BX January 31, 1916

Colonel Colquhoun is Not Injured – Authoritative Denial of Baseless Rumor – Cables He is Well
Ottawa, January 20 – Today’s cables from the British War Office contain several items of special interest. The former report that Col. Colquhoun of the 4th Battalion had been wounded is now corrected by an assurance that the officer in uninjured.

The rumour that he had been killed or wounded spread rapidly throughout this city. Last evening a cablegram was received here by Mrs. Colquhoun’s sister, from Col. Colquhoun, reading “All well. Love to all. Colquhoun.”  The good news is being forwarded to Toronto, where Mrs. Colquhoun is visiting.

BX June 2, 1916

Lieut.-Col. Colquhoun On His Way Home – Has Been Given Six Weeks’ Leave of Absence From the Front

Lieut.-Col. Colquhoun, who has been away from this city for 22 months on active service, will shortly arrive home on leave of absence for six weeks. He has been commander of the 4th Battalion for about a year now.

He was Capt. M.A. (Mac) Colquhoun when on August 22, 1914 he left Brantford at the head of the Dufferin Rifles first contingent for Valcartier where Canada’s first overseas force was gathered and training started. From Valcartier the 4th Battalion, in which he was a company commander, went to Salisbury Plain, and here he was advanced to his majority. He was with the 4th Battalion during the heavy fighting which followed the appearance of the Canadians on the scene, and as a result of the heavy casualties, the ways was open for his further promotion, he being advanced to Lieut.-Col., and C.O. commanding the (Mad) Fourth Battalion.

This will be his first respite from active service, save for the time when he was summoned to England to be decorated by the King with the insignia of the Distinguished Service Order. Mrs. M.A. Colquhoun this morning received the following cablegram: “Six weeks’ leave. Sail for Quebec tomorrow. Colquhoun.”

BX June 13, 1916

Brantford’s Royal Welcome to Lieut.-Col. Mac Colquhoun – Wearer Of the D.S.O., Personally Decorated by the King, Was Enthusiastically Welcomed Back to His Home City – His Record One to Be Proud of, Declared Speakers

“Mac” Colquhoun came home last night. Not Capt. M.A. Colquhoun, as he had been when he boarded a train at the Grand Trunk Station as company commander of the Dufferin Rifles’ first company for overseas service – a company that has been followed by many others since – but  Lt.-Col. M.A. Colquhoun commanding officer of the Fourth Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force, which made the name for itself through its reckless gallantry and daring of the “Mad Fourth” – “Mad” because it hurled itself on the Germans in April, 1915 with such a dash, with such a rush, that if appeared as if the Canadian boys were all mad with vengeance and rage. Lt.-Col. Colquhoun, D.S.O., personally decorated by King George with this symbol of “distinguished services” in the field, which had, at the same time earned for him the promotion from captain to commander of as gallant a battalion as any in the First Canadian Division, and one that bore the brunt of many fights.

But despite the rank he bore, despite the title conferred on him, it was “Mac” Colquhoun that the citizens of Brantford last night turned out in their thousands to welcome home. He was the same old “Mac” as when captain of the crack “A” Company of the Dufferin Rifles. True, his face is bronzed, and perhaps a little paler than then and his hair a little grayer, but the smiling officer who waved back the salutes of the citizens was the same one who had in days past cheered his men of “A” Company on to victory on the floor of the Dufferin Rifles’ armory in many a tight sporting event.

He was undoubtedly a proud man when the Grand Trunk flyer at 7.32 (standard time) pulled into the station, for he could see out of the window of the parlor car that Market Street was black with humanity, that the station precincts were crowded. As he stepped off the train with Mrs. Colquhoun, who thus welcomed him back to his old home after an absence of 22 months in training or on the field of battle, he was warmly greeted, but the main reception was yet to await him. A few personal greetings were exchanged and then, finding that it would be impossible to make way through the crowded station grounds, he moved down the tracks with his happy helpmate leaning on his arm, proud that her soldier husband had come back home, with honors, if only for a short furlough.

Waiting at the Market Street crossing of the Grand Trunk was a procession which proved the largest seen here in connection with a homecoming. The 125th Battalion, Lieut.-Col. Cutcliffe – a fellow company commander of his in pre-war times – commanding, and the 215th Battalion, Lieut.-Col. Harry Cockshutt commanding, had paraded to the station to greet him and his eyes shone as he saw that the Brantford that had sent out with him as fine a company of men as any in the first contingent of the Canadian Expeditionary Force was still responding to the call – that he and his men when in Flanders had men coming to back them up in their endeavor to break through the German lines. Perhaps if the truth were known, this splendid showing of khaki-clad men from Brantford was to him the most impressive part of the welcome home which was extended to him.

At the head of the column he was warmly greeted by Ald. Dowling, chairman of the finance committee of the City Council and of the Soldiers’ Aid Commission, Lieut.-Col’s Cutcliffe and Cockshutt, ex-Mayor J.H. Spence, who had in times past – many months ago – bidden him farewell as he left with his men for Valcartier, Hon. Lieut.-Col. W.F. Cockshutt, the members of the City Council, and many others.

After the personal greetings, Lt.-Col. Colquhoun took his seat in an auto along with Mrs. Colquhoun, Sr., his mother, Mrs. M.A. Colquhoun, his two sons, Lt. Wyn. Colquhoun and Pte. Lloyd Colquhoun, Col. Labatt of Hamilton, formerly commander of the Fourth Battalion, who was wounded in the heavy fighting which the battalion went through and Ald. J.S. Dowling, and the triumphal procession through the city streets commenced. The auto immediately followed the bands, and to the strains of a medley of military and patriotic airs, the men of the 125th and 215th Battalions moved off. 

Down Market Street they marched through serried ranks of citizens, who warmly greeted the hero, though it must be said that there were more “Hello Macs” than there were “Welcome home Colonel,” for he will ever be “Mac” Colquhoun to the majority of the citizens. Occasionally he would see in the crowd one of his own men of the Fourth Battalion, wounded and invalided out of service, and for every one of those there was a warm greeting and a hearty handclasp. It cannot be said that the cheering was deafening, for Brantfordites are not prone to cheers, but the reception was such as gladdened his heart.

Following the battalions were many autos, gaily decorated for the occasion, and the march through the city, via Market, Dalhousie, King, Colborne and George Streets, was witnessed by thousands. It can truthfully be said that, despite the very wet condition of the roads, and the threatening display put on by the weather man, there were few who stayed home last night.

When the Market Square was reached, the parade broke up, and formal greetings and welcomes were uttered. Ald. Dowling being in charge of the reception, in the absence of the mayor who had been attending to city business at Toronto all day, and who was unable to come out in the evening owing to the dampness, his physical condition preventing him from taking part.

Slowly through the dense mass that had collected to a point opposite the city hall on the Market Square proceeded the big car bearing the man whom practically all Brantford had turned out to welcome, closely followed by another car bearing his wife and two sons, the latter both in the uniform of the King. As the handsomely decorated automobiles halted side by side a mighty cheer that echoed and re-echoed – such an outburst of enthusiasm as perhaps had never before in the history of the city of Brantford – sounded through the streets, went up for Lt.-Col. “Mac” Colquhoun.

A Great Welcome

When the joyous pandemonium of thousands of citizens, including many of the Colonel’s old friends and others who thought they had perhaps never before seen his manly form, yet with all hearts that swelled with equal pride – the reputation that he gained when he made the noble sacrifice at the beginning of the war, augmented by valiant deeds performed with the “Mad Fourth” having spread from coast to coast – had subsided a little, the speech making began.

The Official Welcome

Amidst a hush in the loud acclamation Ald. Dowling arose and on behalf of the mayor, who was unavoidably absent, and on behalf of the citizens of Brantford officially welcomed Lt.-Col. Colquhoun back to the city. After three more vociferous cheers that relived the pent up feelings of the gathering to a certain extent, Ald. Dowling continued his address. He referred fittingly to the many other retuned heroes present and to the host of khaki-clad who were preparing to do their bit, who, he knew, was not fond of listening to speeches. Col. Labatt first leader of the Fourth Battalion, was also introduced, who with enthusiastic cheers welcomed him to their midst.

On such an auspicious occasion, Ald. Dowling said, he found it hard to know just exactly what to say. He hoped, however, that the colonel would pardon the little delay that they had caused in their effort to give him a welcome back to his home city and in expressing the pleasure he felt and believed he echoed the sentiments of every man and woman in the city, who were all proud of his return and of the glory achieved while in action. He was but speaking the mind of the populace in a feeble way when he referred to the pride that all felt at the well-deserved promotion that Col. “Mac” had received, which had brought honor both to himself and the city of Brantford.

While his home-coming brought great joy and rejoicing it was not untouched  with sadness, as it recalled to many memories of the dear ones, who, their lives cut short, were lying in early graves on the battlefields of Flanders, and others who while he was speaking, were engaged in ceaseless combat, with the ruthless Hun. “We are pleased to have present so many brave returned soldiers, who fought with you and for you, and under your leadership brought credit to Brantford, credit that cannot be excelled,” continued Ald. Dowling. In well-chosen words he referred to the praiseworthy action of the women at home who found the sacrifice of paring with loved ones a cup of great bitterness hard to bear. 

He assured Col. Colquhoun that while he had been away engaged in the strife Brantford had not been forgetful of the fact that he needed more men at the front, an evidence of which fact he would see in the 125th and 215th Battalions
Before calling on the next speaker Ald. Dowling made fitting reference to the loss of Earl Kitchener. The band of mourning on the arms of the officers of the battalions, a symbol worn in memory of the great commander, brought a feeling of sadness to all. He had been told that when a man drowned that after the great struggle in the water his mind was seized with all the blessed things of his life.

Pleasant happy recollections as he thought of what a grand empire he belonged to must have passed through the mind of Lord Kitchener in his last moments. If this were true, his mind would revert to such leaders as Col. Colquhoun. He had not only finished his own work well, but he had shown us what a great work there was to do and how to do it, concluded Mr. Dowling.

Lieut.-Col. Cutcliffe

Lt.-Col. M.E.B. Cutcliffe, O.C. 125th Battalion, was then called upon to say a few words. He arose from his seat and after calling his men to attention asked for three hearty cheers for Col. Colquhoun which were given with a will.

Lieut.-Col. Cockshutt

“I am pleased to be here for many reasons,” said Col. Harry Cockshutt, O.C. 215th Battalion, upon arising to speak. He was more than pleased to note that only a short time ago “Mac” Colquhoun had left the city a captain, while today he returned a lieutenant-colonel, through merit won on the field of honor – something he could well be proud of and something that Brantford could well be and was proud of. We had all seen this magnificent reception. Well, over there were the quarters of the 215th Battalion, he commented pointing to the old Y.M.C.A. There were lots present who should be in khaki, and if they would come over and join up the battalion would be pleased to have them, he stated, amidst cheers.

Jos. H. Ham

Joseph H. Ham, M.L.A., in a brief speech, also welcomed the colonel back on his leave of absence. In the war news all had seen the name of Lieut.-Col. Colquhoun mentioned many times. Many of the citizens would remember him better as Capt. Colquhoun, one of the first officers to volunteer from Brantford. He had risen through his own merit to be a lieutenant-colonel. Out of the many officers from Canada he had been chosen to be a leader. He had brought much honor to the city of Brantford, which was glad in a small way to bring honor to him. He was home on furlough, well earned indeed.

Mr. Ham told of riding for a considerable distance on the train a short time ago with a few returned soldiers on their way to this city. They had told him that the hardships were many, but they would not miss the satisfaction of knowing that they had been to the front for all the hardships that could arise. Upon asking them what they had to say about those who were just signing up for active service, he received the answer that they envied those lads who were going to be in at the finish. It had been predicted that the Canadian boys would cover themselves with glory. Col. Colquhoun had covered himself with glory, and if he had not received a furlough he was sure he would have perhaps won even greater distinction. He felt sure that Col. Colquhoun would be during his short stay here, an important factor in inducing men to go back and help to bring the great struggle to a close.

W.F. Cockshutt

“This is one of the proudest moments in my life, to be able to say a few words of welcome to so distinguished a citizen of Brantford,” said Hon. Lt.-Col. W.F. Cockshutt, the next speaker. He had known Capt. Colquhoun for a long time, but he had not known Lt.-Col. Colquhoun for very long – a man who had received honors from the King’s own hand. A man had to be a good one and prove his worth to win such distinction. While all were glad to meet such a distinguished gentleman they should not forget the mother and sons, both of whom were following in their father’s footsteps.

While he was glad to have “Mac” back, he was sorry the job was not finished. Now was the time to get into the fight, while there was something to do. “Get into khaki and follow Colquhoun,” was his advice to those who had not yet signed up. “All honor to him who has returned covered with glory; all honor to him who has brought back from the King the greatest honor any man could bring,” forcibly concluded Lt.-Col. Cockshutt. Before sitting down he asked that three cheers be given for Mrs. Colquhoun and her two sons, which were responded to heartily by all.

Lieut.-Col M.A. Colquhoun
    
Amid vociferous cheers the worthy “Mac” himself then arose and briefly addressed those gathered. It was very hard for him, he said, to express exactly what he felt, but first of all he wished to thank them all for the hearty welcome accorded him. The reception he had received after his long trip paid him well for the journey and he was glad that when given six weeks’ leave of absence he had decided to return to his wife, his family, and his friends in Brantford.

All were interested in the Brantford men at the front, and without one exception he did not believe there was ever any better men who fought for the old British flag than the men from Brantford. Although there were very few of his old charge left, in fact he felt that he could count them all on his fingers; they were made of the real stuff. Again he thanked them for the magnificent reception stating that he did not think there were so many people in his old city as he had seen since his arrival. 

Before calling on Lieut.-Col. Labatt, Ald. Dowling referring to Col. Colquhoun’s address, stated that he believed the colonel was given more to fighting than talking, as he had talked for two minutes. At the request of Col Colquhoun three hearty cheers were given for Lieut.-Col. Labatt, the next speaker.

Colonel Labatt

“Citizens of Brantford,” said Col. Labatt in his opening remarks, during the course of which he spoke very highly of Col. Colquhoun, “it is just about a year ago since I said good-bye to “Mac.”  He quoted an instance of the courage of “Mac,” whom, he said, he loved like a brother. In one of the heavy engagements he was in the reserve trenches while “Mac” was in an orchard some distance away. When it got dark he crawled out to the orchard and sat down for a chat with him. One of the companies had been nearly demoralized, and when he returned to the trenches “Mac” came back also, and started telling the boys a story. A shell burst in their midst, nearly burying them, but “Mac,” after crawling out of t he dirt spit the earth and sand from his mouth and started on with his story where he had left off. Another instance of the cheerfulness which he always manifested – a factor which had great influence in keeping up the hearts of his men was shown in the incident related of how he himself chided the colonel on one occasion with looking glum. Mac had answered, “Well, perhaps I don’t look very well, but that is because I have run out of moustache wax.”  Such little incidents as these, while in the minds of many at home perhaps would not count for much, were really winning matters over there where the ability to keep up the spirits of the men counted for much.

Col. Labatt also paid a lasting tribute to the sacrifice of the women who had given their men to go and fight the battles of the Empire without murmur. Mrs. Colquhoun had not only given up her husband but also her two sons. “All honor to such women,” he said amidst enthusiastic applause. “Three cheers for Mrs. Colquhoun and Col. Colquhoun” called Col. Labatt in conclusion, these being given with unwonted zeal after which the family was whirled away to their home on Dalhousie Street.

BX June 13, 1916

Spirit of the Canadians is Marvelous – Lieut.-Col. M.A. Colquhoun Says Canadians are Among World’s Best – Are a Credit

“The spirit of the Canadians on the battlefields of Flanders is something marvelous, despite all adverse conditions. We are holding our own, but when the war will end is something none of us can tell. The Germans are not beaten, but there will only be one ending to the war. It will not end until all the Germans are driven out of France and Belgium. On this point all the Allies are solid.”

Lieut.-Col. M.A. Colquhoun, who left Brantford as a captain in charge of a company 22 months ago and returned last evening a lieutenant-colonel, having charge of a battalion, “The Mad Fourth,” and wearing the D.S.O. decoration received from the King, was the speaker.

Very reticent was Lieut.-Col. Colquhoun when asked about his exploits at the front. He sailed with the first contingent and won his promotion on the field, but while he would not talk about himself, he could not too highly praise the Canadians. “Canadians on the battlefields are confident, determined and undismayed. Their spirits are marvelous and the officers all tell you that despite the weather or any hardship the men are in the best of spirits and continually sing,” he commented.

He had been through all the heavy fighting up to the time he left France, about two weeks ago, on a six weeks leave of absence, escaping without a scratch. After the historic second battle of Ypres, on April 23, he was recommended by General Mercer of distinguished conduct and was later decorated by King George. This morning Col. Colquhoun remarked that he did not know for which battle he had been decorated.

"At Givenchy we were under very heavy artillery fire for 10 days and 11 nights, continuously. The fighting was very severe, but it did not dampen the men’s spirits, though we did not have much chance to get back at the Huns. It is much easier on the men when they can get back at the enemy. The Festubert fight was bad, but Ypres was the big battle."

This was the modest way he described the biggest battle he was through.

Pride in Canadians

Of the details of the struggle or military conditions at the front the colonel declined to talk. He was warm in expressing pride at the conduct of the Canadians, saying, “There is no doubt that the Canadians have proven themselves capable soldiers and are taking place with soldiers much more highly trained. Three of the leading generals, including General Alderson, after seeing the Canadians in action have remarked that they were amongst the best soldiers in the British Empire.

"The Canadians have been a credit in their Mother Country in every department of the campaign. They have always given a good account of themselves in the close hand-to-hand fighting. When it has come to close grips our men have demonstrated marked superiority over the highly trained forces of the enemy.

The spirit of the Canadians is excellent. They are always ready and eager for a scrap. Their spirits are always high even when living up to their knees in mud and water, but when there is a prospect for a scrap their spirits are highest and best. Then when it comes down to a fight they stay on the job to the finish."

Colonel Colquhoun left France on a Thursday night and the following evening the big fight, casualty lists from which are now pouring in, started. The battle was not expected and nothing was learned of it till he landed at Liverpool. The weather was fine when he left France, and while conditions were bad all winter the country is now beginning to dry up.

Back of the lines where everything is not shot to pieces the crop prospect is excellent. All kinds of roots, wheat, oats and rye are coming up in great abundance.

Too much praise could not be given the Brantford men, remarked Col. Colquhoun. There were not very many of them left who had not been wounded, but any who had been wounded were again back in the trenches. “There were none finer than the men I took away with me. I can’t speak too highly of the conduct of both N.C.O.’s and men, without any exceptions.”

Col. Colquhoun returned to Brantford to find both of his sons in khaki. Lieut. “Wyn” Colquhoun is with the 120th Battalion, and Corp. Lloyd Colquhoun is with the signal corps of the 215th Battalion.

BX July 3, 1916

Purse of Gold for Lieut.-Col. Colquhoun – Foreman at Massey-Harris Honored Their Former Colleague

Lieutenant Colonel M.A. Colquhoun, officer commanding the “Mad Fourth” overseas battalion home on a short furlough, was pleasantly surprised on Thursday evening by the men he worked with at the Massey-Harris Company before answering the Empire’s call.  For a number of years Col. Colquhoun was foreman of the machine shop there, and was exceedingly well liked by all with whom he came in contact.  On Thursday he received a message that his old fellow-workmen would like a visit from him, so about 6 o’clock he went.  To his surprise the heads of departments, superintendents, foremen and others, showed their regard for him in a very tangible way by presenting him with a well-filled purse of gold and a handsomely illumined address.  The presentation was made by Foreman Bowden of the blacksmith shop and Supt. R.D. Johnston read the address.  Although much surprised Col. Colquhoun appropriately thanked the men for their kind remembrance.

BX August 9, 1916

A Money Gift For the “Mad Fourth” – Lieut.-Col. Colquhoun Given a Cheque by Women’s Patriotic League – An Address Also

Ere his departure for overseas once again Lieut.-Col. M.A. Colquhoun was yesterday afternoon presented with a suitable commendatory address and a cheque to be used in buying comforts for his men, from the Women’s Patriotic League. In conversation with an Expositor representative Col. “Mac” this morning said that the boys would certainly appreciate the gift. The ladies would never really know just how much it would be appreciated, as it was the first money cheque they had received. The colonel on behalf of the members of the Fourth Battalion extended many thanks to the members of the Women’s Patriotic League of Brantford for their welcome gift.

The address was as follows:

Dear Col. Colquhoun,

On the eve of your return to the front the Women’s Patriotic League of Brantford would ask you to accept as a small token of our appreciation of your heroic officers and gallant men this cheque, to be used in buying comforts for them.

We feel that the ‘Mad Fourth’ will long live in the hearts and affections of the Brantford people not only for their endurance of discomforts at Salisbury Plain, but also for their heroic stand on the field of battle. Festubert, Givenchy, St. Julien, Langemarck and Ypres will long be associated with the gallant “Mad Fourth." 

We would especially remember Major Percy Jones and Capt. Fred Miller, who have been with you from the beginning and with you have won glory and honor for their native town.

Words fail us to express our admiration for you, Col. Colquhoun, and your self-sacrifice in returning to the front, when a great inducement was offered you to remain in Canada. By your conduct on the field you have won for yourself and for Brantford new and fresh laurels and brought a distinguished honor to your town.

May God bless and keep you and bring you and your officers and men home to their loved ones when victory crowns their heroic and gallant efforts.

Charlotte E. Livingston, President
Margaret C. Watt, Convener Finance Committee
Nellie L. Lain, Secretary Women’s Patriotic League

BX August 8, 1916

Col. Colquhoun Returns to Duty – After Extensive Furlough He Will Re-Assume Command of “Mad Fourth”

After close to two months well earned rest, following upon nearly two years active service, Lieut.-Col. M.A. Colquhoun, D.S.O., will leave the city this evening at 8.32 standard time, from the G.T.R. station for Montreal, the first lap of the return trip back to the scene of the war.

Although offered a position as brigade commander at Camp Borden Col. “Mac,” without hesitation, refused to forego his command of the “Mad Fourth,” where he will be called upon again to face death probably many times for a position here without risk. The old fire that stirred his blood when a call was made for officers to lead the men of the first contingent out of Brantford is still undiminished, and the well wishes of a city wide circle of friends will return with him to his task at the battlefront. “Mac” expects to sail on Thursday and intends to resume the command of this old battalion, the fourth. 

BX March 10, 1919

Rioters at Kinmel Camp Killed by Men of Another Camp; Only 50 or 60 Involved – Acting Brigadier-General M.A. Colquhoun of Brantford, Camp Commander, Gives Statement – One Soldier Raised Red Flag in Attempt to Introduce Bolshevism, and was Immediately Shot – Inquest Opened on Victims

LONDON – March 9. – Gen. Colquhoun, who was in command of the camp, in the course of a statement on the rioting of Canadian soldiers at Kinmel, said that no attack was made on the officers, who were treated with courtesy.

“I myself went in and out among the men freely,” he added, “and some of them actually put down loot in order to salute me – then they picked up the loot again.

“The reports of the damage to the camp are greatly exaggerated. Some 50 or 60 men got out of hand and attacked some canteens. The men in one camp, anticipating danger, armed themselves and contrary to express orders, fired. That was on Wednesday, when the fatalities occurred.

“The girls’ camp was not attacked. As a matter of fact the girls were treated with the utmost chivalry. No man entered the girls’ rooms while they were occupied.

“One man raised the red flag in an attempt to induce Bolshevism. He was shot.”

The Abergele correspondent of the Manchester Guardian wires that many who participated in the disturbances at Kinmel Camp it is not believed have had any serious intention of revolt. Some regard the proceedings as rough horse-play.

The special correspondent of the Daily Chronicle says the disturbances were started by a man stated to be of Russian origin crying “Come on Bolsheviks,” at 9.30 p.m. when the camp was preparing to go to bed. A rush was made for the guard room and members of the guard were speedily overpowered and their rifles wrestled from them. The rioters used these rifles as well as their own. In the attack on the stores they threw out every article and then proceeded to wreck the building. They found some stores of liquor, and inflamed wit drink, went on to fresh excesses. Fiercely assailing the canteens, they quickly tossed outside most of its contents, including cigarettes, provisions and confectionery, which were trampled in the mud.

The disturbance continued all night and broke out again on Wednesday afternoon and the camp was practically laid in ruins. The scene was almost indescribable. Men were seen parading around the camp dressed in clothes taken from the girls the previous night, while others staggered about intoxicated or lay around in a drunken stupor.

30 Ringleaders Arrested

The next step was a raid on the ammunition stores where cartridges and firearms were secured. An attack was made on the officers’ quarters. Wild and indiscriminate firing took place in the initial stages of this attack during which a man on sentry duty was killed and many rioters wounded by the fire of their own comrades. The cavalry was called out, but it is stated were helpless owing to their not being allowed to use their arms. Having done their worst in the camp the bolder spirits started to march on Abergele but were met by troops detailed from Chester for the purpose and overcome by superior forces and turned back. A proposal was made to march on Rhyl but was not carried out, though the inhabitants had many anxious moments. At nightfall the men, exhausted by their excesses, were persuaded by the steadier element and quieted down. The riots then came to an end. Ringleaders to the number of between 20 and 30 were arrested and taken to a detention camp.
    
The Canadian Associated Press correspondent at Llandudno, Wales writes:

“I am told many of the men who joined in the disorders simply indulged in a weakness for horse-play, while others were inflamed by liquor and were more ugly customers to tackle, but behind these were some companions of sinister influences who were believed to have deliberately fomented the mad attempt to defy authority and order.

"Enquiry at the camp on Thursday night was met with a disposition to minimize the importance of the affair, the information given out being that the trouble came to an end with the rounding up of the rioters, and that the camp was absolutely quiet and no danger of further disturbances existed.”

Casualties All Occurred When Men Were Fired Upon

LONDON, March 9. – Writing of the most serious part of the outbreak on Wednesday afternoon, the Llandudno correspondent of the Canadian Press says:

“It was at this stage that the casualties occurred. A detachment with loaded rifles grimly stood their ground, an officer warning the rebellious mob of the gravity of the situation. This did not appear to be fully grasped by a number of the men. Still there was no room for misapprehension as the mob still came onward. The order was given to fire and the ranks of the mischief makers ere forthwith broken. Besides an officer, four of the rank and file lost their lives, and about 20 others were more or less seriously wounded. Many arrests followed. This was practically the last incident of the outbreak.”

LONDON, March 9. – An inquest on the bodies of the victims of the Canadian outbreak at Kinmel Park – Three Rioters Two Loyalists.

The outbreak is said to have started in the Montreal camp and then spread to the others. A correspondent says that three of the killed were rioters and two loyalists. One was killed by a stray bullet while writing a letter in his hut, and the other, Pte. David Gillan was shot through the head while defending a Montreal lieutenant who was lying on the ground and being threatened. In all, over 400 soldiers have been arrested and conveyed out of the district.

Questioning the women camp helpers, they agreed that they had been well treated.

The Daily News – Wrexham correspondent says that a Canadian soldier who witnessed the outbreak thus derives some of the scenes:

“I was one of about 200 who marched with rifles and jupon our invitation an officer marched in front of us. One the way when we were within speaking distance we were asked by the enemy to drop our firearms and have it out with fists. We agreed, so as it we went, hell for leather. One of our opponents, who wielded a big piece of wood, evidently part of a wrecked Canadian billiard table, was stalking behind our officer and was about to club him when one of our men whisked out his weapon and shot him dead.”

Worst Recorded

LONDON, Mar. 9. – The Times, in an editorial yesterday, refers to the Kinmel Camp riot as the worst that has happened in the country, and adds that the discipline of the Canadian troops is normally so good that this lapse from a splendid record is naturally a subject of the graves concern and deep regret of Canadian officials, and their anxiety to give the affairs its right perspective is evident in every line of the statement they have issued.

Some correspondents have written as though the riot were a Bolshevist demonstration, but the real motives are to be found, not in any body of political doctrine, but in discontent at purely executive action.

The immediate cause of the outbreak was the fact that some men who had been conscripted were sent home before those who were volunteers and who had seen longer service. The reason for so apparently unjust a preference was, as is explained in the report of Sir Richard Turner, that some Canadians are being returned by units; offers on the principle of first come, first served. The shortage of shipping contributed to the grievance that was felt over the working of the rules and further discontent was caused because the officers in the camp were not those who had commanded the men in the field.

In spite of the extreme gravity of their offence it is to be hoped that the case of the men will be stated fully at the court of enquiry and given publicity.

The Daily Mail claims that it is only fair to the Canadians at Rhyl and to the Dominion that an open enquiry should be held and that there should be no hushing up.

The Manchester Guardian says that the scribing of the Kinmel riots entirely to the influence of a few Russian Bolshevists among 15,000 Canadian soldiers will not do. It is obvious that the conditions of the camp were unusually bad and the fact that the food stores were first plundered is proof. Probably demobilization grievances real or fancied were a more potent cause and finally, it would seem that the rioters were not wholly to blame for the bloodshed.

BX March 10, 1919

Col. Colquhoun is Interviewed – Denies that Rioters Molested Women Working Camp

(Canadian Press Service)

LONDON, March 10. – (By Thos. Champion, Canadian Associated Press, London Correspondent) – A visit to Kinmel Camp, the scene of the rioting among Canadian soldiers this week, on Saturday showed that the holiday afternoon was being spent in the usual fashion. Football and baseball games were proceeding. For the previous 70 hours the camp had been normal. Any newcomer would have had difficulty in discovering that it had recently been otherwise.

Colonal Colquhoun, in an interview with newspapermen, confirmed the statement that women camp helpers were never personally molested. He also denied the statement that General Turner went to the camp in an airplane. The general went by the ordinary train, and was received cordially by the men at every one of the eleven meetings he addressed.

In the last three days a Canadian Associated Press representative has travelled about 400 miles across England in connection with the rioting at Kinmel Camp and demobilization.

“I can honestly say,” remarks the correspondent:

“that in general conversations amongst soldiers and civilians, English and Canadian, I find not the least desire to magnify last week’s regrettable incidents beyond their true perspective. At Liverpool for instance when the Princess Patricia’s and three other battalions went homeward, there was nothing but the most obvious cordiality shown them. Conversation in railway trains, hotels and places where men commonly meet is wholly sober and restrained in discussing the Kinmel incidents.”

The Sunday papers, which naturally are always ready to boom a sensation, hardly mention the matter today. The Sunday Chronicle, which largely circulates in North Wales and the north of England, has an editorial which says:

“Characteristically enough newspapers are blamed for exaggeration, yet it is admitted that five men were killed and over 20 injured, and that many others are under arrest. Considerable material damage was done and military rioters acted in collusion with civilians of whom 12 have been handed over to the civilian authorities. It really seams difficult to exaggerate the gravity of this, particularly when we know that there was a distinct Bolshevik element in the affair. Publicity is sound policy in all these matters, however distasteful full disclosures may be to the official mind. There can, of course, be no question of pandering to insubordination. So long as men are under discipline, discipline must be maintained. But it is also most important in these nervous times to secure that no undue strain shall be placed on the sense of duty of the soldier and if stupidity or injustices have contributed to this lamentable affair, there should be no attempt to obscure the facts. The public will not be satisfied by mere routine procedure.”

This is the general feeling here and we have been promised a full inquiry. It may be added that there have been demonstrations among the English troops during the last few weeks, which received as much publicity in proportion as has been given the present matter.

BX September 19, 1919

Col. Colquhoun Reached Home – Was Welcomed by Friends Last Evening – A Stirring Career

Colonel M.A. Colquhoun, Lieut.-Lloyd Colquhoun and Mrs. M.A. Colquhoun arrived home last evening from England, having landed at Montreal yesterday morning from the Scandinavian. They were all in the best of health, and were greeted by a large coterie of friends last evening as they stepped off the Montreal train. For the past year or so, Colonel Colquhoun has been engaged in staff work at Rhyl Camp, and his work has been regarded as splendidly efficient. He was, as is well known to Brantfordites, the commanding officer of the “Mad Fourth,” with which unit he served as a captain in the second battle of Ypres. He was promoted to the command, and in 1916 was placed on staff duty in England. He had very onerous duties in connection with demobilization, from the troubles there when an inquiry was held at Rhyl, he emerged with flying colors.

Lieut. Lloyd Colquhoun left Brantford as a sergeant with the 215th Battalion and received promotion in England to staff duty.

Asked as to his plans Col. Colquhoun stated this morning that he has not yet given a thought to the matter. His future was very indefinite. He will be in Brantford for some time and receives the warmest of welcomes from his host of friends here.

BX August 4, 1950

Col. “Mac” Colquhoun, Great Soldier, Former Mayor, Called by Death

Col. Malcolm Alexander “Mac” Colquhoun, C.M.G., D.S.O., V.D., who commanded the 4th (Mad Fourth) Battalion during the First World War, and who served as mayor of Brantford in 1935, died Thursday night in the Brantford General Hospital.  He was 81 years old. 

Colonel Colquhoun started soldiering at the age of 17.  He served in the Dufferin Rifles here for 45 years and commanded it in 1919.

During the First World War he became one of Canada’s most distinguished and colorful soldiers.  He bore a charmed life apparently.  Three times he was buried in shell bombardments in France, and once a bullet tore a hole through his cap, but he escaped injury.

Col. Colquhoun was twice decorated at Buckingham Palace by the late King George V, and three times mentioned in despatches.

In tribute to his memory as a soldier of the Empire and a public servant, the flag on Brantford’s City Hall is at half-mast and will remain so until after the funeral on Monday.

It was in August, 1914 that the then Captain Colquhoun (“Mac” as he was popularly known,) took the first detachment of the Dufferin Rifles to Valcartier.  There he was attached to the 4th Battalion, went to England with it in the First Overseas Division and on to France.

At Battle of Ypres

In the Second Battle of Ypres, where the Canadians, according to General French “saved the day”, the 4th went into action a thousand and more strong.  It came out with 240.  Captain Colquhoun’s company had 230 to start and 42 at the end of the battle in April 1915.

Thence he went into the Festubert battle as second-in-command of the battalion and late in 1915 was promoted to the rank of lieutenant-colonel and to commanding officer of the unit at Givenchy.  He commanded the battalion in several other engagement and his love for “his boys,” as he called them was always manifest.  He never missed a reunion of the 4th when his health permitted.  The “Mad Fourth” was one of Canada’s crack battalions in the unit on the Somme.  He was summoned to England to assume command of the training of the Canadian Brigade being organized by Turner and was promoted to the rank of colonel.

When the brigade was broken up early in 1918, he was sent to Frensham Pond, where he received all soldiers coming from Canada and was in charge of a camp of 10,000 men.

Just before the Armistice, November 11, 1918, he assumed command of the Rhyl North Camp in Wales and after the Armistice became commanding officer of the whole Rhyl Camp, having command of 25,000 officers and men.  From Rhyl he “sailed” 125,000 men to Canada and every one of them felt the warmth of his friendly hand before they left.

In 1916 Col. Colquhoun came home on a short furlough and many here today will remember the reception tendered to the man who was then described as “Brantford’s most distinguished soldier son.”

His war service ended in November, 1919 and that same year he became commanding officer of his old love – the Dufferin Rifles.  In 1926 he was promoted to brigadier of the 4th Infantry Battalion which was composed of Canadian militia units in a wide area including Hamilton.  He was the only Brantford man ever to hold that military post.

When the Second World War broke out, Col. Colquhoun had passed the “allotted age of a man,” but he volunteered his services in whatever capacity they could be used.

In December, 1939, when the 54th Field Battery left for overseas he was one of those at the C.N.R. station and added much to the warmth of the farewell to the officers and men.

Born in Dufferin

Malcolm Alexander Colquhoun was born in the Township of Mulmer, Dufferin County, on April 13, 1869.  He came to Brantford as a young man and entered the employ of the Massey-Harris Company.  He remained with that firm until he retired on pension in 1935.  At that time he was inspector of plants.

In 1935 he assumed the chief magistracy of Brantford, being elected mayor over M.M. MacBride in one of the hardest fought elections this city had known.  He was practically drafted as a candidate, and had not previously held municipal office.

A further honor came to him when a new chapter of the Imperial Order of the Daughters of the Empire was formed here and named “Col. M.A. Colquhoun Chapter.”

He was a member of Park Baptist Church, the I.O.O.F., Doric Lodge, A.F. and A.M. and the Brantford Shriners Club.

Surviving are a sister, Mrs. Annie Persall, Toronto, and a sister-in-law, Miss Cecilia Ball, 237 Dalhousie Street.  His two sons who served in the Canadian Army in the First World War, predeceased him.  Lieutenant Wyndham Colquhoun died of wounds in England in 1918, and Captain Lloyd C. Colquhoun was killed in a motor accident here in 1932.  Mrs. Colquhoun, who was a leader in women’s activities for years, died in 1942. 

Col. Colquhoun is resting at his home 237 Dalhousie Street, where a private service will be held Monday afternoon, followed by a public service in Park Baptist Church.  Interment will be in Greenwood Cemetery.

City’s Tribute

Citizens of Brantford will be saddened at the news of the passing of Ex-Mayor Col. M.A. Colquhoun, who for so many years has been a leader in military and civic activities in this City which he loved so well.  Mayor Howard Winter said today.

“While Col. Colquhoun’s main public service was with the military forces, both in time of war as well as in times of peace, he became a candidate for Mayor for the year 1935, and being elected to the highest office is the gift of the citizens, he served our City with distinction and credit, an able administrator of civic affairs.

“The enviable military record achieved by him during the First World War is well known to all our citizens and his leadership of the 4th Battalion at that time, places him as a leader of standing in the military records of our armed forces.

“Brantford will miss him and his pleasant personality, but it is a better City because he lived and served here, and on behalf of the City Council and all our citizens, I extend to those bereaved, their heartfelt sympathy in this time of sorrow.”

The Fourth

A.H. (Bert) Davis, president of the Brantford Branch of the 4th Battalion Association and a company sergeant major in the active unit, on learning of Col. Colquhoun’s death, said:

“We have lost a great commander and comrade.  Col. Colquhoun was not only a distinguished soldier, but a gentleman always. He combined fine qualities of leadership with an understanding and appreciation of human nature that made him great.  Those of the 4th knew him well and loved him much.” 

From 56th C.O.

Lieutenant-Colonel C.A. Honey, commanding officer of the 56th L.A.A. Regiment said: 

“In the short time I had known him, I found he was always keenly interested in reserve army activities.  All members looked up to him and he seemed to be regarded as the patron of all local units.  He was a great friend of the reorganized reserve group here and, through his associations with the Mad Fourth Association, he was active at many armories functions until just recently.  In his passing, I have a distinct feeling of loss of a good friend and a very wise counsellor.”

BX August 5, 1950 – Editorial 

Colonel M.A. Colquhoun

All citizens of Brantford, and especially his many old comrades in arms, sincerely regret the passing of Colonel M.A. Colquhoun, C.M.G., D.S.O., V.D., one of this city’s most distinguished soldiers and a former mayor.

Col. Colquhoun’s career in the militia and with the Canadian Expeditionary Force in the First World War was outstanding.  His enthusiasm and devotion to duty were proverbial and invariably earned him the respect of those with whom he served.  These qualities, combined with his kindness, geniality and considerateness won him the genuine affection of a host of friends in both military and civilian circles.

As a soldier in the First World War, “Mac” Colquhoun, as he was popularly known, rose to the command of the famous “Mad Fourth” Battalion.  Subsequently he was a brigade colonel.

His interest in community affairs led to his election as mayor for the year 1935, to which office he gave conscientious attention.  His chief preoccupation, however, was with the Army and his “boys” as he called those under his command.  This interest he maintained keenly even after his retirement from active participation in military affairs.  His name will always be associated with military Brantford and especially with the “Mad Fourth” and of course, the militia regiment in which he virtually grew up, the Dufferin Rifles of Canada.

BX August 5, 1950 

Veterans “Mad 4th” Battalion

All ex-members of the 4th Battalion are requested to meet at Park Baptist Church, at 2:15 on Monday, August 7 to pay a final tribute to our late O.C., Col. M.A. Colquhoun, C.M.G., D.S.O., V.D.

Dress: Berets, arm-bands and medals.

A.H. Davis, President,
Brantford Branch

BX August 8, 1950 

Brantford Says Farewell to Col. M.A. Colquhoun

Brantford united with many outside points in paying an impressive final tribute on Monday afternoon to Col. Malcolm Alexander Colquhoun, C.M.G., D.S.O., V.D., one of the most distinguished Canadian soldiers of the First World War and former mayor of Brantford.

Hundreds of veterans who knew him and fought with him, and citizens in practically every walk of life joined in a “farewell,” to a man described as a noble soldier and citizen, a man of courage and faith.”

They joined in a public funeral service at Park Baptist Church, where he had long been a member and where he had worshipped Sunday after Sunday.

At the public funeral service members of his beloved 4th Battalion (Mad Fourth) were there in force, as were veterans – all dressed in berets and medals – and citizens who knew him as mayor and citizen.

Alex Kyle, president of the Telephone City branch of which the late Colonel had been honorary president (and the only one) for more than a quarter of a century, headed the fine turnout of those veterans.  It was only on April 13 that Colonel Colquhoun, who had hardly missed a meeting, was awarded the Canadian Legion Order of Merit and made a life member of the local branch, Grant Lacey was the parade marshal of the Legionnaires and Alex Maich the Sergeant Major in charge.  Ernie Edwards was in charge of the fine poppy service, in which the Legionnaires filed past the grave dropping in the symbolic poppy.

Public Service

Following a private service at the home, 237 Dalhousie Street, the long cortege wended its way to Park Baptist Church, passing through two lines of veterans extending on George Street from Dalhousie past Darling.

At the service within the church, Rev. Dr. L.M. Orchard was in charge, assisted by Rev. F.W. Schaffter, padre of the Telephone City branch of the Canadians Legion.

Hundreds of civilians and lines of veterans stood with heads bowed in sorrow as the flag draped oak casket moved into the church and was placed before a bank of flowers, some of the great many floral tokens that further added to the great tribute.

Rev. Dr. Orchard repeated the 23rd Psalm following soft organ music played by Mrs. H.D. Marlatt, organist and choir leader Rev. Mr. Schaffter read appropriate Schaffter read appropriate Scripture passages and the large congregation sang “Jesus Lover of My Soul,” a favorite hymn of the Colonel and after the sermon “Abide With Me.”

In Eulogy and prayer, Rev. Dr. Orchard made direct reference to the strong faith of Colonel Colquhoun, who through trial and tribulation saw his duty and marched steadfastly forward, secure in his faith that right would prevail.  He described him as a noble soldier and citizen, a man of faith and courage who had left a great heritage and had now entered into eternal life.

The Cortege

Outside the church hundreds stood in Victoria Park, and watched the long cortege as led by the Canadian Legion Band playing the Dead March in Saul, and preceded by a motorcycle police escort and the firing party, slowly wended its way down George to Chatham to Market and thence to Greenwood Cemetery.

After the band, in slow solemn step to the beat of muffled drums, followed the 56th L.A.A. (Dufferin and Haldimand Rifles) officers the 4th Battalion Association, the ministers, the hearse, the mourners and the Legionnaires.

At The Cemetery

At the cemetery gates, the band under Deputy Bandmaster Fred Nicholas, again played The Dead March in Saul, and the veterans formed up.  Then came the committal ceremonies conducted by Rev. Mr. Schaffer the Last Post and Reveille played by Legion Bandsman Harvey Richards, the final three volleys over the grave of the honored dead fired by 14 soldiers under Sgt. Major George Caswell, and Col. M.A. (Mac) Colquhoun was added to the history of Brantford.

The officers of the 56th L.A.A. (Dufferin and Haldimand Rifles), with which the Colonel was so closely associated were in charge of Major J.C. Whitwell.

Included in the great congregation at the service were Mayor Howard Winter and representatives of the City Council and other public bodies and members of federal and provincial governments. Brantford Shriners Club and the I.O.D.E.  The Brantford Public Utilities Commission provided a bus for those veterans unable to march to the cemetery.

The honorary pallbearers were all men who had been associated with Colonel Colquhoun in life.  They were: Lieutenant Colonel G.B. Begg, St. Catharines; Lt.-Col H.G. Morrow, M.C., St. Catharines, Lt.-Col. E.H. Newman, Brantford; Lt.-Col. C.C. Slemin, Brantford; Lt.-Col H.G. Watson, Brantford; Lt.-Col. A.P. VanSomeren, Brantford; Hon. W. Ross Macdonald, Speaker of the House of Commons and M.P. for Brantford; Major A.W. Kaye, Hamilton; Lt. L.M. Glazier, Hamilton; Lt.-Col. W.H. Jolliffe, M.C. Toronto; Lt.-Col. W. Joyce, Brantford, Lt.-Col. L.H. Nelles, D.S.O. and bar, M.C., Toronto.

Others who were among the mourners were Major Walter Towers, Toronto, formerly of Brantford; Col R.V. Conover, Brampton; Major R. Sterling, Toronto.