Original negative from editor Alan Capon’s personal collection from his career with the Post. Photographed on October 25, 1964.
The Town on Film
Service
The Community Chest, the Kinsmen Club, and the Royal Canadian Legion are examples of which the town has relied on to address the unique needs of Lindsay. Capon’s dual role as both documenter and participant of these service clubs allowed him to immerse himself in the core of the community and translate its activities into captivating stories that resonated with the newspaper’s readership.
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The Community Chest
The Kinsmen Club
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The Lindsay Central Exhibition
The Santa Claus Parade
The Montreal Expo of 1967
Alan Capon. Negative from his personal collection from his career with the Post. ca. 1960s.
Negative from editor Alan Capon’s personal collection from his career with the Post. Depicts the finished exterior of Legion headquarters. ca. 1960s.
The Royal Canadian Legion
Before the establishment of Branch 67 of the Royal Canadian Legion, the town was home to the Great War Veterans’ Association (G.W.V.A). In the broader context of Canada’s involvement in World War I and its aftermath, the GWVA was a significant organization formed to support veterans returning from the war and to address their needs.
35th anniversary edition of the Royal Canadian Legion Badge.
Beginning in 1917, the organization offered assistance with veterans’ reintegration into civilian life, healthcare, pensions, and employment opportunities. It also played a role in helping veterans navigate the challenges of post-war life, including physical and psychological trauma.
Architect’s sketch of the Canadian Legion hall expansion, which was approved by a vote of 86 to 5. Article from the Lindsay Daily Post states the proposed expansion cost $50,000. This is the building that most are familiar with today. July 22, 1960.
In 1925, the Great War Veterans’ Association merged with the Canadian Legion of the British Empire Service League, forming what is known as the Royal Canadian Legion. The transition marked a broader recognition of the service and sacrifices of veterans from various conflicts, not just World War I. It became an organization dedicated to veterans of all wars and peacekeeping missions.
His Faults Lie Gently: The Incredible Sam Hughes. Alan R. Capon. Published by Floyd W. Hall, Lindsay, Ontario.
The branch was named after Sir Sam Hughes to honor his contributions during World War I and his connection to the town, serving as Canada’s Minister of Militia and Defense from 1911-1916. Many legions are named after notable military figures or individuals connected to a community- these names serve as reminders of the sacrifices made during times of conflict and as symbols of local pride and heritage.
As a former member of the Canadian Armed Forces, Alan Capon naturally gravitated towards the Lindsay Legion.
Photograph of Legion executive members elected in 1969 from the Lindsay Daily Post. Rear Row: Alan Capon, Jack Towse, Douglas Worrell, Russell Williamson, Sydney York, J. Montemiglio, and Donald Tofflemire. Front Row: Jack Dayman, Richard Green, James McTaggart, Arthus Plumton, and R. Rowbotham. May 18, 1968.
He became the Secretary Manager of the office in 1969, and was often invited as a guest speaker from other associations such as the Rotary Club of Lindsay and the Victoria County Historical Society. He delivered speeches on Sir Sam Hughes, a figure he took great interest in early on since immigrating to Canada. The organization provided an additional environment for community and connection with others who have served.
Photograph of Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 67 members from the Lindsay Daily Post. From left: Past President Tom Madill, President (1966) James McTaggart, Installing Officer Frank Hills, First Vice-President Jack Shannon, and Second Vice-President Richard Green. January 22, 1966.
As a journalist for the Post, Capon had unique access to veterans, their stories, and historical archives related to military service. This access led to informative articles about experiences, war history, and the Legion’s activities.
Original negative from editor Alan Capon’s personal collection from his career with the Post. Installation ceremony of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 67. From left: Executive member R. Harding, Auxiliary President Phyllis Montemiglio, President T. Madill, Sgt-at-Arms Richard Green, executive member J. Mac Taggart, and Zone Commander lan Scott. Photographed on January 16, 1964.
He also had firsthand insight into the challenges faced by veterans, which informed his reporting on issues and raising awareness. A synergy between journalism and being a member of the Legion lies in the shared commitment to service.
Photographs from an article advertising the annual wreath and poppy sale by members of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 67. From the Lindsay Daily Post. Ceremonies typically held at the Cenotaph in Lindsay include numerous wreaths produced by the organization. November 7, 1962.
Today, the Legion remains an integral part of the community, participating in Remembrance Day ceremonies, fundraising, and contributing to the town’s social and cultural life. These organizations serve as pillars of support, ensuring that veterans are respected and cared for while contributing to the well-being of their communities and the nation.
Original negative from editor Alan Capon’s personal collection from his career with the Post. Photographed on October 25, 1964.
Article from the Lindsay Daily Post of a flag presentation to Commodores band. Gord Evans (left), president of the band, accepts a Canadian red ensign from Lindsay Legion president Tom Madill at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 67. In the center is James Parker, a member of the band. October 28, 1964.
Original negative from editor Alan Capon’s personal collection from his career with the Post. Photographed on October 25, 1964.
Article from the Lindsay Daily Post of Tom Madill, President of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 67, raising the Canadian red ensign and Remembrance Day flag outside of Legion headquarters. October 28, 1964.
Original negative from editor Alan Capon’s personal collection from his career with the Post. ca. 1960s.
Article from the Lindsay Daily Post of the Remembrance Day Service at the Cenotaph and Laying of Wreaths. November 11, 1964.
Lindsay Kinsmen Band in front of the Kawartha Lakes Public Library for a Remembrance Day ceremony. Photographed by Alan Capon while working for the Lindsay Daily Post. ca. 1960s.
Photograph from the Lindsay Daily Post of a Remembrance Day service at the Lindsay Cenotaph. Legion members are typically in attendance, as well as those of the police department, fire department, war veterans, Girl Guides, Boy Scouts, and the Lindsay Boys’ and Girls’ Band. November 13, 1963.
Original negative from editor Alan Capon’s personal collection from his career with the Post. Photographed on September 26, 1965.
Article from the Lindsay Daily Post of the 109th Battalion veteran reunion group standing at attention as they and fellow comrades of the Royal Canadian Legion march to a church service. September 29, 1965.
