Like so many small communities across this vast land, the Royal Canadian Legion is the only game in town when it comes to a regular place to gather, to relax, have a drink and maybe catch a band. When I first arrived in the Gumboot Nation, the #219 was the only place to get beer to go, as Walter had yet to secure a licence to sell liquor at the general store. There was a catch though, you had to be a member to get “off sales.” One of my favourite Legion moments was 20 years ago. After a long day of work, I popped in for a pint, and found the recently retired Gail all alone. As I wet my whistle, (as opposed to “whet my appetite”) we were distracted by the sound of a motorcycle pulling to a stop on the gravel outside. In walks a tall fella with killer sideburns, who asks, “Can I get beer to go?” Gail informs him that he needs to be a member, which requires the sponsorship of two members. I looked him over, turn to Gail and say, “I’ll sponsor him!” She shrugged her shoulders and says,“So will I.” A few signatures and the handing over of dues later, (and the price of a six pack!) he was out the door and the Legion was one member richer for it.
As we hope beyond hope that the current health crisis is taking a turn for the better, the little Legion is opening its doors after being shuttered for the past month or so. The first day back was the return of Jam Tuesdays, followed by Jazz Thursdays, both regular weekly events worth checking out. This Friday Feb. 25 is Joe Rotunto & The Interstellar Riders, a great mix of everything from Link Wray to Shadowy Men, with sonic reverb and space echo twang. A cosmic journey of surf rock instrumentals blended with a mix of rockabilly tragedies! The trio consists of Joe Rotundo (guitar), Jeremy Holmes (bass) and Todd Biffard (drums).
The #219 has come a long way from the Second World War vets who started the ball rolling in 1946, meeting in Alex Anderson’s garage. Jack Hamon and Jack Eldred purchased a small cabin in 1958, which was basically the stage and dance floor of the current building. The building was expanded in the early ‘70s, and again 10 years later, Ron Oram and a dedicated crew spent a year burrowing a basement out of the hillside. In 1978, the Ladies Auxiliary raised funds to provide kitchen renovations, a sound system, and new washrooms. In 2003, once again through volunteer labour, a smoking room was added, though changing times and bylaws has seen it changed into a meeting room. The most recent work was the herculean task of refinishing the floor, (beautifully done) and looking ahead, the executives hope to revitalize the building’s aging infrastructure through grant opportunities and donations. With “many hands making light work,” Branch 219 will remain a community hub for many years to come.
