HISTORIC WABANA FACEBOOK GROUP BLOG
January to June 2026
by Gail Hussey-Weir
Created January 1, 2026; Updated Jan. 19, 2026
January to June 2026
by Gail Hussey-Weir
Created January 1, 2026; Updated Jan. 19, 2026
Welcome to this blog that I created on Nov. 8, 2021 as a way for Bell Islanders near and far who are not members of my Facebook Group "Historic Wabana Nfld 2.0" to continue to see some of the things posted there after the Group went from a "Public" group to "Private."
In this Blog, you will see some of the things that you would see on my FB group if you were a member. You won't be able to comment here in real time like you would on the FB group, but if you want to share your thoughts on anything you see, or even send in your own photos to be included here, you can do so by emailing me (Gail) at: [email protected].
Just as you would see on the FB Group, the latest posts are shown first. Unlike the FB Group, you will see buttons next to some posts. You can click on the button provided to read more about the subject at hand. When you are finished, click the back arrow in the top left corner of the page to return to this Blog.
Click the Blog in the top menu to visit previous Blog pages.
In this Blog, you will see some of the things that you would see on my FB group if you were a member. You won't be able to comment here in real time like you would on the FB group, but if you want to share your thoughts on anything you see, or even send in your own photos to be included here, you can do so by emailing me (Gail) at: [email protected].
Just as you would see on the FB Group, the latest posts are shown first. Unlike the FB Group, you will see buttons next to some posts. You can click on the button provided to read more about the subject at hand. When you are finished, click the back arrow in the top left corner of the page to return to this Blog.
Click the Blog in the top menu to visit previous Blog pages.
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Obituary for Deann Conway, January 13, 2026, age 59.
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May 20, 1966 - January 13, 2026:
It is with heavy and loving hearts that we announce the passing of Deann, who left us peacefully at the age of 59, surrounded by those she loved most. She is predeceased by her beloved mother, Bernice, and father, Michael. Though her time with us feels far too short, she departed this world in the same quiet strength and grace that defined her life.
Born on Bell Island on May 20, 1966, Deann carried a nurturing spirit that touched everyone she met. A nurse by both profession and calling, she graduated from the Grace Hospital in 1987 and devoted more than 40 years to caring for others. To her patients, she was a source of comfort and reassurance; to her colleagues, a steady and compassionate presence who set the standard for the kind of nurse they all aspired to be.
At the centre of Deann’s world was her family. As the beloved wife of her devoted husband, Bill, she was his partner in every sense - steadfast, supportive, and deeply loving. Together, they built a life rooted in devotion, laughter, and a shared commitment to family, each serving as the other’s constant anchor.
As a mother, Deann was the heart of the home. She adored her children, Jeannie (Josh) and Johnathan (Jessica), and poured herself into their lives with unwavering love and pride. Through her example, she taught them kindness, resilience, and integrity - lessons that will continue to guide them always.
Deann found her greatest peace in the simple joys of life. She loved hiking the East Coast Trail, picking blueberries, and spending quiet weekends at the cabin. She cherished her fur babies, Boo and Scout, who were constant companions and a source of comfort and happiness.
A true fighter, Deann faced life’s challenges, including illness, with remarkable courage and grace, never allowing her own struggles to overshadow her care for others or her deep capacity for love.
She will be lovingly remembered by her brother, Michael; her nieces and nephews; extended members of the Conway and Weir families; and her dear friend Bonnie Hawco, and her many colleagues,friends and patients whose lives she touched along the way.
The family extends their deepest gratitude to her oncologist, Dr. Joy McCarthy, whose care went far beyond medicine. Over time, their relationship grew into one of deep trust and friendship - marked by compassion, honesty, and shared tears during the hardest moments. Deann was comforted not only by Dr. McCarthy’s exceptional care, but by the genuine humanity she brought to every conversation. The family also wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to the compassionate nursing staff at the Cancer Centre, whose kindness, patience, and unwavering support brought comfort to Deann and her family during the most difficult days.
Deann’s legacy lives on in the countless lives she cared for, the family she cherished, and the compassion she shared so freely. She will be deeply missed and forever held close in our hearts.
Visitation will take place at Hickey’s Funeral Home, 570 Conception Bay Highway, Conception Bay South, on Friday, January 16, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held at All Saints Anglican Church, Foxtrap, on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Flowers are gratefully accepted, or donations may be made in memoriam to the Dr. H. Bliss Murphy Cancer Care Foundation. To send a message of condolence, please visit www.hickeysfuneralhome.com
It is with heavy and loving hearts that we announce the passing of Deann, who left us peacefully at the age of 59, surrounded by those she loved most. She is predeceased by her beloved mother, Bernice, and father, Michael. Though her time with us feels far too short, she departed this world in the same quiet strength and grace that defined her life.
Born on Bell Island on May 20, 1966, Deann carried a nurturing spirit that touched everyone she met. A nurse by both profession and calling, she graduated from the Grace Hospital in 1987 and devoted more than 40 years to caring for others. To her patients, she was a source of comfort and reassurance; to her colleagues, a steady and compassionate presence who set the standard for the kind of nurse they all aspired to be.
At the centre of Deann’s world was her family. As the beloved wife of her devoted husband, Bill, she was his partner in every sense - steadfast, supportive, and deeply loving. Together, they built a life rooted in devotion, laughter, and a shared commitment to family, each serving as the other’s constant anchor.
As a mother, Deann was the heart of the home. She adored her children, Jeannie (Josh) and Johnathan (Jessica), and poured herself into their lives with unwavering love and pride. Through her example, she taught them kindness, resilience, and integrity - lessons that will continue to guide them always.
Deann found her greatest peace in the simple joys of life. She loved hiking the East Coast Trail, picking blueberries, and spending quiet weekends at the cabin. She cherished her fur babies, Boo and Scout, who were constant companions and a source of comfort and happiness.
A true fighter, Deann faced life’s challenges, including illness, with remarkable courage and grace, never allowing her own struggles to overshadow her care for others or her deep capacity for love.
She will be lovingly remembered by her brother, Michael; her nieces and nephews; extended members of the Conway and Weir families; and her dear friend Bonnie Hawco, and her many colleagues,friends and patients whose lives she touched along the way.
The family extends their deepest gratitude to her oncologist, Dr. Joy McCarthy, whose care went far beyond medicine. Over time, their relationship grew into one of deep trust and friendship - marked by compassion, honesty, and shared tears during the hardest moments. Deann was comforted not only by Dr. McCarthy’s exceptional care, but by the genuine humanity she brought to every conversation. The family also wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to the compassionate nursing staff at the Cancer Centre, whose kindness, patience, and unwavering support brought comfort to Deann and her family during the most difficult days.
Deann’s legacy lives on in the countless lives she cared for, the family she cherished, and the compassion she shared so freely. She will be deeply missed and forever held close in our hearts.
Visitation will take place at Hickey’s Funeral Home, 570 Conception Bay Highway, Conception Bay South, on Friday, January 16, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held at All Saints Anglican Church, Foxtrap, on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Flowers are gratefully accepted, or donations may be made in memoriam to the Dr. H. Bliss Murphy Cancer Care Foundation. To send a message of condolence, please visit www.hickeysfuneralhome.com
Today in the History of Bell Island: On January 14, 1937, most of Town Square was destroyed by fire. This was how it was described in an article in the Submarine Miner of November 1954:
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"One of the worst conflagrations in the history of Bell Island occurred on January 14th, 1937. In a high wind and freezing rain, the Fire Brigade was called upon to perform an almost impossible task in combating a fire which broke out on Town Square, the main business section of the Island. For hours they battled the raging inferno which, before it could be brought under control, had destroyed seven dwellings and fourteen business premises. But for their Herculean efforts on that night, scores of other homes and business places in the district would have been razed."
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You can read more about Town Square Shops Fires by clicking the button below:
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The photo below is looking north at the ruins in the bottom half of Town Square. On the left is the DOSCO Survey Office. Just right of middle is the DOSCO Surgery, with William Somerton's Company house next in the picture. The Somerton house and Survey Office (now the Music Hall of Fame) are still standing in 2026.
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Obituary for Donald Hibbs, January 7, 2026, age 72.
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With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Donald Hibbs, age 72, who passed away at the Health Sciences Centre in St. John’s, on January 7, 2026.
Donald, known lovingly to many as Donny or Jack, was a quiet and gentle soul. Though soft-spoken by nature, once he got going he was full of wit, humour, and warmth, often entertaining those around him with his stories and subtle jokes.
Born and raised on Bell Island, Donald remained deeply connected to his hometown throughout his life. A proud “green man,” he lived on the Green, right next to the home he grew up in. He built his house from scratch, taking great pride in his workmanship and in the life he created there. From his home, he could look toward Number One and Number Two Cover—places filled with cherished memories of swimming and growing up with his siblings along the shoreline.
Donald devoted many years of service to the Church Lads’ Brigade (CLB), Bell Island Company, where he proudly played the bugle. His commitment, faith, and quiet dedication left a lasting mark on the organization and the community he loved.
Donald was predeceased by his parents, Annie Hibbs (Butt) and Cecil Hibbs, and his brother Eric Hibbs.
Left to mourn his passing with love and fond memories are his son Jeffery and his cherished grandson; his siblings George, Clyde, Rachel, Linda, Joan, Wayne (Pauleene), Cecil, Jimmy (Judy), Walter (Melanie), Lorne (Saundra), Dianne, Gloria (Paddy), and Bobby; as well as his many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends, both near and far, throughout Bell Island and beyond.
A special thank you is extended to the doctors, nurses, and staff of the Health Sciences Centre, St. John’s, for the compassionate and attentive care Donny received during his time there.
Absent from the body, present with the Lord.
Donald has now gone home to rest in eternal peace.
Not official obituary, just felt compelled to let all who knew uncle Don about his untimely passing.
Apologies if I missed information of anyone.
Don will have a burial at a later date. Next to his mother and father.
Donald, known lovingly to many as Donny or Jack, was a quiet and gentle soul. Though soft-spoken by nature, once he got going he was full of wit, humour, and warmth, often entertaining those around him with his stories and subtle jokes.
Born and raised on Bell Island, Donald remained deeply connected to his hometown throughout his life. A proud “green man,” he lived on the Green, right next to the home he grew up in. He built his house from scratch, taking great pride in his workmanship and in the life he created there. From his home, he could look toward Number One and Number Two Cover—places filled with cherished memories of swimming and growing up with his siblings along the shoreline.
Donald devoted many years of service to the Church Lads’ Brigade (CLB), Bell Island Company, where he proudly played the bugle. His commitment, faith, and quiet dedication left a lasting mark on the organization and the community he loved.
Donald was predeceased by his parents, Annie Hibbs (Butt) and Cecil Hibbs, and his brother Eric Hibbs.
Left to mourn his passing with love and fond memories are his son Jeffery and his cherished grandson; his siblings George, Clyde, Rachel, Linda, Joan, Wayne (Pauleene), Cecil, Jimmy (Judy), Walter (Melanie), Lorne (Saundra), Dianne, Gloria (Paddy), and Bobby; as well as his many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends, both near and far, throughout Bell Island and beyond.
A special thank you is extended to the doctors, nurses, and staff of the Health Sciences Centre, St. John’s, for the compassionate and attentive care Donny received during his time there.
Absent from the body, present with the Lord.
Donald has now gone home to rest in eternal peace.
Not official obituary, just felt compelled to let all who knew uncle Don about his untimely passing.
Apologies if I missed information of anyone.
Don will have a burial at a later date. Next to his mother and father.
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Obituary for Margaret (nee Tremblett) Sweeney, January 5, 2026, age 78.
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May 22, 1947 - January 5, 2026:
Margaret Marie Sweeney (nee Tremblett) passed away peacefully at Cambridge Memorial Hospital on January 5, 2026, at the age of 78.
Margaret was a devoted mother to Laurie (Jason) and Shawn, and a loving grandmother to Kaitlin (Ryan) and Gillian, who were the light of her life. She also shared a special bond with her great-nephew Cole, who held a place in her heart much like a grandson.
Born on Bell Island, Newfoundland, Margaret was the daughter of the late Mary and William Tremblett. She later moved to Cambridge, Ontario, where she built a life surrounded by family and friends.
Margaret is survived by her sister Helen (Rick) of Newfoundland and is predeceased by her brothers John, Walter, and William, as well as her sister Ann Tremblett. She was a cherished aunt to many nieces and nephews who will fondly remember her kindness and warmth.
Anyone who knew Margaret knew she had a heart of gold. She was a true family woman who would do anything for those she loved. She enjoyed a good game of bingo or cards, loved to reminisce and tell stories, and was always ready with a joke or a laugh. Above all, she adored her granddaughters and spent many of her days with them, creating memories that will be treasured forever.
Margaret’s love, generosity, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her. A celebration of life will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026, at the Cambridge Newfoundland Club from 4pm – 7pm. Donations in Margaret's memory may be made to the Cambridge & District Humane Society or the Alzheimer's Society of Waterloo-Wellington
Arrangements entrusted to Corbett Funeral Home, 95 Dundas Street N., Cambridge, Ontario, N1R 5N6, 519-740-0669.
“Her love lives on in the hearts of her family, today and always.”
Margaret Marie Sweeney (nee Tremblett) passed away peacefully at Cambridge Memorial Hospital on January 5, 2026, at the age of 78.
Margaret was a devoted mother to Laurie (Jason) and Shawn, and a loving grandmother to Kaitlin (Ryan) and Gillian, who were the light of her life. She also shared a special bond with her great-nephew Cole, who held a place in her heart much like a grandson.
Born on Bell Island, Newfoundland, Margaret was the daughter of the late Mary and William Tremblett. She later moved to Cambridge, Ontario, where she built a life surrounded by family and friends.
Margaret is survived by her sister Helen (Rick) of Newfoundland and is predeceased by her brothers John, Walter, and William, as well as her sister Ann Tremblett. She was a cherished aunt to many nieces and nephews who will fondly remember her kindness and warmth.
Anyone who knew Margaret knew she had a heart of gold. She was a true family woman who would do anything for those she loved. She enjoyed a good game of bingo or cards, loved to reminisce and tell stories, and was always ready with a joke or a laugh. Above all, she adored her granddaughters and spent many of her days with them, creating memories that will be treasured forever.
Margaret’s love, generosity, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her. A celebration of life will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026, at the Cambridge Newfoundland Club from 4pm – 7pm. Donations in Margaret's memory may be made to the Cambridge & District Humane Society or the Alzheimer's Society of Waterloo-Wellington
Arrangements entrusted to Corbett Funeral Home, 95 Dundas Street N., Cambridge, Ontario, N1R 5N6, 519-740-0669.
“Her love lives on in the hearts of her family, today and always.”
Winnie (nee Hawco) Crocker (1927-2026):
The article below was published in The Telegram, May 1, 2003, pp. A1-A2. See Winnie Crocker's obituary below.
The article below was published in The Telegram, May 1, 2003, pp. A1-A2. See Winnie Crocker's obituary below.
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Obituary for Winnifred (nee Hawco) Crocker, January 8, 2026, age 98.
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With heavy hearts we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved aunt, Winnie Crocker. She was called home by the Lord after a long, well-lived life at the age of 98.
Winnie was the last of the siblings of Joseph and Josephine Hawco.
In addition to her parents, Winnie was predeceased by her husband Lawrence (Lar) Crocker, brothers Tom, Joe (Ollie), Steve (Mary); sisters: Mary Lahey, Florence Hawco, Kathleen Martin (Leo), Elizabeth Gatherall (Jack), Marion St. George (Jack), Eileen Hawco, Josephine Sheppard (Hal), brother-in-law: Alex Crocker, sisters-in-law: Mary Carr, Margaret Brace and Laura Aitken. Also predeceased by several nieces and nephews and special niece/friend/travelling companion, Dianne Hawco.
Leaving to mourn many nieces, nephews and close friends.
Winnie was born and raised on Bell Island. After graduating high school, she moved to St. John’s where she met her husband-to-be, Lar Crocker. They started their own business in 1954. Lar’s was a cornerstone of downtown St. John’s. Lar and Winnie served fresh fruit, candy apples, chocolates, custard cones and many other treats to residents of St. John’s and beyond the overpass – ask anyone who’s been there and they’ll bring up fond memories of Sunday drives with a stopover for an iconic custard cone at Lar’s. When Lar passed away in 1991, Winnie (affectionately known as Mrs. Lar) operated the store on her own for nearly a decade. After 49 years in business, she decided it was time to close shop in 2003.
Winnie and Lar cherished time spent with friends. Travelling down south was a yearly tradition they looked forward to. Weekly card games with their close circle were a highlight, often accompanied by Winnie’s homemade treats. One thing was certain, no one ever left Winnie Crocker’s home hungry. She had a gift for preparing delicious, nourishing meals in a matter of minutes.
Curling was her sport to watch on TV and when “Brad” played, everything was put on hold.
She volunteered with her church, as well as the food bank, well up into her 90’s.
Winnie was a gentle soul, always aimed to please and had a smile for anyone she met. She will be lovingly remembered and dearly missed by all whose lives she touched. She dearly loved her family and told them at every opportunity.
Special thank you to Winslowe Ridge Retirement Home for their care during her stay there. Thank you to the doctors and nurses at St. Clare’s and Health Science. Sincere gratitude to her nephew, Steve who looked after her every need right up to the very end.
"Wherever a beautiful soul has been, there is a trail of beautiful memories." - Ronald Reagan
Visitation will be at Caul’s Funeral Home 84 LeMarchant Road on Sunday January 11, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be held at St. Teresa’s on Tuesday January 13th at 1:00 p.m.. Inurnment to follow at Holy Sepulchre on Topsail Rd.
No flowers, by request, due to serious allergy in the family. Donations can be made to The Gathering Place or charity of choice.
Winnie was the last of the siblings of Joseph and Josephine Hawco.
In addition to her parents, Winnie was predeceased by her husband Lawrence (Lar) Crocker, brothers Tom, Joe (Ollie), Steve (Mary); sisters: Mary Lahey, Florence Hawco, Kathleen Martin (Leo), Elizabeth Gatherall (Jack), Marion St. George (Jack), Eileen Hawco, Josephine Sheppard (Hal), brother-in-law: Alex Crocker, sisters-in-law: Mary Carr, Margaret Brace and Laura Aitken. Also predeceased by several nieces and nephews and special niece/friend/travelling companion, Dianne Hawco.
Leaving to mourn many nieces, nephews and close friends.
Winnie was born and raised on Bell Island. After graduating high school, she moved to St. John’s where she met her husband-to-be, Lar Crocker. They started their own business in 1954. Lar’s was a cornerstone of downtown St. John’s. Lar and Winnie served fresh fruit, candy apples, chocolates, custard cones and many other treats to residents of St. John’s and beyond the overpass – ask anyone who’s been there and they’ll bring up fond memories of Sunday drives with a stopover for an iconic custard cone at Lar’s. When Lar passed away in 1991, Winnie (affectionately known as Mrs. Lar) operated the store on her own for nearly a decade. After 49 years in business, she decided it was time to close shop in 2003.
Winnie and Lar cherished time spent with friends. Travelling down south was a yearly tradition they looked forward to. Weekly card games with their close circle were a highlight, often accompanied by Winnie’s homemade treats. One thing was certain, no one ever left Winnie Crocker’s home hungry. She had a gift for preparing delicious, nourishing meals in a matter of minutes.
Curling was her sport to watch on TV and when “Brad” played, everything was put on hold.
She volunteered with her church, as well as the food bank, well up into her 90’s.
Winnie was a gentle soul, always aimed to please and had a smile for anyone she met. She will be lovingly remembered and dearly missed by all whose lives she touched. She dearly loved her family and told them at every opportunity.
Special thank you to Winslowe Ridge Retirement Home for their care during her stay there. Thank you to the doctors and nurses at St. Clare’s and Health Science. Sincere gratitude to her nephew, Steve who looked after her every need right up to the very end.
"Wherever a beautiful soul has been, there is a trail of beautiful memories." - Ronald Reagan
Visitation will be at Caul’s Funeral Home 84 LeMarchant Road on Sunday January 11, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be held at St. Teresa’s on Tuesday January 13th at 1:00 p.m.. Inurnment to follow at Holy Sepulchre on Topsail Rd.
No flowers, by request, due to serious allergy in the family. Donations can be made to The Gathering Place or charity of choice.
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Happy Old Christmas Day, Everyone! When I was growing up in the 1950s-60s, we would get an extra little gift on this day, usually something inexpensive like a colouring book or a package of embroidered hankies for the girls. (Maybe regular handkerchiefs for the boys?)
One year, when we were 9 or 10 years old, my friend Beulah and I got the idea, probably from seeing others doing it, of dressing in our Sunday best and going door-to-door asking, "Can we come in to see your tree?" This was in the afternoon, probably on Boxing Day, but it may have been Old Christmas Day. We had never done this before and were feeling nervous as we knocked on the first door. To our delight, we were invited to step in and were shown into our neighbour's front room, where we heaped praises on the wonderful job they had done of decorating their tree. We were gob-smacked really because, even though back doors were always open for visitors to drop in year round, children rarely got past the kitchen door to see the mysterious rooms beyond. So there we were, not knowing what we should do next, and were about to make our retreat, when the lady of the house came back in with syrup and fruitcake for us! Encouraged by this, we continued on to the next house and the next. |
It was a surprise at one house to see that their custom was to lay the lighter gifts in the boughs of the tree. At some houses, we were given an apple or an orange. We stuffed them in our pockets, which were overflowing with goodies by the time we got back home feeling pretty darned pleased with ourselves.
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This Christmas memory from the 1940s to 50s is from Sydney (1921-1998) & Monica (nee Kent, 1926-2001) Bown of The Front:
"There was a whole bunch of us friends and we were all young, newly married, some had small children and I'm telling you, we were worn out by the time Christmas was over. There was no such thing as pre-Christmas parties. Christmas parties started after Boxing Day and went right on until the last of January. Bernie & Madeline Stoyles lived across the street from us and always had their party last. And believe it or not, they kept their Christmas tree up till then. There were no artificial trees in those days. They managed to keep that tree fresh enough to have a party the last week of January. In between then, there would be 2 or 3 nights a week you'd be going to parties; we'd all take our turn. And then working every day, wouldn't we be tired. But we were young then. Oh, what great times at Christmas, I must say.
All the stores would be decorated. Christmas Eve was always the men's day. For some reason, the men would always go shopping for their wives on Christmas Eve. You'd see more men there, they'd be alone then, of course, picking out something for their wives. They'd always leave it till the last minute, I suppose, or it was just tradition or something. But there would be an awful lot of fellas in there (on Town Square) on Christmas Eve. The mines would be closed then for the day. The only time they used to close then was two weeks at Christmas to make the necessary repairs and give the men time off. No such thing as vacations then in the summertime until after 1950. The union got in (1948) and then they began to have vacation pay. Oh, they worked hard, those men, I'll tell you. They worked 6 days a week and no vacations."
The photo below was taken behind John Bennett's shop on the corner of Main Street & East End Road, March 1962. Pat & Eddie Kavanagh delivered groceries for the store in a horse-drawn sleigh. Photo by Tom Careless, courtesy of Dave Careless.
"There was a whole bunch of us friends and we were all young, newly married, some had small children and I'm telling you, we were worn out by the time Christmas was over. There was no such thing as pre-Christmas parties. Christmas parties started after Boxing Day and went right on until the last of January. Bernie & Madeline Stoyles lived across the street from us and always had their party last. And believe it or not, they kept their Christmas tree up till then. There were no artificial trees in those days. They managed to keep that tree fresh enough to have a party the last week of January. In between then, there would be 2 or 3 nights a week you'd be going to parties; we'd all take our turn. And then working every day, wouldn't we be tired. But we were young then. Oh, what great times at Christmas, I must say.
All the stores would be decorated. Christmas Eve was always the men's day. For some reason, the men would always go shopping for their wives on Christmas Eve. You'd see more men there, they'd be alone then, of course, picking out something for their wives. They'd always leave it till the last minute, I suppose, or it was just tradition or something. But there would be an awful lot of fellas in there (on Town Square) on Christmas Eve. The mines would be closed then for the day. The only time they used to close then was two weeks at Christmas to make the necessary repairs and give the men time off. No such thing as vacations then in the summertime until after 1950. The union got in (1948) and then they began to have vacation pay. Oh, they worked hard, those men, I'll tell you. They worked 6 days a week and no vacations."
The photo below was taken behind John Bennett's shop on the corner of Main Street & East End Road, March 1962. Pat & Eddie Kavanagh delivered groceries for the store in a horse-drawn sleigh. Photo by Tom Careless, courtesy of Dave Careless.
