But it seemed that the area was destined to fill roles of even greater importance as time passed. Tragedy struck for the animals when bovine tuberculosis became too prevalent, and the herd had to be largely slaughtered in hopes of saving at least a nucleus of uninfected animals. The War was on now and there was a need for military activity. A delegation went from Wainwright to the military headquarters in Ottawa, with the suggestion that this amount of land, no longer required for the buffalo, might serve some purpose. As a result the area was transformed into a Prisoner - of - War camp for high level military prisoners. This reminds us of the humorous T.V. series “Hogan’s Heroes”, as some of the things depicted in that show had their counterparts in Camp Wainwright, such as digging tunnels in hopes of escaping. It also reminds us of six escapees from enemy camps who resided for some time in the Wainwright area. Some such residents were Gilbert Middlemass who served as Town Secretary for a number of years; Dr. W. J. Poznanski, a member of Wainwright Medical Clinic; Roy Tolmie; Vaughan Ganderton; and from the Edgerton district Ernest Styler and Lewis Torpe. It is the duty of all prisoners on either side to make an effort to escape and those who tried were merely doing their job as soldiers. An original watchtower which overlooked the Wainwright POW grounds has been restored and stands South of the Commanding Officer's residence just inside the camp gates. It was natural that when hostilities ceased and there was no further need for the Prisoner - of - War camp that this would have an adverse effect upon the town’s economy, creating unemployment. This was of particular concern in view of the fact thatt changes in Wainwright's position as a point of the Canadian National Railways was a distinct possibility. Thus a delegation was set up by the Town Council and the Chamber of Commerce to visit Ottawa with the proposal that this might well be considered a favorable location for a military training area. This location’s selling points were, it was not prime agricultural land, and there could well be room for expansion of the area if this were desirable. The suggestion was favorably received and as a result, Camp Wainwright became a reality. The text in this volume will provide information about the development and usage of what is considered one of Canada’s finest areas for mechanized military training. Of course, alll worthwhile developments are accompanied by some problems and the Camp was no exception. The influx of workers and military personnel soon filled all legitimate accommodation, and enterprising citizens took advantage of the chance to make the odd buck. Garages and basements were fixed up and rented to those in need, the landlords at times gouging their tenants. The whole picture was complicated by the fact that Wainwright was not yet equipped with water and sewer facilities. The streets were unpaved and often muddy. The situation was greatly improved when the Holdings, providing one hundred extra units were obtained. P.M.Q.s were constructed at the Camp and more rental accommodation was provided. Many workers resided with friends and relatives or in unused farmhouses. The Camp and Town are now closely allied, both socially and economically. The entities complement each other, working harmoniously together toward a rewarding relationship. Good relations between the people of the Camp and Town at all levels are of vital importance to the whole community. This has been proven on many occassions and deserves constant and energetic effort. Congratulations, Camp Wainwright, on your 50th Anniversary! Begin Reading