A New Chapter

The Simonds Lions Caledonian Pipe Band

After many years associated with HMCS Brunswicker and while also affiliated with Branch #53 of the Royal Canadian Legion, another major chapter began on May 15, 1989.

The Caledonian accepted an offer for a long-term affiliation with the Simonds Lions Club, becoming known as the Simonds Lions Caledonian Pipe Band.

The relationship was developed largely through the efforts of Sonny Bonnell, who was an active member of both organizations.

Band member Bill Kerwin designed a new cap badge incorporating both the Caledonian and Lions insignia, and the new affiliation brought renewed prosperity and interest in band activities.

The band's uniform evolved as well, featuring Royal Stewart tartan kilts and plaids, white tunics and spats, horsehair sporrans, and feather bonnets.

Back on the Competition Field

In 1992, the band began another important chapter by returning to competition for the first time since the early 1970s.

That return quickly produced results.

At the Highland Games in Summerside, Prince Edward Island, the band earned third place in the Grade IV March and second place in the Grade IV Medley. It followed that performance with second place in the Grade IV March at New Glasgow, Nova Scotia, and also competed at the New Hampshire Highland Games at Loon Mountain.

That same year marked the retirement of long-time Pipe Major William F. Dalzell.

Although retiring as Pipe Major, Dalzell remained deeply involved with the band, particularly through his dedication to teaching young pipers. He also continued the invaluable work of maintaining a detailed history of the Caledonian, documenting its members, Highland Games, tattoos, parades, and special events.

Much of the history we are able to share today exists because generations before us understood that the Caledonian's story was worth preserving.