RAISING OF A REGIMENT

Vancouver in the early years of the century maintained a large population of people of Scottish Descent.  It was around 1909 that enthusiastic members of the the Scottish community sought to raise a Highland regiment in Vancouver.  The question was first put to the Gaelic societies and the idea was received favorably.  Accordingly a meeting was held on May 11th 1909, in the St. Andrews and Caledonian Societies rooms to discuss the issue.  Present at this meeting were: Mr. Alexander Morrison (elected chairman), Dr. S.J. Tunstall, McC Hutchinson, D.C. McGregor, C.W. Sarel, Alexander Sim, J.W. Manson, Maj. J. Duff Stuart, Capt. J.S. Tait, Capt. A. Rowan, Lieut. Jas. Sclater, and Mr. A. McKinlay.

The topic continued to be discussed in the Scottish circles of the city.  The delegates met again on January 17th, 1910with to more members present; Mr. H.O. Bell-Irving and Mr. J. McGlashan it was reported that application had been sent to the Minister of Militia to raise a Highland regiment in Vancouver.  It had been decided to apply for the number 72, that of the Seaforths in Scotland, and that number being vacant on the Militia List.

On July 15th, 1910 The Militia Department signified its approval of the formation of a Vancouver regiment bearing the number 72, and wearing the same uniform and tartan (Mackenzie No. 2) as the Seaforth Highlanders of the Imperial service. the authorization for the formation of the new regiment was received from the Militia Department on November 24th, 1910.  It was decided that Capt. R.G. Edward Leckie would become the Commanding Officer of the 72nd Highlanders.  Consent to the name 'Seaforth' in the title; Seaforth Highlanders of Canada, was received from the 1st and 2nd Battalions of the Imperial Seaforths in a letter dated April 11th, 1911.