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Branch 147 History

The Barrie Legion, Branch 147 received its Charter in April 1929 through the efforts of many from our community who had served in the First World War and had returned to our community. They wanted to ensure that Barrie and our surrounding community had a club organized to assist the veterans who had given so much of their youth and their health to be able to return to a good life and to have the support they would need to carry on. 

These names can be found on our Charter:

  • Dr. William. (Bill) Little; Tom Burton; Edgar Shuter; Harry Gartner; 
  • Roland. Gosney; Alex Stewart; Major Wilfred.Knowles; 
  • Major Rev. C.R. Spencer; Rev. A.E. Baker; B.J. Hill;
  • Bert Owens; J. Walker; Gordon Longman; Stan Exell; William H. Wright;

Our first Executive Council, in 1929, was made up of Thomas Burton, President, with 1st Vice-President, William Mayes; 2nd Vice-President, Dr. W.C. Little (for whom we honour in our Branch name), 3rd Vice-President, Dr. Rogers and Secretary-Treasurer, Edgar Shuter. 


During the 2nd World War, Mr. Burton served as Legion President again in 1941 and then through 1943 to 1946. Both Tom and his wife, Pearl, seen here in a picture circa 1970, were active in the Legion for many years.


The Legion has stood and continues to stand for Canadian veterans. The Legion was there to educate and to assist them. And we were there to honour them on many occasions, especially around Remembrance Day (November 11) each year.

Each Legion Branch plays an important role in their Community through the Poppy Trust Fund. Each year in late October running until Nov. 11 (Remembrance Day) we campaign in our community in support of Canadian Veterans. Through the Poppy Campaign, we also assist hospitals, senior citizen homes and many non-profit groups. We also work to support youth education through poster and public speaking contests and contribute to our Cadet Leagues.

The Barrie Legion has played an important role in leading our community in Remembrance and in support of our Veterans. We honour and remember those who have served Canada throughout our history.



We are proud of what we do and what we contribute back to our community.

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