Reflections on World War I
November is a month for reflection... a time to look back at the sacrifices made by past generations to ensure that current and future generations can pursue their dreams. At this time of year, we would specifically like to reflect on The Great War, later called World War I, and share with you Kodak Canada's involvement.
Kodak Canada's war effort took many facets. The obvious was adapting assembly lines to accommodate the manufacture of photographic products destined for either domestic use or for overseas. Also, some 128 employees took advantage of a guaranteed employment opportunity by enlisting for military duties and, in many cases, leaving the assembly lines for the front lines.
		This building was first occupied as a barracks by the 127th O.S. BATTALION, CEF, YORK RANGERS on mobilization March to June 1916. Erected in appreciation by Lt. Col. F. F. Clarke and Officers. The plaque hangs on the remaining outside wall of Building 5 (demolished in 1996) on the grounds of Kodak Canada, Toronto.
127th Overseas Battalion, CEF, York Rangers, on drill in courtyard of Kodak property in northwest Toronto, 1916.
Lesser known was Kodak's involvement with the 127th Overseas Battalion, Canadian Expedition Force (CEF), York Ranges, who trained on Kodak property and were housed in temporary barracks at Kodak Heights in Toronto during the Spring of 1916. Historic articles from the time indicated that the soldiers were more than happy with the hot and cold running water and comfortable surroundings versus tented accommodation if they had been housed elsewhere.
Building 5 at Kodak Heights was rented out for several months in 1916 to the 127 Overseas Battalion, CEF, York Rangers, for $1.00, 1916.		Soldiers were more than happy with the comfortable surroundings, 1916.
Kodak's advertising during the war highlighted the importance of sending family pictures into the camps, into the trenches and onto the navy ships to bring smiles, boost morale, and lighten hearts. A reminder of home gave pause to an otherwise tedious moment in time. Although time has passed since The Great War, the importance of sending pictures has not. A photograph can say, "I love you" in any language. A picture can warm a heart. An image can open many a door. Everyone has a box of old photographs that sum up a life lived and a life shared with others. It could be a picture of a lost loved one, a new baby or a favorite family vacation. It could be in the medium of a photographic negative or a digital image. It could be in the shape of a print, a 35mm slide or an on-line attachment. All are memories... memories of a moment in time.		Pt. Richard Wilding, circa 1915.
At this time of reflection, please take a moment to share your photographic memories.