1948: Loss of the Capitol Theatre, Memories

Another Landmark Gone

In May of 1906 we got the 1895 Black Watch Highland dress. Later on, in 1928, some more uniforms were purchased. When I entered the band, our uniforms were not in very good shape. At that time, the doublets were worn constantly. In March of 1947 the band made an appeal to the citizens of Galt to raise $6,000.00 for new uniforms and instruments. Personally, they canvassed all stores and businesses within the city. On Apr.3rd. the band had $3,625.53 -- on Apr.10th. they reached $4,393.63 and on it went. We are so fortunate to have the Bingo games helping us out!! Anyway, what this is all about is the destruction of the Capitol Theatre. It was proposed to be used for the arts, but as Ken says, "Cambridge just does not recognize the arts" -- so true -- it was torn down. In the Galt Reporter News of Fromer Years it said: "Feb.23,1948 The Galt Kiltie Band made their first public appearance in their new uniforms in a blaze of glory at the Capitol Theatre. Under the direction of Ron Holroyd, the band played to a packed house". At that time our band was 35 strong, of which 9 were clarinets. I will never forget what my mother said to me after that concert -"you know, Bobby, that was a super concert and you were the only one who was tapping your foot to the music." All the bandstands in Galt are gone and now the Capitol Theatre -- as I said about the tattoos -- "what a shame".

Sources:

Galt Kiltie Band Newsletter: Issue #9, spring 1995, written by Bob Fox

Retyped and posted to the web by band member, Graham Nasby, in 1999.

Reformated for new website on April 3, 2005.