SIMONDS LIONS CALEDONIAN PIPE BAND

Post-War Era

 

In 1946 the navy changed R.C.N.V.R. to R.C.N.(R). and band members rejoined. They were now bandsman not (pipers & drummers). They would turn out in navy uniforms for naval functions and be paid according to their rate. The band served as R.C.N.(R). Navy band from 1946 to 1957, but still turned out in highland uniform for special jobs. In 1957 the band quit the R.C.N.(R). due to a disagreement over late notice, to do two weeks summer training. But still carried on as Brunswickers band in lue of practice rooms but this came to an end when National Defense decided to move the Brunswicker to the armory and there was no room for the pipe band .

The band received an invitation from 053 Jarvis Bay Memorial R.C.L. to use their rooms for practices. In early 1968 the band moved in until the navy made room for them at the armory. This did not work out well and eventually moved to rooms supplied by Simonds Lions Club on May 15, 1989. This was mainly due to Sonny Bonnell an active member of both the Caledonian Pipe Band and the Simonds Lions Club. A new hat badge was made up incorporating both the Lions and the Caledonians - The band uniform is Royal Stewart Kilts aod Plaids with white tunic and feather bonnets.

A detailed history of the band will be available at the end of this year listing participants, special events, tatoos, highland games, and parades in the United States and Canada.

Our band is older then the majority of pipe bands in North America, also it was established before the Royal Canadian Navy and the Royal Canadian Legion. Our hundredth birthday is less then 1 1 years away and already we are making plans for the big event. We hope you will join the party.

Senior Band Member

Bill Dalzell

Simonds Lions Club Homepage