Brooklin – Splendid preparations are being made for the celebration here on May 25th. The Brooklin Old Boys of Toronto have organized an excursion to the village for that day, and from the circulars issued by this organization the following interesting history of the village and announcement of the excursion is taken –
Many, many years ago, so long in fact that historians of the locality have failed to chronicle it, a post office, a general store, a blacksmith shop, together with a few dwelling homes in a certain locality, became of sufficient import to be christened “Winchester;” the tide of travel and commercial activity, however, so centered here, the increase of inhabitants went on with such gigantic strides, and possibly for some other reasons, it has deemed advisable the place be incorporated as a village and the name be changed to “Brooklin.” This was accordingly done. Some have it the name was changed in honor of the advent of H. H. Brooks, but this is still open to doubt. However, Brooklin it has remained, but like many other towns of possibility more importance it did not possess sufficient magnetism to put into practical use that aphorism of today, “What we have we hold” and consequently an exodus has been going on ever since, and her sons and daughters Who have migrated are many in excess of those who have remained. An occasional visit is paid to the old home by those who have attractions in the shape of possessions or friends. Outside of this spasmodic occasional pilgrimages, no concerted action has so far been carried out by Brooklin’s old boys or girls, and at a meeting held in the city of Toronto it was decided that as a starter, an excursion to Brooklin on May 25th, 1903, Victoria Day, be run via the G.T.R. and a committee be appointed to co-operate with the local committee of the village in getting up something of an appropriate program. What the nature of the celebration will be, we are as yet unable to give a detailed outline, but might mention that in addition to the regular program, the train will be met on arrival by the committee of citizens and amid the strains of “Home Sweet Home,” by the bands in attendance, a procession will be formed and proceed to the Town Square, where a formal welcome, and “freedom of the town” will be tendered and responded to. Prominent speakers are expected to be present and increase the interest of the proceedings by pleasant reminiscences, etc. In the afternoon several important events will take place – including baseball and football matches, etc. In the evening a concert will be given by visiting and local talent.
