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Halifax Disaster Record Office Chronicle Building
Halifax, N.S.
Barracks Grounds. The sailor replied "They're in the hands of Our Lord, We are trying to save the living," and went on to rescue work. Many were at work, heavy fires raging, thick smoke "Smokescreen" prevented him from knowing the extent of the fire. Was able to commandeer a military car and to proceed to the factory at FairView along Windsor Road. Was much relieved to find that none of the employees was injured and that the damager to material was "nominal". Remained only about five minutes. Round two laboring man in charge, standing by. Instructed them to distribute supplies of fooring paper in five-roll lots to all who should apply for it. In this way 5,000 rolls were distributed in 48 hours. This not a gift of the firm, but a subject for compensation. Returned to office in town to notify his principals at to what had occurred. In the evening visited Camp Hill. Went into only one ward, turned round and came away. Would see mother and three or four children "cuddled up" on one mattress awaiting medical treatment. Could not stand it. Cannot remember why he went. Not out of curiosity. Had taken in child, which was later in the same evening taken to Dartmouth by father and mother. Gave food on the evning of December 9th, to assist W. A. Black, his father-in-law, in entertaining American Relief party.
Dictated from notes of an interview by Director, Jan 29. 1918. A.M.