal of the School as having made satisfactory progress in his studies.
5. The students shall elect a slate of officers to be approved by the Principle who will be responsible to him and to the Bathurst Curling Club for their rules of play and behaviour whilst on the premises of the Curling Club. The Bathurst Curling Club will nominate one of their members to assist and coach the High School Curlers in the methods of play and the conduct of a curler.
6. The men’s club rooms and ice surface will be made available to High School students from 4.15 P.M. until 6 P.M. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays and from 9.15 A.M. to 12 Noon on Saturdays for the purposes of holding meetings and curling. No card playing or other forms of recreation will be permitted and it is to be distinctly understood that High School student members are not allowed in the Curling Club at any other time except by invitation or permission of the Management Committee
The Management Committee may at any time cancel or alter the allotted hours to suit the convenience of the Club and to cooperate as far as possible with the High School Curlers.
Profane language and noisy behaviour is unbecoming a curler and will not be tolerated.
Membership fee will be $1 per season which includes use of the curling stones.
(359, 360) January 13th, 1947: “Moved by Mr. Edgar Melanson and seconded by E.E. Fleiger that we enter three rinks in the N.B. Junior Bonspiel … the following were elected: Garfield Stratton, Clinton Gammon and alternate skip Edgar Hachey. …”
(367) April 22nd, 1947: “A report was made by Mr E.J. White re surfacing of Curling Rink and stated that the work had already been done by the Dexter Construction Company and Mr. White also stated that on account of this work being done we could expect to be curling somewhat earlier this year.
It was moved by A.E. Landry and seconded by Alvin Campbell that the action of the committee re laying of asphalt surface be approved.” (Cost $1,500)
[(385) October 15th, 1948: Auditors note “Largest collected dues in Club history.”
(393) February 7th, 1949: “A letter from Carrier Engineering Limited regarding the installation of refrigeration equipment in our rink was read.”
(408) January 4th, 1950: “Moved by Ch. McArdle seconded by A.I. Tower that a study be carried out on the cost to install and operate artificial ice”
(409) Moved by Charles McArdle and seconded by Huntly Ferguson that the Management Committee take the necessary steps required to get club control of alcoholic beverages”
(409, 410) January 16th, 1950
“Mr. President,
Pursuant to a resolution adopted by the Bathurst Curling Club authorising the Management Committee to obtain verbal permission from the N.B.L.C.B. to operate under absolute control, a canteen for the purpose of dispensing alcoholic beverages …On Saturday January 14th your committee met to discuss ways of operating. After considerable discussion the following tentative rules were adopted for presentation to the Club hoping same shall be entertained and approved.
Control 1 A control board consisting of seven, with power to add, shall assume, with remuneration, responsibility for all purchases, sales, monies, operating periods, operating control etc. for the balance of the club year.
Hours 2 8 p.m. to end of curling plus a refreshment period of not more than 30 minutes Sundays excluded. Wednesdays 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.: Saturdays 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Special hours arranged by control board for inter-club events.
Monies 3 A canteen treasurer shall handle all canteen monies. Books of tickets shall be secured and sold at $3 per book. Positively no cash handled at counter.
Members 4 Members only may purchase books of tickets
Visitors 5 A visiting curler may obtain a special card entitling him to all club privileges during his visit. A member may apply for and be granted a special privilege card for a male guest proving (sic) member can assure the board that the said guest is non-resident and bona-fide.
Treating 6 All members must pledge themselves to abstain from and discourage the practice of treating fellow club members. This promise should be voluntary and recreated at each monthly meeting. Treating of visiting curlers is an act of courtesy and must be left to the pleasure of the member
Lockers 7 All alcoholic beverages must be removed from all private lockers: Stocking lockers with alcoholic beverages is strictly prohibited.
By-Laws 8 Providing Club Control is adopted, we, the Management Committee recommend a change in the by-law regarding new members. We believe your by-law committee might be authorised to amend present by-law as we are inclined to think that it is too flexible.
Personnel 9 We humbly suggest the personnel of the tentative control board, with power to add: President John Ferris, ex officio; A.I. Tower, A.M. McMurray, L. Schrier, O.G. Hinton, E. Hachey, Tony Assaff, J.H. Ferguson.”
(410) “Moved by Louis Schrier that the recommendations of the Management Committee to enact this control in dispensing beverages in this club be accepted. Seconded by Richard Thibadeau and carried.”
(414) March 6th, 1950 “A report was heard from Gary Stratton that the Noodings (sic) have paid Charlie McCardle the sum of $145.35 for urinal installed in the basement and repairs to the furnace etc.”
(415) April 3rd, 1950: “ … We the members of the fact finding committee appointed at your meeting of January 21st, 1950, authorised to look into the possibilities of artificial ice, four lanes, for the Bathurst Curling Club, wish to make the following report:
Under section (1) of your motion we were asked to procure estimates of the cost of machinery, piping and labour necessary to supply this club with adequate artificial ice, four lanes, we find that this could be supplied and installed at a minimum price of $19,200 and with a maximum price or cost of $25,000, the cost of the same would be governed to some extent by the alterations deemed necessary at or before the installation.
Under section (2) of your motion we were asked to determine, from a financial standpoint, whether the ice shed should be sheathed, before or after the installation of ice making and circulating material. From the observations made we are led to believe that sheathing is not essential.
Under section (3) we were instructed to estimate the average cost, less labour, of operating plant, estimates to be based on costs of operating plants in curling clubs elsewhere in
Under section (4) we were asked to make a complete survey of the Club personnel in an effort to ascertain the wishes of each member. In view of this request we received the idea of a questionnaire which we mailed to each member and from these we received 52 replies.
Those voting ‘Yes’ to #1 question, namely ‘Are you in favour of artificial ice for the Bathurst Curling Club?’ numbered 46: Those voting ‘No’ numbered 4 and those with no opinion 2
Those voting ‘Yes’ to #2 question, namely ‘Are you willing to invest in order to finance such a project?’ numbered 37. Those voting ‘No’ numbered 6, Noncommittal:6 With reservations 3”
(430) April 9th, 1951: “Moved by
(432) August 26th,1951: “Mr. A. I. Tower stated that most of equipment was in for Artificial Ice Plant. Total amount owing on contract $3,766.51 and he stated $1,500 was to be retained and paid when the plant was in operation and pronounced satisfactory.”
(433) September 28th, 1951: “The President reported that John Ferris had written Sir James Dunn and he sent us 20 shares of Bathurst Curling and Skating Co. Ltd.”
[(435) October19th, 1951: “…Recommend that all active curling members be required to purchase a dbenture of at least $100 in value over and above the regular dues set by the Club”
“Committee further recommends that new members be assessed at the regular dues rate plus $10 for the first year. Before becoming eligible to curl a second year he must purchase a debenture as outlined above …”
“Committee further recommends that room members be obliged to purchase a debenture of $50 over and above the regular Room Members fees …”
(436, 437) November 7th, 1951: “ … the following resolution was read by Dr. Ingram:
Whereas the installation of artificial ice
1. Has subjected us to considerable expence
2. and ready money is needed
3. And that a true picture of active and room members is desired for the convenience of the Match Committee.
4. And in order to prevent friction and misunderstanding amongst the members of our club
A. Be it Resolved that all dues and monies owing to the club be paid up or arrangements made for payment by December 1st, 1951
C. Be it further Resolved that anyone found enjoying the facilities of the Club who have not fully paid up or have not made arrangements for payment, be asked to (1) make immediate payment as a token of good faith or (2) to be asked to leave the premises.” “Dr. Ingram moved resolution A re. Dues and this was seconded by R.A. Archibald. Dr. ingram moved resolution B and this was seconded by Louis Schry6er
[(438) December 3rd, 1951: “A.I. Tower reported total expenditures to date $18,638 on plant and installation and we still owe about $7,895.17 to date with one large donation not yet paid”
January 7th, 1952: “Motion made by J.E. Connolly and seconded by Louis Schryer that a committee of five be set up immediately to supervise construction of bar on East side of first floor of building. The following were appointed: Dr. Ingram, Chairman, Glendon Eddy, John Cameron, O.G. Hinton and C.F. McArdle.”
[(406) October 20th, 1952: “It was brought to the attention of the meeting that the ladies were anxious to have a room completed upstairs similar to the one in our club room and that they were willing to share the cost …”
(3 Nov. 1952) “John Cameron gave a report on the cost of finishing an additional part of the upstairs room. After much discussion it was moved by A.J. Assaff seconded by Lee Hinton and carried that the room be finished as soon as the funds were available.”
(407) “It was moved by John Cameron seconded by A. McMillan that members of the R.C.M.P. and town police be given a complimentary mmbership to Club. Caried by a majority vote.”
[(407) November 21st, 1952: “The predident stated that the purpose of the meeting was to report that the Executive had now seen the way clear to finish the upstairs room and would like authority to proceed with same. By an unanimous vote of those present it was decided to renovate the women’s club room.”
(409) December 15th, 1952: “Huntly Ferguson reported that the Industrial Bonspiel currently being held was a great success. He stated that there were 262 curlers participating”
[(417) October 18th, 1954: “Charlie McArdle reporting for the management committee stated that several changes had been made with the approval of the Executive. He stated that the heating system had been changed from wood to oil at a very reasonable figure.”
(443) April 15th, 1958: “A complete report on curling was then reported by H. Ferguson. He stated that 809 games had been played locally with 106 matches played by the Club in outside Clubs. The McArdle rink with Clarence Doucet, Allan Doucet and Bill Davidson had been runnersup in the N.B. Provincial Spiel. The Stewart Trophy had been won by Dalhousie, the Dunn by
[(450) August 31st, 1959: “It was moved by H. Ferguson seconded by T. Assaff that we spend $10,000 to improve the club rooms. Carried.”
(455) December 7th, 1959: “Tony Assaff then gave a detailed report on the financial picture of the new expansion of the Men’s and Ladies’ club rooms he showed expenditures of $17,221.24 of which fifteen hundred had been spent on the old building and would have been routine expenses in any given year together with the four hundred dollars given by the ladies made a net expenditure for the Men’s club on the new enlargement of $15,321.24 which was well within the amount allotted to the building committee by the club. There was one outstanding account for the excavation of the new basement by George Brown who had not yet rendered his account.”
[(481) November 13th, 1961: “…Bernie White Chairman of the Match Committee reported in absentia that 1961-62 curling season would have 160 active curlers with twenty odd spares and that he would have 36 teams in the Turkey Spiel.”
[(484) April 9th, 1962: “Building Committee: R.J. Keswick reported for this committee giving round figure prices on a new ice shed of 6 lanes of 60,000 Plany (sic – Plant?) 25,000 and head house 70,000 …”
[(485) May7th, 1962] “ … a new rink would be a 20 year venture with $200,000 as capital expenditure with the challenge of raising an additional $10,000 per year to meet the cost. It was moved by B. White seconded by D. Shirley that we hold the present lands and property and not invest in any additional. Carried.”
(497) April 6th, 1964:
“It is now our firm belief and re3commendation that our club
(h) should proced with the sale of our present plant at a price of $5,000
(i) Purchase a new plant capable of handling six sheets of ice and
(j) To install a complete new lighting system in our present shed
(k) Purchase the Branch Property immediately
(l) Dispose of our property at King and Dumaresque Street
(m) To make long range plans for (1) renovating of present ice shed (2) to make long range plans for improving our head house
(n) Our firm recommendation is that the strongest possible Ways and Means Committee be appointed, again with a long range view in mind that they might be challenged to seek completion of these recommendations
After a discussion … it was moved by Ligouri Doucet seconded by Charles McArdle that the Executive be given permission to execute the recommendations of the committee. Carried.”
(498) April 19th, 1964:
“ It was moved by H. Ferguson that a committee be appointed to make a financial survey of the club with an objective of raising $40,000 with the possibility of erecting a new ice shed before our new curling season commenced in October this Motion was seconded by Tony Assaff and carried.”
(499) May 14th, 1964:
“Frank Hinde … gave a detailed report on what an expenditure of $100,000 would mean … At this time the President allowed plenty of time for a free discourse on the project … with Mr. Hinde finalising this discussion with a motion that the Ex. (Executive?) proceed with the erection of a five lane ice shed, this motion was seconded by Don McArdle … this motion was then put to the meeting and passed.”
“It was then moved by Sam Shirley seconded by Robert Keswick that the Executive, together with any members of the finance committee and building committee be given the power to commence renovations immediately with the alternate of putting in a five inch slab of concrete over the floor of the ice shed if it were deemed advisable to do so with the cost to be $5,700. Motion Carried.”
“ Mr Hinde finally moved with Vincent Callaghan the seconder that the qualification for membership in the Bathurst Curling Club, with the exception of first year members without previous curling experience, shall be, in addition to membership dues … that every member shall be holders of Bathurst Curling and Skating Co. Ltd. Bonds in the following denominations: Curling members $200 Club Members $100 Motion Carried.”
(500) October 5th, 1964:”Tony Assaff reported for the building committee, stating that all problems had now been met and the finalising of the structure depended on Finances. He also reported on sale of
(503) November 9th, 1964: “Finance Committee: Vincent Callaghan reported that 70 had paid for bonds, forty had promised to purchase 62 had declined to buy and 13 members had left the area.”
“ The Treasurer reported that $49,000 had been paid to date on development and with donations expected we would need another $15,000 to pay all improvements.”
“Tony Assaff reported that work on the structure would be completed this weekend on the advice of the contractor.”
(504) December 7th, 1964: “A.J. Assaff reported that repairs to the main building were completed and that the contract for new ice shed and plant room had been finished …”
(514) January 3rd 1966: “The secretary reported that 140 members had paid their dues in full, 32 made partial payment with approximately 25 no payment to date …”
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