There are a number of photographs of the Milton men with horses in the collection. It is my belief that these relate to the role of the Walsh boys in the Canadian Field Artillery. Fred Walsh, who was killed at Courcelette in October 1916 joined the Royal Canadian Horse Artillery in November 1915. His brother Joe Walsh, who survived the war and is in the pictures with the horses in Mons at the end of the war, was a Driver with the 11th Field Battery, Canadian Field Artillery.

Horses were a critical part of the Canadian Expeditionary Force, used for the cavalry, hauling the artillery, transporting wounded wagons, and pulling supplies to the front lines. The supply of feed and fresh water to the horses was a significant task, as was their veterinary care and shoeing. Horse casualties were significant. During the attack on Vimy Ridge on April 9, 1917, the 1st Canadian Division alone lost 600 horses in the battle.

These are the pictures and what is inscribed on the reverse. You can click on any image to open it in a new window at full scale. These are all original pictures of the horses of the men of Milton during the Great War of 1914-1921. Some of them are named. It is apparent that some of the men with the horses were the photographers, as they refer to “one of my horses” or “my horse Dan“. I believe it may be Private Joe Walsh. There is another soldier with him who has also taken pictures, including the one of Joe Walsh. His name may be “Larry” (see the last image with “Paddles” or “Puddles”).

One of my horses.

Dan, one of my horses.

My two horses out for exercise.

This is Joe Walsh taken at Mons.

My horse just before she was sold at Brussels.

D.H.Q. Transport Team and Wagon. (Divisional Headquarters)

Our Circus Horse (Larry & Paddles?)