Masquerade Ball

On Wednesday, December 8, 1909, the Revelstoke No. 1 Fire Brigade held their second annual Masquerade Ball at the Opera House on Second Street West. The Revelstoke Mail-Herald newspaper of December 11, 1909, said, "Seldom has there been witnessed such a gala scene as that portrayed in the elegantly decorated hall. Several new ideas in decorative schemes were carried out, the whole being tastefully lavish and artistic. Bunting and flags were used ad libitum while ropes of colored electric lamps gleaming like gigantic pearls among the gracefull festoons of variegated streamers gave a bright and flashy appearance to the hall. An enormous electric sign suspended over the stage bearing the letters 'R.F.B. No 1' caught the eye on entering the ballroom, while trophies of firemen's apparatus added to the business side of the fireman's calling."

The newspaper reported that over 90 couples in fancy dress were present, and began dancing after a Grand March headed by Fire Chief Charles Abrahamson. The reporter continues, "The conglomeration of color was seen to advantage in the many intricacies of the fascinating circle, the general effect being superb. It is safe to say that such an exhibition of art, taste and decorative skill and variety in the many new and original costumes worn, that mingled together blending in an ever changing kaleidoscopic galaxy, has rarely been witnessed in Revelstoke."

The music was supplied by Revelstoke's Independent Band, led by Richard Sawyer, and the Revelstoke Symphony Orchestra , dressed as pierrots, also provided several dance numbers.

Costumes were judged by all of the participants, and the winners were as follows:
Best Lady - Mrs. C. Holten, dressed as "Egypt". Prize: a garnet and gold sunburst brooch.
Best Gentleman - Mr. E.S. Butler, dressed as "Viking Chief". Prize: Briar pipe.
Best Comic - Guy Barber, dressed as "Babe". Prize: Silver Mounted Clock. (This is a little bit funny, as he was the local jeweller, and sold clocks in his store!)
Special - Mrs. T. Lawrence, dressed as "No. 1 Fire Brigade". (I'd love to have seen that costume!) Prize: Pair of Tiffany Glass Vases.