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P5916

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ID Number: P5916
Item Name: Image
Title: Parade of the 21st Essex Fusiliers in Wigle Park / Défilé du 21st Regiment, Essex Fusiliers dans le parc Wigle
Title (Fre): Défilé du 21st Regiment, Essex Fusiliers dans le parc Wigle
Date: 1909/08/03
Description: Black and white photograph of the parade of the 21st Regiment, Essex Fusiliers at Wigle Park during an Old Boys Reunion on August 3, 1909; in the foreground of the photograph there are a large number of men, most in hats and suits, facing away from the camera; the 21st Regiment, Essex Fusiliers, are standing on a field in formation; at the front of the regiment the commander, Lieutenant Colonel Noble A. Bartlet; three men on horses are at the back of the soldiers; each soldier is wearing a uniform and helmet and is holding a rifle; at the back of the park is a tall wooden fence, behind which houses are visible.
History: The 21st Essex Fusiliers were established in 1885 as the 21st Essex Battalion of Infantry. In 1887 they were renamed the 21st Battalion Essex Fusiliers and in 1900 renamed again as the 21st Regiment, Essex Fusiliers. The regiment today is known as the Essex & Kent Scottish Regiment. Wigle Park was established in 1908. It was Windsor's first official park and the field house remains the oldest park structure in the city. Bounded by Erie, McDougall and Mercer Streets, the property was acquired from Mrs. F.J. Holton in 1906, via a tax sale. Construction at the site began in 1907 and official opening ceremonies were held in 1909. Named after Colonel Ernest Samuel Wigle, a two-term Windsor Mayor (1905-1909; 1936-1937) the park's development played an important symbolic role in the area. Today, the Erie Street area is a perennial favourite with tourists. Wigle, known simply as "The Colonel," was a proud descendent of United Empire Loyalist stock. He had a distinguished career in public office and was a powerful force behind the park's estblishment. In keeping with Ernest Wigle's lifelong interest in athletics, Wigle Park is today a relatively high profile sports park, featuring a soccer field and a softball diamond. A variety of playground equipment is also available at the park.
Place made: Canada - Ontario - Windsor
Collection Name: Museum Windsor