1. sports
2. bowling

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In early August of 1906 a notice appeared in the Sarnia
Observer inviting ‘gentlemen’ interested in the sport of
lawn bowling to assemble at the Hotel Vendome on the
seventeenth.
Some twenty-five prominent men of the community answered the invitation. Dr. Wm. Logie guided the business of that meeting and the records of the gathering
were kept by A. D. McLean. Surnames of the gentlemen
attending the gathering were: McLean, MacKenzie,
McVicar, Dempsey, Leys, Hayes, Diver, Almas, Gallaway,
Belton, McDonald, Nickle, Newton, Collins, Ryder, Randolph, Mitchell, Thrasher, McMillan, Grant, Costello,
Bucke, McArthur, Pardee, Logie.
The group name given was The Sarnia Lawn Bowling
Club and the location for the bowling was some surplus
property at the rear of the jail.
Mr. J. M. Diver was elected the first president of the
SLBC.
Each founding member was assessed the fee of $5.00
as in initiation fee which was in addition of the set annual fee.
Rules and by-laws were prepared by the executive.
Plans for lighting and water facilities were put in place.
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Members voted to affiliate with the Western Ontario
Lawn Bowling Association. A county bowling league was
formed including the clubs of Petrolia, Copleston, Wyoming and Sarnia.
Ladies were extended the freedom the club grounds.
They joined without expense and a rink was allotted to
them for play during the day.
At the annual meeting of Nov. 8, 1907, the annual
membership fees were to continue at $5.00 for men
and $2.00 for ladies.
The first out-of-town bowlers to be entertained at the
Sarnia Lawn Bowling Club were from Ridgetown on May
24, 1908.
It was suggested at the 1908 annual meeting that the
ladies form their own branch of the club and make arrangements regarding hours of play.
Jail Governor, R. G. McArthur received praise for the
excellent condition of the greens. Many members declared the bowling green to be the “most popular place
of recreation in the town of Sarnia”.
During the 1910 season, touring British bowlers were
entertained.
At the 1910 annual meeting, a
gift of 100 cigars was given to
jail Governor McArthur for kindness and unfailing courtesies
to club
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members when using the greens and facilities on the
jail property. The ladies rights were renewed.
At the spring meeting in 1911, the executive presented
a detail of the club’s rules which were printed in The
Observer. At this meeting, skips were elected and score
boards for the greens were shown.
In 1911 a committee was named to investigate the
possibility of the club having to give up possession of
the greens at the jail. At the annual meeting of 1912
the committee reported that land with a club house
was available adjacent to the rink but the 100 x 150
foot lot was priced at $400. The idea was put aside.
In early 1914 jail Governor McArthur died and his replacement was Gov. Dodd who, along with turnkey
Burns, continued the support of the late Gov. McArthur.
In 1916 there were more discussions regarding taking
over an area adjacent to the Curling Rink.
In 1917 County Scotch Doubles bowlers were entertained in Sarnia.
At the spring meeting of 1918, membership dues (for
men) were raised to $5.50. A rule was made that all
bowls must be delivered from marked mats. An invitation was accepted from the Chatham club to take part
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in their annual tournament in June. The grounds committee was allotted $25 per month for care of the
greens.
The annual meeting of 1918 was held at the Curling
Club but there was no discussion of the new location
for the greens.
The Mar. 25, 1919 spring meeting accepted a motion
to appoint a Real Estate Agent to secure an option of
the “Oldham Property” next to the Curling Club.
Fees were raised to $8 and $3 (ladies) at the 1920
spring meeting.
At the May 1920 executive meeting a letter was read
from Lambton County Council advising the club that the
greens at the jail were to be vacated. A committee was
formed to ask for an extension in time and another
committee was formed to ascertain from the owner of
the property adjacent to the Curling Club would accept
less than $1500
At the March 1921 executive meeting, the fees were
adjusted to $10 for established members, $8 for new
members and $3 for ladies. One night a week was set
aside for instruction.
In the summer of 1921 a group
of British bowlers was entertained.
At an April 22 meeting it was
reported that the preparation of
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the greens at the Curling Club was progressing and the
greens were about ready for seeding.
On May 12 a meeting was held to arrange the season’s play for the Lambton League consisting of Sarnia, Petrolia, Forest, Watford, Wyoming, and Alvinston.
At the 1923 annual meeting the ladies were invited to
join the club for use of the greens in the new year.
A delegation of lawn bowlers appeared before County
Council to thank that body for the past years of use of
the greens on the jail property and all members of
Council were invited to use the new greens in the coming year.
Although the exact year of introduction
is uncertain, it is known that this was a
crest used very early in the club’s history.
In the early days of the Sarnia Lawn Bowling Club, the
sport was male dominated. However, ladies who expressed a desire to bowl were permitted to use the club
greens with limitations.
The 1924 season of lawn bowling began at the new
greens, adjacent to the Sarnia Curling Club.
The above article is from a 1926
newspaper, presumably The Sarnia Observer
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Bowling on the new greens began in 1924. Membership fees were set at $15 providing the membership
did not exceed 100, but, if the membership exceeded
that amount and over 125 then a refund was to be
made to reduce the fee to $12.
A Scotch doubles tournament was set for June 24 with
a fee of $3 per rink and an Aug. 4 tournament with a
fee of $6 per rink.
The Goodison medal was donated by Mr. and Mrs.
Goodison at the annual meeting of Nov. 20, 1924.
Annual rental fees for the new greens, from the Curling
Club, were reduced from $900 to $800. A committee
was appointed to meet with the Curling executive to
make a request to reduce the fees by $200.
In the spring of 1925 a competition for members was
arranged with the President and Vice President as captain of the two teams. The losing team to put on a
luncheon for the club.
At the 1925 spring meeting the men passed a motion
inviting the ladies to appoint two members to represent their club on the executive. [The
The ladies ‘organized’
a ladies’ club in 1925.]
1925
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At the Oct. 25 annual meeting it was reported that the
lawn bowlers had had a cordial meeting with the Curlers and the annual rent was reduced to $500.
At the Nov. 5, 1926 meeting the treasurer reported the
treasury was $100 in debt.
At a 1927 spring meeting dues/fees were set at Men
$15, New Members $7.50, and Ladies $5.
In August, 1927 a team of Sarnia bowlers journeyed to
London to compete with British bowlers. Expense account for the team was $15.
In 1920 a membership fee of $10 was set for boys under 20 years of age.
In 1930 there was some concern about the possible
sale of the property. However, this did not take place
and a rental sum of $200 per year was set for the bowlers’ use of the greens.
In 1930 the ladies’ executive was requested to work
with the men’s executive for striking committees.
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In August of 1930 an interview with the Parks board
and the Sarnia Mayor was reported. Topic: A permanent home for the club on Russell St.
In 1933 the officers of both clubs co-operated to sponsor a bridge and euchre evening to raise money that
would “clear off the arrears”.
At the March 1933 meeting the first mixed jitney tournament in the district was planned. Clubs from Forest,
Wyoming, Petrolia, and Inwood met to plan this event.
On May 24, 1933 there was a friendly game between
two teams of club members, one headed by the president, the other by the vice-president. The prize: a box
of cigars.
On Nov. 11, 1933 all members, ladies and men, were
assessed 25 cents to pay the clubs affiliation dues to
the W.O.B.A.
The annual meeting, held on Oct. 29, 1934, reported
the year as “an outstanding success”.
Prize money for the 1934 summer men’s doubles
championship was awarded: $5 to be divided between
the winners.
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The Sarnia Observer donated a challenge trophy for
mixed doubles in 1934.
In late 1934 there was concern about the condition of
the green. To pay for improvements the men were assessed $1 each and the ladies club paid $25.
In September, 1935, officers recommended that the
club return to the greens on the jail property, on which
the club had started.
Also at the September meeting the following motion
was passed, ”That we recommend to the incoming officers that they take up the question of amalgamation
of the two clubs under one executive comprised of
both ladies and gentlemen.”
The ladies concurred with a motion: “that we should
have one set of officers for both men’s and ladies
clubs.” It was understood that the president would be
a man, the vice-president a lady, and the secretary and
treasurer to be elected.
The first ‘mixed’ executive met in Nov. 1935 and made
plans for the coming year.
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1936 membership fees were set at $10 for men, $6
for ladies, and $7.50 for new members.
During the 30’s the bowling activities centered on the
Curling Club property but on occasion activities
switched to the jail greens whilst the Curling Club
greens were being repaired. Jail Governor Mott always
made the bowlers feel welcome.
In the 40’s a topic of discussion was lights for the
greens. Financial limitations were the main concern.
The ‘Hydro’s’ price of $552 was too high. Finally the
Police Chief located some unused reflectors and
equipment owned by the Parks Board and these were
installed at a cost of $13.38.
In the early 40’s the lawn bowling club placed an ad in
the Sarnia Observer for used bowls which could be
used by new bowlers. In short time 15 pairs were secured at a total cost of $54.
In 1944, with the help of the P.L.B.A. secretary, a constitution (bylaws) was created and accepted.
Tip Top Tailors joined the merchants sponsoring tournaments and gave a man’s suit and a lady’s suit as top
prizes.
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In mid 1945 the club voted to contact all returning soldiers and invite them to participate in the club’s activities as guests for the season.
W. E. (Bill) Germain retired as treasurer of the club after serving 15 years in that position.
In 1945 individual jitney fees increased to 15 cents,
up from 10 cents.
In the early 1950’s, bowlers were entertained at meetings, etc. by “The Dixie Cup Four”: a quartet of lawn
bowlers Cecil Milliken, Gordon Lee, Frank Burwell, and
Trevor Cordey.
In 1949 the Parks Board approached the lawn bowling
club to see if they would consider a move to Tecumseh
Park. Committees were formed to look into this.
In 1951 it was reported that such a move [to Tecumseh Park] presented too many obstacles and no action
was taken.
Between 1951 and 1958 much work was done by
committees of the lawn bowling club and the Parks
Board in determining a new location for the lawn bowling greens.
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Lawn bowling committee members working with the
Parks Board in this time period included: Cecil Garrison, Bruce Baldwin, Al MacDonald, Cliff Machan, Bill
Germain, Alex Porter, and Elizabeth McCandless.
By 1958 the club received notification from Harold
Page, Chairman of the Parks Board, that “the Parks
Board was desirous of including the bowling facilities
in the recently established park east of the House of
Refuge and that an area was being set aside for the
bowling greens. Greens to be ready before three
years had passed.” This area later became known as
Germain Park named in honour of William (Bill) Germain who served on the Parks Board for many years.
Much credit was given to Bill Germain, also a member
of the lawn bowling club, for his efforts in promoting
the cause of the lawn bowlers in establishing a new
home.
As promised, the greens were ready in the late summer of 1961.
As the club finished 55 years of organization in 1961,
the members recorded their appreciation to the Curl-
ing Club and to the jail Governor for the provision of
greens and general support of the club’s activities
over the years. Appreciation was also expressed to the
many men who had worked many hours to get the
greens and club house in shape.
OFFICERS OF THE CLUB: 1924—
1924—1961
President
Vice President
Secretary
W. J. Lannin
R. S. Merrifield
W. E. Germain
W. J. Lannin
R. S. Merrifield
W. E. Germain
A. M. Houston
L. S. Parkinson
W. E. Germain
H. W. Unsworth
J. Moore
L. S. Parkinson
J.
H. W. Unsworth
J. Moore
L. S. Parkinson
J.
W. J. Lannin
J. Lockhart
H. W. Unsworth
W. E.
J. Lockhart
J. Moore
H. W. Unsworth
W. E.
A. M. Houston
R. Dobbins
H. W. Unsworth
W. E.
J. Knowles
A. G. Wheeler J. A. Clements
R. Dobbins
C. H. Westman
Treasurer
*1924
H. W. Unsworth
*1925
H. W. Unsworth
*1926
H. W. Unsworth
*1927
Knowles
*1928
Knowles
*1929
Germain
*1930
Germain
*1931
Germain
*1932
Germain
*1933
J. A.
W. E.
OFFICERS OF THE CLUB: 1924—
1924—1961 ….. CONTINUED
President
Vice President
Secretary
D. A. McDonald
Mrs. R (Beth). McCandless E. McCart
J. A. (Joe) Clements
Mrs. E. J. MottE. McCart
Cecil Mil-
H. E. (Harry) Stephenson
Mrs. E. J. MottE. McCart
Cecil Mil-
H. E. (Harry) Stephenson
Mrs. J. T. Fuller
Cecil Milliken
Mrs. Lannin
Frank Burwell
Mrs. C. (Betty) Milliken
Alex Porter
Frank Burwell
Mrs. J. (Merle) Clements
Bruce Baldwin
Gordon Lee
Mrs. J. (Merle) Clements
Bruce Baldwin
Gordon Lee
Mrs. E. J. (Catherine) Mott
Bruce Baldwin
Treasurer
*1944
W. E. (Bill) Germain
*1945
liken
*1946
liken
*1947
Gordon Lee
Ernie Stocks
*1948
Stocks
*1949
Gordon Lee
Ernie
Ernie Stocks
*1950
Ernie Stocks
*1951
Ernie Stocks
*1952
Ernie Stocks
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In 1925 some 17 ladies gathered for an organizational meeting. The first ladies’ president was Miss
McKenzie.
Ladies’ annual meetings were held in 1926 and
1927. Officers were elected along with a prize committees, house and entertainment committees and
games committees.
At the 1928 annual meeting the ladies voted $30 to
the men to assist in the greens’ upkeep. Later that
year they voted another $50 to the men ‘providing the
greens were fixed’.
During the next few years the records indicate the ladies bowled and held meetings electing officers.
In May of 1934 each (lady) member agreed to donate
a cup and saucer and the treasury to buy paint for the
club house.
At the closing meeting of 1935 much discussion took
place about how much to donate to the men’s organization. Some wanted $25 while others thought it
should be more. A battle of votes and amendments
followed as to whether to leave $5.00 or $6.50 in the
treasury. The five dollar balance won.
Also in 1935 a delegation of men spoke to the ladies
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and recommended that the Ladies’ and Men’s organizations amalgamate. After a secret ballot to record the
opinions of the ladies: Result 35 for and 9 against.
The meeting ended with the serving of a “delightful
lunch”.
The organization of the amalgamated clubs is unclear.
It appears from the minutes that the ladies had their
own officers but it seems the term of President disappeared from the ladies club and was replaced with the
term ‘Captain’. It also appears that the ladies
‘Captain’ was Vice-President of the amalgamated
club.
To assist with the repair of the greens in 1935 the ladies held several ‘pay as you play’ bridges, a rummage
sale, and an ice cream and cake social. Ladies’ dues
were set at $5.00 with an additional $2.50 social fee.
In 1937 a greens keeper was hired for $275 for the
season. The ladies raised their dues to $7.00 and
each lady was requested to contribute 10 cents toward the club telephone.
In 1939 rinks were organized to use thirds as skips
and old skips to play second. New players were giv-
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en a handicap of three points in singles competition.
At the Apr. 4, 1940 ladies’ annual meeting a bank balance of $1.37 was reported.
During the 1940’s the ladies section of the club remained very active. Most of the membership took active parts in the club jitneys, both by themselves and
with the men and also made their marks in the invitational tournaments.
The ladies presented a mixed rink tournament in late
1948 in support of the club.
In the spring of 1949, member Betty Milliken gave a
talk on the history of the club back to 1906. She encouraged a special bowling meet “Old Home Game”
when former players would be invited to join members
for a fun game and social time.
In 1951 the ladies voted a gift of $100 to the men to
assist in the cost of improved lighting and later provided a number of chairs for the clubhouse.
In 1953 the ladies invited members of the newly
formed Wallaceburg Club to Sarnia for a social evening
of bowling and lunch.
In the mid to late 50’s many honours were won by la-
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dies of the Sarnia Club in area competitions.
In 1957 The Ontario Ladies’ Doubles Championship,
held in Hamilton, was won by the Sarnia team of Elizabeth (Beth) McCandless and Florence (Flo) Garrison.
At their annual meeting in 1958 the ladies learned
that in 1961 the club would have a new permanent
home at Germain park with ample greens and a new
club house.
The final year of bowling on the Curling Club greens by
the ladies witnessed many honours in all sections of
ladies competition. A new bowler, Mrs. Stokol, won the
District singles championship in her first year of bowling.
In 1960 honours were won by Laura Machan and Flora
Porter who finished first at the Buck Hill Falls, Pennsylvania, US open in ladies doubles competition. [Cliff Machan and Alex Porter were runners-up in the men’s
doubles competition]
OFFICERS OF THE LADIES’ CLUB: 1924—
1924—1961
*1924-5
*1926
*1927
*1928
*1929
*1930
*1931
*1932
*1933
*1934
*1935
*1936
*1937
*1938
*1939
*1940
*1941
*1942
*1943
*1944
President
Miss McKenzie
Mrs. Wheeler
Mrs. Wheeler
Mrs. F. Burwell
Mrs. F. Burwell
Miss McCart
Miss McCart
Mrs. Henderson
Mrs. B. Unsworth
Miss McCart
Mrs. McMurphy
Mrs. Loth
Mrs. Hart (captain)
Mrs. Gardiner (captain)
Mrs. Bayne (captain)
Mrs. Merle Clement (capt.)
Mrs. Huey
Mrs. Betty Milliken
ViceVice-President
Secretary
Treasurer
Miss Murphy
Miss Murphy
Mrs. F. Hutchinson
Mrs. F. Hutchinson
Mrs. Murphy
Mrs. Murphy
Mrs. Fuller
Mrs. Henderson
Mrs. McMurphy
Mrs. Lott
Miss McKeiver
Miss McKeiver
Mrs. Greenway
Mrs. Greenway
Mrs. Greenway
Mrs. Greenway
Mrs. Eacreet
Mrs. F. Hutchinson
Mrs. Eacreet
Mrs. Bayne
Mrs. Kennedy
Mrs. Kennedy
Mrs. J. (Merle) Clement
Mrs. J. (Merle Clement
Mrs. Elizabeth Bayne
Mrs. S. Bayne
Miss A. Luckham
Mrs. B. Unsworth
Mrs. B. Unsworth
Mrs. Moore
Mrs. Grinnell
Mrs. F. Hutchinson
Mrs. F. Hutchinson
Mrs. Lannin
Mrs. Hutchinson
Mrs. E. J. (Catherine Mott)
Mrs. Hutchinson
Mrs. Huey
Mrs. E. J. (Catherine) Mott
Miss McCart
Mrs. Henderson
Mrs. Kennedy
Mrs. Kennedy
Mrs. Kennedy
Mrs. J. (Merle) Clement
Mrs. J. (Merle) Clement
Mrs. Elizabeth Bayne
Mrs. S. Bayne
Miss A. Luckham
OFFICERS OF THE LADIES’ CLUB: 1924—
1924—1961 ….CONTINUED
*1945
*1946
*1947
*1948
*1949
*1950
*1951
*1952
*1953
*1954
*1955
*1956
*1957
*1958
*1959
*1960
*1961
President
Mrs. Catherine Mott
Mrs. Catherine Mott
Mrs. Eunice Fuller
Mrs. Lannin
Mrs. Betty Milliken
Mrs. Merle Clement
Mrs. Catherine Mott
Mrs. Isabel Johnson
Mrs. Isabel Johnson
Mrs. Isabel Johnson
Mrs. Flo Garrison
Mrs. Flora Porter
Mrs. Flora Porter
Mrs. Emily Armstrong
Mrs. Emily Armstrong
Mrs. Kathleen Baldwin
ViceVice-President
Secretary
Mrs. Betty Milliken
Mrs. Betty Milliken
Mrs. Merle Clement
Mrs. Doris Cordey
Treasurer
Mrs. Betty Milliken
Mrs. Shannon
Mrs. E. Johnson
Mrs. Mildred Sanders
Mrs. Flora Porter
Mrs. Flo Garrison
Mrs. Flo Garrison
Mrs. Mildred Sanders
Mrs. Isabel Johnson
Mrs. Emily Armstrong
Mrs. Ina Germain
Mrs. Kathleen Baldwin
Mrs. Laura Machan
Mrs. Emily Armstrong
Mrs. Emily Armstrong
Mrs. Emily Armstrong
Mrs. Emily Armstrong
Mrs. Jennie Callum
Mrs. Jennie Callum
Mrs. Ivy Field
Mrs. B. Richmond
Mrs. Flora Porter
Mrs. L. Trias
Mrs. L. Trias
Mrs. Jerry Lee
Mrs. Jerry Lee
Mrs. Jerry Lee
Mrs. Jerry Lee
Mrs. Jerry Lee
Mrs. Jessie Gardiner
Mrs. Flora Porter
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The Sarnia Lawn Bowling club made history in 1962.
That year the members bowled their first full season
on the new greens at Germain Park.
1962 was a year of hard work for members in getting
the greens in the desired condition and in organizing
the clubhouse and storage facilities.
In 1964 club finances were not so cheery but a shortfall was made by during the winter at get-to-gathers for
cards and socials.
Opening day in 1967 brought a full membership to the
greens along with Mayor Paul Blundy and members of
city council.
With low finances at the end of 1967 ($6.00 in treasury) membership fees were increased to $20 for men,
$17 for ladies, and $10 or $7.50 for new members.
Parks Commissioner Bob Harrison spoke to the members in 1967 and informed the club that it had cost
$40,000 to build the greens in Germain Park and thus
it was necessary to maintain the $400 annual fee to
the Parks Board.
In 1968 the SLBC worked in cooperation with the
SMAA to set up a program for junior on Wednesday
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and Friday afternoons. The club was praised by Commissioner Harrison for the manner in which the club
worked with the juniors.
At the annual meeting in 1968 Commissioner Harrison
attended the meeting with good news: a new agreement was being drafted between the club and the
Parks Board and would contain the provision of rent
free to the club.
In 1969, lawn bowler Ernie Stocks was invited to sit on
the Parks Board.
PLBA president, Bert Blissett was the guest speaker at
the 1969 annual meeting.
In 1970 Gerry Carson was named chairman of District
2 PLBA. The Robb trophy was introduced and the
Clement trophy was retired. The Petrolia club closed
and its members were invited to join the Sarnia club.
The general attitude in 1971 favoured the merging of
the ladies’ and men’s sections to one executive to
manage club business.
OFFICERS OF THE CLUB: 1962—
1962—1971
*1962
*1963
*1964
*1965
*1966
*1967
*1968
*1969
*1970
*1971
President
Vice President
Secretary
Treasurer
Bud Sturdy
(Rev.) Don Campbell
(Rev.) Don Campbell
Joe Clement
Joe Clement
Fred Sanders
Fred Sanders
Chester Rogers
Ernie Stocks
Bob Machan
Lorne Lucas
Bruce Baldwin
Bruce Baldwin
Fred Sanders
Fred Sanders
Ted Waltham
Chester Rogers
Bob Machan
Bob Machan
Al Routledge
Gordon Lee
Fred Sanders
Fred Sanders
Cecil Garrison
Cecil Garrison
Cecil Milliken
Cecil Milliken
Gerry Carson
Roger Buck
Graham Griffith
Alex Porter
Chester Rogers
Fred Wadsworth
Fred Wadsworth
Gerry Carson
Gerry Carson
Gerry Carson
Gord Titus
Bob Armstrong
Bob Wilkinson
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Activity galore was evident by the ladies at the first
meeting in the new club house at Germain Park. A
summary of their planned activities included a decision
to serve lunch to the men’s Imperial Oil tournament, to
purchase a used rangette and refrigerator for the club
house, arrange for the installation of the telephone for
service during the bowling season, to request hydro to
install a light pole with light in the parking area, and
they agreed to pay for the lumber to be used in the
erection of cupboards in the club house. A few of the
ladies agreed to make drapes for the club house windows. It was also agreed to purchase a coffee urn and
two kettles.
The ladies were informed by President Kathleen Baldwin that the Sarnia club had been requested to host
the LPLBA finals for 1963.
As a result of hosting the LPLBA event, the ladies received liberal compliments on their presentation of the
meet and on the club’s new greens.
In 1970-71, a committee of ladies designed a club etiquette booklet which was intended to give help and
advice to new bowlers. The ladies also purchased the
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booklet “Rules of the Game” and urged their members
to purchase one at a cost of 25 cents.
The issue of the union of the men’s and ladies’ clubs
was a debate that lasted over many years, beginning in
1935. Many references to this topic appear in the historical records. The ladies seemingly wanted to manage their own affairs and at the same time generously
support the club as a whole.
In May of 1971, a more serious consideration of the
union (of the men’s and ladies’ clubs) was introduced
by Laura Machan urging the clubs to combine with the
officers and executive be either ladies or gents.
At an October 24, 1971 meeting both ladies and men
assembled together. Ladies’ President Ev Kemsley
conducted the Ladies group and Men’s President Bob
Machan presided over the men bowlers. Outcome:
both groups voted to unite under one club on a motion
by Walter Kelley and Fred Sanders.
The first joint executive was: Bob Machan, President,
Mildred Sanders, Vice President, Jim Marlow Secretary,
and Bob Wilkinson Treas.
OFFICERS OF THE CLUB: 1962—
1962—1971
*1962
*1963
*1964
*1965
*1966
*1967
*1968
*1969
*1970
*1971
President
Vice President
Secretary
Treasurer
Kathleen Baldwin
Laura Machan
Laura Machan
Ann Powell
Ann Powell
Jean Timpson
Jean Timpson
Jean Timpson
Ev Kemsley
Ev Kemsley
Laura Machan
Ann Powell
Ann Powell
Jean Timpson
Jean Timpson
Loretta Saigeon
Loretta Saigeon
Loretta Saigeon
Mildred Sanders
Mildred Sanders
Mabel Routledge
Mabel Routledge
Loretta Saigeon
Loretta Saigeon
Loretta Saigeon
Ann McCrabb
Ann McCrabb
Ruth Kitching
Ruth Kitching
Ruth Kitching
Jean Timpson
Jean Timpson
Jean Timpson
Mildred Sanders
Mildred Sanders
Mildred Sanders
Ina Germain
Ina Germain
Barb Harrison
Barb Harrison
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The membership of the club increased following the
union in 1971.
In the early 1974, a New Horizon’s Grant of $6175 assisted the club in the purchase of a lawn mower, coffee urn, lights for equipment storage shed, and other
items.
In 1976 the club, on the urging of the Parks Board,
took on the task of assisting in the promotion of lawn
bowling in the community youth program in the park.
Art Griffith, Harry Eaton, and Bud Sturdy were appointed as instructors for interested youth.
Entertainment at bowling gatherings often saw Cecil
Milliken leading a sing song along with quartet singers: Bud Sturdy, Cal Moore, Bert Patrick, and Lew Mansell.
In October of 1983, Sarnia club member, Art Griffith,
was elected president of the (Men’s) Provincial Lawn
Bowling Association. In November of that year the Sarnia club hosted a congratulatory dinner for Art at St.
Luke’s United Church and presented him with a new
bowling bag.
In 1985, the Sarnia club hosted the Zone 1 Provincial
Playdowns. This event necessitated much extra work
on the greens. Greens Chairman Art Griffith along with
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volunteers Cal Moore, Bud Sturdy, Walt Kelley, and
Scotty Ross took on the task of readying the greens.
Hospitality for this event was co ordinated by Barb Tait
and Cecelia Machan with meals being served in the
gymnasium of St. Patricia’s High School.
Plans for the 1986 80th Anniversary of the club included more work on the greens, a new lawn mower, ditch
boards and an expansion to the club house. Peter Tait
and Bud Sturdy planned the various club programs to
celebrate the 80th year and raise funds to assist with
the club house expansion. Some of the fundraisers included a ‘giant’ garage sale at the McLean Centre and
a raffle (rug).
The club house expansion project was completed in
1990 along with plans for the erection of an equipment shed.
Club president, Ron Stevenson, accepted, on behalf of
the club, two donations toward club house furnishings:
a clock was presented by Grace Hall in memory of her
husband Bert Hall and John and Emma Morrison donated shelving material for display of trophies.
In 1991 the interlocking brick sidewalk from the gate
to the club house was done by Jim Marlow.
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In 1992 the Parks Board contributed a liberal share of
the cost of material for the construction of an equipment shed at the west end of the bowling green. The
club members, headed by volunteers Jim Buist, Vince
Gerber, and Lorne Elley doing the painting and construction of shelving and partitions.
The self-help attitude of the members of the Sarnia
LBC made the organization a popular sports body occupying Germain Park.
In 1992 some 40 students from Northern Collegiate
were given a series of lawn bowling instruction. Teacher Leona Holland, in appreciation for the club’s efforts,
arranged for the presentation of an in-ground automatic computerized sprinkler system.
In 1994 concern was expressed about the use of
‘runners’ during play on the green. The club was told
by OLBA that runners were part of the game and insurances would cover, if any, injuries. At the annual meeting that year the members agreed on a stipulation at a
member about to delver a ‘runner’ should advise players on neighbouring greens.
At the April 1995 spring executive meeting, treasurer
Beth Campbell reported a balance, in all accounts, of
$5623.32
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The club received money from the estate of Life Member Mildred Sanders. The club chose to create a Sanders Memorial Tournament in memory of Fred and Mildred Sanders. Tournament to run until such time as
the bequest was used up.
Ray Hubbell was thanked for his tremendous efforts in
completing the club history from 1906 to 1994.
Sarnia LBC applied to OLBA to host the 1996 Ontario
Pairs Championships.
A new verticut machine was purchased in ‘95 at a cost
of approx. $1200.00
A second In Memoriam wall plaque was purchased
The club established a “Bye” policy in 1995.
A motion was passed in ‘95 that all teams in tournaments having at least one Sarnia player be considered
a Sarnia team where ‘BYE’ situation could exist.
A Nominating committee was established and was to
consist of the Past President, the Vice President, the
Secretary, the Treasurer and one member not holding
an Executive position.
In ‘96 the club passed a motion to purchase a new
mower and a tractor.
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In 1996, the club’s 90th anniversary year, plans were
made to host the Ontario Provincial Championships
(Doubles) in Sarnia. A club flag with the SLBC logo, in
colour, was procured and club logo bowling shirts were
made available.
It was reported by the Publicity convenors that 882
bowlers had competed in jitneys in ‘96 and 724 had
participated in invitational tournaments.
A raffle made a profit of $1575.33
Membership fees were raised in 1996 to $100 for experience bowlers and $50 for new bowlers.
It was moved by members that 10% of the annual
membership fee was to be put into a contingency fund.
The club hosted the Provincial Pairs Championships.
The 1997 garage sale made a profit of $659.00
A fee of $2.00 per jitney was set for visiting bowlers to
Sarnia who planned to bowl for up to 3 weeks.
In 1998 the 50/50 draw netted the club $374.00
Peter Marseilles, a student with the Parks Training
Technical Course, was hired as the greens keeper in
‘98.
The Imperial Oil Managers’ Cup was initiated in 1999
thanks to the efforts of Bud Getty.
‘Mini’ membership meetings were held monthly as a
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communication tool for the members.
Renovations to the club house were approved at a cost
of approx. $2000.00
In 1999 the wording to the existing ‘BYE’ policy was
clarified/changed to avoid confusion: the change was:
“that in the third game, the two game loser with the
lowest score in game two will take the BYE regardless
of club.
The city works supervisor complimented the club on
the quality of work done on clubhouse improvements.
Publicity convenors reported that a grand total of 2565
bowlers took part in club activities in 1999.
Motion detector lights were donated to the club by the
city.
A smoking policy passed at the September AGM was
rescinded at a special membership meeting held in
November.
The club received a bequest from the estate of the late
Cecil Milliken. The club would introduce a Milliken Memorial Tournament into the Invitational Tournament
Schedule for the year 2000.
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New soap dispensers and paper towel holders were
installed in club washrooms in 2000
Sallie Lane and Sharon Philpott to do orientation of
new bowlers.
Hosted the 2000 Provincial Novice Championships
from which a profit of $1943.87 was realized.
Club ball point pens were ordered.
Cement slabs were poured under the new benches.
Knight Funeral Home became a new tournament sponsor.
Davies Tournament discontinued.
Donation plaques were installed on each of the 25
benches on club surrounds.
Furmanite agreed to sponsor a Men’s Tournament
In 2000, Life Membership policy was revised to read:
“A member must have attained the aged of 65, bowled
or been a member for 20 years, and have performed
quality service for the enhancement of the club.
Tournament fees were set at $6 and lunch fees set at
$5 (annual mtg. 2000)
Publicity committee reported that 2448 bowlers had
participated in club activities in 2000.
In 2001 the in-club Joe Dickinson tournament was retired.
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Kern Watering Systems installed and/or replaced
heads on the watering system.
The Art Griffith Cup, Men’s Tournament, was to be retired at the end of 2001.
Manulife (Rowe) would sponsor the men’s tournament.
In 2001 it was agreed to hold an in-club In Memoriam
tournament, open draw, in conjunction with the annual
corn roast.
It was agreed (annual mtg., 2001) that lunches will be
provided at all tournaments, including snacks and beverages.
The clubhouse upgrading was completed (new ceiling
and new lighting) and a motion was passed to ‘finish
the job’ by painting the walls in the spring of 2002.
In 2003, a 100th Anniversary Committee was formed
to begin preparations for the celebration of the 100th
in 2006.
The Sarnia Club was host to the 2003 Provincial Pairs
Championships.
The Sarnia Club was the proud “home club” of the
2003 Provincial Novice Men’s Champions. The team
was comprised of Mike Landry (skip), Graham Blair,
and Fred Stutchberry.
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2004 fundraising activities of the 100th Anniversary
Committee included: a garage sale, a bus trip to Colossanti Nursery, and a luncheon bridge for a profit of
$1,397.33
At the 2004 AGM it was agreed to re-instate a Members and Merchants (M&M) Tournament in 2005. This
tournament would be held in conjunction with the Machan Snowball Tournament. The Machan family would
donate the 1st price of $150 and all other bowlers
would receive a prize.
Social membership fees were increased to $25 effective 2005.
In 2005 The Sarnia Croquet Club was allowed, on a
trial basis, use of the west greens for Wednesday
nights.
Sarnia hosted the 2005 Provincial Seniors Championships in August.
Burchill Financial agreed to be a tournament sponsor
for 2006.
The 100th Anniversary Committee continued their
fundraising with a bus trip to Niagara Falls and a
bridge luncheon. Money raised to date (2005) was
$2322.67.
At the 2005 AGM tournament fees were raised to $8
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The Sarnia Croquet club was granted permission to
use the greens in 2006 at a cost of $75.00 per
(croquet) member.
Life memberships were presented to Art Griffith and
Bob Machan at the Oct. 30 AGM.
OFFICERS OF THE CLUB: 1971—
1971—2005
*1972
*1973
*1974
*1975
*1976
*1977
*1978
*1979
*1980
*1981
*1982
*1983
*1984
*1985
*1986
*1987
*1988
President
Vice President
Secretary
Treasurer
Bob Machan
Gerry Carson
Gerry Carson
Barb Harrison
Jim Marlow
Jim Marlow
Art Griffith
Frank Davies
Bob Machan
Jack McAdam
Clare Nelson
Clare Nelson
Frank Davies
Peter Tait
Peter Tait
Dick Graham
Dick Graham
Al Rutledge
J. Marlow/B. Harrison
Jim Marlow
Art Griffith
Art Griffith
Art Griffith
Frank Davies
Art Griffith
Jack McAdam
Clare Nelson
Frank Davies
Frank Davies
Peter Tait
Dick Graham
Dick Graham
Eric Denny
Ron Stevenson
Jim Marlow
Harry Eaton
Harry Eaton
Don Campbell
Don Campbell
John Morrison
John Morrison
Vern Wemple
Eileen Kelley
Vern Wemple
Vern Wemple
Vern Wemple
Eileen Kelley
Eileen Kelley
Kim Machan
David Gray
David Gray
Bob Wilkinson
Bob Wilkinson
Bud Sturdy
Bud Sturdy
B. Sturdy/E. Kelley
Harry Eaton
Helen Carson
Helen Carson
Marg Griffith
Min Nelson
Min Nelson
Min Nelson
Ann McCrabb
Beth Campbell
Beth Campbell
Beth Campbell
Beth Campbell
OFFICERS OF THE CLUB: 1972—
1972—2005 (CONTINUED)
*1989
*1990
*1991
*1992
*1993
*1994
*1995
*1996
*1997
*1998
*1999
*2000
*2001
*2002
*2003
*2004
*2005
President
Vice President
Secretary
Treasurer
Ron Stevenson
Ron Stevenson
Ken Machan
George Schaefer
George Schaefer
Colin McLuckie
Colin McLuckie
Sallie Lane
Sallie Lane
Sallie Lane
Bob Machan
Bob Machan
Bob Nelson
Bob Nelson
John Daye
John Daye
Dwayne McLinchey
Ken Machan
Ken Machan
George Schaefer
Colin McLuckie
Colin McLuckie
Sallie Lane
Sallie Lane
Bob Nelson
Bob Nelson
Bob Machan
Marie Emmel
Sharon Philpott
John Daye
John Daye
Dwayne McLinchey
Dwayne McLinchey
Mike Landry
David Gray
Art Lloyd
Eleanor Vargo
Eleanor Vargo
Shirley McLuckie
Shirley McLuckie
Shirley McLuckie
Barb Wynne
Barb Wynne
Barb Wynne
Lorraine Graham
Noreen McLinchey
Noreen McLinchey
Noreen McLinchey
Noreen McLinchey
Helen Butler
Helen Butler
Beth Campbell
Beth Campbell
Beth Campbell
Beth Campbell
Beth Campbell
Beth Campbell
Beth Campbell
Beth Campbell
Beth Campbell
Beth Campbell
Edna Braithwaite
Edna Braithwaite
Edna Braithwaite
Edna Braithwaite
Edna Braithwaite
Edna Braithwaite
Edna Braithwaite
Shell Oil (1960) [Men’s Doubles]
Ladies’ Club Doubles (1967)
Goodison Medal (1924) [Men’s Singles}
Carling Award (1968) [Mixed Doubles]
Sarnia Observer (1935) [Mixed Doubles]
Mott Memorial #1 (1969) [Mixed Doubles]
Imperial Oil #1 (1936) [Men’s Doubles]
D. J. Robb Funeral Home (1970) [Mixed Trebles]
Clements (1937) [Mixed Doubles]
M&M-Merchants/Manufactures #1 (1970) [MT]
Barr (1941) [Men’s Doubles]
Canada Permanent (1971) [Mixed Doubles]
Pepsi Cola Ladies’ Singles (1948)
Canadian Oil [Men’s Doubles]
Silverwood Dairies (1948) [Mixed Doubles]
Griffith #1 (1972) [Mixed Doubles]
Stewart Bowl Bag #1 (1948) [in-club]
Stewart Funeral Home #2 (1972) [MT/LT]
J. C. Barr [Ladies’ Doubles]
Shell Oil (1973) [P]
Fuller (1955) [Ladies’ Doubles]
Sanders Tournament/Memorial (1979) [MP/LP]
Polymer (1958) [Mixed Doubles
Nelson
In Memoriam (1992)
Investors’ Group (1994) [MP/LP]
Flowers (1982) [Mixed Doubles]
Chippewa Industrial (1994) [MP/LP]
Smith Funeral Home (1982) [MP/LP]
Frank & Vona Davies (1997) [MP/LP]
Gone Again Travel / Tapp (1986) [Trebles]
Club Mixed Pairs (1998)
M&M—Merchants/Manufacturer #2 (1987) [MT]
Milliken Memorial (2000) [MP/LP]
Mott Memorial #2 (1989) [MT/LT]
Knight Funeral Home (2001) [MT/LT]
Machan Snowball (1989) [MT]
Furmanite (2001) [T]
Art Griffith Cup (1990) [P]
Rowe Financial (2002) [P]
Open Club Singles (1991)
Imperial Oil Managers’ Cup (2000) [MP]
Vargo Tournament (1991) [LP]
M&M-Merchants/Members #3 (2005) [MT]
ScotiaBank [LT]
Beth Campbell Memorial Singles (2005)
Certified Club Coaches
of the
Sarnia Lawn Bowling Club
Bob Machan (1982)
Bud Sturdy (1982)
Marg Daye (2005)
John Daye (2005)
Nancy Landry (2005)
Mike Landry (2005)
Life Members
of the
Sarnia Lawn Bowling Club
Provincial Champions
from the
Sarnia Lawn Bowling Club
Wm. (Bill) Germain (1963)
Joe Clements (1971)
Merle Clements (1971)
Roy ‘Mac’ McCandless (1972)
Maud Young (1972)
Betty Milliken (1980)
Don Campbell (1976)
Cecil Milliken (1985)
Mildred Sanders (1985)
John Armstrong (1985)
Mary Lucas (1995)
Laura Machan (1995)
Art Griffith (2005)
Bob Machan (2005)
Florence ‘Flo’ Garrison (1957)
Elizabeth ‘Beth’ McCandless (1957)
Kim Machan (1981,82,83,84)
Ken Machan (1989)
Bev Fritz (1989)
Brad Fleming (1989)
Beth Campbell (1990)
Roger Buck (1990)
Graham Blair (2003)
Fred Stuchberry (2003)
Mike Landry (2003, 05)
Canadian Champion
from the
Sarnia Lawn Bowling Club
Mike Landry (2005)
Editor’s Note…...May 2006
This particular historical record is a ‘short’ version of the history (1906-1994) complied by the tremendous efforts of two former bowlers, Bud Sturdy and Ray Hubbell, both deceased. Information for 1995—2005 has been added using minutes of
meetings as found in the Secretary records.
Club historian Ray Hubbell wrote in his compilation:
“In 1976 with great zeal for my historical and writing ability, I collected an put together some of the ‘doings’ of Sarnia’s Lawn Bowlers up to that time. The information I was able to collect and record was sketchy and incomplete. However, in 1985 a further attempt was made to fill in the missing pieces and have some knowledge of the earlier ‘doings’
of the Club for our 80th year of existence . In 1986 this history has been compiled for a start. Errors and omissions will
be numerous but generally speaking the general outline is correct.
In accumulating these facts I have had access to the records of treasurers’ and secretaries’ reports, Sarnia Observer
pictures and accounts, bits and pieces from many of the members, but mostly from the ‘scrap book’ of Mrs. Laura Machan who, through the years, has kept the pictures and accounts of earlier events. Accounts of the Ladies’ Bowling club
is very limited and they (ladies) were quite active and successful so my apologies for their omission.
The first 80 years has been recorded and a further up date will be recorded. If anyone has information that relates to
the history it should be made know to the historian for his furtherance.”
The current historical outline is an attempt to highlight happenings rather than people and elected officers. The history is
divided into chronological segments: 1906—1923 bowling on the Greens at the Sarnia Jail, 1924-1961 bowling on the property adjacent to the Sarnia Curling Club and 1963-2005 bowling in Germain Park. As well, the ladies’ history has been written separately from the period 1926—1971. In 1971 the Executives of the Men’s Club and the Executives of the Ladies’
club merged to from one ‘united ‘ Club.
This current history is a work in motion and more polishing and additions will be made.
Bob Machan