The Basilica Recreation Centre — Before and After

“The Society through the enthusiastic efforts of its members is growing more prosperous every year and no doubt before long it will be one of the strongest branches of the Society to be found in the Dominion.”

Fr. O’Shea’s notes indicate that, “The League of the Cross had its own hall near the cathedral with bowling alleys, pool tables, piano and a reading room with a wide variety of newspapers and periodicals. Early on and for many

years the splendid League of the Cross band produced its sweet melodies for numerous occasions, including many parish tea parties across the Island. Nearly every Roman Catholic boy in the city at some time belonged to the League which in addition to its thrust toward sobriety also organized athletic events

in basketball, handball, baseball, football, hockey and track. In addition there were musical entertainments, and debates and even popular boys summer

camp.”

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League of the Cross Band, 1905. (L-R) Back row: Walter Trainor, ?Pineau, E. Arsenault, Bert Cantwell, R. Trainor?/ Thomas Trainor?/ Leo Doyle?, William Brown, Wilfred Pineau, .7 Currie. Middle row: William Brawders, V. Chaisson, Alphonse Brawders, Wilf Doucette, Irvine Pineau, Leo Doucette, Ambrose Joy. Front: Jim Gallant, Jack Connolly. (Courtesy of Prince Edward Island Public Archives and Records Office. Accession number 2986/ 1. )