STC150 - Parades

Parades have always been a part of community celebrations. From the earliest years, parades of the local militia were an integral part of bringing together local citizens in celebration and to recognize big events. Usually, these parades would include music from the Lincoln and Welland Regiment Band (19^th Lincoln Band) and often also included the 20^th Battery local artillery unit pulling out their guns and firing a salute for the occasion.

Most parades throughout St. Catharines’ history followed a route through the downtown and along St. Paul Street where local businesses would be draped with bunting and flags and residents packed the sidewalks to enjoy the floats and marching groups.

In 1915, just one year into the First World War, the Dominion Day parade included marching groups of veterans of past wars, groups of firefighters, girl guides and scouts, and vehicles of all sorts both horse-powered and automobiles, all decked out in patriotic decoration to celebrate the day and gather in support of the war effort overseas.

A souvenir booklet of photos of the parade was printed and sold with proceeds in aid of war relief and charity. This photo of young children enjoying a ride in the parade was included in this patriotic souvenir booklet. (1986.101.23)