In the year 1866 events occurred along the frontier of Canada that stirred the people of this country to the core. The civil war in the United States had been closed by the South returning to their allegiance, and the Stars and Striped again floated over every part of that country. The whole army was disbanded and thousands of the very scum of society that had served in the ranks were without employment.

To enable themselves still to live in idleness, and impose upon the unwary and the ignorant, a society was organized in New York, known as the Fenian Brotherhood. This institution was the headquarters for the vile, the idle, and the hearts wherein lurked the dark demon of revenge for what they thought was the unjust measure of British rule in Ireland. O'Mahoney was created head centre and gathered in the shekels, in return for which he issued through a portion of the press the mad ravings of an unprincipled vagabond, as unction to the souls of his dupes throughout the United States. A band of those ragged rascals had gathered together at Buffalo for the purpose of beginning the liberation of Ireland by spilling the innocent blood of loyal Canadians. In a quiet and still hour on the night of the 6th of June, about 500 of these misguided men crossed over into Canada with the avowed intention of making war on the Canadians, In order to liberate a people 3,000 miles away. This little army, which was commanded by one of the name of O'Neil, soon found itself in difficulties, and the gallant champion of the rights of Ireland had recourse to such tactics as we heard related of a certain captain in the civil war. This champion of liberty, having been ordered into action, addressed his soldiers before engaging the enemy somewhat as follows: "Soldiers of the Grand Army of the United States, you are now about to show your powers in the field. The eyes of the world are turned to you; be brave, be valiant, acquit yourselves like heroes, as did those warriors who followed the immortal Washington to glory and to victory. Soldiers, if you are forced to retire, retire like men, and seeing that I am a little lame, I'll start now." Such was the conduct of the mighty McNeil. He had no sooner touched Canadian soil than he prepared to return as quickly as possible. The men of Blanshard, like the loyal men in every part of the Province, were up in arms. A meeting was called at McIntyre's Corners to organize a company of volunteers. There was an immense gathering from all parts of the township. Enthusiastic speeches were made, and the military ardor of the people was roused to the highest pitch. A company was soon formed, and in choosing their officers, Mr. Brethour was chosen the first captain of the first volunteer company ever formed in the township. A ludicrous incident occurred on this occasion. After the company had been formed they had to be sworn in. A worthy member of the quorum lived a short distance from the Corners, and was at once sent for to perform that important duty. On his arrival on the scene he made every effort to discharge the function for which he had been called, but without avail, and he had to give up the matter in disgust. He was entirely guiltless of the ability to administer the oath to the men. In this dilemma Mr. Brethour went to St. Marys, was sworn in himself, and when he returned, administered the oath to the company. He held the office of captain for five years, when he retired, retaining his rank, and a young man who was lieutenant took the captaincy. This man was H. A. L. White, who, at present commands the 28th Perth Battalion.

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