Murder, Mayhem & Misadventure
| Arrest of Tax Collector December 24, 1891 The Sudbury Journal.pdf |
May 18, 1893 Mr. J. S. Walker, formerly of Copper Cliff, now residing at Murray Mine, started from the former to the latter place on Monday last, but lost his way. A large number of men started out to search for him, and when discovered next forenoon he was on the further shore of Lady Macdonald Lake, some miles from the trail.
June 20, 1901 Many friends will regret to learn of the serious loss sustained by Mr. C. V. Price, of Copper Cliff, this (Thursday) morning, about 4 o'clock, his store, residence, and some outbuildings being completely destroyed by fire, together with almost the entire contents. The fire is supposed to have been caused by a spark from a passing engine, the track running very close to his place. In addition to the store contents and household goods he also lost nearly $200. in cash. We have been unable to learn what amount of insurance was carried. The Sudbury Journal.
September 19, 1901 On Saturday night last a serious stabbing affair occurred. A young man named Hooper got mixed up in a scrap with some Italians and now lies in a very precarious condition. We haven't heard that any effort is being made to arrest the culprit, but possibly the detectives are working up the case secretly....Some people in Copper Cliff think that the office of police constable must be vacant because of the frequency of street rows, which seem to go on unchecked, and also from the fact that no effort has been made to secure the arrest of the man who stabbed Hooper. The Sudbury Journal.
October 30, 1901 On Wednesday, October 30th, several young gentlemen at the Gorringe Club appeared to be suffering from acute hydrophobia.
June 20, 1901 Many friends will regret to learn of the serious loss sustained by Mr. C. V. Price, of Copper Cliff, this (Thursday) morning, about 4 o'clock, his store, residence, and some outbuildings being completely destroyed by fire, together with almost the entire contents. The fire is supposed to have been caused by a spark from a passing engine, the track running very close to his place. In addition to the store contents and household goods he also lost nearly $200. in cash. We have been unable to learn what amount of insurance was carried. The Sudbury Journal.
September 19, 1901 On Saturday night last a serious stabbing affair occurred. A young man named Hooper got mixed up in a scrap with some Italians and now lies in a very precarious condition. We haven't heard that any effort is being made to arrest the culprit, but possibly the detectives are working up the case secretly....Some people in Copper Cliff think that the office of police constable must be vacant because of the frequency of street rows, which seem to go on unchecked, and also from the fact that no effort has been made to secure the arrest of the man who stabbed Hooper. The Sudbury Journal.
October 30, 1901 On Wednesday, October 30th, several young gentlemen at the Gorringe Club appeared to be suffering from acute hydrophobia.
| Dogfight November 14, 1901 The Sudbury Journal.pdf |
October 1904 "Jack the Ripper" Bidgood - as well as being a good barber and a fancier of purebred poultry, he was a gambler. He would take a chance on anything. "He and some cronies were having dinner at the White House. A party at the next table were listening to the tale of woe put forth by Dr. Coleman of Copper Cliff. Somebody had poisoned one of his wife's Bedlington terriers. His wife was the well-know columnist, Kit Coleman. Bidgood did not pay much attention to the conversation at the next table until Dr. Coleman said he would give $250. for another pedigreed Bedlington to appease his wife, who was taking the loss pretty hard. Up jumped Bidgood, went over and introduced himself, and said he would take that offer. It was agreed that he would produce one within a week, or pay Coleman $100. Back at his own table he said to one of his party - I know I can get any hen there is, but who ever heard of a Bedlington?" Old Timer Tales
The Sudbury Journal April 26, 1906 "Three young children, named Nichols, two, four and seven years of age, were playing in an old shack at Copper Cliff yesterday forenoon, and started a fire in it. The oldest boy's clothes caught fire and he rushed out, leaving the others inside. Some one passing took his burning jacket off, and he ran away without mentioning that the other children were in the shack, and they were burnt to death." Dead were Dorothy Kathleen Nicholls age 5 and her brother Alfred James Nicholls, age 2.
In 1910 the service of Mr. J. A. Mulligan, Barrister of Sudbury was engaged to defend James Whitecloud, an Indian charged with the murder of a boy at Copper Cliff.
September of 1911, three arrests were made at Copper Cliff of foreigners who took the oath that they were naturalized citizens.
August of 1913 kids in Copper Cliff ran home at 9 p.m. A very necessary curfew law was in force, and Chief Clark was on the job.
The Sudbury Journal April 26, 1906 "Three young children, named Nichols, two, four and seven years of age, were playing in an old shack at Copper Cliff yesterday forenoon, and started a fire in it. The oldest boy's clothes caught fire and he rushed out, leaving the others inside. Some one passing took his burning jacket off, and he ran away without mentioning that the other children were in the shack, and they were burnt to death." Dead were Dorothy Kathleen Nicholls age 5 and her brother Alfred James Nicholls, age 2.
In 1910 the service of Mr. J. A. Mulligan, Barrister of Sudbury was engaged to defend James Whitecloud, an Indian charged with the murder of a boy at Copper Cliff.
September of 1911, three arrests were made at Copper Cliff of foreigners who took the oath that they were naturalized citizens.
August of 1913 kids in Copper Cliff ran home at 9 p.m. A very necessary curfew law was in force, and Chief Clark was on the job.
| Where is the dog? The Sudbury Star October 13 & 16, 1913.pdf |
In June of 1914, a pony race on the Copper Cliff road developed from an innocent drive. The pony was being driven by Mrs. (Dr.) McCann. It became frightened by a passing train and put on a burst of speed on its own account. Mrs. McCann, who was accompanied by Mrs. Fred Woods, had the reins and guided the animal into the middle of the road, from which it had swerved in its fright. In doing so they had to pass another rig ahead of them which was occupied by two men. The man driving the horse interpreted that as a challenge for a race and whipped his horse to a gallop. Passing the pony rig at full speed, it was Mrs. McCann's turn to become frightened and she decided to jump. She was caught by her wrist in the spring of the cart and was dragged 100 yards, suffering bruises and lacerations.
In July of 1914 a fire on the Copper Cliff road destroyed the garage and seven automobiles owned by J. Proctor. The blaze spread so rapidly that it was soon beyond control and the building was leveled The cause was said to have been a bursting tire, which started a combustion, igniting the building. The loss was about $20,000.
Charles D. Hillson of Copper Cliff drowned in Long Lake when his canoe upset while on a hunting trip with William Fraser in November of 1914.
Christmas 1914 Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Hussey's first Christmas in Copper Cliff was marred by an accident. Water pipes in their School Street home froze up. Mr. Hussey tried to thaw them out by lighting a fire in the range. An explosion resulted, blowing the range storey high. Mr. Hussey was struck by flying fragments and was disfigured. Dr. R. B. Harris gave first aid.
In August of 1915, Dr. H. Feldhans, on the Copper Cliff medical staff, saved the life of a boy at Lake Simcoe, near Orillia. He was motoring by when he heard cries for help. He did not pause to remove his clothing but dived into the lake in time to make the rescue.
In 1915, Chief Clark was determined to stop rallies which were getting beyond the patriotic and church benefit category. A woman named Mary Bujowski was deserted by her husband and she was raffling off a gramophone to raise enough money to 'chase him down.' The chief did her the favor of allowing the delinquent husband to get further away by seizing the gramophone and the profits thereof.
In July of 1914 a fire on the Copper Cliff road destroyed the garage and seven automobiles owned by J. Proctor. The blaze spread so rapidly that it was soon beyond control and the building was leveled The cause was said to have been a bursting tire, which started a combustion, igniting the building. The loss was about $20,000.
Charles D. Hillson of Copper Cliff drowned in Long Lake when his canoe upset while on a hunting trip with William Fraser in November of 1914.
Christmas 1914 Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Hussey's first Christmas in Copper Cliff was marred by an accident. Water pipes in their School Street home froze up. Mr. Hussey tried to thaw them out by lighting a fire in the range. An explosion resulted, blowing the range storey high. Mr. Hussey was struck by flying fragments and was disfigured. Dr. R. B. Harris gave first aid.
In August of 1915, Dr. H. Feldhans, on the Copper Cliff medical staff, saved the life of a boy at Lake Simcoe, near Orillia. He was motoring by when he heard cries for help. He did not pause to remove his clothing but dived into the lake in time to make the rescue.
In 1915, Chief Clark was determined to stop rallies which were getting beyond the patriotic and church benefit category. A woman named Mary Bujowski was deserted by her husband and she was raffling off a gramophone to raise enough money to 'chase him down.' The chief did her the favor of allowing the delinquent husband to get further away by seizing the gramophone and the profits thereof.
| Murder Suicide September 11, 1915 The Sudbury Star Part 1.pdf |
| Murder Suicide September 11, 1915 The Sudbury Star Part 2.pdf |
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Copper Cliff had a tragic fire in August of that same year [1915]. Russell Morrison, son of James Morrison, carter, of Union St., was burned to death. A number of boys were sleeping in the barn. One of them smelled smoke, but after a time all went to sleep. The charred re-mains were found after the fire. Four horses in the barn were also destroyed. No cause of the fire was determined.
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The Globe August 4, 1915.
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October 27, 1915 Two “Edison” gum and ‘pay check’ slot machines, which had been in operation at Copper Cliff, were closed down by Chief Constable Clark. The appellate court had ruled that such machines were gambling devices.
October 30, 1915 Fines of $30 and costs and $5 and costs were imposed on Paul Wesa, a Finlander. Wesa was found guilty of firing a revolver on a public highway and of carrying a concealed weapon. Policeman Doyle and Mr. Gegear were driving on the Sudbury road when an automobile sped past, a man in the car reaching out and firing three shots from a revolver in the direction of the horse and rig. The defendant admitted his guilt, saying that he was only trying out the revolver. the alternative to the fine, which has not yet been paid, was forty days in jail.
The most disastrous fire for some time in Copper Cliff totally destroyed the business block of Mario Pianossi, Italian merchant in "Italy". The block, of brick veneer and constructed two years ago, with a $6,000 stock of general merchandise, is almost a total loss. Damage to stock and building is estimated at $10,000, with insurance of only $3,000. The alarm was sounded at 3.20 a.m., supposedly from an overheated stove, and at the time the proprietor and his family were attending a dance next door. The fire burned fiercely, and only the bare walls remain standing today, although some of the stock may be salvaged.
From The Sudbury Star November 6, 1915 A Russian, considerably under the influence, entered the hospital Thursday and introduced himself to one of the staff doctors,, at the same time insisting that he be operated upon immediately. The doctor in turn introduced the patient to the chief of Police, who accommodated with lodging until the booze was through operating. After a few hours sleep he was released. The chief’s operation was a complete success.
Stole Roommate’s Clothes – A despicable act was that of Herb O’Hara, who was found guilty in Tuesday’s police court of stealing a suit of clothes and other wearing apparel belonging to Robert Lowry, while the latter lay on a sick bed in the hospital. The two were employed by Rhody Gegear and stayed at his house. While Lowry was in the hospital O’Hara quit the job and walked away with his roommate’s wardrobe, which included a new $30. suit. O’Hara protested his innocence even after being arrested, but finally admitted ot the magistrate, who was indeed lenient. O’Hara was given suspended sentence, must make restitution and pay the costs of the court.
November 17, 1915 George White, a driver for Gegear's Livery, paid $2 and costs Tuesday for being drunk while in charge of a horse Monday at midnight. He drove the horse up on to the sidewalk in fron tof Millen's Boarding House, at which point a policeman stepped in and took charge.
December 1915, Russell Kerr, a student at Sudbury High School, was credited with saving the life of Miss Nellie Davidson, of Copper Cliff. She was on the verge of drowning in Lady MacDonald Lake. The two skated into open water, Kerr managing to climb out and save his companion.
December 18, 1915 A sensation was sprung in the Copper Cliff Finnish camp last Saturday night at Finland Hall, when the police stepped in during the course of the raffling of an automobile and seized the machine and tickets. The draw was in progress when the officials appeared on the scene. Hugo Pernu, the owner of the car, an Overland, was taken into custody on a charge of conducting a lottery. He is out on $500 bail pending his trial, which takes place tomorrow evening before Magistrate Stoddart. "There is altogether too much of this business in the mining camp," said Chief Clark.
October 30, 1915 Fines of $30 and costs and $5 and costs were imposed on Paul Wesa, a Finlander. Wesa was found guilty of firing a revolver on a public highway and of carrying a concealed weapon. Policeman Doyle and Mr. Gegear were driving on the Sudbury road when an automobile sped past, a man in the car reaching out and firing three shots from a revolver in the direction of the horse and rig. The defendant admitted his guilt, saying that he was only trying out the revolver. the alternative to the fine, which has not yet been paid, was forty days in jail.
The most disastrous fire for some time in Copper Cliff totally destroyed the business block of Mario Pianossi, Italian merchant in "Italy". The block, of brick veneer and constructed two years ago, with a $6,000 stock of general merchandise, is almost a total loss. Damage to stock and building is estimated at $10,000, with insurance of only $3,000. The alarm was sounded at 3.20 a.m., supposedly from an overheated stove, and at the time the proprietor and his family were attending a dance next door. The fire burned fiercely, and only the bare walls remain standing today, although some of the stock may be salvaged.
From The Sudbury Star November 6, 1915 A Russian, considerably under the influence, entered the hospital Thursday and introduced himself to one of the staff doctors,, at the same time insisting that he be operated upon immediately. The doctor in turn introduced the patient to the chief of Police, who accommodated with lodging until the booze was through operating. After a few hours sleep he was released. The chief’s operation was a complete success.
Stole Roommate’s Clothes – A despicable act was that of Herb O’Hara, who was found guilty in Tuesday’s police court of stealing a suit of clothes and other wearing apparel belonging to Robert Lowry, while the latter lay on a sick bed in the hospital. The two were employed by Rhody Gegear and stayed at his house. While Lowry was in the hospital O’Hara quit the job and walked away with his roommate’s wardrobe, which included a new $30. suit. O’Hara protested his innocence even after being arrested, but finally admitted ot the magistrate, who was indeed lenient. O’Hara was given suspended sentence, must make restitution and pay the costs of the court.
November 17, 1915 George White, a driver for Gegear's Livery, paid $2 and costs Tuesday for being drunk while in charge of a horse Monday at midnight. He drove the horse up on to the sidewalk in fron tof Millen's Boarding House, at which point a policeman stepped in and took charge.
December 1915, Russell Kerr, a student at Sudbury High School, was credited with saving the life of Miss Nellie Davidson, of Copper Cliff. She was on the verge of drowning in Lady MacDonald Lake. The two skated into open water, Kerr managing to climb out and save his companion.
December 18, 1915 A sensation was sprung in the Copper Cliff Finnish camp last Saturday night at Finland Hall, when the police stepped in during the course of the raffling of an automobile and seized the machine and tickets. The draw was in progress when the officials appeared on the scene. Hugo Pernu, the owner of the car, an Overland, was taken into custody on a charge of conducting a lottery. He is out on $500 bail pending his trial, which takes place tomorrow evening before Magistrate Stoddart. "There is altogether too much of this business in the mining camp," said Chief Clark.
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Sudbury's first recorded hanging occurred in 1916 when Wasyl Daybuk stood trial for the murder of Mary Korenluk of Copper Cliff on the night of January 11th. The evidence from Daybuk's confession and trial showed that while under the influence of alcohol, the prisoner had attacked Korenluk with an axe. The Grand Jury returned after 30 minutes with a verdict of guilty of murder and sentence of death was passed. Daybuk was hanged June 2, 1916.
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Mary Kurhanewich also lived a difficult and tragic life on the edges of Copper Cliff’s Ukrainian community during this period. In May 1910, she was shot in the back by her husband, Peter, who suspected that she had been cheating on him with one of their boarders. Five years after this incident, Mary was bludgeoned to death with an axe by her lover, Wasyl Dejbuck. Mary and her husband had been separated for about a month when she was murdered. She had been having an affair with Wasyl and according to Steve Dejbuck, Wasyl’s brother, Mary had promised to go and live with him after she had left her husband. She later reneged on this pledge. On the night of 11 January 1915 Mary was visiting a sick friend, caring for her and cooking dinner for her husband and their boarders. When she went to leave, Wasyl arrived and insisted on walking her home. When she realized that he had been drinking, Mary declared that she would walk home alone. She feared that if they ran into her husband there was bound to be an altercation. Mary and Wasyl began to argue, he struck her down, and then he continued to beat her with an axe that he had hidden behind his back. Before being arrested, Wasyl fled to his brother’s house and it was there that he admitted: “I have killed! She will no more leave me or her husband.” He also told another boarder living at the house that “She did not need to fool me, she was telling her husband one thing and telling me another, always fooling me.” Steve Dejbuck’s testimony proved to be damning evidence that ultimately resulted in Wasyl Dejbuck’s conviction and hanging on 2 June 1916. From Memory, Identity, and the Challenge of Community Among Ukrainians in the Sudbury Region, 1901 - 1929. |
March 1917 Chief Clark of Copper Cliff persisted in refusing raffles. A car, raffled for a Red Cross drive which was seized by police stood behind the police station for a long time.
In July 1918 the smelter slag dump collapsed making a gap 500 feet long, 18 feet wide and 25 feet deep. Thirty-five trackmen engaged at the spot laying track went down with the slag but no one was hurt. The soft ground beneath the pile had given way. A little farther to the east another slide occurred three months later with two fatalities.
September 1918 Liquor shipped as olive oil, landed a prominent Copper Cliff merchant in the police net. He paid a $1,000. fine.
In July 1918 the smelter slag dump collapsed making a gap 500 feet long, 18 feet wide and 25 feet deep. Thirty-five trackmen engaged at the spot laying track went down with the slag but no one was hurt. The soft ground beneath the pile had given way. A little farther to the east another slide occurred three months later with two fatalities.
September 1918 Liquor shipped as olive oil, landed a prominent Copper Cliff merchant in the police net. He paid a $1,000. fine.
| Slag Accident October 26, 1918 The Sudbury Star.pdf |
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Thomas Simpson Camidge was born in 1867 in Yorkshire, England. He died in 1940 in Copper Cliff. His first wife was Priscilla West, born in 1876 in Huntley, Carleton, Ontario. Priscilla died in Copper Cliff in 1919. Their children were Gladys Margaret born 1897 (married George Washington Harrington; John Morrison born 1899, he died in 1922 of tuberculosis; Arthur born 1900, Catherine Alberta Ellen, born 1901; Annie Elsa Jane, born 1903 (married Peter Joseph Friel); Thomas born 1906 died at 2 days old due to an injury at birth; Ruby Mary Florence, born 1907 (married Walter William Appleton); Robert Lawrence, born 1908 (married Mary Bay Bell); Lilian, born 1910, died 3 days after birth, Alice born 1912, died shortly after birth due to bronchitis and Allan, born 1914, stillborn. Thomas's second wife was Annie Matilda McMillan, born 1884 in Killaloe, Renfrew, Ontario.
James Allan Armstrong was born in 1885 in Edgar, Ontario. He was married on April 6, 1910 to Ninetta Jane Watson. In 1913 his occupation was Grocery Clerk. In 1918 his occupation was brakesman. Their children were Thomas Lloyd Watson, born 1911, Altha Rose, born 1913 and Ida Mae, born 1915. James died October 25, 1918 in Copper Cliff. 
Funeral card for James Allan Armstrong. Photo ancestry.ca
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Thomas Simpson Camidge and his family. Photo ancestry.ca
James Armstrong and Ninetta Watson's Bridal portrait. Standing Nellie Watson and Paul Zinkie, Witness' to the wedding. Photo ancestry.ca
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From the 1918 Vernon's City Directory of Copper Cliff and Sudbury, Steve Marco worked at the Canadian Copper Company and lived in a house at 2 Mine Street. Steve died October 25, 1918. Steve and Theresa Marco’s son Rudolph Marco died April 14, 1919 at 14 days of age due to broncho pneumonia.
In July of 1919, the police came into temporary possession of a 'Black Maria', a Henry Ford Tin Lizzie. Chief Clark and one of his men were hiding in the bush near the CPR station awaiting the arrival of a jitney with a supply of liquor said to be on the noon train from Montreal. A swishing of underbrush attracted their attention... John Lupin, well known to the police emerged from the bush with two hefty suitcases. The Tin Lizzie was also in the bush, well hidden. Lupin deposited the suitcases in the car and started up the machine with a hand crank. Just then the chief and his henchman made an appearance. Lupin jumped from the car and beat it from there, leaving seven gallons of high wines and the car to the watchful officers. Lupin remained at large while the police looked for him with his own automobile. However, the police couldn't sell the car for costs. Somebody held a lien on the car and laid claim to it.
August 1919, cows at large on the Sudbury to Copper Cliff highway were giving concern to motorists. Chief Constable Clark had a busy month. He seized two stills, and then found liquor on the premises of one, Luigi xxx. No less than 50 bottles of rye whisky were planted along the rows of beans in his garden.
A man in Copper Cliff sued the Algoma Eastern Railway for the burning of a carload of tomato paste consigned to him on November 12, 1919. The car had not been delivered to him, it was said. The Italo Trading Company, Montreal, was consignor. Their representative was chief witness, who gave a value for the goods, which was disputed. "To make a long story brief, the Inco engine had switched the car to the inter-change track for the consignee. The car was, therefore, burned on the tracks of Inco, which had notified the consignee that his car was there on the 11th of November. The consignee did not pay the freight and left the car there. Judge Latchford said the goods were not worth more than $6,500 (much less than the claim). He also said the fire was unmistakably of incendiary origin, having started in the top of the car, and close by was a can containing coal oil!" Old Timer Tales
The Hennessy Block on Diorite Street, Copper Cliff was partially destroyed by fire. It was on the corner of Serpentine Street and one half was occupied by Sandy McNiven. The other side housed the printing plant of the Nickel Range Express, successor to the Copper Cliff Courier. The Express had not been publishing at that time. The owner of the block was John Hennessy, of Sudbury. The insurance had expired. It was built about 1900. The publishing business was owned by Messrs. Yeomans and Pratt. March 1920
Also in March of 1920 a warrant was issued by Joseph Rogers, superintendent of provincial police, for the arrest of a Copper Cliff man on a charge of perjury in connection with the valuation of a carload of tomato paste. Bail was set at $10,000.
In 1922, James B. Grey started on a bicycle from Sault Ste. Marie in April and when he reached Copper Cliff in June he received an unusual reception - a police escort. En route, he had been getting unauthorized collections for the Salvation Army and a Quebec hospital.
On March 11, 1922, "Fire which broke out early Saturday morning last in the home of Mrs. R. J. Cameron, Elizabeth Street, destroyed two buildings and endangered the lives of the occupants. Mr. R. McCormick, who resided in the Cameron home had great difficulty in rescuing his four young children who were asleep in an upstairs room at the time of the fire. The rescue was effected by lowering the children from the window to the ground below. Mrs. McCormick and Mrs. Cameron were able to leave the burning building by way of the stairs despite the flames and smoke. The blaze rapidly spread, despite the efforts of the firemen, to the adjoining house occupied by Jno. Boyax and family, which was totally destroyed. Insurance covered the Cameron house to $1,300 and the Boyax home to $800. No household effects were saved."
In August of that year a Copper Cliff man, frequently in the news was fined $1,000. plus two months in jail for transporting liquor on a highway. he was on his way to deliver three gallons of it to a favourite consumer.
November 1922 The Sudbury Brick Company plant on the Copper Cliff road burned, with a loss of $20,000. An insurance policy for $10,000 had lapsed some days before the fire.
August 1919, cows at large on the Sudbury to Copper Cliff highway were giving concern to motorists. Chief Constable Clark had a busy month. He seized two stills, and then found liquor on the premises of one, Luigi xxx. No less than 50 bottles of rye whisky were planted along the rows of beans in his garden.
A man in Copper Cliff sued the Algoma Eastern Railway for the burning of a carload of tomato paste consigned to him on November 12, 1919. The car had not been delivered to him, it was said. The Italo Trading Company, Montreal, was consignor. Their representative was chief witness, who gave a value for the goods, which was disputed. "To make a long story brief, the Inco engine had switched the car to the inter-change track for the consignee. The car was, therefore, burned on the tracks of Inco, which had notified the consignee that his car was there on the 11th of November. The consignee did not pay the freight and left the car there. Judge Latchford said the goods were not worth more than $6,500 (much less than the claim). He also said the fire was unmistakably of incendiary origin, having started in the top of the car, and close by was a can containing coal oil!" Old Timer Tales
The Hennessy Block on Diorite Street, Copper Cliff was partially destroyed by fire. It was on the corner of Serpentine Street and one half was occupied by Sandy McNiven. The other side housed the printing plant of the Nickel Range Express, successor to the Copper Cliff Courier. The Express had not been publishing at that time. The owner of the block was John Hennessy, of Sudbury. The insurance had expired. It was built about 1900. The publishing business was owned by Messrs. Yeomans and Pratt. March 1920
Also in March of 1920 a warrant was issued by Joseph Rogers, superintendent of provincial police, for the arrest of a Copper Cliff man on a charge of perjury in connection with the valuation of a carload of tomato paste. Bail was set at $10,000.
In 1922, James B. Grey started on a bicycle from Sault Ste. Marie in April and when he reached Copper Cliff in June he received an unusual reception - a police escort. En route, he had been getting unauthorized collections for the Salvation Army and a Quebec hospital.
On March 11, 1922, "Fire which broke out early Saturday morning last in the home of Mrs. R. J. Cameron, Elizabeth Street, destroyed two buildings and endangered the lives of the occupants. Mr. R. McCormick, who resided in the Cameron home had great difficulty in rescuing his four young children who were asleep in an upstairs room at the time of the fire. The rescue was effected by lowering the children from the window to the ground below. Mrs. McCormick and Mrs. Cameron were able to leave the burning building by way of the stairs despite the flames and smoke. The blaze rapidly spread, despite the efforts of the firemen, to the adjoining house occupied by Jno. Boyax and family, which was totally destroyed. Insurance covered the Cameron house to $1,300 and the Boyax home to $800. No household effects were saved."
In August of that year a Copper Cliff man, frequently in the news was fined $1,000. plus two months in jail for transporting liquor on a highway. he was on his way to deliver three gallons of it to a favourite consumer.
November 1922 The Sudbury Brick Company plant on the Copper Cliff road burned, with a loss of $20,000. An insurance policy for $10,000 had lapsed some days before the fire.
Keeping the Peace
The Copper Cliff Police Force existed for seventy years from 1902 to 1972.
From the 1901 Census of McKim Township, Nipissing, Bruce Price, age 29, born June 9, 1871, Ontario, married, occupation carpenter, his wife Nellie, age 25, born in Ontario, lodger John Bouse, age 18, born in Ontario, Blacksmith and lodger Thomas Hendry, age 24, born in Ontario, also a Blacksmith.
Early days of policing in the town of Copper Cliff from the Town of Copper Cliff Council Meeting Minutes
January 13th , 1902 two motions were made one to appoint special Constables (Bruce Price and James Desrosier) were appointed special constables, at a salary of $20. per annum and fees. for Town at a yearly salary of twenty dollars and fees; and the other were instructions to procure two pairs of Hand Cuffs; two Batons and two Badges.
At the next council meeting it was moved that the constables’ outfits be paid. The ledger showed ‘Lewis & Sons. account for hand cuffs, batons, badges, and express $33.85.
The Clerk was to notify the Chairman of the Streets and Bridges committee that they have the Lock Up put into proper shape for the reception of ‘transient occupants’.
January 23, 1903, By-Law No 23, Whereas it is necessary and expedient to pass a By-Law appointing a Constable for the Town of Copper Cliff District of Nipissing. Therefore, the Municipal Councillor of the Corporation of the Town of Copper Cliff enacts as follows: That A. E. Storie be and is hereby appointed Constable for the Town of Copper Cliff, District of Nipissing, said A. E. Storie to be paid a salary of Sixty dollars per year and fees as regulated by Chapter 101 R. S. O. 1897, an Act respecting the fees of officers in the Administration of Justice.”
February 26, 1903 The Clerk was instructed to invite the Crown Attorney as to the jurisdiction of Provincial Constable stationed at Sudbury arresting persons in Copper Cliff and taking them for trial before Justices at Sudbury when there were Justices of the Peace in Copper Cliff.
April 6, 1903 The Clerk was instructed to notify the following parties, that unless they take out a License or cease peddling, proceedings will be taken against them for a contravention of By-Law No. 13 , as in force in this Municipality. S. Johnson Grocer, George Capalanes, Rowat Butcher, S. Fournier, H. Hones Butcher, Fochette, James White, Grenin & Ettin, Marc Rothchild
July 28, 1903, By- Law No. 29, The Municipal Councillor of the Corporation of the Town of Copper Cliff enacts as follows: -No person or persons shall allow his or their cattle to run at large on the streets of Copper Cliff within the town limits between the hours of 8 P.M. And 7 A.M. on the following day.
March 7, 1904 A. E. Storie was appointed Truant Officer for the year 1904, at a salary of $15.00 per year.
March 28, 1904 A.E. Storie’s salary as constable was increased to $300.00 per year, and the following was included in his duties, Collection of Dog Tax, Pole Tax, Pedlars license tax and act as Truant Officer, and that instead of one third of illegal sale of liquor fines being paid to him as informant that it remain in Treasury.
Edward Holmwood was constable from July to December 12, 1904, followed by W. A. Croskery.
October 31, 1904 The Clerk was instructed to write A. E. Storie stating that instead of a balance being due to him, that he has been overpaid, as his appointment at a salary of $300.00 per year to act as Constable etc. only took effect on the 28th
August 10, 1905 The following communication was read: -From one signed witness stating that the Constable was allowing a woman to sell liquor contrary to the Law and that the Constable know of same.
October 9, 1905 A letter was read from A. P. Turner President C. C. Co. asking the Councillor to appoint A. W. Gummerson, Chief Constable at a salary of $25.00 dollars per month.
February 28, 1906 The Council authorized Policeman Gummerson to close up immediately, the wells in Town, herein after mentioned, and known as: Angus Bowers, Joe Lees, J. Hayes, F. Lavoie, J. Hyteanens and A. Dohertys; the said wells containing over 10 parts per million of Chlorine as shown by Government analysis and are a determent to the Public Health.
April 30, 1906 Policeman Gummerson was authorized to collect the balance of the taxes for year 1905, and he received 20 percent of the amount he collected.
May 21, 1906 Mr. Herman Vick was appointed as Constable for the Town of Copper Cliff.
May 28, 1906 The Accounts of Ex police Croskery were to be sent to the Town Solicitor and that he be instructed to collect same at once.
October 15, 1906 Mr. Gummerson, Constable was asked to send in his resignation, having failed to perform the duties of Constable satisfactory to this Council and to the people, by not acting as a constable should do; one of the many reasons being that every person knows the Police business before actions are taken.
October 22, 1906 The Clerk read the following resignation from A. W. Gummerson, Constable: - Kindly convey to the Council of this Town that owing to the untrue allegations contained in their resolution of the 15th I therefore ask for an early investigation re allegations set forth in their resolution and I would further ask, that the said Council forward to me a reference. I am desirous of severing my connection from the same, and herewith tender my resignation, subject to the approval of the Provincial Government. Obediently yours, A. W. Gummerson, C. C., O.M.C.
Council accepted the resignation of A. W. Gummerson, Constable, said resignation to take effect immediately, and that he be given his monthly salary as if he had performed his duties to November 9th 1906, and that the Clerk be instructed to write Mr. Gummerson accordingly.
November 26, 1906 A. W. Gummerson was notified to hand over to the Treasurer on or before the first day of December, 1906, four receipt books containing 519 receipts used as vouchers for Poll Tax collected, together with money’s to balance said books, and if not handed over to Treasurer by said date action will be taken by the Council after expectation of the above time to collect same, and that the Clerk notify A. W. Gummerson of this resolution.
It was moved that “Whereas Provincial Constable, A. W. Gummerson stationed at the Town of Copper Cliff has been guilty of great indiscretion in the fulfillment of his duties as such Constable. And whereas after deliberation this Council has seen fit to remove the said A. W. Gummerson from his position as constable for the Town of Copper Cliff, as not being a fit or proper person to occupy such position. And whereas the said A. W. Gummerson has by his indiscretion and by reason of his dismissal as aforesaid lost the respect of the community and the influence necessary for the effectual performance of his duties therein. And whereas frequently to the great inconvenience of the residents of the said Town of Copper Cliff it has been necessary for witnesses in certain cases arising in the said Town of Copper Cliff and in the immediate vicinity thereof to travel to Sudbury a distance of five miles in order to attend the trials, the said necessity being occasioned by the Constable bringing such charges before the Magistrate in Sudbury. And whereas there is in the said Town of Copper Cliff a Police Magistrate duly appointed for the purpose of dealing with such cases, And whereas the said Town of Copper Cliff has provided a court house for the purpose. And whereas it is customary in the said Town of Copper Cliff to appoint such person town constable as may be appointed Provincial Constable by the Provincial Secretary. Therefore Resolved - That this Council is of the opinion that the said A. W. Gummerson is not a fit or proper person to occupy the position of Provincial Constable and that it recommend his removal from the said position by the Provincial Secretary. Also that the Provincial Secretary be requested to instruct such person as he may see fit to appoint that in future as far as practicable and reasonable all charges laid by such appointee shall be brought before the magistrate at the said Town of Copper Cliff. Also, that the said recommendation and requests be communicated to the Provincial Secretary by forwarding to him a properly certified copy of this resolution. And that the Town Solicitor be instructed to forward such properly certified copy forthwith. The Clerk was directed to forward a copy of the foregoing resolution to the Town Solicitor.
December 17, 1906 Dear Sir, Re: Poll Tax Nov. 30 – 06 I would refer the Council of 1906 to the agreement signed by me in 1905, I understand, that owing to the Council of 1906, failing to appoint me when they came into office that I had no authority to collect this same poll tax, dog tax, etc. If the said Council can give me a guarantee that they are the proper parties to receive the same, thus ensuring my safety in case of any protest from any citizen or ratepayer, that said tax has been illegally collected from them, I will be only to pleased to accede to their request by handing over my cheque to amount so collected on books by me. I am quite willing to go through the books relating to same with the Treasurer whenever it is convenient to do so. I would also ask you to advise Mayor McKinnon that in reply to his instructions of the 20th inst, that I sent my secretary over to you on the 22nd in compliance with his request demand and said secretary, besides paying over fines etc, verbally notified you to the effect that owing to the books not being made up I could not return them, and that you sent me a verbal reply that said poll tax books could remain till I had leisure to make up the same. I am more than surprised that my verbal message was ignored, especially when I note that other verbal reports was allowed in Electric Lights. It was but yesterday that I obtained a copy of my agreement and am therefore drawing your attention to same. Obediently yours, A. W. Gummerson, Provincial Constables
The Canada Nominal Rolls and Paylists for the Volunteer Militia, 1857-1922 included A. E. Storie, rank S. B. Sgt. of the 97th Regiment, Algonquin Rifles, Drill Pay $11.40. for 1907 – 1908.
February 18, 1907 That Samuel Scott, Provincial Constable for Algoma District and stationed at Copper Cliff, be and is hereby appointed Chief of Police for the Town of Copper Cliff, District of Nipissing. That Samuel Scott, be paid for his services as chief of police, and as per his letter of agreement received and agreed upon by Councillor, at the rate of three hundred dollars per year, without fees, to be paid in twelve payments of twenty-five dollars each, said payments shall be paid by the Treasurer of the Town on each and every fifteenth of the month while in the employ of the Corporation and no longer.
February 21, 1907 The Clerk was instructed to procure from A. W. Gummerson, late provincial constable for this district, the keys of lockup and nay other police articles belonging to the Corporation, and if said articles are not in the hands of the Clerk inside of 12 hours after receipt of said notice, action be taken by this Council for a case of theft.
January 13, 1908 Frank Laforge, Charles Pierce and James McDonald were appointed constables. The Town Clerk was instructed to write the Attorney General's department requesting them to bear half of the expenses of the Canadian Detective Bureau Account owing to this Department being unable to furnish detectives when required.
The By-Law appointing Sam Scott, Constable, was amended so as to read that he be allowed his fees on all calls of arrest after 10 P.M. And that this take effect on and from the first day of October, 1907.
March 12, 1908 Herman Vick was appointed to collect poll tax from all pole and Finland residents in Town, who are liable for the tax, ten percent of the tax collected to be paid the collector named.
September 21, 1908 Accounts to be paid: Herman Vick, special services prosecuting liquor cases $15.00
April 12, 1909 Constable Vick was engaged to patrol the Town from 10 P.M. To 6 A.M. At a salary of fifty dollars per month, commencing April 8 1909.
August 23, 1909 Anthony Bealer was appointed Truant Officer for the Town of Copper Cliff, with all the powers legally appertaining to such position under chapter 92 statues of Ontario 1909.
November 30, 1909 The Account of the Canadian Detective Bureau, for services prosecuting liquor cases amounting to $681.05 was to be paid.
January 10, 1910 Herman Vick was appointed a member of the Local Board of Health for a term of three years, and sanitary inspector for the current year.
From the 1911 Census of Louis Street in Sudbury Samuel Scott, age 47, born October 1863 in Ireland, immigrated in 1885, occupation turnkey at jail, his wife Charlotte ‘Lottie’ (Acton), age 43, and daughters Edith, age 17, stenographer in office, Margaret, age 11, and Evelyn, age 4.
November 25, 1912 The Mayor and Town Clerk were a committee to arrange for formation of a Police force of three, A Chief and two assistants, and they be supplied with suitable uniforms, badges and equipment. William Clark was appointed Chief of Police for the Town of Copper Cliff, at the salary of one thousand dollars per annum.
February 13, 1913 Appointment of Daniel McInnis, at a salary of seventy dollars per month, beginning February 13, 1913.
May 14, 1913 Daniel Sullivan, Thomas Wilson and John Thompson were appointed Constables. Herman Vick was appointed sanitary inspector at a salary of fifty dollars per month. The salary of Chief of Police, William Clark, was increased from $83.33 per month to $100.03 per month, effective May 1st 1913.
July 10, 1913 Accounts to be paid: Robert Horue 3 black revolver holsters $ 2.70
The salary of Policeman Savage be increased to eight dollars per month, to take effect from July 1st
July 28, 1913 The Chief of Police was instructed to enforce Section 17 of “The Children’s Protection Act of Ontario”, and for this purpose to ring the Public School Bell every night at nine 0'clock, beginning August 1st, and that the Clerk be instructed to advertise to this effect in the Copper Cliff Courier.
October 21, 1913 Frederick Albert Lako was appointed Police Constable.
January 22, 1914 The salary of Constable Daniel McInnis was to be $80.00 per month commencing January 1st.
July 10, 1914 The salary of Constable McDonald was increased to $80.00 per month – increase to date from June 1/14,
August 10, 1914 The Mayor was authorized to temporarily engage two special patrolmen for night duty, at a remuneration of sixty dollars per month each.
July 9, 1915 That salary of Police Constable John McDonald was increased from $80.00 per month to $90.00 per month dating from July 1 1915. Constables without salary were appointed for the Town of Copper Cliff.
From the 1901 Census of McKim Township, Nipissing, Bruce Price, age 29, born June 9, 1871, Ontario, married, occupation carpenter, his wife Nellie, age 25, born in Ontario, lodger John Bouse, age 18, born in Ontario, Blacksmith and lodger Thomas Hendry, age 24, born in Ontario, also a Blacksmith.
Early days of policing in the town of Copper Cliff from the Town of Copper Cliff Council Meeting Minutes
January 13th , 1902 two motions were made one to appoint special Constables (Bruce Price and James Desrosier) were appointed special constables, at a salary of $20. per annum and fees. for Town at a yearly salary of twenty dollars and fees; and the other were instructions to procure two pairs of Hand Cuffs; two Batons and two Badges.
At the next council meeting it was moved that the constables’ outfits be paid. The ledger showed ‘Lewis & Sons. account for hand cuffs, batons, badges, and express $33.85.
The Clerk was to notify the Chairman of the Streets and Bridges committee that they have the Lock Up put into proper shape for the reception of ‘transient occupants’.
January 23, 1903, By-Law No 23, Whereas it is necessary and expedient to pass a By-Law appointing a Constable for the Town of Copper Cliff District of Nipissing. Therefore, the Municipal Councillor of the Corporation of the Town of Copper Cliff enacts as follows: That A. E. Storie be and is hereby appointed Constable for the Town of Copper Cliff, District of Nipissing, said A. E. Storie to be paid a salary of Sixty dollars per year and fees as regulated by Chapter 101 R. S. O. 1897, an Act respecting the fees of officers in the Administration of Justice.”
February 26, 1903 The Clerk was instructed to invite the Crown Attorney as to the jurisdiction of Provincial Constable stationed at Sudbury arresting persons in Copper Cliff and taking them for trial before Justices at Sudbury when there were Justices of the Peace in Copper Cliff.
April 6, 1903 The Clerk was instructed to notify the following parties, that unless they take out a License or cease peddling, proceedings will be taken against them for a contravention of By-Law No. 13 , as in force in this Municipality. S. Johnson Grocer, George Capalanes, Rowat Butcher, S. Fournier, H. Hones Butcher, Fochette, James White, Grenin & Ettin, Marc Rothchild
July 28, 1903, By- Law No. 29, The Municipal Councillor of the Corporation of the Town of Copper Cliff enacts as follows: -No person or persons shall allow his or their cattle to run at large on the streets of Copper Cliff within the town limits between the hours of 8 P.M. And 7 A.M. on the following day.
March 7, 1904 A. E. Storie was appointed Truant Officer for the year 1904, at a salary of $15.00 per year.
March 28, 1904 A.E. Storie’s salary as constable was increased to $300.00 per year, and the following was included in his duties, Collection of Dog Tax, Pole Tax, Pedlars license tax and act as Truant Officer, and that instead of one third of illegal sale of liquor fines being paid to him as informant that it remain in Treasury.
Edward Holmwood was constable from July to December 12, 1904, followed by W. A. Croskery.
October 31, 1904 The Clerk was instructed to write A. E. Storie stating that instead of a balance being due to him, that he has been overpaid, as his appointment at a salary of $300.00 per year to act as Constable etc. only took effect on the 28th
August 10, 1905 The following communication was read: -From one signed witness stating that the Constable was allowing a woman to sell liquor contrary to the Law and that the Constable know of same.
October 9, 1905 A letter was read from A. P. Turner President C. C. Co. asking the Councillor to appoint A. W. Gummerson, Chief Constable at a salary of $25.00 dollars per month.
February 28, 1906 The Council authorized Policeman Gummerson to close up immediately, the wells in Town, herein after mentioned, and known as: Angus Bowers, Joe Lees, J. Hayes, F. Lavoie, J. Hyteanens and A. Dohertys; the said wells containing over 10 parts per million of Chlorine as shown by Government analysis and are a determent to the Public Health.
April 30, 1906 Policeman Gummerson was authorized to collect the balance of the taxes for year 1905, and he received 20 percent of the amount he collected.
May 21, 1906 Mr. Herman Vick was appointed as Constable for the Town of Copper Cliff.
May 28, 1906 The Accounts of Ex police Croskery were to be sent to the Town Solicitor and that he be instructed to collect same at once.
October 15, 1906 Mr. Gummerson, Constable was asked to send in his resignation, having failed to perform the duties of Constable satisfactory to this Council and to the people, by not acting as a constable should do; one of the many reasons being that every person knows the Police business before actions are taken.
October 22, 1906 The Clerk read the following resignation from A. W. Gummerson, Constable: - Kindly convey to the Council of this Town that owing to the untrue allegations contained in their resolution of the 15th I therefore ask for an early investigation re allegations set forth in their resolution and I would further ask, that the said Council forward to me a reference. I am desirous of severing my connection from the same, and herewith tender my resignation, subject to the approval of the Provincial Government. Obediently yours, A. W. Gummerson, C. C., O.M.C.
Council accepted the resignation of A. W. Gummerson, Constable, said resignation to take effect immediately, and that he be given his monthly salary as if he had performed his duties to November 9th 1906, and that the Clerk be instructed to write Mr. Gummerson accordingly.
November 26, 1906 A. W. Gummerson was notified to hand over to the Treasurer on or before the first day of December, 1906, four receipt books containing 519 receipts used as vouchers for Poll Tax collected, together with money’s to balance said books, and if not handed over to Treasurer by said date action will be taken by the Council after expectation of the above time to collect same, and that the Clerk notify A. W. Gummerson of this resolution.
It was moved that “Whereas Provincial Constable, A. W. Gummerson stationed at the Town of Copper Cliff has been guilty of great indiscretion in the fulfillment of his duties as such Constable. And whereas after deliberation this Council has seen fit to remove the said A. W. Gummerson from his position as constable for the Town of Copper Cliff, as not being a fit or proper person to occupy such position. And whereas the said A. W. Gummerson has by his indiscretion and by reason of his dismissal as aforesaid lost the respect of the community and the influence necessary for the effectual performance of his duties therein. And whereas frequently to the great inconvenience of the residents of the said Town of Copper Cliff it has been necessary for witnesses in certain cases arising in the said Town of Copper Cliff and in the immediate vicinity thereof to travel to Sudbury a distance of five miles in order to attend the trials, the said necessity being occasioned by the Constable bringing such charges before the Magistrate in Sudbury. And whereas there is in the said Town of Copper Cliff a Police Magistrate duly appointed for the purpose of dealing with such cases, And whereas the said Town of Copper Cliff has provided a court house for the purpose. And whereas it is customary in the said Town of Copper Cliff to appoint such person town constable as may be appointed Provincial Constable by the Provincial Secretary. Therefore Resolved - That this Council is of the opinion that the said A. W. Gummerson is not a fit or proper person to occupy the position of Provincial Constable and that it recommend his removal from the said position by the Provincial Secretary. Also that the Provincial Secretary be requested to instruct such person as he may see fit to appoint that in future as far as practicable and reasonable all charges laid by such appointee shall be brought before the magistrate at the said Town of Copper Cliff. Also, that the said recommendation and requests be communicated to the Provincial Secretary by forwarding to him a properly certified copy of this resolution. And that the Town Solicitor be instructed to forward such properly certified copy forthwith. The Clerk was directed to forward a copy of the foregoing resolution to the Town Solicitor.
December 17, 1906 Dear Sir, Re: Poll Tax Nov. 30 – 06 I would refer the Council of 1906 to the agreement signed by me in 1905, I understand, that owing to the Council of 1906, failing to appoint me when they came into office that I had no authority to collect this same poll tax, dog tax, etc. If the said Council can give me a guarantee that they are the proper parties to receive the same, thus ensuring my safety in case of any protest from any citizen or ratepayer, that said tax has been illegally collected from them, I will be only to pleased to accede to their request by handing over my cheque to amount so collected on books by me. I am quite willing to go through the books relating to same with the Treasurer whenever it is convenient to do so. I would also ask you to advise Mayor McKinnon that in reply to his instructions of the 20th inst, that I sent my secretary over to you on the 22nd in compliance with his request demand and said secretary, besides paying over fines etc, verbally notified you to the effect that owing to the books not being made up I could not return them, and that you sent me a verbal reply that said poll tax books could remain till I had leisure to make up the same. I am more than surprised that my verbal message was ignored, especially when I note that other verbal reports was allowed in Electric Lights. It was but yesterday that I obtained a copy of my agreement and am therefore drawing your attention to same. Obediently yours, A. W. Gummerson, Provincial Constables
The Canada Nominal Rolls and Paylists for the Volunteer Militia, 1857-1922 included A. E. Storie, rank S. B. Sgt. of the 97th Regiment, Algonquin Rifles, Drill Pay $11.40. for 1907 – 1908.
February 18, 1907 That Samuel Scott, Provincial Constable for Algoma District and stationed at Copper Cliff, be and is hereby appointed Chief of Police for the Town of Copper Cliff, District of Nipissing. That Samuel Scott, be paid for his services as chief of police, and as per his letter of agreement received and agreed upon by Councillor, at the rate of three hundred dollars per year, without fees, to be paid in twelve payments of twenty-five dollars each, said payments shall be paid by the Treasurer of the Town on each and every fifteenth of the month while in the employ of the Corporation and no longer.
February 21, 1907 The Clerk was instructed to procure from A. W. Gummerson, late provincial constable for this district, the keys of lockup and nay other police articles belonging to the Corporation, and if said articles are not in the hands of the Clerk inside of 12 hours after receipt of said notice, action be taken by this Council for a case of theft.
January 13, 1908 Frank Laforge, Charles Pierce and James McDonald were appointed constables. The Town Clerk was instructed to write the Attorney General's department requesting them to bear half of the expenses of the Canadian Detective Bureau Account owing to this Department being unable to furnish detectives when required.
The By-Law appointing Sam Scott, Constable, was amended so as to read that he be allowed his fees on all calls of arrest after 10 P.M. And that this take effect on and from the first day of October, 1907.
March 12, 1908 Herman Vick was appointed to collect poll tax from all pole and Finland residents in Town, who are liable for the tax, ten percent of the tax collected to be paid the collector named.
September 21, 1908 Accounts to be paid: Herman Vick, special services prosecuting liquor cases $15.00
April 12, 1909 Constable Vick was engaged to patrol the Town from 10 P.M. To 6 A.M. At a salary of fifty dollars per month, commencing April 8 1909.
August 23, 1909 Anthony Bealer was appointed Truant Officer for the Town of Copper Cliff, with all the powers legally appertaining to such position under chapter 92 statues of Ontario 1909.
November 30, 1909 The Account of the Canadian Detective Bureau, for services prosecuting liquor cases amounting to $681.05 was to be paid.
January 10, 1910 Herman Vick was appointed a member of the Local Board of Health for a term of three years, and sanitary inspector for the current year.
From the 1911 Census of Louis Street in Sudbury Samuel Scott, age 47, born October 1863 in Ireland, immigrated in 1885, occupation turnkey at jail, his wife Charlotte ‘Lottie’ (Acton), age 43, and daughters Edith, age 17, stenographer in office, Margaret, age 11, and Evelyn, age 4.
November 25, 1912 The Mayor and Town Clerk were a committee to arrange for formation of a Police force of three, A Chief and two assistants, and they be supplied with suitable uniforms, badges and equipment. William Clark was appointed Chief of Police for the Town of Copper Cliff, at the salary of one thousand dollars per annum.
February 13, 1913 Appointment of Daniel McInnis, at a salary of seventy dollars per month, beginning February 13, 1913.
May 14, 1913 Daniel Sullivan, Thomas Wilson and John Thompson were appointed Constables. Herman Vick was appointed sanitary inspector at a salary of fifty dollars per month. The salary of Chief of Police, William Clark, was increased from $83.33 per month to $100.03 per month, effective May 1st 1913.
July 10, 1913 Accounts to be paid: Robert Horue 3 black revolver holsters $ 2.70
The salary of Policeman Savage be increased to eight dollars per month, to take effect from July 1st
July 28, 1913 The Chief of Police was instructed to enforce Section 17 of “The Children’s Protection Act of Ontario”, and for this purpose to ring the Public School Bell every night at nine 0'clock, beginning August 1st, and that the Clerk be instructed to advertise to this effect in the Copper Cliff Courier.
October 21, 1913 Frederick Albert Lako was appointed Police Constable.
January 22, 1914 The salary of Constable Daniel McInnis was to be $80.00 per month commencing January 1st.
July 10, 1914 The salary of Constable McDonald was increased to $80.00 per month – increase to date from June 1/14,
August 10, 1914 The Mayor was authorized to temporarily engage two special patrolmen for night duty, at a remuneration of sixty dollars per month each.
July 9, 1915 That salary of Police Constable John McDonald was increased from $80.00 per month to $90.00 per month dating from July 1 1915. Constables without salary were appointed for the Town of Copper Cliff.
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From the 1911 Census of 245 Balsam Street in Copper Cliff lived Herman Vick, age 49, born November 1861 in Finland, immigrated in 1887, town constable, his wife Mary, age 42, son John, age 18, a salesman in the hardware store and Olda Liimataine, age 21, domestic.
The Finnish Young People’s Society involved ‘socialist activities’. “When the Society voted to join the social Democratic Party of Canada (SDPC) as the Finnish Socialist Organization of Canada Copper Cliff Local 31 in 1912, the Canadian Copper company took steps to deal with the new situation. Thus began the three-year cause celebre associated with the Finland Hall. Herman Vick, a former chairman of the Society, and from 1906 until 1913 a constable for the town of Copper Cliff, formed his own Herman Vick Society and managed, through ajudgement of the court rendered in the Vick vs. Toivonen et al case in 1913, to prevent the assets of the society from being transferred to the SDPC.” From Between a Rock and a Hard Place: An Historical Geography of Finns in the Sudbury Area. |
Constable Herman Vick 1912 Copper Cliff Police Department. Photo from the City of Greater Sudbury Heritage Museums Collection.
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From January 14, 1913 to 1923 William Clark was Chief Constable. He was a trained and experienced officer bringing experience with the Aberdeen, Scotland and Berlin (Kitchener) police forces to the position.
In 1916 Chief Clark had one sergeant and three patrolmen on his staff. The chief was responsible for the enforcement of the Ontario Temperance Act, inspector for the purpose of enforcing the act respecting the manufacture and sale of bread. Clark was hired as the Police Chief in North Bay. Subsequent Chief Constables were Iver Walsh (1923 to 1929), J. Ramsbottom (1929 to 1939), F. R. Jarvis (1939 to 1945, A. F. Runciman, 1945 to 1966, and Bert Hague (1966 to 1972). From Twelve O'Clock and All's Well. |
Police Chief William Clark.
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Copper Cliff Police Force 1930. Photos from Twelve O'Clock and All's Well.
Copper Cliff Police Station 1930, former General Office of the Canadian Copper Company. Photo from Twelve O'Clock and All's Well.
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Copper Cliff Police Force 1930
Rear (L to R) Alfred Langlois* (Sudbury), Jos Brannigan (12b Peter Street), Richard Garland (42 Balsam Street), Patrick Lowney (5 Evans Road), Collins, Wm. McCandless (12a Peter Street), John Kinahan (16 Church Street), E. Lamontagne, Middle (L to R) Albert Mapes (49 Poplar Street), Goodhall, J. Angove, Reginald J. Wainman (18 Peter Street), C. Colhaine, Jas McVeigh (13b Peter Street), Roland Monroe (rms 13A Dioriet Street), Jas Graham (9b Peter Street), Romeo LeClair (14 Church Street), Front L to R) Holmes, Thomas Hopkins (15a Peter Street), Jos R. McGarry (7a Church Street), Joseph E. Racicot (6 Gribble Street) Police Commissioner, Chief James R. Ramsbottom (29 Power Street), Cap. William J. Hambley (4 Cobalt Street), Town Clerk, Sgt. George Moyer, John Livingstone (17a Orford Street), Jas Forbes (48 Poplar Street) *Constables unless otherwise noted. Twelve O'Clock and All's Well |
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A Tragic CostConstable Ernest Paul was killed in the line of duty. In the early morning hours of May 28, 1955, in the town of Creighton, Constable Paul was seated in the Inco Hotel talking to the night cook. A twenty-two year old deranged miner by the name of Henry Sikala entered. At point blank range, he fired a twenty-two caliber revolver killing Constable Paul. He then shot and wounded two civilians. The youth died, of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, shortly after being taken to hospital.
Sikala had ordered a meal at the hotel around 1 a.m. He appeared normal but returned 30 minutes later with a gun in his hand. He fired at Paul from close range. Sikala wanted desperately to become a police officer. He didn’t receive any references from officers he knew and he went looking for trouble, snapped and shot at the first officer he came across and anyone else who got in his way. Sikala wounded Aarvo Kiskannen, 22, another Creighton miner, and Henry Sutter, 33, the owner of the restaurant. Sikala missed in his attempt to shoot Loren Vetters, who was 26 at the time, missing him by only inches. Constable Paul was survived by his wife Ruby and four children James, Patricia, William and David. Ruby later married another police officer, Walter Hughes, and they had two children, Kim and Stephen. Walter Hughes met a tragic death in 1990 in a freak accident working part-time as a beekeeper for the Ministry of Natural Resources. He was inspecting a beehive at a farm near Spanish, 70 kilometres northwest of Sudbury, and didn’t realize a large bull in heat was nearby. The bull attacked Hughes and stomped him, killing him instantly. |
Two members of the Copper Cliff Police Service died in World War II.
Constable Hubert Elias Lafrance, son of Napoleon and Rose Lafrance was born May 1, 1917. He was a member of the Copper Cliff Police force and a Sergeant (Air Gunner) in the Royal Canadian Air Force Unit: 31 O T U.
Hubert Lafrance died November 13, 1942, at age 25, when his Hudson Bomber aircraft crashed near Débert, Nova Scotia in a flying accident. The crew of Hudson AM892 were returning from a cross-country training exercise and their aircraft was seen to pass over the aerodrome. The aircraft crashed six miles north-east of the aerodrome. Four crew members were killed. Hubert was buried in the Sudbury Lasalle Cemetery.
Constable Morley P. Loyst was born March 31, 1913 in Hayburn, Ontario. A member of the Copper Cliff Police, he was a Flight Sergeant (Air Gunner) in the Royal Canadian Air Force, 90th Squadron. He died November 9, 1943, at age 30, when his Stirling Bomber Aircraft collided with a Spitfire near Suffolk, England, a training accident. Morley Loyst was buried at Runnymede Memorial cemetery.
Constable Hubert Elias Lafrance, son of Napoleon and Rose Lafrance was born May 1, 1917. He was a member of the Copper Cliff Police force and a Sergeant (Air Gunner) in the Royal Canadian Air Force Unit: 31 O T U.
Hubert Lafrance died November 13, 1942, at age 25, when his Hudson Bomber aircraft crashed near Débert, Nova Scotia in a flying accident. The crew of Hudson AM892 were returning from a cross-country training exercise and their aircraft was seen to pass over the aerodrome. The aircraft crashed six miles north-east of the aerodrome. Four crew members were killed. Hubert was buried in the Sudbury Lasalle Cemetery.
Constable Morley P. Loyst was born March 31, 1913 in Hayburn, Ontario. A member of the Copper Cliff Police, he was a Flight Sergeant (Air Gunner) in the Royal Canadian Air Force, 90th Squadron. He died November 9, 1943, at age 30, when his Stirling Bomber Aircraft collided with a Spitfire near Suffolk, England, a training accident. Morley Loyst was buried at Runnymede Memorial cemetery.
