Georgetown Stories :1909-1913 55

Baptism by Immersion

“A very impressive baptismal service took place at Georgetown yesterday on the shore of the harbour to the westward of the ferry wharf. This act of baptism was administered to Mrs. Arthur Jenkins. The Baptist clergyman, Rev. Mr. Wilson, pastor of the Georgetown, Montague and Sturgeon congregations officiated. Rev. Mr. McLaughlin of Massachusetts assisted in the service which was attended by several hundred people.” (Patriot, Aug. 28, 1911)

Macdonald’s Store Puts in Gas Light

“The enterprising firm of A. A. Macdonald & Bros. have had their store and warehouse fitted with gas-lights which light the store as well as the street in that vicinity. The firm deserves great credit for their earnest perseverance in keeping up with all modern applications both for their own benefit and that of their customers. A well—lit store attracts more attention than a dingy, poorly-lit store does where one has to take a lantern to find the lamps. Wake up merchants! or when 1912 comes you will be plodding along or stuck on a hill away back in 1911.” [Temple Macdonald was active in managing the store at this time. He was also the Conservative member for Georgetown in the House. The population of Georgetown in 1911 was 1,010; of Summerside, 2,785 and of Charlottetown, 11, 198.] (Patriot, Dec. 1, 1911)

Georgetown Band Reorganizes

The shareholders of the Citizens’ Band Association of Georgetown held a meeting in the bandroom, Wednesday night. Improvements to the old constitution were adopted. Former bandmaster, John A. Morrison, was found unsatisfactory and dismissed and Duncan Hilchey was appointed in his place. Mr. Glen Jenkins was appointed secretary of the Association and was invested with all the power of the former managing committee that had the management of all contracts and financial affairs in connection with the band. The meeting then adjourned. Mr. Russell R. MacLean was chairman and Mr. A. E. Jenkins,

secretary of the meeting.” (Patriot, Dec. 1, 1911)

Revere Hotel Changes Hands

The property of the well-known Revere Hotel has been let to Mr. John A. McDonald who will in future conduct the business. The Central Telephone Office will be transferred here. Miss Mamie McDonald, continuing to act as manager.” (Patriot, Dec. 20, 1911)

Bourke Buildings Torn Down

“A number of men are engaged in tearing down the old buildings long known as the Bourke buildings on the east side of the railway station. These were built during the palmy days of shipbuilding by the late Michael Bourke and within their walls was made the rigging of many a good ship. In late years they have been used as boat houses by Messrs. A. A. Macdonald & Bros.” (Patriot, July 27, 1912)

Awful Fire Tragedy

“About 10.30 yesterday morning, Mrs. Fred Walker went to a neighbouring house to get some milk leaving two children, one aged three years, a vigorous girl, and the other a year younger, in the home. On her return a few minutes later, she was horrified on finding the body of the girl on the floor burned to a crisp. The younger child had his hair burned but was otherwise uninjured. From appearances it was evident that the child had been igniting pieces of paper at the stove when her clothing caught with the above mentioned result. All who saw the body of the child were shocked by its awful appearance. The bereaved parents have the sympathy of the community.” (Patriot, Nov. 13, 1912)

Georgetown Incorp_orated

Georgetown was incorporated by an act of the Island legislature in 1912. The new order was initiated Jan. 1, 1913. Previous to this time governance had been in the hands of a Board of Assessors which in 1912 consisted of G. Albert Aitken, chair; W. W. Jenkins, treasurer, and Andrew Lavers, secretary. It was decided not to have an election for the first mayor and councilors who were simply named and