The Salvation Army is celebrating 140 years in Leamington this year and a grand concert is planned for this weekend featuring the Heritage Brass Band.
It was in May of 1886 that the Salvation Army came to Leamington and settled in a building on Talbot Street West. The Salvation Army was only about 21 years old at that point, after having been founded by William Booth in England in 1865.
Booth wanted to reach people ignored by traditional churches including the poor, homeless, hungry and people struggling with addiction.
The Salvation Army grew and expanded, reaching Canada in 1882, and Leamington’s Corps became a reality about four years later.
Over the years, the Salvation Army has been a beacon of hope across the world, providing comfort and shelter to those in need.
Leamington’s second long-time location was on Talbot Street East, near where Alberto’s Bakery now stands. In 1972, they built a new “citadel” on Setterington Street, where they still operate today as a church, food bank and hub of social activity for their members and anyone in search of fellowship and comfort.
Photo courtesy of Salvation Army Leamington
The onset of the Second World War saw the Salvation Army accompanying Canada’s armed forces overseas not only as chaplains but as the operators of Maple Leaf Clubs, providing rest and relaxation for the troops.
And with 140 years of service to the Leamington community, the folks at the Salvation Army Leamington are ready to celebrate in fine style.
They are known in the area for helping feed the hungry through their food bank, providing social services for people who are less fortunate and for years, helped in a disaster relief capacity with local first responders.
The concert featuring the Heritage Brass Band will take place on Saturday, September 26 at the Leamington United Mennonite Church at 78 Oak Street East, beginning at 6 pm. Admission is free and light refreshments will be served.
Guest speakers include General Brian Peddle (retired) and Commissioner Rosalie Peddle (retired).
They will continue the celebration on Sunday, September 27 with a 10:30 am church service at the Salvation Army Community Church at 88 Setterington Street, performance by the Heritage Brass Band, soldier enrolments and more words of wisdom from General Brian Peddle (retired) and Commissioner Rosalie Peddle (retired).
Major Kathryn Ritson says that they are looking forward to a great celebration.
“Leamington was one of the early places that the Salvation Army settled in Canada and we’re proud to carry on that tradition,” she said. “140 years is a long time.”
Salvation Army Leamington’s Program Coordinator Derik Hyatt says all are welcome and admission is free to both events.
“We’re looking forward to seeing everyone and sharing some fellowship,” he said.
