Returning

Welcoming the Westies home

British Columbia's Westminster Regiment fought in Italy and north-west Europe during the Second World War. It returned home to New Westminster in January 1946, having lost 134 men to enemy action.

Sold by an unemployed war veteran

A combination of high unemployment after the First World War and insufficient programs for veterans forced many ex-soldiers to turn to other means to support themselves - such as selling patriotic song cards like this one.

Return of a soldier

This sentimental song was one of many that looked forward to the day when Canada's soldiers would return home.

Canada and the Versailles Treaty

This speech was delivered by Prime Minister Robert Borden to the House of Commons in September 1919, discussing the Versailles Treaty that ended the First World War.

When Canada's Fighting Man Again Becomes a Working Man

Facing the challenge of facilitating the successful return of thousands of servicemen to civilian life, the government published this pamphlet to educate Canadians on the measures in place and the national strategy for demobilization.

DDay.1943.pdf (15.05 MB)

Classification of Mental Disorders

Given the trauma associated with many soldiers' experiences throughout the war, this document can give insight into the treatment of mental disorders during and after the war.

Wartime Propaganda

Writing during the interwar period, the author reflects on the perceived deception of Canadian Society by Allied propaganda during the First World War.

A soldier-settler in Simcoe County

In July 1916, Charles Coster enlisted in the 238th Battalion in New Liskeard, Ontario. After the war, he applied to the Soldier Settlement Board and eventually acquired land near Waterford, Ontario - the documents suggest that the transaction was not without its difficulties.

SSB Coster.pdf (33.93 MB)
SSB Coster.pdf (33.93 MB)
SSB Coster.pdf (33.93 MB)
SSB Coster.pdf (33.93 MB)

Reuniting the family

This conventional welcome-home song is most remarkable for the cover illustration - the terrible strain of war is clearly visible on the faces of the soldier and his wife.

You Are Welcome.pdf (36.91 MB)

"Stalwart sons of khaki"

One of Canada's most prolific songwriters and music publishers, Thompson wrote this song in anticipation of the parades that would be held to welcome Canada's soldiers home.