By Sheila Phibbs
The Haldimand Press
Note: historical information was taken from the book Jarvis Lions 1948 – 1998 50 Years of Community Service by Cheryl MacDonald.
JARVIS—In January 1948, Laird Miller, editor of the Jarvis Record, endorsed the formation of a Lions Club in an editorial stating, “We have observed that wherever service clubs function, good is being done in the interests of humanity.” Sponsored by the Port Dover Lions, the Jarvis Lions have lived up to that statement and now celebrate 75 years of community service.
Twenty men initially answered the call with 39 Charter Members joining by March 5, 1948. Members have come from all walks of life – business, industry, agriculture, trades, sales, clergy, community services, and more. What they have in common is a desire to fulfill the Lions motto: We Serve. As noted in the club history, “health and welfare was possibly the least publicized but most effective Lions work” (MacDonald).
From providing eyeglasses to arranging for dental work to offering groceries to a family in need, the Lions have always been ready to help. That service ethic continues to inspire community involvement. This is evidenced in food drives for the Jarvis Caring Cupboard at Easter and Christmas. Club President Ian Cooper says, “We as Lions are so deeply touched by the way the entire community gets behind this project to help those in need.”
The club’s impact can be seen throughout Jarvis, from trees they planted to their first major project – the Jarvis Community Centre and Lions Park. The Lions spearheaded the effort to build the hall, finished in 1954, alongside other community groups. Extensive upgrades took place in 1991.
The Lions also manage the park, maintaining the well-used ball diamonds and making improvements such as fencing, bleachers, and the clay infield. The tennis courts, lawn bowling club, pavilion, and playground contribute to the park’s versatility.
Further enhancements include the walking trail, which opened in 2017. Lion Tom Montague says, “This was a project that has been very useful for our community and can be used by all ages.” Similarly, the new disc golf course was a popular addition in 2022. Cooper accurately describes the park as a “top-drawer recreational facility”.
Along with recreation, many have fond memories of the chicken barbecues, fireworks, and parade held during Victoria Day celebrations. The Lions Show has delighted audiences since 1950, shifting from a minstrel show to a variety show format in 1991 but always with a tradition of music, stories, and jokes.
JARVIS—The cast and crew of the 1994 Jarvis Lions Variety Show “Back to the Future”. —Submitted photos.
Montague shares, “It is an excellent way for all members to join together with a lot of fellowship and they are rewarded with a great fundraiser and able to perform in front of audiences … who return year after year.”
Fundraising has enabled the Lions to support many community ventures. The club donated $25,000 to the medical centre at West Haldimand General Hospital in 1981 and in 1993 the Lions contributed over $50,000 to the new Jarvis Public Library. Easter Seals, Canadian National Institute for the Blind, Canine Vision Canada Dog Guide School, Camp Trillium-Rainbow Lake, disaster relief funds, minor sports, and 4-H have all benefitted from the Jarvis Lions.
At the heart of all this are the members. Lion Drew Williamson has been there for most of it. Joining in 1951, he values the comradeship and says, “Jarvis Lions have been the leaders in many local projects … for the better of the community and has gained a high respect from the locality.”
Lion Dennis Craddock receives his 50-year pin this year. He served as District Governor in 1995, the first Jarvis Lion to hold that position. He appreciates how the Lions give back: “The man who limits his service limits his life.”
Montague admits that he didn’t think he had time to be a Lion, but 40 years later he has proven otherwise. He reflects, “We can accomplish so much for the community with a vibrant park, a very busy community hall, and a loyal, supportive community.”
Lion Stewart Patterson’s reason for joining 35 years ago was simple. He says, “I was on my own and single and I heard the local churches served great home cooked meals at the meetings.” Some of his favourite experiences come from attending conventions; he shares, “Our Lions journey took us to the convention in Japan … (when) a local recognized my Lions pin…. He did not speak English, however we spoke Lions.”
JARVIS—This enthusiastic group represented the Jarvis Lions at the 2015 District A-2 Convention in St. Catharines.
When Lion Tony Southworth joined 27 years ago, he says, “I was a relative newcomer … and didn’t know too many people. I wanted to volunteer and help the community … so I made the decision to join the club…. In doing so, I became part of this amazing Lions family.”
Today’s membership includes several family connections – a grandfather and granddaughter, several siblings, a married couple, and six father-son duos. President Cooper, a member alongside his father, Martyn, says, “I saw while growing up in Jarvis what a difference the club made in my community and I wanted to be a part of that.”
Thirty-two-year member Rob Mitchell enjoyed singing duets with his father, Don. When Rob’s son, Mac, joined eight years ago, the Mitchells represented three generations of Lions. Rob says, “It is amazing to have memories growing up in the club with dad. To join him in the Lions work was satisfying. When Mac joined, dad and I were very proud that he will be carrying on the Lions traditions.”
Mac shares that sentiment, saying, “Growing up seeing how much dad does for the club and community, it’s pretty cool. We bring the community together and help those who are struggling.”
Heather Devins is a third generation Lion following the example of her father and grandfather. She joined in 2020 and believes “Lions are very hardworking individuals who love to give back to the community.”
Whatever the reason for joining, every member makes a difference and Jarvis would not be the place it is today without the Jarvis Lions. Cooper acknowledges, “Much of the credit for the success and longevity of the club goes to the community itself. Without the support of the residents of Jarvis and the surrounding area, we would never have been able to accomplish all that we have.”
To celebrate 75 years of accomplishments, the Jarvis Lions are hosting an anniversary party on January 28 and invite the community to join them for a “sparkling” afternoon of refreshments, music, dancing, and more. This is an opportunity to honour their history, share memories, and look toward a future in which the roar of the Jarvis Lions continues to be heard, seen, and felt for generations to come.
For more anniversary celebration details or tickets, or to learn more about Lionism, email: jarvislions@gmail.com.
