A Pretty Wedding; First in New Methodist Church
At the 1995 Reunion, Lois Mitchell read us an excerpt from a newspaper account of her grandparents’ wedding, probably in the 1880’s. Reprinted in Santon Stats November 14, 1995.
Precisely at 6 o’clock yesterday morning the melodious strains of a wedding march were heard for the first time in the Newboro Methodist church. It was Miss Blanche Gallagher who presided at the organ, and so ably did she render this sweet yet difficult march, that the large building was soon filled with harmonious echoes from dome to basement and those present were charmed by the magical notes as they floated through space and sank in golden splendour.
On the right were seated the relatives and more intimate friends of two very popular young people of Newboro who would soon be pronounced man and wife, while the remainder of the church was given up to those who, for the first time in their history, had arisen before daylight in order that they might see two of their beloved friends enter into the most solemn covenant known to mankind.
Rev. Mr. Jamieson wore a pleasant smile, yet across his usually cheerful contenance there appeared to dart a shadow of regret as he contemplated the few short months that intervene before his separation from the young couple he was about to unite and from the many friends in whose hearts he occupies such a warm place.
The last note of the march was just fading, when
Mr. Will H. Stanton
Walked up the aisle, carefully guarded by Mr. W. H. Cairns, barrister, who had assumed the duties of groomsman, and who proved equal to the occasion. We need only say that Mr. Stanton is one of the most popular young men in our town. He is a member of the firm of Stanton Bros., general merchants, and he, with his brother, James, enjoys the acquaintance, friendship and esteem of all people in this district. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Stanton, of Chaffey’s and his record is one well calculated to make him popular among his fellows. Only a few moments elapsed, when
Miss Manilla Gallagher
Approached the altar, resting gracefully upon the arm of her father. She was richly attired in a wedding costume of pearl satin, trimmed with Smyrna lace and pearl brocaded ribbon, with gloves and slippers to match. Upon her head was becomingly placed a wreath of forget-me-nots and ostrich tips, the entire costume blending harmoniously and calling forth the admiration of all present. She was cleverly assisted by Miss S. Stanton, sister of the groom, who wore a dark blue dress, trimmed with watered ribbon, and a bouquet of calla lilies. The bride is the eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Gallagher, of this town, who are too well and favourably known to require comment from us. She is amiable and loving, with a gentle, attractive nature which at once commands the esteem of those she meets.
The ceremony was proceeded with, and when the words that united the young couple forever were spoken, the bridal party and guests were driven to the residence of the bride’s parents, where an excellent wedding breakfast was spread.
It was a charming scene. As the guests were seated around the table partaking of the innumerable luxuries thereon, the crimson rays of the rising sun penetrated the already brilliant room, flooding it with a halo of mellow light which seemed to extend warm greeting to the young couple. So perfect were the arrangements that not the faintest sign of an error appeared to mar the proceedings from beginning to end, and amid showers of rice and good wishes, Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Stanton boarded the R. & W. train for Brockville, thence to Lowell, Mass.
The following guests occupied seats at the wedding breakfast: Rev. Mr. and Mrs. Jamieson, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Stanton, parents of the groom, Mrs. A. Kendrick and Mr. S. T. Kendrick, Athens, Mr. and Mrs. J. T. Gallagher, Mr. J. C. Stanton, Miss Lizzie Stanton, Mr. W. H. Cairns, Miss Susie Stanton, W. G. Ferguson, Miss J. Skinner, Ottawa, Miss Maude Singleton, Dr. King, Miss C. M. Harrison, Miss Blanche Gallagher, Mr. Frank Stanton, Miss Lena Byington, Portland, Mr. Ed Stanton, Miss Jennie Henderson, Portland, Miss M. Moore, Master Eager Stanton.
The following presents were received: Mr. and Mrs. J. T. Gallagher, Singer sewing machine; Mrs. Jamieson, fruit dish; Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Stanton, bedroom set; Messrs. J. C. and F. S. Stanton and sisters, valuable and handsome clock; Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Gallagher, dinner and tea set; Mr. S. T. and Mrs. Kendrick, parlor lamp; Miss Lena Byington, card receiver; Miss Jennie Henderson fancy table doily; Mr. W. H. Cairns, china hand painted berry set; Miss Cora Harrison, crayon drawing; Miss Blanche Gallagher, dozen silver teaspoons; Dr. King, white celluloid photograph album; Miss L. Skinner, silk and chamois tea cosy; Miss Maude Singleton, fancy linen sideboard cover; Misses Elecia E. and Beatrice L. Gallagher, floral waxen cross; Miss M. Moore, dozen silver teaspoons.