Ingersoll Pipe Band celebrates anniversary

A mix of selected members from the bands present marched down Wonham Street and Charles Street to “Bonnie” Holmes Mott Yvonne Memorial Park. (Ron Yuzark Photo)

Ron Yuzark, Echo Correspondent

The Ingersoll Pipe Band marked its 115th anniversary in grand style on Aug. 16 with a spectacular parade and pipe band tattoo that drew enthusiastic crowds to downtown Ingersoll and Memorial Park. The celebration began at 1 p.m. with a parade that stepped off from Wonham Street and Charles Street, winding its way through town before concluding at “Bonnie” Holmes Mott Yvonne Memorial Park. Spectators lined the streets to cheer on the colorful procession of pipers and drummers, who proudly showcased the time-honored sounds of the Great Highland bagpipe and drums. Joining the band for the occasion were five other distinguished guest bands: the London Firefighters Pipe Band, the London Police Pipes and Drums, the St. Thomas Police Pipes and Drums, the Branch 642 Chatham Royal Canadian Legion Pipe Band, and the Branch 176 Forest Royal Canadian Legion Pipe Band. At 2 p.m., the celebration continued in Memorial Park with a formal pipe band tattoo. Each of the participating bands took the stage in turn, performing a selection of traditional Scottish airs and marches. The afternoon concluded with a stirring massed band finale, as all the pipers and drummers assembled on the field, filling the park with a powerful wall of sound. Organizers noted with pride that the finale featured close to 115 performers, echoing the milestone anniversary being celebrated. Community groups added to the festive atmosphere with food and refreshments, including P.B.’s French Fries and Ice Cream, while local service organizations shared information with attendees. Families and music lovers alike brought lawn chairs and enjoyed an afternoon of culture, tradition, and community spirit. The Ingersoll Pipe Band, one of the oldest continuously operating pipe bands in Canada, expressed gratitude to its guest bands, volunteers, and community supporters who helped make the celebration a resounding success.