IN 1959 the local law enforcement began a clean up of drinking at dances. Inspector S Ervine of Carleton Place said that every step and every measure would be taken to eliminate offences under the Liquour Control Act.
At the opening of one dance hall in this district nine young people were charged with drinking in an unauthorized place, also for carrying beer and liquour in a car.
Inspector Ervine said: “We will not tolerate drinking at any dance hall”.
Ervine mentioned that it would be easier if the dance hall owners co-operated and did not allow anyone in who was intoxicated. Should there be repeat offences orders would be issued to close down the dance halls in Lanark. There should be no reason why these dances should not be conducted in an orderly manner.
That year the ‘dawn patrol’ was headed up by Corporal Gartner and Constable Pierce
Carleton Place Canadian 1958
Classified Announcements for Dance Halls that issue 1958
Dancing Saturday Nights– Town Hall– Carleton Place–Music by CFRA ‘Happy Wanderers’ Admission-75 cents
Dance-Franktown-Friday-Thompson’s Orchestra- Refreshment Booth-Admission 75 cents
Dance every Friday Night-Appleton Community Centre Hall- Music by the Rhythm Rangers-Refreshment Booth- Admission 50 cents
Dance in Appleton Wednesday Night– Ontario Farmer’s Union-Ashton Local No. 257-Irvine’s Orchestra- Admission 50 cents
Dance – Perth Town Hall- Friday night- Rock N Roll, Modern, Round and Square Dancing 9-1:30 -Music by Jerry Badour and his Western Airs- Admission -75 cents
Ted Hurdis– I remember my dad telling me that Almonte was “dry” way back. You used to be able to get a special coke at the Superior restaurant. Also lots of spirit at Wava’s Inn dance hall back then.
Dance Hall Days with The Coachmen
Down At the Twist and Shout–Wave’s Inn
Straight Outta Carleton Place High School — Wava McDaniel Baker
Lanark County Dance Halls 1950s, 60s & 70s
lindaseccaspina 