Bringing Vimy Home On April 9th, 1917, Canadian troops achieved a momentous but costly victory at Vimy Ridge. Canada’s pivotal role in the battle was meticulously planned and executed -- a successful assault, overcoming formidable German defences: the victory, showcasing Canada’s military prowess and fostering a sense of national identity was a turning point. The Battle of Vimy Ridge remains a symbol of Canadian courage and unity, commemorated annually as a defining moment in Canadian history. On April 9th, 2024, at the Elgin County Heritage Center (460 Sunset Dr., St. Thomas), around forty eager listeners were given a more personal touch to our Canadian history in regards to Vimy Ridge by local historian, Blair Ferguson. Rather than talk about Vimy Ridge as a battle, Blair personalized it by discussing eight Dutton area men who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country there. Ellis Sifton is the name most people in this area are familiar with, as he earned a Victoria Cross that day. While a German machine gun nest pinned down many men, Ellis charged the machine gun and was able to remove the threat, saving many men’s lives. However, a dying German officer shot and killed Ellis Sifton. While Ellis is greatly renowned in our area and beyond for his bravery, seven other Dutton locals were killed during the battle, some within minutes of battle starting, some enduring wounds that would kill them over a year later. Sidney Keillor, Leslie Clark, Ernest Ward, George Hefford, George Stewart, Joseph Williams and Chas. B. Brewer were likely all known to each other, and as Blair Clearing Clearing Scaffolding Tough Jobs Made Easier Tough Jobs Made Easier
explained, as the telegram death notices started coming in, the small community was likely in shock, seeing that they had lost so many of their own. Blair detailed some of the personal connections between these men. For example, Ellis Sifton and Sidney Keillor were neighbours. On the eve of the battle, Blair said, the two were talking about their experiences, and Ellis offered Sidney his jerkin so that he could stay warm and dry. When Sidney asked why he would do this, Ellis replied, ‘Because your mother would never forgive me if I didn’t look after you’. Blair has been leading a dedicated group in raising funds to build a cenotaph for Dutton Dunwich. “This cenotaph is giving these men, who are buried elsewhere, a connection to their home, allowing their souls to find peace within their own community,” Blair explains. After more than a year of active fundraising, Blair and the team have successfully achieved their goal of creating a place of remembrance for these eight men and all others from the community who served Canada. To learn more about the project or donate toward its upkeep, email ddcenotaph@gmail.com.
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Page 16 Hometown St. Thomas • November 2024
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