1883-08-23ee

During Thursday evening, August 23, 1883, the members of the Hamilton Corps of the Salvation Army paraded to the Market Square for their usual band concert and gospel preaching.

As they arrived at the large open space behind the City Hall, the soldiers found that their favorite location was already occupied by a street preacher. In an attempt to force the intruder to move on, the members of the Salvation paraded around the square, loudly singing the songs, ‘We Are Jolly Good Fellows’ and “The Girl I Left Behind Me:’

“Apart from annoying respectable citizens, they frightened several horses, and complaint was made to the police about them, and a summons was issued for their appearance at court.”¹

¹ “Death and Glory Boys”

Hamilton Spectator.  August 25, 1883.

When the members of the Salvation Army appeared at the Hamilton Police Court, it was to answer the charge of breaking the city bylaw, which prohibited people from shouting or acting in a disorderly manner on the streets.

When Magistrate Cahill found Captain Ludgate and imposed a fine of $5, one of the female Salvationists shouted out ‘Hallelujah.’ At this point, a group of the soldiers marched out of the court room singing ‘We’re Marching On to Glory.’

Captain Ludgate, who was still in the prisoners’ dock, then informed the magistrate that he would refuse to pay the fine. Magistrate Cahill then delivered a stern lecture to the Salvation Army captain, telling him that he would have to pay the fine or face 20 days in jail:

“The members of the army congregated at the corner to escort their leader to jail, but they were disappointed”¹

Back in the court room, Captain Ludgate had a change of mind and the fine was paid.

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