Wallaceburg Kiltie Band (1922)

What is this?

This picture represents the Wallaceburg Kiltie Band and their typical get-up. I chose this as our photo-of-the-day because of the effect this concert band had on Wallaceburg and continues to have.

In June 2005, there was a Reunion and Nostalgia Day for the band held in Jeanne Gordon Hall.

The History Behind it

Beginning in the year of 1922, the Wallaceburg Kiltie Band was established. A man by the name of Estel Von Ayres (1892-1990) directed and organized the band. If you're interested in hearing more about the history of the Wallaceburg Kiltie Band, I recommend you check out the book "Wallaceburg: Faces and Places" by Alan Mann.

An excerpt from the book reads: The famed Wallaceburg Kiltie Band, sporting their Gordon plaid kilts and under the direction of Von Ayres, lead a reception parade west on James Street, April 15, 1950. The Rt. Hon. Louis St. Laurent, prime minister of Canada, was in Wallaceburg to address the Rotary's annual banquet held at the Lord Selkirk Supper Club. Schoolchildren were given special commemorative coins that were soon dubbed "Louis buttons."

Why is this important?

They helped Wallaceburg enhance their rich history in music.
They brought people together and provided every member with a second family (which would be the band, of course!)
The reunion was held in Jeanne Gordon Hall, which is next door to our museum

Try our Wallaceburg Kiltie Band quiz if you're feeling educated!