Welcome Home!

this banner that is now on display at the Middleville and District Museum was used once in the Town Hall and once at the Fairgrounds in welcome home receptions

A reception committee from Middleville riding in a carriage pulled by a decorated team of horses greeted Mary Ellen 'Minnie' Affleck when she arrived home from the Boer War. The committee had made their way to Perth. They escorted Minnie on her journey home passing through Lanark where a large and enthusiastic crowd had lined the street to show their appreciation for the local nurse's service. The entourage took a break in Lanark to hear three cheers and a band playing. They passed under an evergreen arch with the message, "Welcome Minnie". The group finally arrived at their destination of Middleville. A torchlight procession was organized to accompany Minnie and her family from their home  to the Town Hall for a reception in the evening. 

newspaper accounts of returning soldiers

In July 1945, Middleville community members packed the Town Hall to welcome home local soldiers who had served in the war. The Hall was decorated in patriotic style and a music program with patriotic choruses and readings was enjoyed by those attending. The red and white banner pictured above greeted the soldiers in the hall. Each returning soldier was presented with a signet ring, "in gratitude for their courage and loyalty in the war".