the brant memorial - brantford.ca · the brant memorial reprint from the daily expositor, october...

THE BRANT MEMORIAL

FORWARD

On Wednesday, October 13th, 1886, the Daily Expositor, now known as the Expositor, commemorated the

unveiling of the Brant Memorial, by printing a special feature article. This tribute documented the history of the Memorial, the unveiling ceremony and the roles and backgrounds of the key individuals who were instrumental in its creation. This feature article, rich in detail, has been the basis for many historical descriptions of the Memorial that have since followed.

The following description of the history of the Brant Memorial is essentially a reprint of the 1886 Daily

Expositor article with minor editing. The article reflects the culture and attitudes at the time of the unveiling. A number of important additions to the article have been added to make the story complete. These additions include the following:

- The Memorial Song sung by the Mendelssohn Choir at the unveiling ceremony. [obtained from D.

Reville=s History of the County of Brant, 1920] - The Memorial Ode, written by Pauline Johnson and read by W.F. Cockshutt at the unveiling

ceremony. This was one of the first public readings of Pauline Johnson=s poetry. - The description of the ceremony for the laying of the corner stone. This description was obtained from

Jean Waldie=s Brant County: the Story of its People, Vol. 1, Brant Historical Society, 1984. - Pictures of the Memorial; - A brief description of the rededication ceremony.

The restoration and rededication of the Brant Memorial in 2000 was made possible through the dedicated team work of the Brant Monument Restoration Committee. This Committee was chaired by Councillor Paul Urbanowicz. Also serving on this Committee were Mayor Chris Friel, Councillor Vince Bucci, Councillor Wally Lucente, Councillor John Sless, Marjorie Stone, Josie Mannen, Vic Hergott, Eric Finklestein, Helen Jedraski, Darlene Lewis, Bill Darfler, Nina Burnham and Matt Reniers. Financial support from the Canadian Millennium Partnership Program of the Millennium Bureau of Canada is gratefully acknowledged.

Matt Reniers Manager, Policy Planning & Heritage The Corporation of the City of Brantford

June 2001

THE BRANT MEMORIAL REPRINT FROM THE DAILY EXPOSITOR, OCTOBER 13, 1886

INTRODUCTION

Thus we have placed before our readers a very brief sketch of the life of a most remarkable man and one whose memory is entitled to reverence, respect and honor. Cavilers may object to the erection of a monument to Captain Brant, but they will be in a ridiculous minority. Few men of any nationality, or any race have exhibited lives of greater or more uninterrupted activity, than he. By persistency and studiousness, he gained for himself the admiration of Sovereignty and of the people of a century; and the beautiful monument erected in Victoria Square, in this city, is none too great a tribute to the memory of a great man.

The Memorial is an exceedingly artistic production, nothing like it having before been erected in America. In outline it is not an imposing affair, yet it is historic and will increase in interest as time rolls on, because of its correct delineation of the customs of the Six Nations Indians and the faithful representations which surmount and decorate the sides of the handsome monument.

HOW THE MEMORIAL CAME ABOUT The Memorial was erected by the Brant Memorial Association - incorporated by the Parliament of Ontario (41

Vic., cap 62), assisted by grants of $5,000 from the Dominion Government, $5,000 from the Six Nations Indians, $2,500 from the Ontario Legislature, $2,500 from the City Brantford, $500 from the County of Brantford, $250 from the Mississaguas of the New Credit, and $100 from the County of Bruce, making a total of $15,850, exclusive of private subscriptions, a list of which is given elsewhere.

In August, 1874, His Royal Highness, Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught, paid a visit to the Six Nations Indians at their reservation in this County. On this occasion the chiefs and warriors presented His Royal Highness with a fine portrait of Brant, at the same time asking that he would graciously become their patron in an attempt to establish a fitting monument to that chief=s memory. To that end the subjoined address was presented to his Royal Highness;

To His Royal Highness, Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught, etc. The Chiefs of the Six Nations Indians residing on the Grand River, in counties of Brant and Haldimand, in the Province of Ontario, British North America, in council assembled, have, on behalf of themselves and their people, resolved to avail themselves of the gracious opportunities presented by the first visit of His Excellency the Governor-General to them, to convey to your Royal Highness through him the assurance of their remembrance, with pride and satisfaction, of the very distinguished honor conferred on them by the visit you were pleased to make to them when in this country, and of the consideration and condescension manifested by your Royal Highness on that occasion, resulting in your becoming an honorary chief of their confederacy; also to convey to your Royal Highness their grateful thanks for the kindness which placed in their possession the highly prized portraits of their no less illustrious than good Queen, your Royal Mother; of no less distinguished than justly lamented father, and of yourself, all of which now grace and adorn the walls of their Council House, animating and inspiring them with that zeal for and loyal attachment to the Crown and Empire which characterized their fathers in troublous times, now happily passed away. They would also respectfully represent to your Royal Highness their anxious desire to see performed their too long delayed duty of worthily perpetuating the memory of their great Chief, Captain Joseph Brant (Thayendangea), who, during the great struggle which resulted in the creation of two supreme

authorities on this continent, when only one existed, loyally and gallantly led their fathers as allies of the Crown in defense of it and the Empire, and when all was lost, with them maintained his allegiance, sacrificing and giving up all, and finding his way to the then wilds of Canada, where he remained to the end of his eventful career animating and inspiring them with the same loyalty and attachment to the Crown and its institutions which always characterized him and them whenever their services were required. They would further respectfully refer your Royal Highness to the important part they said Six Nations performed in the ever memorable war of 1812, when it was sought to destroy the last vestige of British authority on this continent, and ever since that time when similar attempts have been made, and express the hope that your Royal Highness in view of past services to their country may be graciously pleased to aid them in their contemplated efforts to raise a fitting monument to, and worthy of the memory of the distinguished Chief of whom they have been speaking by permitting yourself to become the patron of the undertaking as it would be greatly promoted there by, and it is one in which they would assure your Royal Highness they feel a profound and lively interest. They would also be permitted to beg the acceptance of your Royal Highness of a likeness of their said lamented Chief, made from a portrait of him taken on the occasion of his visit to England in the year 1786, and also one of the accompanying volumes, giving a history of his life and events in which he took a conspicuous part. They would also be permitted to request that your Royal Highness would be graciously pleased to convey to Her Gracious Majesty, the assurances of continued fidelity and attachment to Her Royal Person and Government; and finally, expressing the hope that the Great Spirit may ever watch over and protect your Royal Highness and all the members of the Royal Family, they would subscribe themselves. Your Royal Highness= Faithful Servants Council House, Ohsweken August, 1874

A favorable reply was made to the request by Prince Arthur, and this gave a sudden and powerful impetus to the scheme. Some two years elapsed, however, before any definite action was taken, and in April, 1876, a meeting of friends of the scheme was called to begin active operations towards securing so desirable an end. Everything augured well for the success of the movement, and a very large proportion of the businessmen and leading citizens of Brantford gave their hearty approval to the enterprise. The meeting was a most enthusiastic one, and upon this occasion the following Executive Committee was chosen: The Honorable David Christie, Speaker of the Senate Canada; Allen Cleghorn, Vice-Chairman; C.A. Jones, Secretary; Alex Robertson, Manager Bank of British North America, Treasurer; William Paterson, M.P., Hon. A.S. Hardy, Q.C., M.P.P., Judge Jones, Wm. Thompson, Warden, Brant; Jas. W. Digby M.D., Mayor of the city; Rev. Canon Nelles, John Elliot, George H. Wilkes, Lt. Col. J. T. Gilkson, M. J. Kelly M.D., LL B., R. Henwood, M.D., Henry Yates, Robert Henry, Henry Lemon, W. C. Trimball, J. T. Johnson, William Watt, Jr., B.A., LL.B., A. J. Wilkes, LL.B., A. B .G. Tisdale, George Lindley, John Turner; and the following chiefs nominated at a Council of the Six Nation Indians; ~John Carpenter, David Thomas, Mohawks; John Hill, John Gibson, Jr., Senecas; John Buck, Levi Jonathan, Onondagas; John General, Nicodemus Porter, Oneidas; Joseph Henry, William Wedge, Cayugas; Moses Hill and Richard Hill, Tuscaroras. Chief George H.M. Johnson, Chief Interpreter; P.E. Jones, M.D., Head Chief, Mississagua, New Credit.

Mr. Cleghorn who has been from the inception, the active spirit in the scheme, and upon whose labors rests the greater part of the glory in its proud fulfillment, immediately set the ball rolling, enlisting in the work the leading public men of Canada, noted in Church, State and letters and including the distinguished Earl of Dufferin, then Governor-General of Canada, who became a patron of the fund along with His Royal Highness, Prince Arthur.

Early in the year of 1880, a design was submitted to the Association, executed by C.E. Zollicoffer, one of the

most accomplished sculptors in Canada. The monument was to have been hexagonal, representing the six tribes, the base thirty-four feet in diameter, with nine steps leading to the superstructure. On each corner, fourteen feet from the ground, stood an Indian figure, and surmounting a column which arose to a height of forty-five feet, was a colossal statue of Capt.

Brant. This design was not accepted, however, because of the unsatisfactory state of the fund, and it was not until 1884, that any definite action was taken.

On May 8, 1884, the Memorial Association together with Thos. Fuller, Esq., chief architect for the Dominion

Government, and Kivas Tully, Esq., Ontario Government architect, awarded the commission to Mr. Percy Wood, of London, Eng., over eight competitors, viz;~

1) Miles Griffith, London, Eng. 5) A. Vincent, 2) Peyrol & Bonheur, Paris, France. 6) H. A. Wilkins, Hamilton. 3) Unidentified 7) F. A. J. Dunbar, Toronto. 4) L. P. Hebert, Montreal. 8) S. Gardner, Brantford. The Artists were ranked by the Committee as Follows:

1st Percy Wood, London, England 2nd Peyrol & Bonheur, Paris France 3rd L. P. Hebert, Montreal, Canada

So soon as the commission was awarded, Mr. Wood returned to England and began the modellings as early as

June 14th, 1884. On July 27th, 1885, the founders, Messrs. Maasfield & Co., proprietors of the Manor Foundry in Chelsea, began work on the casts, and since then a force of twenty men was continuously employed upon the bronze work up to the date of shipment, September 1st, 1886. During the progress of the work very many English people visited Mr. Wood=s studio, evincing a deep curiosity in the design and unique character of the memorial.

THE MEMORIAL

The memorial consists of a colossal statue of Brant, 9 ft in height, two groups of three life size figures each, and two trophies, flanking the sides of the upper base, and four bas-reliefs upon the lower base, which terminates in a step upon the ground line.

The pedestal is of gray granite, quarried near Penryn, Cornwall, England, and weighs slightly less than fifty tons. The stone is of the very finest quality, and chosen with regard to a coarse grain. It is capable of a very beautiful finish and presents a handsome appearance. The granite is wonderfully free from iron stains and the blotches usually found in granite. The stone was quarried from the quarries that furnished the granite for the Nelson monument in Trafalgar Square, London. The pedestal was designed by Messrs. F. and H. Francis, London, the architects, who have worked in unison with the sculptor to attain a restful simplicity for the background, and as a contrast to the richness of the bronzes, thus avoiding an appearance of overcrowded work.

To obtain accurate details for the execution of this work, considerable research was required. Mr. Wood has striven not only to reproduce the types of feature of the Six Nations, but to make it completely truthful in all minutiae. The right-hand group, as one, face the memorial which shows

chiefs of the Mohawk, Tuscarora, and Oneida Nations, furnished with the scalping-knife, spear, and pipe of peace. The left-hand group (the lower group shown) shows the Seneca, Onondaga, and Cayuga Nations, with bow and arrows, war-club, and flint-lock gun. The trophies consist of artistic arrangements of their weapons and instruments, including snowshoes and lacrosse sticks. The totems of the Six Nations, the bear, the wolf, and the tortoise, are introduced in the memorial, at the request of the Indians themselves. On the front of the lower base is a bas-relief, showing about fifteen Indians engaged in a war dance. At the back another relief shows Brant addressing the chiefs in council. Two circular reliefs at the sides are devoted to the bear, with winter Canadian scenery, pines, etc., and the wolf with maple-tree foliage, etc. The trophy at the back of the memorial exhibits the designations of the six tribes or nations and upon the trophy in front is inscribed in bold characters the single word ATHAYENDANEGEA@. The outline of the entire structure is simple and graceful, the bronzes are the most perfect realism of the artist=s conceptions, and Mr. Wood has, in executing the commission awarded him by the Brant Memorial Association, erected also a monument to his skill as an artist, and to his truthful delineations of the subject he treats. Only those who pause and study the bas-reliefs will recognize its worth or be able to speak intelligently concerning it.

The ground plan of the Memorial is 12 feet 9 2 inches by 9 feet 10 2 inches. The first course is a step 9 inches high. The second course is 2 feet 2 inches in height, and supports the third, of 3 feet and 1 inch, which course also contains the sinkings for the bas-reliefs; a fourth course is constituted of the upper moulding of the lower base, and is 1 foot 3 inches in height. Upon this rests the fifth moulding, 2 feet 2 inches, supporting the Adie@. The latter is composed of four stones, and is 5 feet square by 6 feet high, surmounted by a capstone 2 feet 3 2 inches thick by 6 feet 6 inches square, weighing 4 2 tons. The height of the whole, including the statue of Brant, being 27 feet. The mouldings throughout the statue are polished, excepting those supporting the die, these being almost entirely hidden from view by the groups of figures.

The statue of Brant is colossal, standing nine feet in height and weighs 4,370 lbs., and is cast in one solid piece. This statue was cast on January 2nd, last, in the presence of a number of distinguished personages. The Canadians present were: Sir Charles Tupper and Waubuno, Chief of the Delaware Indians. Our cut of the memorial is the only correct one and has been prepared from special sketches made for the purpose, several changes having been made in the original model, from which all other photographs and cuts have been made. The cornerstone of the memorial was laid by Chief Wm. Clench on the 11th day of August, 1886, with appropriate ceremonies, in the presence of a very large concourse of people. The erection of the pedestal was superintended by Mr. Thos. Broughton of this city, though the entire work has been under the personal supervision of Mr. Wood, himself.

Her Majesty=s Government recognized the importance of the work by granting thirteen bronze cannon, weighing about 600 pounds each, to be melted and used in the casting of several statues. Some of these guns were over a hundred years old, and all were cast formerly at Woolwich. To our certain knowledge, a number of them were in use during the Crimean war, and the material therefore has a peculiar interest for the spectator.

The work has been carried out to

the perfect satisfaction of the Association; every detail has been carefully and correctly wrought out, the postures are graceful and easy, the colossal statue particularly so; and the bas-reliefs and trophies, while possessing historical interest, will bear the closest scrutiny from an artistic standpoint. The work of the modeller and caster has been well done, and Brantford possesses today, probably the most interesting monument that has a place in America. The bronzes have all been stained to give them a weather-beaten hue, which contrasts beautifully with the rich gray of the pedestal. The monument faces to the south and upon the sward in front lies a white Pelee Island limestone slab, upon which is the following inscription: This National Monument erected by the Brant Memorial Association incorporated 41 Vic., cap. 62, S.O., to Thayendanegea, Capt. Joseph Brant. Born 1742. Died 1807. Interred at Mohawk Church. And to the Six Nation Indians for their long and

faithful services on behalf of the British Crown, and their strict observance of treaties. Contributed to by the Six Nation Indians, the Chippewas, the Dominion of Canada, the Province of Ontario, the City of Brantford, The Counties of Brant and Bruce, and private subscriptions. The British Government presented bronze cannons for the statues.

PATRONS H.R.H. The Duke of Connaught; The Marquis of Lorne; The Earl of Dufferin; The Marquis of

Lansdowne.

DIRECTORS

Allen Cleghorn, President; J. Cockshutt, V.P.; Robt. Henry, Treas.; G. H. Muirhead, Sce.; Alex Robertson, Lt. Col. Gilkison, Wm. Paterson, M.P.; C.B. Heyd, Mayor; H. McK. Wilson, Q.C.; Wm. Buck, J. W. Digby, M.D.; A. J. Wilkes, LL.B.; Dan=l Burt, Warden C.B.; Wm. Watt; R. Henwood, M.D.; J. H. Stratford.

CHIEFS

Ska-Na-Wa-Dih, Ah-Wem-In-Neh, Sha-Ko-Ka-Nyes, Kenehdageh-Ka-Non-Kwe-Yo-Teh, A.G. Smith, Interpreter.

SCULPTOR

Percy Wood Gained by international competition cornerstone laid in Aug. 1886, by Chief Ea-Non-Kwe-

Yo-Teh. Unveiled 13th Oct., 1886, by the Hon. J. B. Robinson, Lieut. Governor of Ontario. The characters are graven deeply in the stone, filled in with lead and painted black, standing out in bold relief, at

the same time possessing the quality of imperishability. This stone adds the finishing touch to the beautiful Memorial destined to become one of Brantford=s chief attractions to visitors and historians.

Chas. B. Heyd

Mayor of Brantford, who, as the City=s representative, received the monument on its behalf from the Brant

Memorial Association.

MR. ALLEN CLEGHORN Mr. Allen Cleghorn, the President of the Brant Memorial Association deserves special praise for the part he has

taken in the promotion and pushing to completion of the memorial scheme. Obstacle after obstacle rolled and was rolled in his way. Warm supporters of the movement became cooled in their ardor and deserted him. Others scouted the idea, but in spite of all, the pertinacity of the Scotchman was exhibited, and today he has the proud satisfaction of knowing that it was mainly through his efforts that the beautiful memorial to Capt. Brant has been finally erected.

In the year 1850, Mr. Cleghorn was made a chief of Six Nation Indians, and during the reinterment of the

remains of the Brants, was admitted to the upper Mohawk tribe, and was made an honorary chief of all the tribes in British North America, under the name AKaroweho@, meaning Agood news@. He is the only white man who has ever gone through the forms of ceremony prescribed by the Six Nations in the creation of a chief. Mr. Cleghorn=s connection with the erection of the Memorial dates back to his coming to Brantford, and for nearly forty years he ase been pursuing the attainment of the end, which it is his privilege and proud satisfaction to hand over, on behalf of the Brant Memorial Association, to the City of Brantford as a memento of his undaunted perseverance. Others have been associated with Mr. Cleghorn, chief among whom are those whose names appear as directors of the Association, and the late chief, G.H.M. Johnston, who took a deep interest in the monument and rendered valuable assistance. Yet the worthy President has been the keystone of the Association arch, and to him must be accorded the lion=s share of the glory.

THE ARTIST: PERCY WOOD

Mr. Percy Wood, the sculptor of the Brant Monument is the elder son of the late eminent sculptor, Mr. Marshall

Wood, who we may remark visited Brantford several years ago and was known to many of our citizens. The subject of this sketch was born in London, England, and comes from a family celebrated in the art world. His father=s works are known and appreciated all over the world for their beauty of conception and purity of ideal treatment. Mr. Shakespeare Wood, an uncle of our subject, achieved considerable distinction as a sculptor and archeologist.

Mr. Percy Wood received his education at University College, London, England, and studied medicine for some

little time. The knowledge of anatomy thus acquired has doubtless proved serviceable in the profession that he subsequently adopted. Mr. Wood was present with his father at the unveiling of the statue of Her Majesty in Montreal by Lord Dufferin in 1871, and also attended at the erection of a statue in Calcutta in 1879, to mark the assumption by the Queen of the title of the Empress of India. On the death of his father, Mr. Percy Wood at once commenced completing the works his father left unfinished in his studio, and even now we hear there are many commissions incomplete. Amongst the works in Mr. Wood=s atelier are a large monument to the ancient family of Blaxland of Blaxland Tower, who fought under Richard I, in the Crusades; a memorial to the late Bishop of Adelaide for the Government of South Australia, and an unfinished ideal statue (female) intended as an embodiment of the beautiful fables of ancient mythology. Since Mr. Percy Wood=s stay in Canada, his services have been retained for several important works, among them a memorial to the late Col. Williams, at Port Hope, and busts of the Hon. Wm. McMaster, one for McMaster Hall, Toronto, and a replica for the Baptist College at Woodstock, Ontario, also largely endowed by that noble philanthropist. There is little doubt but the impression created by the Brant Memorial, will still further add to his reputation - and here we may add that the time occupied in the execution of the commission, scarce three years, was marvelously short, and reflects still greater credit upon Mr. Wood. Yet a young man, he has brilliant prospects before him. He is a diligent worker, has faith in his ability to conceive and execute, and allows nothing to stand in his way when seeking information or gathering material for designing purposes. Mr. Wood, on this last visit to Ontario, is accompanied by his wife. They have occupied a suite of rooms at the Kerby House, and have formed very many friendly attachments in social circles here. Mr. and Mrs. Wood will return to England very shortly.

Before concluding our reference to Mr. Wood it may not be out of place to state the fact of his having been

adopted into the Mohawk tribe during this period of his residence in Brantford. The ceremony took place at Lady Dufferin Grove, a lovely spot near Onondaga, on the 25th of August, 1886, in the presence of a number of leading Indian people and Brantford citizens. The day was the anniversary of the visit of the Earl of Dufferin to the Six Nation Reservation in 1874. After luncheon had been served, the chair was taken by Peter Hill, farmer, who called upon Chief John Buck, the Fire Keeper, and Chief Daniel Thomas, to perform the ceremony of adopting into the Six Nations two white persons whom the Indians were pleased to regard with favor. These were Miss Clara Kendall, of this city, and Mr. Percy Wood. The Expositor reporting the proceedings said: - Miss Kendall was the first to have the rite conferred. As she stepped forward, Chief John Buck placed a string of wampum about her neck and led in the customary song. Miss Kendall was adopted into the Cayuga tribe and was given the name of AKan-ah-wi-dah@, meaning AAlways making peace@. The Fire Keeper made a short address, enjoining those who in the future addressed the young lady, to do so by her Indian name; and that she should always be looked upon to preserve peace between the whites and Indians.

Mr. Wood followed, and was adopted by a similar ceremony into the Mohawk tribe, and now rejoices in the title

of ARa-rih-wa-gas-dash@, by interpretation AA thing that lasts@, evidently an allusion to the monument he is erecting. Miss Irene Washburne very prettily sang a song and was obliged to respond to an encore. She was followed by Mr. Cleghorn, who referred to the constant loyalty of the Indians, exhibited in this mark of their remembrance of Lord Dufferin. The people next called for a chorus from the Martin family, which was responded to by them singing AThe Mountaineer=s Farewell@. This family sang charmingly, the chorus being composed of Mrs. Powless, Miss Washburne, Chas. Martin and Geo. W. Martin, ably assisted by Mrs. James Styres and Wm. Reep. Messrs. A. Robertson and Percy Wood followed in brief addresses, and the exceedingly pleasant day was closed by three cheers for Lord and Lady Dufferin and the chairman, and the singing of the national anthem by the entire assemblage.

BRANT: A SONNET

Ally trusted, warrior tried Courtly in hall, in council sage; Destined at last by blue Ontario=s tide, To close in peace thine earthly pilgrimage. Long years have fled, by still in history=s page, Thy name survives and will endure for aye, Nor Time=s relentless tooth, nor tempest=s rage, Shall mar the record or its purpose stay. But e=en tho= lost, thy memory shall live on, Conserved by Art in monumental stone, And breathing bronze - memorial nobly won, A people=s tribute to thy worth alone. A people=s effort to exalt thy name, And pass down the years Thayendanegae=s fame.

By Dr. J. Kelly

LAYING OF THE CORNER STONE

The first step towards the ultimate completion of the now-famous Brant Memorial in Victoria Park was the laying of the corner stone performed with fitting ceremony in the presence of a throng estimated at 2,000 persons on a late summer afternoon, in 1886. The stone was laid with great gravity and solemnity by Oneida Chief Henry Clench using a silver trowel.

The laying of the stone was fittingly termed in the press report of that day, "the beginning of the end," for this ceremony climaxed the efforts of more than a decade to bring to a successful completion this project of honoring the illustrious Indian, Thayendanegea, Capt. Joseph Brant, as outlined in previous articles.

The ceremony was preceded by a parade from the Indian Office, on Dalhousie Street, east to Charlotte Street, to Colborne, to Market, encircling Victoria Park and entering by the south east pathway. A platform had been erected in the park at the site of the memorial and ropes had been stretched outside it around trees, forming an enclosure into which the procession filed.

The parade was headed by Chief Levi Jonathan, followed by the band of the Six Nations Indians, warriors, members of the Six Nations Council and members of the Brant Memorial Association.

Chiefs Moses Hill and Moses Martin each carried a glass self sealing fruit jar, in which were placed the documents and records to be deposited in the corner stone.

One jar contained a copy of the Canadian Almanac for 1886, the Brantford Colonial pamphlet, minutes of the

proceedings of the Brant County Council for 1885-86, act of incorporation of the Brant Memorial Association, copy of an address of the Six Nations Indians to H.R.H. the Duke of Connaught, a circular issued by the Brant Memorial Association with names of the local committee formed in 1876, a list of patrons and directors of the Brant Memorial Association for 1886, and date of laying the stone; a copy of the memoirs of Capt. Joseph Brant, copy of the rules and regulations of the John H. Stratford Hospital, coins of the realm (one cent, five cents, ten cents, 25 cents and 50 cents), copies of The Expositor, Courier and Telegram, published in Brantford, the Globe and Mail, Toronto, and The Indian; copy of the Brantford Young Ladies' College calendar, and photos of President Cleghorn and the artist, Percy Wood.

The other jar contained four strings of wampum, with interpretations; a copy of the grant of lands made by Governor Haldimand, dated October 25, 1784; copy of deed confirming the grant, signed by Governor Simcoe, dated

January 14, 1793; a report of the visit of the Earl of Dufferin, Governor General of Canada, to the Six Nations Reserve, Aug. 25, 1874, and a copy of the report of the superintendent-general of Indian Affairs, the Right Hon. Sir John A. Macdonald, for 1885.

Chief Josiah Hill mounted the highest pile of huge stones that lay all about the site ready to be placed in position. In English he said that he had been appointed by the chiefs of the council to preside at the ceremony and called on Mr. Cleghorn to deliver an address. Chief Hill referred to Mr. Cleghorn's proposal, made 10 years before to the Six Nations Council, to erect such a memorial and to his enthusiastic and untiring labors to that end.

President Cleghorn said that the monument would be a worthy mark of the respect and love attaching to the memory of the noble Captain Brant and would show to the world that the Six Nations Indians desired to perpetuate his memory.

He presented to Chief Clench the silver trowel inscribed; "Presented to the Chiefs of the Six Nations Indians on the occasion of the laying of the corner stone of the Brant Monument, Brantford, August 11, 1886." Beneath was engraved a beaver, a Canadian emblem. The trowel had been made by a local craftsman, Thomas Aston.

The Chief deposited the two jars in the corner stone, a block of Ohio freestone about 30 inches square, with a round hole cut entirely through the centre. He ran the silver trowel through the mortarY

An interested spectator was 94-year-old Chief Smoke Johnson, father of Chief G.H.M. Johnson and grandfather of E. Pauline Johnson. As he attentively observed every movement, he was unaware that he himself as a man who had known Brant, was perhaps even more an object of interest than was the actual laying of the stone.

On the suggestion of Alex Robertson, three rousing cheers were given the aged chief, "father of the late Chief G.H.M. Johnson, whose death before this monument was erected is deeply regretted."

Chief Clench, speaking in the Oneida tongue, addressed the gathering, concluding by admonishing his people, the Six Nation Indians that as Brant was faithful to Great Britain and to his people, so they might all follow in his footsteps and be also faithful.

Chief John Buck, speaking in Onondaga, replied to the address of President Cleghorn, then drew the attention of the Six Nations to the fact that much of the credit for the accomplishment of this great undertaking was due to the unwearied labor and persistent energy of Mr. Cleghorn.

After these addresses, Chief William Ledge led a number of the Indians in singing a melancholy "Song of condolence."

The chairman asked the crowd to be as quiet as possible and he would call on Chief Smoke Johnson, the oldest

Indian on the reservation and the only one who had seen Brant. The aged chief was assisted to stand on a chair and, despite his years, made an eloquent address. He had known Brant, he said, and had heard much of his exploits and valiancy, and adherences to the British Crown. Brant was famous as a warrior and a faithful ally and the whole country felt that such a memorial should be erected. Chief Hill called for three cheers for the Queen and the proceedings closed. THEY CAME FROM FAR AND WIDE

The ceremony of unveiling the Memorial has been attended with glorious success. Brantford is ablaze with

bunting and flags of all nations, and thousands of visitors have been flocking in from all parts of Canada and adjoining States of the Union, until the numerous and commodious hotels are taxed to their utmost, and private families are turned for the time being into boarding houses. The success of the demonstration is fully assured, and the Citizens Committee is to be complimented upon the perfect manner in which all details have been arranged. Our merchants have vied with each other in matter of decoration, and Colborne St. especially is one great kaleidoscopic display. Messrs. Frank Cockshutt &

Co., have great festoons of bunting and numerous flags hung out, producing an elegant effect. The Big 22 Thos. McLean=s and William Grant=s establishments are similarly lavishly decorated. J. C. Walker, Jas. Smith, Son & Co., U. W. Minor, D. Dempster, S. M. Thomson, Robert Turner, Mrs. Gilbert, H. C. Montgomery & Bros., R. M. Orchard, Geo. Glassco,, John McGeary, Jacob Daniels, John Bishop, J. A. MacKid, Chas. Whitney, W. Pierce, Bennell Busch, Malcolm & Son, Wm. Paterson, A. Watts & Co., all have excellent and profuse displays. Hugh J. Jones & Co. has one of the most elaborate fronts in the city, Goold & Knowles have a bicycle suspended above the street and Mitchell the baker is designated by a cute figure of a maiden holding a string of buns, and enveloped in the folds of a profusion of bunting. On Market St. the front of the block occupied by Messrs. Noble, Walsh Bros., and James Heath is handsomely decorated, Ben Foster=s mammoth flag hangs across the street, and J. Forde, Geo. Adams Dunlop and Fair, Geo. A. Montgomery and John Banks have done their duty well. The Kerby House and other hotels display numerous flags, and many other places of business have made some effort to give the Telephone City a holiday appearance. Throughout the city many private residents have also decorated their premises, notably among them Mayor Heyd. His Honor Judge Jones, Lt. Col. Jones, Benjamin Hunn, ex-mayor Wm. Watt, while the young Ladies= College displays a large and very handsome new flag.

Every morning train was extended, and bore huge loads of humanity into the city, the train from Buffalo,

consisting of eight crowded coaches, occupied principally by Indians of the Six Nations and Mississaugas, while from every point of the compass the country people drove in, in large numbers. The first to arrive yesterday were Sir Fred and Lady Middleton and Capt. Wise, A.D.C., who came on the 5:35 p.m. train, followed at 7 o>clock by His Honor Lieut. Governor and Mrs. Robinson, and Captain Geddes A.D.C. These were received by a guard of honor of the Dufferin Rifles and were driven to the residence of John H. Stratford, Esq., whose guests they will remain during the days of demonstration. Last evening the following ladies and gentlemen were invited by Mr. and Mrs. Stratford to meet those distinguished personages: The Hon. And Mrs. A. S. Hardy, Mr. and Mrs. Percy Wood, the Rev. Mr. Mackenzie and Mrs. Mackenzie, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Stratford, Jas. W. Digby, Esq., M.D., Capt. Wise A.D.C. to the Major General, and Capt. Geddes, A.D.C. to the Lieut. Governor.

Other invitations were extended to breakfast this morning at 11 o=clock. The list of invited guests is below a

majority of them being present: His Honor Judge Jones, Wm. Paterson Esq. M.P., His Worship the Mayor, the warden of the County, Colonel Jones, Dufferin Rifles, Capt. Lloyd Jones, Burford Cavalry, Allen Cleghorn Esq., President Brant Memorial Association, Jas. W. Digby, Esq., M.D., Reginald Henwood, Esq., M.D., Wm. Watt, Jr., Esq., Hy. Lemon, Esq., Alexander Robertson, Esq., Capt. Wise, A.D.C., Capt. Geddes, A.D.C., Chas. T.O. Reilly, Esq., M.D., Lieut. Harry Nelles, G. H. Muirhead.

A number of Northwest Chiefs also arrived at 5:30. These are Red Crow, Chief of the Blood Blackfeet; North

Axe, Chief of the Piegan Blackfeet, and One Spot, sub-chief of the Blood Blackfeet, from Fort McLeod, under the care of Mr. J. L. Heureux of the Indian Department; and Mis-tah-wah, or Big Child of Carleton; Ah-Tah-he-Ooop, or Star Blanket, of Carleton; Kah-kee-Wistahaw, or Flying-in-a-Circle of Crooked lake, and Osoup or Backfat of Crooked Lake, the four latter being Crees, and under the charge of Col. McDonald, Indian Agent, Crooked Lake and Peter Hourie, interpreter, of Regina. Crowfoot who was expected, failed to put in an appearance, owing to illness, it is said. Among other distinguished Indian Chiefs who are present are Chief Koughleiah, the Red Man of the Forest, Desoronto, Ont., and Chief Kah-ke-wa-quon-aby, Hagersville.

The Historical Societies of New York State are well represented by distinguished members, among whom are

Mr. Geo. S. Conover, of Geneva, N.Y., and Indian Historian, and adopted member of the Wolf clan of Senecas, and whose Indian name is Hy-we-saus, or History Investigator; Major F. H. Furnirs, of Waterloo, N.Y., an adopted member of the Turtle clan of Senecas, and great great grandson of Red Jacket by adoption, his Indian name being Toandoah; Rev. Father Lambert, Vice-President of the Waterloo Historical Society, who wrote the celebrated Notes on Ingersoll; Mr. Geo. H. Harris, of Rochester, author of Aboriginal Occupation of the Lower Genesee, and special correspondent of the Rochester Post Express; Mr. Wm. C. Bryant, ex-President, and Geo. C. Barnum, Corresponding Secretary of the Buffalo Historical Society.

THE PROCESSION

Promptly at 12 o=clock the procession started from the Indian Office on Dalhousie Street in the following order: Chief Wm. Wage - The Northwest chiefs in full Indian dress - The Six Nation Indian Band- 26 strong- Leader Joseph Maracle. - Six Nation Indian Warriors in costume. - Representatives of Indian Tribes in the following order:

Mohawks Oneidas Onondagas Senecas Cayugas Tuscaroras.

- Chippewa Indian Band- 16 strong- Leader Augustus King. - Guests in carriages. - Holmedale Brass Band- 20 strong- Leader J. W. Webster. - Carriage containing His Honor Lieut. Gov. Robinson and Mrs. Robinson, Mayor Heyd, and Allen -

Cleghorn, President of the Brant Memorial Association. Carriage containing Sir Fred Middleton and Lady Middleton, His Honor Judge Jones and Mrs. John H. Stratford.

- Escort of 30 men of the Burford Cavalry troop under command of Capt. Lloyd Jones. - The Stone Ridge Band, 8 in number, D. Thomas leader. - Carriages containing members of the Brant Memorial Association, the County Council, the City

Council and others. The procession was marshalled by E. L. Goold, C. S. Bunnel, John McCann, C. M. Nelles, and Allen Johnson.

The latter who was attired in full warrior costumery is a son of the late chief G. H. M. Johnson. The procession moved from the Indian office westward to George St., thence to Colborne to King to Nelson to

George and entered Victoria Park at the Southern entrance where guests dismounted from the carriages and followed by the Indians passed between a Guard of honor of the Dufferin Rifles under command of Capt. T. Harry Jones which was drawn up in two lines along the pathway. Ropes were stretched from tree to tree about the open space where the Memorial stands and seats were placed for several hundred people. These were all occupied and the circle extended almost to the edges of the Park so great was the crowd in attendance.

UNVEILING CEREMONY

The bronzes upon the monument were entirely hidden from view, the colossal statue of Brant being veiled in a couple of large Union Jacks, others tailing over front and rear concealing the trophies, and the groups and bas-reliefs swathed and covered over with white cloth.

The proceedings at the Park were opened by the President of the association, Allen Cleghorn, Esq. Taking the

chair. Upon the platform were Lt. Governor Robinson, and Mrs. Robinson, Sir Fred Middleton, Lady Middleton, Mr. and Mrs. John H. Stratford, Mr. and Mrs. Percy Wood, Capt. Geddes A.D.C., Captain Wise A.D.C. to General Middleton, Judge Jones, Mayor Heyd, A. Robertson, Rev. Dr. Cochrane, Rev. G. C. Mackenzie, Rev. Mr. Strong, Hon. Jas. Young and Mrs. Young, Galt, Hon. A. S. and Mrs. Hardy, Wm. Buck , Dr. Digby, Wm. Paterson, M.P.,Mrs. Paterson, James Somerville, M.P., I. Cockshutt, Lt. Col. Jones, Hon. J. B. Plumb, John B. Freeman, M.P.P., A. J. Wilkes, Dr. Henwood, Geo. H. Wilkes, Wm. Watt, Ald. B. H. Rothwell, Police Magistrate Denison of Toronto, Col. Gilkison, Indian Superintendent Geo. E. Pattulio Woodstack, H. Mck. Wilson, Q.C., Robt. Henry, A. Watts.

The proceedings were opened by the singing of two verses of the hundredth Psalm led by the Mendelsson

Society under the leadership of Pro. Garratt.

Rev. Dr. Cochrane then presented a suitable prayer, appropriate to the occasion. Allen Cleghorn, Esq., the President of the Brant Memorial Association, then addressed the Lieut. Governor as

follows: His Honor John Beverly Robinson Lieut. Governor of the Province of Ontario. As President of the Brant Memorial Association, I have much pleasure in tendering to Your Honor a cordial welcome upon the occasion, and to express thanks to you for your Kindness in consenting to unveil this national monument, erected to the memory of Captain Brant. I beg to congratulate you and the Association I represent upon the large attendance. It is very gratifying to see present so many of our old friends, the chiefs and warriors of the Six Nation Indians, who have associated with them the distinguished Chiefs Red Crow and other leading chiefs from the North West as well as some representatives of the old confederacy from the United States. Your Honor, these Indian tribes that you now see before you, are from various parts of America, and are the descendants and living representatives of that great and powerful race which for so many centuries controlled the destinies of the American continent. You see them here to-day meeting peaceably with white brethren who represent the new. It is a most suggestive and gratifying sight to see such a union of forces as is now represented by the old and new controlling powers of this continent, meeting in such numbers together, united upon the performance of one common object, inspired by one and the same sympathetic feeling, which brings them together to witness the unveiling of a monument dedicated to the memory of one of the greatest chiefs and warriors of their race, Thayendenegae, or Capt. Joseph Brant. Brant=s first appearance as a warrior was at the Battle of Lake George, where the Six Nations, under their Chief Hendrick and Sir William Johnson in command of the colonial troops, repulsed a formidable advanced of French troops, composed of the old veteran regiments of France. At this engagement, which was most severe, a young Indian made himself conspicuous in the fight, so much so, that after the battle was over his brave conduct was reported to Sir William Johnson, who sent for him. He found him to be a tall young Indian named Brant, very intelligent but uneducated, being at that time only 14 years of age. Sir William Johnson determined to have him educated, and for that purpose placed him under the instruction of Dr. Wheelock, where Brant remained until he had secured a good English education.

After finishing his studies he devoted his whole time to the welfare of his people, translating the Gospel of St. Mark and the Common Book of Prayer into the Mohawk language for their benefit, and doing everything he could to promote civilizing influences among them.

The next prominent appearance of Brant was at that great conflict which took place at a more recent date, and which resulted in the creation of two supreme authorities on this continent where only one had previously existed. Sir William Johnson=s decease one year before the war broke out, and who had great influence over the Six Nations, was a sad loss to British interests, but Brant and the Six Nation Indians refused all temptations and remained true and loyal to their treaties with the crown, and it was owing in a great measure to the influence that Brant exerted over them that such a result was arrived at.

It is now generally admitted that the adhesion of Brant and the Six Nation Indians to British interests at that time facilitated a settlement of the dispute, and was the means of ultimately saving Britain one half of this American continent.

When peace was proclaimed Brant and the Six Nations removed to Canada. They received a grant of land from the crown, six miles on each side of the Grand River. Brant, up to the time of his death in

1807, was most assiduous in his care of his people. He built a place of worship for them, being the first church built in western Canada, and it is now seem in its venerable antiquity at the Mohawk.

Brant was re-interred in 1850 and a suitable tomb erected near the church he built, and in which he worshipped.

The monument has been erected by means of national and private subscriptions. Bronze cannon was presented by the British Government to be used in casting the figures. Much credit is due Percy Wood, Sculptor, for its faithful execution as a work of art. It is constructed of imperishable material, and will stand as a testimony to this and secondary generations, that true heroism and loyalty have been rewarded. I beg now to request Your Honour to unveil it. The Lieut. Governor then unveiled the statue of Brant. The sculptor Mr. Percy Wood then handed the cords to

twelve Chiefs of the Six Nations, viz: Chiefs A. G. Smith, Josiah Hill, Peter Powless, John Hill, George Key, John Buck, Joshua Williams, Henry Clemon, Nicodemus Porter, Wm. Wage, Wm. Jacobs jr., and Moses Hill, who unveiled the groups and bas-reliefs. An immense cheer went up from the immense gathering and Indian Chiefs gave an Indian war dance, and a war whoop as the monument was unveiled.

The Lt.-Governor expressed his thanks for the cordial address that had been presented to him on behalf of the

Brant Memorial Association. It was not the first time he had had the pleasure of enjoying the hospitality of the municipal authorities and of the good people of Brantford. He congratulated the President upon the achievement of the great undertaking he set out to accomplish so many years ago:

I have much pleasure in tendering you the grateful thanks of this large gathering. I am pleased to see so many eminent men of the Dominion on the platform- so great an array of the fair sex of Brantford and surrounding country; but above all, I am pleased to see the chiefs and warriors of the Six Nations in such numbers. It is fitting that I, as representing the people of this province should show homage to the great chief who rendered such eminent services to the country. I am glad also to see the Indians of the Northwest, as well as the confederated tribes of the United States, joining with their brethren here on this auspicious occasion, and the 20,000 people around me evince the interest which the white people take in this fitting memorial. You have alluded to the fact that Brant made his reputation as a young man in the French wars, which gave him a rank and standing among his people afterwards. When his influence in the Mohawk Valley was known, inducements were offered him that he might break the alliance with the King. But he told General Herkimer who was sent upon this duty that the Six Nations had made a binding agreement with the King, and they were not men to go back on it. We know what the great chieftain did in the Mohawk Valley, and of his steady friendship and grand fidelity to the British Flag- an alliance which they were always ready and willing to seal with their blood. He did as much as any man at that time to preserve to us the inheritance which we now possess in Canada. If Brant and his friends had taken a different or hostile part, there would probably have been no Canada on the map today. At the close of the Revolutionary war, harsh words had been hurled against the AMonster Brant@, but the post who had used them, had at the suggestion of Capt. John Brant retracted them, as quite imaginary Brant=s reputation was not confined to this continent, for in England his presence was heralded and appreciated by the King and Princes. Everywhere the right hand of fellowship was held out to him, and his portrait is still to be seen in some of the best known castles in Great Britain. The Duke of Northumberland was his special friend, and introduced Governor Simcoe, who was coming to Canada, to him with such flattering words, that Brant said the new Governor was almost good enough to be a Mohawk. Both he and his son Capt.

John Brant, were distinguished by their education and what they accomplished for the benefit of their tribes. Their work is found in many official documents and many of their desires were granted and grievances redressed. In 1815 the Six Nations were true to their ancient fidelity. The younger Brant led his warriors to the charge when the day was going against the British at Queenston and retrieved the day. The younger warrior made himself conspicuous also at Chippewa, Beaver Dam, and Lundy=s Lane. The splendid monument before us does infinite credit to the artist while it remains an honored memorial to the great Chief Thayendanegea himself. Again expressing gratification at being able to be present, the Lieut.-Governor closed an eloquent and

appropriate speech amid the cheers of the Multitude. The Lieut.-Governor=s address was followed by a Memorial Song, sung by a chorus of a hundred voices of the

Mendelssohn Society:

MEMORIAL SONG

Raise to the War Chief, the record of Victory= Lay at his feet all the trophies of might Forced from his foes as mementos of conquering, Tokens of strength in defending the right. Joy O ye Red Men, rejoice to remember, Days when your fathers have followed the call. Children of warriors he proudly commanded Shout o=er his foemen, exult in their fall. Ye, O pale faces, rejoice in their gladness, Think on the debt that ye owe to the dead, Brant and his braves have defended the Country, Life blood for you and your fathers have shed. (Written by M.A. Mackenzie) (Memorial Song taken from Reville=s History of Brant County@.)

Fire Keeper John Buck, who was interpreted by Chief A. G. Smith, desired to thank the chairman for asking him

to make an address on the occasion of the unveiling of the statue of our great chieftain. He was pleased to see one of his people honored thus, and today was a proud and happy day for the Six Nations. They had contributed a portion of their funds towards the monument, but the country had come to their assistance, so that they had been enabled to erect a Memorial worthy of their great chief. On behalf of the Six Nations he thanked both the Dominion and local legislatures, the city and county councils, and all others who subscribed to the fund. The Memorial would be a further incentive to the Six Nations to be ever loyal to the British Crown. As Thayendanegea was loyal, so he knew that the Six Nations now are just as loyal as those whom Capt. Brant led to battle in days gone by. He was glad to know that the Mayor, on behalf of the city, was to receive the monument into his charge, and he hoped that the Mayor and Council would be proved of it. The Six Nations were just as proud of it erected in the City of Brantford as if it had been erected in their midst. He would not forget the sculptor either who had so creditably carried out the work to its completion, though knowing little of art, he believed it was a splendid work, such as was not to be found in the continent at present time. He presented the sculptor, Rah-tah-wa-gas-daso (Lasting One) with a string of wampum to emphasize what he had said, to show that it came from the heart. He thanked the Lieut.-Governor and the large assemblage for their presence, and hoped that everything would pass off quietly and peaceably, and the visitors return to their several homes in safety, well pleased with the days proceedings.

At the conclusion of his address Mr. W. F Cockshutt rose in his place on the platform and said:

Mr. President and Fellow Countrymen. The lines that I am about to speak are from the pen of Miss E. P. Johnson, they are creditable alike to the young Indian poetess and the race for whom she speaks, and serve to prove that our Six Nations are capable of fine literary culture, and fully able to handle the pen as well as the sword. The spirit of loyalty and fidelity to Queen, country and nation that pervade the ode, are worthy of emulation by all of us. They contain a fitting tribute to Brant and his contemporaries who fought so nobly and sacrificed so much to prove allegiance to the British flag. Miss Johnson is the daughter of the late Chief G. H. M. Johnson and granddaughter of the venerable warrior John Smoke Johnson, who was present a few weeks since when the corner stone of this monument was laid, but has since been transferred as a wearied hunter to that higher hunting ground from which no traveller returns. This ode is offered to the public as a souvenir of this day.

Miss Johnson was conducted by Lt. Col. Gilkison to a place beside Mr. Cockshutt and at the conclusion of the

rectal of the Ode, rose and presented the first copy to Mrs. Robinson, wife of the Lieut. Governor. Mr. Cockshutt=s recital was excellent; and at the close was warmly applauded.

MEMORIAL ODE AYoung Canada@ with mighty force sweeps on, To gain in power and strength before the dawn That brings another era, when the sun Shall rise again, but only shine upon Her Indian graves and Indian memories. For as the carmine in the twilight skies Will fade as night comes on, so fades the race That unto Might and therefore Right gives place. And as white clouds float hurriedly and high Across the crimson of a sunset sky Altho= their depths are foamy as the snow Their beauty lies in their vermilion glow. So, Canada, thy plumes were hardly won Without allegiance from thy Indian son. Thy glories, like the cloud, enhance their charm With red reflections from the Mohawk=s arm. Then meet we as one common brotherhood In peace and love, with purpose understood To lift a lasting tribute to the name Of Brant - who linked his own with Britain=s fame. Who bade his people leave their Valley Home Where nature in her fairest aspects shone, Where rolls the Mohawk River and the land Is blest with every good from Heaven=s hand, To sweep the tide of home affections back And love the land where waves the Union Jack. What tho that home no longer ours? Today The Six red nations have their Canada. And rest we here, no cause for us to rise To seek protection under other skies. Encircling us an arm both true and brave Extends from far across the great salt wave . Tho but a woman=s hand >tis firm, and strong Enough to guard us from all fear of wrong,

A hand on which all British subjects lean - The loving hand of England=s Noble Queen. Chiefswood, October 8, 1886 E. Pauline Johnson

(TE-KA-HION-WA-KE)

Mr. Cleghorn addressed the Mayor in the following brief way; To Charles B. Heyd, Esq., Mayor of the City of Brantford: Mr. Mayor. - On behalf of the Brant Memorial Association, and by the direction of its Board of Directors, I have now the honor and pleasure of handing over to you for the Corporation of the City of Brantford this Monument, erected to perpetuate the memory of the illustrious chief and warrior, Thayendanagea, Capt. Joseph Brant, and the Six Nations Indians. The Association doubts not that the municipal Corporation, of which you are at present the chief executive officer, will for all time to come exercise a maternal and watchful care over this Monument , the chief ornament of our city, in the beautifying and prosperity of which we all have an interest in common. Signed on behalf of the Association this thirteenth day of October A. D., 1886

A. Cleghorn President B. M. A.

Mayor Heyd replied as follows: Mr. President, Directors and members of the Brant Memorial Association: On behalf of the Corporation of the City of Brantford, I have much pleasure in accepting this magnificent work of art. We recognize that it adds to the attractiveness of our city, in which, as you say, we have a common interest, and I can assure you that we will ever exercise a watchful care over it, and to the best of our ability preserve its artistic beauty from destruction and decay. We desire to perpetuate the memory of that illustrious chief and warrior, Captain Joseph Brant, after whom our county and city is named, and to continue those friendly relations which have always existed between the Six Nation Indians and ourselves. We rejoice that a national interest has been manifested in this undertaking, and believe that the erection of this monument will not only tend to still more closely cement the bond that binds the people of this country together, but will likewise result in establishing more friendly relations with the distant tribes of the North West. It is a source of great satisfaction to us that His Honor, the Lieutenant-Governor of Ontario, has been pleased to unveil the monument, and that Mrs. Robinson has graced the occasion with her presence. I feel it to be my duty to express the gratification we, as citizens, feel that the distinguished chiefs from the North West consented to submit to the fatigues incident to their long journey, to add by their presence to the interest of the occasion, and to express the hope that the ceremonies of the day will bind us all closer in the bond of friendship, and inspire us, if possible, with a deeper loyalty to our beloved country and noble Queen. I cannot fail to recognize the arduous exertions of the Memorial Association, and especially the self-sacrificing labor of yourself, Mr. President, through whose instrumentally mainly this undertaking has at last been successfully consummated. Please accept for yourself and other members of the Brant Memorial Association the thanks of the Corporation of the City for this munificent gift. The Mayor, then, addressing the ladies, warriors and gentlemen, welcomed them to the city. The ceremony was

one which many of them were not privileged to see performed very often, and such a notable gathering was an honor to

the city. Only a few at present amid the thousands in the park were able to hear what was going on. They had therefore prepared a programme in the Agricultural Park, to which they would now adjourn. He concluded by extending to all a hearty and loyal welcome to the city, and the unveiling proceedings closed with the national anthem, the procession reforming, them proceeding to the Agricultural Park, where a grand barbecue and Indian games are in progress.

THE GRAND BANQUET

This evening there will be a grand banquet at the Kerby House, at which a large number of distinguished people

will be present. The following is the menu: Soup Oyster Tha-kna-ra-rohn Julienne O-ta-rah-o-non-ta-rah Entrees Veal, with Indian Corn O-nenh-ato Sweet Breads Ah-wa-rih Oyster Patties, Macaroni, Cheese, Mushrooms Game Partridges Oh-qua-senh Wild Duck You-da-rohn-ni-so-rah Roast Sirloin of Beef Tay-yea-his-qua-rohn-oh-wa-rohn Leg of Mutton Six-sio-ke-rah Turkey Sko-wa-ro-wa-neh Chicken Kit-kit-ke-hah Duck So-rah Boiled Ham Oh-nish-hah

Unveiling Ceremony, October 13, 1886

RE-DEDICATION OF THE MONUMENT SEPTEMBER 2000

During a major cleaning of the Brant Memorial in 1984, major structural problems were identified. These structural problems were the result of moisture entering the base of the monument and freezing during the winter months. The lower stones had quite noticeably shifted from the freeze thaw action inside the monument base. The brick piers and support system inside the structure, which was to carry the weight of the Joseph Brant figure and of the upper pedestal stones, had deteriorated significantly as a result of the water damage. Corrective action was necessary for the monument to maintain its structural integrity. In 1985, the Brant Memorial was dismantled so that the required structural repairs could be carried out. While the monument was being dismantled, the two glass jars, laid in the foundation of the monument at the time of the laying of the corner stone, were uncovered. One of the jars was filled with water and the documents and wampum strings that it contained were destroyed from the water damage. The contents of the other jar were very well preserved. These documents were cleaned and treated by staff from the Brant County Museum and Archives. The documents and coins as well as some new documents such as the City Directory were put in a new time capsule that was placed in the foundation for the monument. In 1986, the 100th anniversary year for the Monument, City Council approved Bylaw 164-86 to designated Victoria Park under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act to recognize its architectural and historical significance. The Brant Memorial is an important component of the Reasons for Designation cited in the designation bylaw. Repairs to the bronze statuary and bas-reliefs were completed during the summer of 2000. Included in these repairs was the replacement of several missing pieces. These pieces included the battle axe (tomahawk) held by the Joseph Brant figure, one-half of the bow and the bow string, the top of the lance (spear) and several spear points in the trophy on the north side of the monument. The bronze figures, trophies and the bas-reliefs were cleaned and a protective pigmented paste wax applied. To celebrate the work that had been completed, the Brant Memorial was re-dedicated on September 16, 2000. Among the dignitaries present at the re-dedication ceremony were: The Honourable Jane Stewart, MP, Dave Levac, MPP, Grand Chief Larry Sault, Chief Wellington Staats, Mayor Chris Friel of the City of Brantford and Mayor Ron Eddy of the County of Brant. Councillor Paul Urbanowicz was the Master of Ceremonies for the re-dedication. Mona Staats read the Memorial Ode written by Pauline Johnson read at the original unveiling ceremony by W. F. Cockshutt. Entertainment was provided by the Kanata Native Dance Theatre and by the Soft Shoe Dancers. To symbolize goodwill, Tom Hill, of the Woodland Cultural Centre, presented the Gus-Wen-Tah to Chief Wellington Staats and to Mayor Chris Friel.

Re-dedication Ceremony, September 16, 2000

GUS-WEN-TAH TWO-ROW WAMPUM BELT

The powerful Iroquois Confederacy of Five Nations brought with them to the British the Gus-Wen-Tah, or the two-row wampum belt, which is codified from the original agreement between the two nations. The Gus-Wen-Tah was first made with the Dutch in the middle of the sixteenth century. This replicated belt consists of two-rows of purple beads on a white bead background. Three rows of white B which symbolize peace, friendship and respect B separate the two purple rows. The two purple rows depict two paths or two vessels travelling down the same river, one row symbolizing the Iroquoian Confederacy with their laws, customs and ways, and the other depicting the European nations. Both paths or vessels move side by side in the same direction, neither interfering with the other.

the brant memorial - brantford.ca · the brant memorial reprint from the daily expositor, october...

Documents