Prisoner of War mail, by Ruggero Bacci, to Mrs. Minnie Bacci, December 19, 1941

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
December 19, 1941

DIMENSIONS
ca. 13.75 x 6 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This handwritten prisoner of war mail in Italian, was sent by Ruggero Bacci, and is addressed to his wife Minnie Bacci, on December 19, 1941.

Internee Bacci writes to his wife that both she and her mother should try to remain calm and rest as much as possible. He claims rest is often better than medicine. His father-in-law had passed away a few weeks earlier.

However, Bacci claims that he does not understand why his wife is so anxious. He has asked her repeatedly to focus on her own health and the wellbeing of their children. However, should circumstances be untolerable, he tells her to contact the Italian consul, whose role it is to look after the wellbeing of Italians.

Bacci also asks his wife not to think of the future, which regardless, he expects to be better than their past.

He asks her to reconsider her visit to the internment camp, which he believes is too much money and effort. However, if she does decide to visit, she should at least wait until the summer. He also claims that he has not received a family photograph and wonders if she forgot to include it with the letter. He wishes them all a happy holiday.

Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. Bacci’s oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials on loan by the Bacci family.

Prisoner of War mail, by Ruggero Bacci, to Mrs. Minnie Bacci, September 26, 1941

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
September 26, 1941

DIMENSIONS
ca. 13.75 x 6 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This handwritten prisoner of war mail in Italian, was sent by Ruggero Bacci, and is addressed to his wife Minnie Bacci, on September 26, 1941.

Internee Bacci writes to his wife that he is sorry to hear about the ill health of her father, noting his advanced age. He also expresses confusion over the response of his “padrone” from whom he seems to have requested help. Apparently this person claims to be unable to assist. The “patron” noted may be Massimo Iacopo Magi, also active at the fascio and his employer at the Florentine Lighting Company — see LICEA2012.0002.0035. Bacci tells his wife to use discretion in future conversations with “the patron”.

Bacci also writes that he has heard nothing about his case. He asks his wife and sons to write frequently to remind the authorities of his internment and unjust suffering. He also reminds her not to waste money on lawyers and others who pretend to have influence. Bacci claims to have done no harm and never to have had any such intentions. He notes that he was born and will die an Italian, but loves, and always will, his adopted country. He does not think it is inherently disloyal but rather claims it is a “sacred duty” for all Italians — to be proud of their ancestry and loyal to their adopted country.

Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. Bacci’s oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials from the Bacci family.

Prisoner of War mail, by Ruggero Bacci, to Mrs. Minnie Bacci, April 27, 1943

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
April 27, 1943

DIMENSIONS
ca. 13.75 x 6 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This handwritten prisoner of war mail in Italian, was sent by Ruggero Bacci, and is addressed to his wife Minnie Bacci, on April 27, 1943.

Internee Bacci writes to his wife that he is glad to hear that everyone is well. He also thanks her for the parcel she sent, but asks her not to send salami in the future as he cannot eat it. He sends his thanks to Flavia, Gigi, and others for their Easter holiday greetings. He writes that he is sorry to hear that their sons do not want to accompany their mother when she goes out. Although they might be embarassed, not wanting to be seen as “mamma’s boys”, he notes with regret that during his absence they have become “ill-educated”. He notes that he will not tolerate or forget such things, and they should be told so.

Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. Bacci’s oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials on loan by the Bacci family.

Prisoner of War mail, by Ruggero Bacci, to Mrs. Minnie Bacci, February 23, 1943

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
February 23, 1943

DIMENSIONS
ca. 13.75 x 6 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This handwritten prisoner of war mail in Italian, was sent by Ruggero Bacci, and is addressed to his wife Minnie Bacci, on February 23, 1943.

Bacci writes his wife about his case. He send his thanks to Primo and notes it would be helpful if Primo attended the hearing. Bacci also asks his wife to secure a declaration assuring the authorities that he will have work upon his release. As a result, the individual noted may be Primo Danesi, who wrote a letter to Bacci that same month noting Danesi had employment for Bacci on his release — see LICEA2012-0002-0015. However, Bacci cautions his wife not to be too hopeful, as he does not have much faith that he will be released. Bacci writes he will do his best to come to terms with his continuing internment as long as he has his health. He tells his wife not to spend any money on trying to secure his release and to focus instead on her own health and their children.

Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. Bacci’s oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials on loan by the Bacci family.

Letter from G.G. Beckett, to Ruggere [sic] Bacci, June 17, 1943

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
June 17, 1943

DIMENSIONS
10 x 8 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This typewritten letter was sent by G.G. Beckett, for the Assistant Deputy Custodian, to Ruggero Bacci, on July 6, 1943. Bacci had been interned as a security threat to Canada has been recently released; the contents of which center on the CEP fee of $4.30 he was charged for the maintenance of his assets. Bacci did pay the fee — see LICEA2012-0002-0064. The letter has handwriting in pencil in the lower section noting a money order payment was sent on June 29, 1943. The same information is handwritten on the back of the letter.

The Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP) was a branch of the Canadian government that oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. This government office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Each accounting firm hired by the CEP would bill an internee for administrative costs even though internees did not ask for the CEP to be involved. Families of internees often did not have access to the husband’s assets and bank accounts. As a result, families often had to negotiate with the CEP for stipends for daily subsistence or use of assets like an automobile. In some cases, where assets were lacking, the CEP divested itself of any interest and left the families to fend for themselves.

Letter from D.C. Saul, to Ruggero Bacci, April 12, 1943

MAKER
D.C. Saul

DATE
April 12, 1943

DIMENSIONS
6.5 x 8 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This typewritten letter from D.C. Saul, RCMP Inspector for the Registrar General of Enemy Aliens, was sent to Ruggero Bacci, on April 12, 1943.

In the letter, the inspector claims that “no action can be taken to bring about your release”. However, Bacci was released 43 days later. It is unclear what transpired — although, Mussolini was on the verge of loosing power and the war.

Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. Bacci’s oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

Prisoner of War mail, by Ruggero Bacci, to Mrs. Minnie Bacci, December 3, 1941

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
December 03, 1941

DIMENSIONS
ca. 13.75 x ca. 6 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This handwritten prisoner of war mail in Italian, was sent by Ruggero Bacci, and is addressed to his wife Minnie Bacci, on December 3, 1941.

Bacci writes that on his return from work that night, he had received her telegram. He notes that he had already read in the Toronto Star the death notice of his father-in-law. He tries to console her, noting that her father was in poor “condition” and his death ended his suffering. He also notes that she did everything to support and comfort him during his lengthy illness. Bacci writes that he is very saddened that he will not be able to see his father-in-law one last time. He writes they should all find comfort in the hope that they will see eachother again in the afterlife.

Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. Bacci’s oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials on loan by the Bacci family.

Letter from Pierre Taschereau, to Mrs. M. Bacci, August 5, 1941

MAKER
Pierre Taschereau

DATE
August 05, 1941

DIMENSIONS
10 x 8 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This typewritten letter was sent by Pierre Taschereau, Secretary, Advisory Committee, to Mrs. M. Bacci, on August 5, 1941.

The letter informs Mrs. Bacci, wife of internee Ruggero Bacci, that her husband’s case is “still under consideration”, and her letter would be brought to the attention of the Advisory Committee. Under the the DOCR (Defence of Canada Regulations), after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice.

Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. Bacci’s oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

Letter from W.R. Jackett, to Ruggerio [sic] Bacci, October 3, 1940

MAKER
Pierre Taschereau

DATE
October 03, 1940

DIMENSIONS
13 x 8 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This typewritten letter was sent by W.R. Jackett, Advisory Committee, Deputy Minister of Justice, to Ruggero Bacci c/o Camp Petawawa, on October 3, 1940.

The letter informs Bacci that the decision of the Committee, who reviewed his appeal, is to continue his internment. Under the the DOCR (Defence of Canada Regulations), after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice.

Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. Bacci’s oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

Letter from D.C. Saul, to Mrs. M. Bacci, June 10, 1942

MAKER
D.C. Saul

DATE
June 10, 1942

DIMENSIONS
10 x 8 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This typewritten letter from D.C. Saul, RCMP Inspector for the Registrar General of Enemy Aliens, was sent to Mrs. M. Bacci, on June 10, 1942 — the second year anniversary date of her husband’s arrest and internment.

In the letter, the inspector provides an explanation to the wife of internee Ruggero Bacci regarding his internment. The reason for his arrest and detainment centre on his involvement with the Fascio Umberto Principe. As a result, it is not in the “best interests of the State” to have him released.

Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. Bacci’s oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

Letter from C. Batch (RCMP), to Mrs. M. Bacci, May 8, 1942

MAKER
C. Batch

DATE
May 08, 1942

DIMENSIONS
10 x 8 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This typewritten letter from C. Batch (RCMP Inspector, Assistant Intelligence Officer), was sent to Mrs. M. Bacci, on May 8, 1942.

In this letter, Batch references a letter sent by Mrs. Bacci to the Deputy Minister of Justice, which was forwarded to the RCMP. The inspector then references a letter in reply which he had already sent Mrs. Bacci the day before (see LICEA2012-0002-0078).

Bacci was interned for almost three years. According to family, Bacci’s wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. His oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

Letter from G.G. Beckett, to Ruggers [sic] Bacci, July 6, 1943

MAKER
G.G. Beckett

DATE
July 06, 1943

DIMENSIONS
10 x 8 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This typewritten letter was sent by G.G. Beckett, Assistant Deputy Custodian, to Ruggero Bacci, on July 6, 1943. Bacci had been interned as a security threat to Canada but was released 12 days prior to the writing of this letter; the contents of which center on the CEP fee of $4.30 he was charged and had paid for the maintenance of his assets.

The Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP) was a branch of the Canadian government that oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. This government office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Each accounting firm hired by the CEP would bill an internee for administrative costs even though internees did not ask for the CEP to be involved. Families of internees often did not have access to the husband’s assets and bank accounts. As a result, families often had to negotiate with the CEP for stipends for daily subsistence or use of assets like an automobile. In some cases, where assets were lacking, the CEP divested itself of any interest and left the families to fend for themselves.

Letter from F.P. Varese, to Mr. Alfo Bacci, September 22, 1941

MAKER
F.P. Varese

DATE
September 22, 1941

DIMENSIONS
10 x 8 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

Typewritten letter from F.P. Varese, Assistant Deputy Minister of Justice, to Alfo Bacci, written on September 22, 1941, regarding the internment of Ruggero Bacci. Varese notes that Bacci is being detained as an enemy alien and the continuation of his internment is under the jurisdiction of the Registrar General of Enemy Aliens, to whom he has forwarded a copy of the letter.

Originally detained under Regulation 21 of the Defence of Canada Regulations, Bacci was later held under Regulation 25(8).

Under Regulation 21, the Minister of Justice had the ability to intern any individual suspected of acting “in any manner prejudicial to the public safety or the safety of the state.” Under this regulation, habeas corpus – the need to produce evidence against an internee – and the right to a fair trial were suspended. However, after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice.

Under Regulation 25, the Registrar General of Enemy Aliens, appointed by the Governor in Council, could also intern enemy aliens considered a threat to public safety and who refused to sign an undertaking.

As a leading member of the Fascio Umberto Principe, Bacci was originally detained under Regulation 21. He did have a review of his case, and his detention was ordered continued by Justice J.D. Hyndman. It appears as an Italian national, he then fell under Regulation 25, and his internment was continued under this provision.

An identical letter was sent to Alfo’s older brother Aldo — see LICEA2012-0002-0059.

Letter from Price, Waterhouse & Co., to Mrs. R. Bacci, December 2, 1940

MAKER
Price, Waterhouse & Co.

DATE
December 02, 1940

DIMENSIONS
10.5 x 8.5 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

Typewritten letter from Price, Waterhouse & Co., to Mrs. R. Bacci, written on December 2, 1940.

Price Waterhouse & Co. was an agent employed by the Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP), a branch of the Canadian government that oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. The government office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Each accounting firm hired by the CEP would bill an internee for administrative costs even though internees did not ask for the CEP to be involved.

In cases where internees did not have any assets or debts of note, CEP often would remove themselves from the case.

In the Bacci’s case, it seems Ruggero Bacci had written CEP noting his wife would manage his assets and be responsible for his debts and bills during his internment.

Letter from D.C. Saul, to Mrs. M. Bacci, April 12, 1943

MAKER
D.C. Saul

DATE
April 12, 1943

DIMENSIONS
6.5 x 8 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

Letter from D.C. Saul (RCMP Inspector for Registrar General of Enemy Aliens), to Mrs. M. Bacci, April 12, 1943.

In this letter, the R.C.M.P. Inspector writes to the wife of internee Ruggero Bacci. The writer tells the wife that her husband will remain interned, with no changes since the last communication (see LICEA2012-0002-0057).

According to family, Bacci’s wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. His oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

Letter from F.P. Varese, to Mr. Aldo Bacci, September 22, 1941

MAKER
F.P. Varese

DATE
September 22, 1941

DIMENSIONS
10 x 8 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

Typewritten letter from F.P. Varese, Assistant Deputy Minister of Justice, to Aldo Bacci, written on September 22, 1941, regarding the internment of Ruggero Bacci. Varese notes that Bacci is being detained as an enemy alien and the continuation of his internment is under the jurisdiction of the Registrar General of Enemy Aliens, to whom he has forwarded a copy of the letter.

Originally detained under Regulation 21 of the Defence of Canada Regulations, Bacci was later held under Regulation 25(8).

Under Regulation 21, the Minister of Justice had the ability to intern any individual suspected of acting “in any manner prejudicial to the public safety or the safety of the state.” Under this regulation, habeas corpus – the need to produce evidence against an internee – and the right to a fair trial were suspended. However, after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice.

Under Regulation 25, the Registrar General of Enemy Aliens, appointed by the Governor in Council, could also intern enemy aliens considered a threat to public safety and who refused to sign an undertaking.

As a leading member of the Fascio Umberto Principe, Bacci was originally detained under Regulation 21. He did have a review of his case, and his detention was ordered continued by Justice J.D. Hyndman. It appears as an Italian national, he then fell under Regulation 25, and his internment was continued under this provision.

Prisoner of War mail, by Ruggero Bacci, to Mrs. Minnie Bacci, December 15, 1942

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
December 15, 1942

DIMENSIONS
ca. 13.75 x 6 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This handwritten prisoner of war mail in Italian, was sent by Ruggero Bacci, and is addressed to his wife Minnie Bacci, on December 15, 1942.

Bacci writes that he is happy to hear that everyone is well. He tells his wife that he has written Ottawa — to “clarify” his position — noting he will make whatever sacrifice is required to secure his release. Bacci notes that as an Italian citizen, the advisory committee is not looking into his case. Rather, he is an “enemy alien” and it is the head of the RCMP, who controls his fate. The appeal process did apply to Italian citizens in other cases. However, there were developments in Bacci’s case. As a leading member of the Fascio Umberto Principe, Bacci was originally detained under Regulation 21 of the Defence of Canada Regulations. He did have a review of his case, and his detention was ordered continued by Justice J.D. Hyndman. It appears as an Italian national, he then fell under Regulation 25, and his internment was continued under this provision — see LICEA2012-0002-0073. As a result, he apparently is “not privileged to appeal”.

Bacci writes that he will do whatever it takes to prove his good character and repect for the laws of Canada. He warns his wife not to be taken advantage of by lawyers. He wishes his family a happy Christmas holiday.

Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. Bacci’s oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials on loan by the Bacci family.

Prisoner of War mail, by Ruggero Bacci, to Mrs. Minnie Bacci, January 8, 1942

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
January 08, 1942

DIMENSIONS
ca. 13.75 x 6 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This handwritten prisoner of war mail in Italian, was sent by Ruggero Bacci, and is addressed to his wife Minnie Bacci, on January 8, 1942.

Bacci writes that he is happy to hear that everyone is well. He also writes that he wants to know the name of doctors she had recently visited and what presents they received for Christmas and from whom. He notes a parcel from Mrs. Magi (wife of released internee Massimo Magi) sent to Giovanni Giulio Ciacco, to be shared with other internees: Pietro & Antonio Danesi, Donato Sansone, Raffaele Ciarfella and Marco Missori. Bacci seems to be upset, writing:”for me personally not even a greeting for Christmas.” Magi had been Bacci’s employer and a strong supporter of the fascio. As a result, Bacci writes that his wife is to remain at home and not to visit anyone. He does ask how often she has visited Frank. Bacci writes (and it seems some sarcasm is intended) that on his return he will have to thank many friends, who have thought of him throughout his internment. He may be feeling abandonned by his former colleagues and friends.

Bacci also writes that he is devasted to learn of the ill health of his mother-in-law, apparently from a heart-related condition. He asks his wife not to visit him at camp, as it is bitterly cold (-35 degrees C). He says they can reconsider a visit in the Spring.

Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. Bacci’s oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials on loan by the Bacci family.

Prisoner of War mail, by Ruggero Bacci, to Mrs. Minnie Bacci, April 16, 1943

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
April 16, 1943

DIMENSIONS
ca. 13.75 x 6 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This handwritten prisoner of war mail in Italian, was sent by Ruggero Bacci, and is addressed to his wife Minnie Bacci, on April 16, 1943.

Bacci writes that he is happy to hear that everyone is well. He also writes about the Commission, which is reviewing the internee cases. It would seem that he is referring to the advisory committee appointed under the DOCR (Defence of Canada Regulations), to which, after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice.

In Bacci’s case, he expresses doubt that he will receive another review. He tells his wife not to expect his release or listen to those who suggest it will soon occur. Bacci believes they are just trying to encourage her, but that as an Italian citizen he will not be released anytime soon. Bacci notes only the RCMP can release him, and she should not rely on the words of others, or waste more money trying to secure his release (this may refer to the hiring of a lawyer). He says the constant disappointment has been emotionally taxing, and he would rather not know anything unless it is certain. He notes he is now paying the consequences for being “too frank” and “too honest” in his lifetime. In fact, Bacci was released a little over a month later.

In all, Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. Bacci’s oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials on loan by the Bacci family.

Letter by Vincenzo Piccinini to the Custodian of Enemy Property, Sept 18, 1943

MAKER
Vincenzo Piccinini

DATE
September 18, 1943

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, RG 117, Vol. 670, File 5017

Three page handwritten letter by internee Vincenzo Piccininni to the Custodian’s Office in Ottawa. Dated: September 18, 1943. Return address: 33 High Park Blvd., Toronto.

Vincenzo is contesting the administrative fee that he was asked to pay. Internees were charged administration fees by the government for handling of their business affairs and/or assets during internment.

Vincenzo refers to himself as “…an innocent man whose only fault it was to have been born in Italy, but to have lived an exemplary life since his good fortune of having been granted the privilege of settling in Canada, and of loving this country and serving her as any true and loyal adopted son should.” Vincenzo argues that there his business did not need administration or investigation because it was a struggling business as a result of the Great Depression. He pleads: “Still, I have no grudge or feel any bitterness against anyone. I know I was one of the victims of circumstances. But I feel that at least the government which alone is responsible for my plight and of my family’s should leave me alone and try to not add insult to injury.”

Letter by Giacomo Venzon to the Office of the Custodian, New Waterford, NS, Nov. 13, 1942

MAKER
Giacomo Venzon

DATE
November 13, 1942

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, RG 117, Vol. 699, File 13616

One page handwritten letter on lined paper by internee Giacomo Venzon to the Office of the Custodian. New Waterford, NS. Dated November 13, 1942.

Giacomo notes that he received the letter notifying him of his owed balance of $50. Internees were charged administration fees by the government for handling of their business affairs and/or assets during internment. Giacomo states that after 27 months of internment he is penniless and three years behind in taxes. Moreover, his current salary is very low and his family is in dire need of winter clothing. Giacomo promises: “I am unable at present to comply with this bill, but I will assure you that in the very near future, I will pay to the last cent all my obligation. Hoping that you will understand my situation.”

Giacomo Venzon was a butcher from New Waterford, NS. At the time that he was interned, he had a wife and three young daughters. According to his family, he was always proud to be Italian Canadian.

Prisoner of War mail, by Ruggero Bacci, to Mrs. Minnie Bacci, March 19, 1942

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
March 19, 1942

DIMENSIONS
ca. 13.75 x ca. 6 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This handwritten prisoner of war mail in Italian, was sent by Ruggero Bacci, and is addressed to his wife Minnie Bacci, on March 19, 1942.

Bacci writes that he is happy to hear that everyone is well and that their children are behaving. He notes the recent release of 43 internees, who like him were Italian citizens. He laments that he seems to have no such luck, but that when he is released, he will inform her via telegram. Bacci asks his wife to remain calm and not to place too much hope in his release. He notes that he plans to send a package for Easter, with 3 boxes and other materials — presumably items made by the internees in camp. Bacci tells his wife how to distribute the objects, noting his aunt, sister and a newborn niece. He seems to suggest they are the ones who have not forgotten him during his internment.

LICEA2012.0002.0048 also references the same package.

Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. Bacci’s oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials on loan by the Bacci family.

Prisoner of War mail, by Ruggero Bacci, to Mrs. Minnie Bacci, August 9, 1941

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
September 08, 1941

DIMENSIONS
ca. 13.75 x ca. 6 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This handwritten prisoner of war mail in Italian, was sent by Ruggero Bacci, and is addressed to his wife Minnie Bacci, on August 9, 1941.

Bacci writes that he is happy to have received several photographs of family and friends. He is sorry to hear about the ill health of Anselmo. He is happy however that his wife seems to have had a recent break — respite for a week. Bacci tells her that he has learned from his son Aldo’s letter that they have not received the information sought from the “signori”/”padroni”. It’s unclear which gentlemen this refers to — those he worked with in the fascio/Casa d’Italia, or the authorities. Regardless, he tells his wife it would be better to send them to hell to make charcoal of them. He asks her to make the best of things, which he claims to do. It seems he has some others also working on his case.

Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. Bacci’s oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials on loan by the Bacci family.

Prisoner of War mail, by Ruggero Bacci, to Mrs. Minnie Bacci, March 29, 1942

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
March 29, 1942

DIMENSIONS
ca. 13.75 x ca. 6 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This handwritten prisoner of war mail in Italian, was sent by Ruggero Bacci, and is addressed to his wife Minnie Bacci, on March 29, 1942.

Bacci writes that he has sent his family a package with objects, including three small boxes and something made from bone. They are to be distributed according to instructions in a previous letter (see LICEA2012-0002-0052). There is some discussion about one of the objects, which he notes that if his aunt does not want it, his wife should take it to a goldsmith and have it made into a brooch. He asks if his wife knows anything more about his case. He writes that for him to be released more than humble prayers are needed. He wishes her a Happy Easter, and hopes they’ll be reunited for the next one. He asks her to do her best to get him released and claims he can not do anything other than swear to do no harm to anyone and not to betray his country.

Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. Bacci’s oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials on loan by the Bacci family.

Prisoner of War mail, by Ruggero Bacci, to Mr. Aldo Bacci, July 24, 1942

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
July 24, 1942

DIMENSIONS
ca. 13.75 x ca. 6 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This handwritten prisoner of war mail in Italian, was sent by Ruggero Bacci, and is addressed to his son Aldo Bacci, on July 24, 1942.

Bacci writes his eldest son, noting that the internees have been moved to Camp Fredericton. He is unhappy with the relocation as he is now even further away from his family. He writes that he must be patient that justice will eventually prevail, but notes he is upset that he can no longer expect his family to visit or to receive their news in short course. Bacci tells his son to behave with integrity as he has always done, and to remain proud of his Italian ancestry. Both Aldo and his brother are to work towards their goals and should not be upset by his situation, as Bacci claims never to have acted dishonourably.

The letter bears a stamp noting it has been examined by the censor.

Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. Bacci’s oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials on loan by the Bacci family.

Prisoner of War mail, by Ruggero Bacci, to Mrs. Minnie Bacci, June 8, 1942

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
June 08, 1942

DIMENSIONS
ca. 13.75 x ca. 6 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This handwritten prisoner of war mail in Italian, was sent by Ruggero Bacci, and is addressed to his wife Minnie Bacci, on June 8, 1942.

Bacci writes that he has received the copies of letters his wife sent, and will send her copies that he himself mailed to Ottawa. He hopes the censor will allow it. He asks her to obtain a lawyer and, if possible, to visit the Registrar (of Enemy Aliens) in Ottawa. He writes that he has assured the authorities that he will abide by all conditions they impose on him as a non-citizen. Bacci writes about her recent visit to camp, noting he was saddened to see her situation. He advises her to take care of herself. He also asks her to tell their sons not to buy bicycles, as he will not have one minute free from worry if they do, fearing an accident. He notes that the family has had enough suffering in recent times. He also asks her not to worry about him, noting he can handle the ongoing situation with calm.

Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. Bacci’s oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials on loan by the Bacci family.

Prisoner of War mail, by Ruggero Bacci, to Mrs. Minnie Bacci, May 19, 1942

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
May 19, 1942

DIMENSIONS
ca. 13.75 x ca. 6 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This handwritten prisoner of war mail in Italian, was sent by Ruggero Bacci, and is addressed to his wife Minnie Bacci, on May 19, 1942.

Bacci writes that he has not received the weekly letter from his wife. He hopes that she is better — having overcome the recent adversities in life — and is focusing instead on their sons’ future. He writes that nothing that can be done against the will of God, and we all must eventually die. It seems his mother-in-law had recently passed away. Bacci writes that although his mother-in-law was not very old, she did have a serious illness and a poor quality of life. He writes that while his mother-in-law suffered, so did the family, having to watch her struggles. He tells his wife to be strong and try to accept what happens and be at peace.

Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. Bacci’s oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials on loan by the Bacci family.

Prisoner of War mail, by Ruggero Bacci, to Mrs. Minnie Bacci, April 7, 1941

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
April 07, 1941

DIMENSIONS
ca. 13.75 x ca. 6 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This handwritten prisoner of war mail in Italian, was sent by Ruggero Bacci, and is addressed to his wife Minnie Bacci, on April 7, 1941.

Much of the earlier references in the letter are vague, pertaining to banking issues and questions his wife had asked him in a previous letter. The banking issue, which references a cheque and funds, seems to pertain to an unnamed association with members. He notes that he had accepted the position to please his “padrone” and at the bequest of its members.

It is most likley that Bacci is referencing his role as secretary of Fascio Principe Umberto, and his work with the Casa d’Italia. The “patron” noted may be Massimo Iacopo Magi, also active at the fascio and his employer at the Florentine Lighting Company.

He also tells his wife that she is well aware that he was against the entry of “his country” in this terrible war on the side of their historic enemies — Italy joining with Germany and the Axis Powers. He claims the authorities are also well aware of his position. He claims his work was intended to involve Italians in civil life — to help them become great Canadian citizens, who remained proud of their country of origin.

Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. Bacci’s oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials on loan by the Bacci family.

Prisoner of War mail, by Ruggero Bacci, to Minnie Bacci, April 6, 1943

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
April 06, 1943

DIMENSIONS
ca. 13.75 x ca. 6 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This typewritten prisoner of war mail in Italian, was sent by Ruggero Bacci, and is addressed to his wife Minnie Bacci, on April 6, 1943.

Most of the letter addresses the efforts of Bacci and his wife to secure his release. He notes that he is saddened to hear she is unwell, and suspects it has to do with his case, and the fact that she was not interviewed by the authorities. He notes that a former internee, Doctor Donato Sansone would explain the situation to her. He prohibits her from travelling to Ottawa in person to look into the situation. Instead, he advises her to focus on her health and the welfare of their sons and “to not worry any more about me”. He notes that they have done all they could do, and now must await the decision of the authorities.

He notes that only five Italians remain from the Toronto area. He is the only one with a family. Although two of the others seem to have been before the commission (to consider their cases), they seem disinterested in release, having no family back home. He notes that 50 Italians remain interned. At this point, the remaining Italians would have been transferred from Camp Petawawa to Fredericton Internment Camp months before. He describes Camp Fredericton as an awful place — cold with snow having fallen the past night.

Bacci ends the letter reassuring his wife that one day they will be reunited.

Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. Bacci’s oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials on loan by the Bacci family.

Prisoner of War mail, by Ruggero Bacci, to Mrs. Minnie Bacci, August 18, 1942

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
August 18, 1942

DIMENSIONS
ca. 13.75 x ca. 6 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This handwritten prisoner of war mail in Italian, was sent by Ruggero Bacci, and is addressed to his wife Minnie Bacci, on August 18, 1942.

Half of the letter addresses a $75 debt owed by a Giacinto, of which $25.00 was recently paid to Bacci’s wife. Bacci claims that Giacinto still owes the remaining $50, none of which had been paid prior to his arrest. He asks if any of the $50 was paid to his wife during his internment.

The rest of the letter suggests some emotional strain that Bacci’s continued internment was causing him. He refers to his “solitary condition”, and notes that this “prison” has made him reconsider many things, opening his eyes. The past he describes as an illusion, and he claims to have given up many things he had in his heart, returning to who he was when he first set foot on this earth.

Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. Bacci’s oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials on loan by the Bacci family.

Prisoner of War mail, by Ruggero Bacci, to Minnie Bacci, October 20, 1942

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
October 20, 1942

DIMENSIONS
ca. 13.75 x ca. 6 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This handwritten prisoner of war mail in Italian, was sent by Ruggero Bacci, and is addressed to his wife Minnie Bacci, on October 20, 1942.

Most of the letter addresses the health of his wife and their efforts to end his internment. He notes that the gentlemen who “live at Beverly & Dundas” now determine his future. This is a reference to the Casa d’Italia which was confiscated by the government and used by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police during the war. Apparently these same authorities had told him of his wife’s hospitalization and her improved health and release home earlier that month. Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. Nevertheless, Bacci urges her to continue to work to convince the authorities of his innocence and ensure his freedom.

There is also an oblique reference to a letter he received from someone named “Gelina”, in which it was noted that “il compare” (the godfather) was inquiring about money held by a group of Torontonians. Bacci claims not to know who “il compare” is. This section is also encircled in pencil, possibly suggesting that it drew the attention of the censors. All camp letters were read by a censor. Contents deemed inappropriate were blacked out with ink. The same applied to incoming mail. Camp letters that were written in Italian were first translated into English before being read by a censor.

Bacci also references his sons in this letter. He notes that should he continue to be unjustly interned, his wife should remember that his sons will be Italian. He had originally used the present-tense “my sons are Italian”, but crossed out “sono” and replaced it with the future tense “saranno”. Both children were born in Canada.

Bacci’s oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials on loan by the Bacci family.

Letter from D.C. Saul, to Mr. A. Bacci, October 14, 1941

MAKER
D.C. Saul

DATE
October 14, 1941

DIMENSIONS
10 x 8 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This typewritten letter was sent by D.C. Saul (Inspector, RCMP, Registrar General of Enemy Aliens), to Mr. A. Bacci, October 14, 1941.

In this letter, the R.C.M.P. Inspector writes the son of internee Ruggero Bacci. Originally detained under Regulation 21 of the Defence of Canada Regulations, Bacci is now held under Regulation 25(8). As a result, he apparently does not have the “privilege of an appeal”.

Under Regulation 21, the Minister of Justice had the ability to intern any individual suspected of acting “in any manner prejudicial to the public safety or the safety of the state.” Under this regulation, habeas corpus – the need to produce evidence against an internee – and the right to a fair trial were suspended. However, after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice.

Under Regulation 25, the Registrar General of Enemy Aliens, appointed by the Governor in Council, could also intern enemy aliens considered a threat to public safety and who refused to sign an undertaking.

As a leading member of the Fascio Umberto Principe, Bacci was originally detained under Regulation 21. He did have a review of his case, and his detention was ordered continued by Justice J.D. Hyndman. It appears as an Italian national, he then fell under Regulation 25, and his internment was continued under this provision.

For similar correspondence see LICEA2012.0002.0014, LICEA2012.0002.0073, and LICEA2012.0002.0078.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials on loan by the Bacci family.

Prisoner of War mail, by Ruggero Bacci, to Minnie Bacci, November 2, 1942

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
November 02, 1942

DIMENSIONS
ca. 13.75 x ca. 6 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This handwritten prisoner of war mail in Italian, was sent by Ruggero Bacci, and is addressed to his wife Minnie Bacci, on November 2, 1942.

Most of the letter addresses the health of his wife and his youngest son Alfo — who seems to be suffering from an ailment. Alfo seems to have had bronchitis as a child, and Bacci is clearly worried about his current health. Bacci seems pleased to hear that his wife’s condition has improved. He asks them to eat well and rest. Towards the end of the letter, Bacci references his eldest son Aldo and the fact that he might be called for military service. It’s clear the father does not want the son to serve due to his internment and the family’s situation.

Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. His oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials on loan by the Bacci family.

Prisoner of War mail, by Ruggero Bacci, to Minnie Bacci, December 29, 1941

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
December 29, 1941

DIMENSIONS
ca. 13.75 x ca. 6 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This handwritten prisoner of war mail in Italian, was sent by Ruggero Bacci, and is addressed to his wife Minnie Bacci, on December 29, 1941.

In this letter, he notes several packages he received from family and friends. He mentions a box of candy and $5.00 he received from former internee Dr. Rosario Invidiata. He asks his wife to call Invidiata to thank him for his generosity and for not having forgotten him. Bacci notes that he even received material from the Red Cross.

Internees were allowed to receive parcels from family members. These packages were searched thoroughly by camp guards before being distributed. Internees mostly received food and clothing.

Bacci writes that he also received a letter from his son Aldo, and is glad to hear he has given up boxing, which he considers a vulgar sport. He also mentions a Lola, who seems to have quit her job over an issue of “honour”. There is also a vague reference to his condolences to the Danesi family — two of the brothers were former coworkers as well as internees. He writes, “these are unbearable things, for which courage is needed”. He also writes that there is no justice in the world, only a “feeling” of humanity.

Bacci notes that he would like to write more — but it is neither the time nor the place.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials on loan by the Bacci family.

Letter from C. Batch (RCMP), to Mrs. M. Bacci, March 31, 1942

MAKER
C. Batch

DATE
March 31, 1942

DIMENSIONS
10 x 8 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This typewritten letter was sent by C. Batch (Inspector, Assistant Intelligence Officer, RCMP), to Mrs. M. Bacci, March 31, 1942.

In this letter, the R.C.M.P. Inspector writes the wife of internee Ruggero Bacci. Originally detained under Regulation 21 of the Defence of Canada Regulations, Bacci is now held under Regulation 25(8). As a result, he apparently is “not privileged to appeal”.

Under Regulation 21, the Minister of Justice had the ability to intern any individual suspected of acting “in any manner prejudicial to the public safety or the safety of the state.” Under this regulation, habeas corpus – the need to produce evidence against an internee – and the right to a fair trial were suspended. However, after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice.

Under Regulation 25, the Registrar General of Enemy Aliens, appointed by the Governor in Council, could also intern enemy aliens considered a threat to public safety and who refused to sign an undertaking.

As a leading member of the Fascio Umberto Principe, Bacci was originally detained under Regulation 21. He did have a review of his case, and his detention was ordered continued by Justice J.D. Hyndman. It appears as an Italian national, he then fell under Regulation 25, and his internment was continued under this provision.

For similar correspondence see LICEA2012.0002.0073 and LICEA2012.0002.0078.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials on loan by the Bacci family.

Prisoner of War mail, by Ruggero Bacci, to Minnie Bacci, April 27, 1942

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
April 27, 1942

DIMENSIONS
ca. 13.75 x ca. 6.5 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

This handwritten prisoner of war mail in Italian, was sent by Ruggero Bacci, and is addressed to his wife Minnie Bacci, on April 27, 1942.

Bacci writes that he is happy to receive mail from his family — his only “pleasure in this prison”. He tells his wife that she can continue to write letters on his behalf but she should direct them to those responsible for his internment. He makes a vague reference to her knowing who they are, since he had told her in the past. At this point, Bacci would have been interned for about 22 months.

Receiving mail was an important occasion for internees. For most, letters were the only contact they had with family. Internees were allowed to write three letters and four postcards per month. The maximum length for letters was twenty-four lines and eight lines for postcards. Exceptions were made for those who ran businesses and had to respond to letters from the Custodian of Enemy Property. All camp letters were read by a censor. Contents deemed inappropriate were blacked out with ink. The same applied to incoming mail. Camp letters that were written in Italian were first translated into English before being read by a censor.

In the letter, Bacci notes that he received a photograph of someone named Leo and asks that his wife send one of herself before they were married.

Internees were allowed to receive parcels from family members. These packages were searched thoroughly by camp guards before being distributed. Internees mostly received food and clothing.

It seems Bacci’s wife was planning a visit to the camp. He advises her to wait until after the middle of May. He describes the Spring weather as nasty, although he notes the current weather in camp is good — with the men enjoying the sunshine.

During the early stages of internment, family visits were prohibited at the camps. As time passed, it does seem that in rare cases, family members travelled to Petawawa for a brief meeting with a husband or father.

Bacci ends with a wish that this “cursed life” ends soon. He notes he feels the passage of time and worries about his ability to find work on his return home. He tells her to let him know once she she receives a response — “if it is not positive, become resigned to living your life without me”.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials on loan by the Bacci family.

Prisoner of War mail, from Ruggero Bacci, to Aldo Bacci, June 2, 1941

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
June 02, 1941

DIMENSIONS
6 x 3.5 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

Prisoner of War mail, from Ruggero Bacci, handwritten in Italian, to his eldest son Aldo Bacci, June 2, 1941.

Internee Bacci writes to his son that as the oldest child, he needs to do everything possible to help his mother, who now has many responsibilities. He asks that Aldo not add to her concerns. Bacci says he should focus on work and less on his music lessons.

Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. His oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

Prisoner of War mail, from Ruggero Bacci, to Aldo & Alfo Bacci, February 3, 1941

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
February 03, 1941

DIMENSIONS
6 x 3.5 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

Prisoner of War mail, from Ruggero Bacci, handwritten in Italian, to his sons Aldo and Alfo Bacci, February 3, 1941.

Internee Bacci writes to his sons that he is well and wishes the same for them. He mentions that he doesn’t skate, but notes a game (hockey?) between the Italians/Germans against the French Canadians, with the resulting score of 6 to 3.

Internees were often lonely and bored. Recreational activities were organized during downtime. Internees watched films, read, played cards and chess. Sports such as hockey, soccer, baseball, and bocce were popular.

Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. His oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

Prisoner of War mail, from Ruggero Bacci, to Alfo Bacci, October 13, 1941

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
October 13, 1941

DIMENSIONS
6 x 3.5 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

Prisoner of War mail, from Ruggero Bacci, handwritten in Italian, to his son Alfo Bacci, October 13, 1941.

Internee Bacci writes to his younger son, Alfo, that he is pleased to hear that he is an honour student. He wishes him a happy birthday and writes that he hopes it is the last they celebrate apart. He says he’s also sorry to hear about Grandfather, and hopes he is feeling better.

Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. His oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

Letter from Joseph Jean, M.P., to Pierre Casgrain, July 3, 1941

MAKER
Joseph Jean

DATE
July 03, 1941

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property, RG117, Vol. 657, File 4027

This typewritten letter in French is a copy. The original was written by Joseph Jean MP, to Pierre Casgrain, Secretary of State, July 3, 1941. Jean, a Liberal member of the House of Commons and later the Solicitor General of Canada, writes with respect to the internment of Luigi Corbelli.

Corbelli’s assets (in particular the Dodge 1940) had been seized by the Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP), a branch of the Canadian government that oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. This government office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Families of internees often did not have access to the husband’s assets and bank accounts. As a result, families often had to negotiate with the CEP for stipends for daily subsistence or use of assets like an automobile. In some cases, where assets were lacking, the CEP divested itself of any interest and left the families to fend for themselves.

Jean notes that Mrs. Corbelli has been told by the CEP agents, Price, Waterhouse & Co., that the automobile must be sold. Mrs. Corbelli does not want the car sold as she believes her husband may soon be released. In fact, he returned home a month later. Jean notes that he believes Corbelli to be innocent.

Letter from H. Stethem, to the Custodian of Enemy Property, October 18, 1940

MAKER
Joseph H. Stethem

DATE
October 18, 1940

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property, RG117, Vol. 657, File 4013

This typewritten letter was sent by Lieut-Colonel H. Stethem (Assistant Director, Internment Operations), to the the Custodian of Enemy Property, on October 18, 1940. The letter addresses a watch being worn by Sam Valente, then interned at Camp Kananaskis. The watch does not seem to have been paid in full, with amounts still owing to Potter’s Limited. It seems CEP was looking to take possession of the watch and return it to the company. Valente refused, noting that he would arrange payments for the watch himself.

The Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP), a branch of the Canadian government, oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. This government office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Families of internees often did not have access to the husband’s assets and bank accounts. As a result, families often had to negotiate with the CEP for stipends for daily subsistence or use of assets like an automobile. In some cases, where assets were lacking, the CEP divested itself of any interest and left the families to fend for themselves.

Prisoner of War mail, from Marco Missori, addressed to Custodian’s Office, Dec. 3, 1940

MAKER
Marco Missori

DATE
December 03, 1940

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property, RG117, Vol. 657, File 3940

This typewritten prisoner of war mail was signed by Marco Missori, and is addressed to the Office of the Custodian, December 3, 1940.

The Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP) was a branch of the Canadian government that oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. This government office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Each accounting firm hired by the CEP would bill an internee for administrative costs even though internees did not ask for the CEP to be involved. Families of internees often did not have access to the husband’s assets and bank accounts. As a result, families often had to negotiate with the CEP for stipends for daily subsistence or use of assets like an automobile. In some cases, where assets were lacking, the CEP divested itself of any interest and left the families to fend for themselves.

In this case, Missori fears the loss of his property, as he cannot pay the mortgage, and CEP seems to have withdrawn from the case. He asks CEP for assistance noting that the property could be rented to help pay for the mortgage. He also notes that there is “no one outside who could look after my interests”. At the time of his arrest, Missori was a widower with three minor children.

Letter from Mrs. J.H. Coscarella, to Price, Waterhouse & Co., October 2, 1940

MAKER
Elisa Coscarella

DATE
October 02, 1940

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property, RG117, Vol. 657, File 3927

This letter is handwritten by Elisa Coscarella, and was sent to Price, Waterhouse & Co., on October 2, 1940. Elisa Coscarella writes to the CEP agents in this case, Price, Waterhouse & Co., for assistance, regarding the assets and debts of her interned husband Giuseppe Coscarella.

The Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP), a branch of the Canadian government, oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. This government office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Families of internees often did not have access to the husband’s assets and bank accounts. As a result, families often had to negotiate with the CEP for stipends for daily subsistence or use of assets like an automobile. In some cases, where assets were lacking, the CEP divested itself of any interest and left the families to fend for themselves.

Coscarella was interned at Camp Petawawa. During his internment, his family struggled to maintain the family farm. In this letter, his wife writes for help regarding the maintenance charges for the family truck — which she cannot pay. As a result, the garage seems to have seized the truck and is refusing to release it until payment is made in full. The truck is needed for farm delivery of eggs.

Letter from A. Gagnon, to G.W. McPherson, October 29, 1940

MAKER
A. Gagnon

DATE
October 29, 1940

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property, RG117, Vol. 657, File 3897

This typewritten letter by A. Gagnon, Assistant Chief Postal Censor, is addressed to G.W. McPherson, Counsel for the Custodian of Enemy Property, on October 29, 1940.

The Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP), a branch of the Canadian government, oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. This government office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Families of internees often did not have access to the husband’s assets and bank accounts. As a result, families often had to negotiate with the CEP for stipends for daily subsistence or use of assets like an automobile. In some cases, where assets were lacking, the CEP divested itself of any interest and left the families to fend for themselves.

In this letter, the Post Office asks the Custodian’s office to confirm that they are in control of the business affairs of Giuseppe Moschetti. All correspondence addressed to and from internees was read by a censor. Contents deemed inappropriate were blacked out with ink or redirected to appropriate government departments for review.

Letter from Antoinetta Visocchi, to T.W. Laidlaw, Date Unknown

MAKER
Antoinetta Visocchi

DATE
ca. 1940

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property, RG117, Vol. 656, File 3853

This handwritten letter by Antoinetta Visocchi is addressed to T.W. Laidlaw, Counsel for the Office of Custodian. Although the date is not known, given the contents, it would appear to have been written within a few months of her husband’s internment on June 10, 1940.

With seven minor children to support, Visocchi writes that she finds herself in financial hardship. She has no income — having been pulled from government relief. Enemy aliens were not entitled to government relief. However, the families of interned men could apply for relief. It appears the Visocchi family (like several others) may have been caught in this bureaucratic red tape. Further, Visocchi’s landlord seems to have threatened eviction. She writes to the Custodian of Enemy Property for assistance.

The Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP), a branch of the Canadian government, oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. This government office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Families of internees often did not have access to the husband’s assets and bank accounts. As a result, families often had to negotiate with the CEP for stipends for daily subsistence or use of assets like an automobile. In some cases, where assets were lacking, the CEP divested itself of any interest and left the families to fend for themselves.

Letter from A.H. Rowland (in french), to Giuseppe Di Pietro, August 16, 1941

MAKER
A.H. Rowland

DATE
August 16, 1941

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property, RG117, Vol. 652, File 3552

This typewritten letter is written in french by A.H. Rowland, Revenue Tax Inspector, Revenue Canada, and is addressed to Giuseppe Di Pietro, on August 16, 1941. The letter pertains to income tax due by Di Pietro in 1940 — the same year he was interned at Camp Petawawa. Di Pietro is informed that he must submit a tax return. He is advised that refusal to do so, for whatever reasons, can result in penalities. Although addressed to Di Pietro in Montreal, at the date of writing, he was still interned in Camp Petawawa.

It appears this branch of the government is uniformed about Di Pietro’s internment status.

Letter from James Skinner, to Office of Custodian, July 23, 1940

MAKER
James Skinner

DATE
July 23, 1940

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property, RG117, Vol. 652, File 3498

This typewritten letter by James Skinner is addressed to the Office of Custodian, on July 23, 1940. Skinner writes regarding the internment of Victor Fabri.

The Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP), a branch of the Canadian government, oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. This government office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Families of internees often did not have access to the husband’s assets and bank accounts. As a result, families often had to negotiate with the CEP for stipends for daily subsistence or use of assets like an automobile. In some cases, where assets were lacking, the CEP divested itself of any interest and left the families to fend for themselves.

Victor Fabri was interned at Camp Kananaskis and Camp Petawawa. From this letter, we learn he was an active supporter and campaigner for the Liberal Party (the governing party), having served as the “Official Agent for the Liberal Candidate in the last Election”. Other reports suggest Fabri was also an active member of the fascio in Vancouver. It would appear he did not seem to think there was a inherent conflict in being a Liberal and fascist supporter.

Prisoner of War mail, by Rosario Invidiata, to Price, Waterhouse & Co, Oct. 28, 1940

MAKER
Rosario Invidiata

DATE
October 28, 1940

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property, RG117, Vol. 670, File 5038

This handwritten prisoner of war mail was sent by Rosario Invidiata, and is addressed to the Price, Waterhouse & Co., October 28, 1940.

Price, Waterhouse & Co. were the CEP agents in Invidiata’s case. The Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP) was a branch of the Canadian government that oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. This government office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Each accounting firm hired by the CEP would bill an internee for administrative costs even though internees did not ask for the CEP to be involved. Families of internees often did not have access to the husband’s assets and bank accounts. As a result, families often had to negotiate with the CEP for stipends for daily subsistence or use of assets like an automobile. In some cases, where assets were lacking, the CEP divested itself of any interest and left the families to fend for themselves.

In this case, Invidiata requests that the agents send inspectors to his home to ensure the safety and wellbeing of his children — as his wife is mentally ill and had been hospitalized. He also asks to use $60/month from his account for their living expenses.

Letter from Urbano Colangelo, to Price, Waterhouse & Co., September 13, 1940

MAKER
Urbano Colangelo

DATE
September 13, 1940

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property, RG117, Vol. 670, File 5028

This two-page letter is handwritten by Urbano Colangelo, and addressed to Price, Waterhouse & Co., on September 13, 1940. Urbano Colangelo writes to the CEP agents in this case, Price, Waterhouse & Co., to ask permission to send his son Berlino a guitar.

The Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP), a branch of the Canadian government, oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. This government office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Families of internees often did not have access to the husband’s assets and bank accounts. As a result, families often had to negotiate with the CEP for stipends for daily subsistence or use of assets like an automobile. In some cases, where assets were lacking, the CEP divested itself of any interest and left the families to fend for themselves.

Berlino Colangelo was interned at Camp Petawawa. Several of the Italian Canadian internees were skilled musicians. At camp, they formed a band which entertained others by performing recitals. We also know that lyrics were composed by a few of the internees which specifically spoke about or referenced the internment experience. Instruments were provided by family members and by charitable organizations. Possibily Internment Operations also secured instruments for internees.

Letter by James Poggi to the Office of the Custodian, Greenwood, BC, March 29, 1943

MAKER
James Poggi

DATE
March 29, 1943

INSCRIPTIONS
Verso: (Stamped, black ink, right bottom) OFFICE OF THE / CUSTODIAN / RECEIVED / APR 3 1943 / PASS TO….. / TRANSFER TO …. / ANS’D BY , FILE___.

Recto: See pictures

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, RG117, Vol. 2028, File 5349

This is a four page handwritten letter by internee James Poggi to the Office of the Custodian. Dated March 29, 1943 at Greenwood, BC. Black ink on plain white paper.

Poggi gives details about his arrest on July 25, 1940. He says that he was first put in a jail at Grand Forks, BC, and was so upset that he fainted twice. He then explains his transfer to two other jails, before being taken to Camp Kananaskis in AB.

He also talks about his failing health due to the stress of having been interned. For example, at Camp Petawawa he suffered a stroke and became paralyzed. Poggi claims damages to his eyes and teeth, weightloss of 30 pounds, and loss of “three quarters” of his hair. He writes, “Before my internment I was the healthy and strong a man as anybody would want to see. I never was sick in all my life I have lived 43 years in British Columbia and I was never sick a day. But the internment has ruined my health. I spent seven month [sic] in bed sick in a prison hospital with heart dease [sic]. This disease came to me by worry and malancoly [sic].”

Poggi is claiming damages for the following:

$30, 000 loss of mining property and farmland
$3500 loss of deal to sell farmland
$7000 loss of deal with Continental Securities Corporation Ltd., 112 Pacific building Vancouver BC
$30, 000 loss of deal with Consolidated mining and Smelting Company
$3517.71 stolen/loss property at his home and at his Greenwood mines
$140, 000 injuries sustained while arrested and interned (e.g. paralysis of left side, heart condition, etc.)

James ends his letter with: “You have ruined my health for life there is no money in the wold [sic] that can pay for my heath [sic]. I was an innocent man but you put me in jail and in the camp.”

Letter from Alphonse Bianco, to Sergeant Williams, RCMP, January 13, 1942

MAKER
Alphonse Bianco

DATE
January 13, 1942

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property, RG117, Vol. 670, File 5025

This typewritten letter from Alphonse Bianco seems to be a copy. Addressed to Sergeant Williams, RCMP, Toronto, ON, it is dated January 13, 1942. Bianco is the brother-in-law of internee Girolamo Capponi and seems to be aquainted with the RCMP officer. He asks for information, as he is helping prepare Capponi’s defence. He is trying to clarify the nature of monies Capponi provided to Hamilton’s Casa d’Italia and Dopolavoro, which he believes were loans and not gifts. He claims that the secretary of the two organizations, Aurelio Del Piero (also interned but released in 1941), has confirmed they were loans, but that the financial books had been seized by the authorities.

Under the DOCR (Defence of Canada Regulations), after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice.

Letter from Price, Waterhouse & Co., to T. W. Laidlaw, August 21, 1940

MAKER
Price, Waterhouse & Co.

DATE
September 21, 1940

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property, RG117, Vol. 670, File 5023

This typewritten letter from Price, Waterhouse & Co., is addressed to T.W. Laidlaw, Counsel for the Custodian, Ottawa, ON. Written on August 21, 1940, the letter pertains to the internment of Phillip Perri.

The Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP), a branch of the Canadian government, oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. This government office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Families of internees often did not have access to the husband’s assets and bank accounts. As a result, families often had to negotiate with the CEP for stipends for daily subsistence or use of assets like an automobile. In some cases, where assets were lacking, the CEP divested itself of any interest and left the families to fend for themselves.

Here, the CEP agents in this case, Price, Waterhouse & Co., note that Perri was turned over to the RCMP by Toronto police who had him on a vagrancy charge. It’s unclear how someone who is homeless, a beggar or vagrant would constitute a legitimate threat against the security of the Canadian state, but he seems to have been interned for at least 18 months.

Prisoner of War mail, from Agostino Gaggiottini, to Custodian’s Office, December 30, 1940

MAKER
Agostino Gaggiottini

DATE
December 30, 1940

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property, RG117, Vol. 669, File 5016

This typewritten prisoner of war mail was signed by Agostino Gaggiottini, and is addressed to the Custodian’s Office, December 30, 1940.

The Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP) was a branch of the Canadian government that oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. This government office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Each accounting firm hired by the CEP would bill an internee for administrative costs even though internees did not ask for the CEP to be involved. Families of internees often did not have access to the husband’s assets and bank accounts. As a result, families often had to negotiate with the CEP for stipends for daily subsistence or use of assets like an automobile. In some cases, where assets were lacking, the CEP divested itself of any interest and left the families to fend for themselves.

In this case, Gaggiottini writes to complain about the CEP’s management of his affairs. He claims they have charged a 53% fee in collecting his last paycheck from his employer, which he describes as “excessive, in view of the small amount involved and the services rendered”.

Letter from Joseph Jean, M.P., to Pierre Casgrain, December 23, 1940

MAKER
Joseph Jean

DATE
December 23, 1940

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property, RG117, Vol. 667, File 4870

This typewritten letter in French, on official House of Commons stationary, was written by Joseph Jean MP, to Pierre Casgrain, Secretary of State, December 23, 1940. Jean, a Liberal member of the House of Commons and later the Solicitor General of Canada, writes with respect to the internment of Gabriele Frascadore.

Frascadore’s assets and business had been seized by the Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP), a branch of the Canadian government that oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. This government office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Families of internees often did not have access to the husband’s assets and bank accounts. As a result, families often had to negotiate with the CEP for stipends for daily subsistence or use of assets like an automobile. In some cases, where assets were lacking, the CEP divested itself of any interest and left the families to fend for themselves.

Jean notes that Mrs. Frascadore and several dependant children find it “impossible to live without these revenues”. He asks that she be permitted access to a specified amount.

Letter from Crowell, Balcom, & Co., to Custodian, October 11, 1940

MAKER
Crowell, Balcom, & Co.

DATE
October 11, 1940

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property, RG117, Vol. 2018, File 5059

This typewritten letter from Crowell, Balcom, & Co., is addressed to the Custodian, Department of the Secretary of State, Ottawa, ON. Written on October 11, 1940, the letter pertains to the families of internees in Cape Breton, N.S. — noting Giovanni Dal Bello by name and 22 others.

The Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP), a branch of the Canadian government, oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. This government office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Families of internees often did not have access to the husband’s assets and bank accounts. As a result, families often had to negotiate with the CEP for stipends for daily subsistence or use of assets like an automobile. In some cases, where assets were lacking, the CEP divested itself of any interest and left the families to fend for themselves.

Here, the CEP agents, Crowell, Balcom, & Co., note that they approve of relief requests for ca. 8-9 of the families (suggesting the CEP will have no further interests in their affairs). They also recommend that several of the Italian families have access to funds in bank accounts. However, with the exception of the Favretto family, they argue against allowing the families access to any vehicles, noting — “There was considerable feeling in New Waterford against these “foreigners”.”

Also see LDICEA2012.0017.0028 and LDICEA2012.0017.0029.a-b.

Letter from Crowell, Balcom, & Co., to Constable Ferguson, RCMP, October 11, 1940

MAKER
Crowell, Balcom, & Co. [illegible signature]

DATE
October 11, 1940

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property, RG117, Vol. 2018, File 5059

This two-page typewritten letter from Crowell, Balcom, & Co., is addressed to Constable Ferguson, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, New Waterford, N.S. Written on October 11, 1940, the letter pertains to the family of internee Giovanni Dal Bello. His wife had been in touch regarding the issues of the family business, access to the family car and funds.

The Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP), a branch of the Canadian government, oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. This government office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Families of internees often did not have access to the husband’s assets and bank accounts. As a result, families often had to negotiate with the CEP for stipends for daily subsistence or use of assets like an automobile. In some cases, where assets were lacking, the CEP divested itself of any interest and left the families to fend for themselves.

Here, the CEP agents in this case, Crowell, Balcom, & Co., argue against allowing the Dal Bello family access to the family car. Dal Bello’s wife has stated that she requires the car for the grocery business, as well as the operation of the proposed new radio business. She notes the current arrangment of renting a car is too costly, especially as her own vehicle rusts due to disuse. The CEP agents ask the RCMP to investigate the matter — determining how much has been spent on car rentals and the status of the family’s vehicle. They note that the exceptional circumstances of Peter Favretto’s business warranted the continued use of the car by his wife. Otherwise, “We are still unwilling to allow the dependants of interned enemies to drive around the country in automobiles”. They note potential risks to the Custodian — should there be an accident. Instead, they prefer the sale of the car. Some additional explanation is found in the document LDICEA2012.0017.0030.

Letter from Crowell, Balcom, & Co., to Gordon MacAulay, February 10, 1941

MAKER
Crowell, Balcom, & Co. [illegible signature]

DATE
February 10, 1941

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property, RG117, Vol. 2018, File 5059

This typewritten letter from Crowell, Balcom, & Co., is addressed to Gordon MacAulay, Inspector of Relief, New Waterford, N.S. Written on February 10, 1941, the letter pertains to the family of internee Giovanni Dal Bello. His wife, although not on government assistance, had been in touch with the relief office regarding the issues of access to the family car and funds.

As noted in the response, the Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP), a branch of the Canadian government, oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. This government office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Families of internees often did not have access to the husband’s assets and bank accounts. As a result, families often had to negotiate with the CEP for stipends for daily subsistence or use of assets like an automobile. In some cases, where assets were lacking, the CEP divested itself of any interest and left the families to fend for themselves.

Here, the CEP agents in this case, Crowell, Balcom, & Co., argue against allowing the Dal Bello family access to the family car. Their reasons for doing so are elaborated on in another document (see LDICEA2012.0017.0029.a-b).

Letter from Roger Ouimet, to Paul Martin, M.P., November 15, 1945

MAKER
Roger Ouimet

DATE
November 15, 1945

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property, RG117, Vol. 1976, File 3886

This typewritten letter is a translation from the French original written by Roger Ouimet, Attorney, to Paul Martin, M.P. and Secretary of State, on November 15, 1945. The nature of the informal address suggests the two parties were well acquainted with each other. The contents pertain to the internment of Italian-Canadian Antonio Dieni, who had operated a restaurant on the premises of the Casa d’Italia in Montreal. During his internment, the Casa d’Italia was seized by the government and used by the RCMP, and Dieni’s restaurant was closed and his equipment and furnishings lost. Dieni, through his legal representation, is seeking renumeration for his loses. Dieni claims no involvement with fascism. However, his brother Gentile Dieni, who was also interned, was a loyal and unapologetic fascist supporter.

Paul Martin was a Canadian politician with a long and distinguished career. Representing the Liberal Party, he was elected in 1935. In 1945, he entered Cabinet, serving as the Minister of National Health & Welfare and the Secretary of State.

His son, also named Paul Martin, became the 21st Prime Minister of Canada in 2003. In Prime Minister Paul Martin’s 2005 federal budget, the Canadian government set aside $25 million to address the claims of several communities seeking redress for internment, confiscation of property and businesses, and alienation. This was called the Acknowledgement, Commemoration and Education (ACE) Program. It was not the formal apology many had hoped for, nor would it provide compensation to the families affected. The fund was designated primarily for educational initiatives. When Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s government took office in 2006, it replaced the ACE Program with the Community Historical Recognition Program (CHRP), which was established to formally distribute monies to community initiatives.

Letter from Harry Hereford, to L. Guimont, July 15, 1940

MAKER
Harry Hereford

DATE
July 15, 1940

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property, RG117, Vol. 1985, File 3857

This typewritten letter is from Harry Hereford, Dominion Commissioner, to L. Guimont, General Director, Board of Economic Reconstruction, Department of Labour, Government of Quebec. Written on July 15, 1940, the letter pertains to the family of internee Antonio Monaco. The family had been on government relief prior to the internment, but the relief had been discontinued on June 26th. Hereford questions the cancellation and asks that the case be investigated further.

Enemy aliens were not entitled to government relief. However, the families of interned men could apply for relief. It appears the Monaco family may have been caught in this bureaucratic red tape.

Antonio’s brothers, Vincenzo and Donato Monaco, were also interned.

Letter from Vincent Gualano, to Sequester (Custodian) Department, June 27, 1940

MAKER
Vincent Gualano

DATE
June 27, 1940

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property, RG117, Vol. 651, File 3460

This letter is handwritten by Vincent Gualano, and addressed to the Sequester (Custodian) Department, on June 27, 1940.

The Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP), a branch of the Canadian government, oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. This government office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Families of internees often did not have access to the husband’s assets and bank accounts. As a result, families often had to negotiate with the CEP for stipends for daily subsistence or use of assets like an automobile. In some cases, where assets were lacking, the CEP divested itself of any interest and left the families to fend for themselves.

Vincent was the son of Italian-Canadian internee Domenico Gualano. In this letter, he asks that the Custodian release or allow access to the cash balance in two of his father’s bank accounts. He claims that the large family of 8 are struggling to make ends meet. He also describes himself, and presumably his family members, as loyal British subjects.

Letter from Vincent Gualano, to Custodian Department, July 6, 1940

MAKER
Vincent Gualano

DATE
July 06, 1940

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property, RG117, Vol. 651, File 3460

This letter is handwritten by Vincent Gualano, and addressed to the Custodian Department, on July 6, 1940.

The Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP), a branch of the Canadian government, oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. This government office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Families of internees often did not have access to the husband’s assets and bank accounts. As a result, families often had to negotiate with the CEP for stipends for daily subsistence or use of assets like an automobile. In some cases, where assets were lacking, the CEP divested itself of any interest and left the families to fend for themselves.

Vincent was the son of Italian-Canadian internee Domenico Gualano. In this letter, he asks that the Custodian release the last paycheck/wages due to his father for his work at C.N. Railway. He claims that the large family of 8 are struggling to make ends meet. He also describes his father as a loyal citizen and resident of Montreal for 34 years.

Letter from Fernande Biffi, to A.H. Mathieu, October 27, 1942

MAKER
Fernande Biffi

DATE
October 27, 1942

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property, RG117, Vol. 1928, File 2860

This five-page letter is handwritten in French by Fernande Biffi, and addressed to A.H. Mathieu, Assistant Deputy Custodian, on October 27, 1942.

The Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP), a branch of the Canadian government, oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. This government office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Families of internees often did not have access to the husband’s assets and bank accounts. As a result, families often had to negotiate with the CEP for stipends for daily subsistence or use of assets like an automobile. In some cases, where assets were lacking, the CEP divested itself of any interest and left the families to fend for themselves.

Fernande was the wife of Italian-Canadian internee A.S. Biffi. At the date of writing, her husband had been interned for over two years. Deprived of the primary breadwinner, she notes her financial struggles to provide for herself and her son. She mentions she has no regular monthly income and seems to have survived on savings due to frugality and deprivation. She is currently struggling to provide for her son’s needs — noting he is in a “growing phase”, and to maintain the family’s insurance policies. She also notes her inability to plan and make some decisions, suggesting that if she knew her husband were soon to be released, she might be able to try to maintain the insurance coverage. She also expresses frustration with another internee Carmelo Gaetano Grimaldi, who had been released over a year earlier and still had not repaid a $350 debt. She believes he misrepresented his financial situation, claiming to have no assets and income, which instead were all in his wife’s name. She also notes he has several employed children. She asks that the Custodian of Enemy Property compel him to repay a set amount of the debt on a monthly basis.

Letter from Thomas Vien, to E.H. Coleman, July 19, 1940

MAKER
Thomas Vien

DATE
July 19, 1940

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property, RG117, Vol. 1928, File 2860

This typewritten letter, on official House of Commons stationary, was written by Thomas Vien MP, to E.H. Coleman, the Secretary of State and Custodian of Enemy Property, July 19, 1940. Vien, Deputy Speaker and Liberal member of the House of Commons, writes with respect to the internment of A.S. Biffi.

The Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP), a branch of the Canadian government, oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. This government office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Families of internees often did not have access to the husband’s assets and bank accounts. As a result, families often had to negotiate with the CEP for stipends for daily subsistence or use of assets like an automobile. In some cases, where assets were lacking, the CEP divested itself of any interest and left the families to fend for themselves.

Vien would latter write another letter on behalf of the Biffi family (see LDICEA2012.0017.12.a-b).

Letter from A.S. Biffi (Seves), to wife, November 24, 1940, Petawawa, ON

MAKER
A.S. Biffi

DATE
November 24, 1940

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property, RG117, Vol. 1928, File 2860

Letter from A.S. Biffi (Seves), to wife (addressed as Ferde), November 24, 1940, sent from Petawawa Internment Camp. This typewritten letter is a copy of the original and appears in the internee’s Custodian of Enemy Property file. When letters were sent in another language (French, Italian), we often find these English copies in the file, sometimes with the original (if addressed to government authorities). We know all internee correspondence was vetted and censored by government authotiries, as this action indicates.

The contents of the letter refer to the situation whereby families of internees often did not have access to the husband’s assets and bank accounts. Instead, the Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP), a branch of the Canadian government, oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. This government office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. As a result, families often had to negotiate with the CEP for stipends for daily subsistence or use of assets like an automobile. In some cases, where assets were lacking, the CEP divested itself of any interest and left the families to fend for themselves.

Letter from Thomas Vien, to Secretary of State & Custodian of Enemy Property, Jan 23, 1941

MAKER
Thomas Vien

DATE
January 23, 1941

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property, RG117, Vol. 1928, File 2860

Letter from Thomas Vien MP, to the Secretary of State and Custodian of Enemy Property, January 23, 1941. Vien, Deputy Speaker and Liberal member of the House of Commons, writes with respect to the internment of A.S. Biffi, noting his French-born wife and their Canadian-born children are in financial need. Although Mrs. Biffi had sought out government relief, she had been declined as Biffi still possessed assets in the form of a Life Insurance Policy. Vien intercedes on her behalf for permission to draw the cash value of the policy, as well as the funds remaining from the sale of Biffi’s automobile.

The Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP) was a branch of the Canadian government that oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. This government office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Each accounting firm hired by the CEP would bill an internee for administrative costs even though internees did not ask for the CEP to be involved.

Letter from R.M. Allan, to Assistant Director of Internment Operations, February 27, 1941

MAKER
R.M. Allan

DATE
February 27, 1941

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Correctional Service of Canada, RG73, Accession 80-81/253, Box 73, 23-1, Part 1

This typewritten letter was sent by R.M. Allan, Warden of Kingston Penitentiary, to the Assistant Director of Internment Operations, on February 27, 1941. This letter follows on other correspondence pertaining to a donation of chocolate bars by the International Red Cross to female internees (see LDICEA2012.0017.0006-7).

Four Italian Canadian women were interned during World War II. They, along with 17 German Canadian women, were held at the Prison for Women in Kingston, Ontario. The prison was located on the north side of King St. West, across from the Kingston Penitentiary. The women were held in a separate wing known as the Internment Quarters. Women internees could receive letters and care packages.

At the date of the memo, February 27, 1941, only two of the Italian Canadian internees remained: Verna Lo Bosco and Maria Pressello. Their signatures appear on the memo of 12 names giving thanks for the donation (see LDICEA2012.0017.0006).

Letter from R.M. Allan, to Assistant Director of Internment Operations, November 2, 1940

MAKER
R.M. Allan

DATE
November 02, 1940

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Correctional Service of Canada, RG73, Accession 80-81/253, Box 73, 23-1, Part 1

Typewritten letter from R.M. Allan, Warden of Kingston Penitentiary, to Assistant Director of Internment Operations, November 2, 1940. This letter on visits to female internees indicates the change in government position. It appears, as with the male internees, that visits were originally forbidden. However, sometime in the fall of 1940, the authorities reconsidered (see LDICEA2012.0017.0004).

Four Italian Canadian women were interned during World War II. They, along with 17 German Canadian women, were held at the Prison for Women in Kingston, Ontario. The prison was located on the north side of King St. West, across from the Kingston Penitentiary. The women were held in a separate wing known as the Internment Quarters. Eventually, the female internees were allowed visitors. Family members could visit the prison, but meetings were limited to 15 minutes and supervised by a guard. If the visit was conducted in Italian, a translator was provided at the internee’s cost. Visitors were limited to two persons at a time, and visits could not take place on Sundays or statutory holidays.

Letter from H. Stethem, to the Warden, November 7, 1940

MAKER
H. Stethem

DATE
November 07, 1940

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Correctional Service of Canada, RG73, Accession 80-81/253, Box 73, 23-1, Part 1

This typewritten letter was sent by Lieut-Colonel H. Stethem (Assistant Director of Internment Operations), to the Warden, Kingston Penitentiary, November 7, 1940. The letter addresses rules and regulations pertaining to visits to the female internees housed at the prison. At the date of writing, visitors were not permitted to the internment camps where the male internees were held, but “It is not thought that these female internees could transmit any message which would be of value to the enemy”. Handwritten notes appear on the letter but are difficult to decipher.

Four Italian Canadian women were interned during World War II. They, along with 17 German Canadian women, were held at the Prison for Women in Kingston, Ontario. The prison was located on the north side of King St. West, across from the Kingston Penitentiary. The women were held in a separate wing known as the Internment Quarters. Family members could visit the prison, but meetings were limited to 15 minutes and supervised by a guard. If the visit was conducted in Italian, a translator was provided at the internee’s cost. Visitors were limited to two persons at a time, and visits could not take place on Sundays or statutory holidays.

Letter from R.M. Allan, to Assistant Director of Internment Operations, November 18, 1940

MAKER
R.M. Allan

DATE
November 18, 1940

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, Correctional Service of Canada, RG73, Accession 80-81/253, Box 73, 23-1, Part 1.

Letter from R.M. Allan, Warden, to the Assistant Director of Internment Operations, November 18, 1940. This typewritten letter on visits to female internees specifically references Italian-Canadian Maria Egilda Fontanella.

Four Italian Canadian women were interned during World War II. They, along with 17 German Canadian women, were held at the Prison for Women in Kingston, Ontario. The prison was located on the north side of King St. West, across from the Kingston Penitentiary. The women were held in a separate wing known as the Internment Quarters. Family members could visit the prison, but meetings were limited to 15 minutes and supervised by a guard. If the visit was conducted in Italian, a translator was provided at the internee’s cost.

This letter addresses a perceived bureaucratic oversight regarding permission of Fontanella to receive visitors. As it seems the conversation was in Italian, the authorities also had to ensure the presence of an interpreter so that the conversation could be understood by officials.

Letter to R.P. Kinkel from Everett Bristol of White, Ruel & Bristol, Nov. 19, 1943

MAKER
Everett Bristol

DATE
November 19, 1943

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of Martin Carbone, son

This is a one page typed letter from Everett Bristol of White, Ruel & Bristol Barristers, Solicitors, etc. addressed to R.P.Kinkel, dated November 19, 1943.

Post-release, many internees were charged by the Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP) an administration fee for the handling of their affairs while interned. The CEP was a branch of the Canadian government that oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. It would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Each accounting firm hired by the CEP would bill an internee for administrative costs even though internees did not ask for the CEP to be involved.

According to the Carbone family, Kinkel hired a lawyer to help fight Thomas (Tom) Joseph Carbone’s administration fee. This letter informs Kinkel that the Custodian has agreed to relieve Tom of the $55.16 administration fee.

Kinkel was a mine manager at Buffalo Ankerite Gold Mines Ltd. where Tom was employed before he was interned at Camp Petawawa in 1940. Kinkel was always supportive of Tom; for example, in July of 1940 shortly after Tom’s arrest, he wrote an oath and/or declaration in support of Tom’s character.

Letter to Thomas Joseph Carbone from Department of National Defence re- release, Nov. 1940

MAKER
H.E. Pense, Lieutenant-Colonel, Commandant

DATE
November 19, 1940

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of Martin Carbone, son

This is a one page typed letter to Thomas (Tom) Joseph Carbone from the Department of National Defence, dated Nov. 19, 1940.

The letter informs Tom that the Commandant of Camp Petawawa has received authority for his release. Also outlined are instructions of his return trip home: he is provided with a railway ticket to Timmins, departing Petawawa CPR Station at 1:20am S.T. the next day, and that upon arrival he is to register at his nearest Post Office.

Tom and his family lived in Timmins when World War II broke out. He was one of many arrested on June 10, 1940 and interned at remote camps across Canada.

Letter to Thomas (Tom) Joseph Carbone from co-workers, 1940

MAKER
Employees from Buffalo Ankerite Gold Mines Limited

DATE
1940

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of Martin Carbone, son

This is a short letter from employees at Buffalo Ankerite Gold Mines Limited to Thomas (Tom) Joseph Carbone, 1940.

The paper is a letterhead from the company and the short note reads, “To Tommy Carbone, With compliments of…” and lists 16 names including manager, R.P. Kinkel. The note has multiple creases indicating it was folded up into a small square. The family believes this letter accompanied a care package sent by the group to Tom who was interned at Camp Petawawa. Internees were allowed to receive care packages and mail from their family and friends, however the number of mail exchange was limited to a weekly/monthly basis and it underwent censorship.

Tom and his family lived in Timmins when World War II broke out. He was one of many arrested on June 10, 1940; he was interned until November of 1940.

Letter from Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli to Daniel Mascioli, January 7, 1941

MAKER
Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli

DATE
January 07, 1941

CREDIT LINE
With the permission of the Mascioli Family

This is a handwritten, one page letter from Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli to his son, Daniel Mascioli. Written on lined paper with blue ink in Italian. Dated January 7, 1941.

The translation provided by the Mascioli family is as follows:

Thank all our friends that have expressed their greetings for the recent feasts and we can see that not everyone believes us to be guilty. This is already a consolation. We that wanted to teach the Italian Canadians how to be a worthy citizen in this great and hospitable nation, they have interpreted all things to the contrary and have confined us here. But our conscience is clean, honest and tranquil knowing to have always done our duty towards Canada and await justice with a serene soul.

We have ordered certain stuff from Ninetta. Tell her to include the following when she prepares the parcel: 4 cans of Campbell soup (tomato), 1 dozen good apples and 1 of oranges, 2 cans of Yardley’s solidified Brillantine, 4 or 5 cans of tuna. That’s all we need for now. We attended last Sunday’s mass celebrated by Monsignor Antonicitti, the papal delegate from Ottawa. His preaching moved everyone. I don’t have much else to say. I am waiting for your next letter but it hasn’t arrived. Give my regards and kisses to Loretta and the kids. Tell her that I’m not writing to her because writing to you is like writing to all and sometimes I believe that she may not understand how I write.

Hello and affectionate regards, your father, Leo.

Letter from Pierre Taschereau to Antonio (Tony) Mascioli, September 12, 1941

MAKER
Pierre Taschereau

DATE
September 12, 1941

CREDIT LINE
With the permission of the Mascioli Family

This is a typewritten, two pages letter to Antonio (Tony) Mascioli from Pierre Taschereau, Secretary for the Advisory Committee in Ottawa. Dated September 12, 1941.

Antonio is being informed that he was detained for the following reasons:
1) That he was born in Italy and only acquired naturalization in May 1937.
2) That he was a member of the Italian fascio abroad, particularly the Timmins section of the Don Cesare Caravadossi Fascio of North Bay.
3) That he was the fiduciary of the group stated above.
4) That he had in his possession 15 membership cards for this same group
5) That three of these cards were his personally
6) That he participated in the activities of this group, an organization now declared illegal

Further, the letter states that an Advisory Comittee is willing to hear Antonio plead his case on September 25, 1941.

Letter from Price, Waterhouse & Co. to Leopoldo Mascioli and Antonio Mascioli, 1941

MAKER
Price, Waterhouse & Co.

DATE
February 24, 1941

CREDIT LINE
With the permission of the Mascioli Family

This is a one page typewritten letter from Price, Waterhouse & Co. to Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli and Antonio (Tony) Mascioli. Dated February 24, 1941.

The letter informs the Mascioli brothers that they owe Price, Waterhouse & Co. $1820.67 in administrative fees for Price’s handling of the Masciolis’ business affairs during their internment. The amount owed will be automatically withdrawn from their bank accounts at the Imperial Bank of Canada.

Price Waterhouse & Co. was an agent employed by the Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP), a branch of the Canadian government that oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. The government office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Each accounting firm hired by the CEP would bill an internee for administrative costs even though internees did not ask for the CEP to be involved.

Letter from Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli to Daniel Mascioli, July 24, 1940

MAKER
Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli

DATE
July 24, 1940

CREDIT LINE
With the permission of the Mascioli Family

This is a handwritten one page letter from Daniel Mascioli to his father, Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli. It is written in blue ink on lined paper. Dated, July 29, 1940.

Leo tells his son that he received the care package of fruits and cigars and that the fruits were of ok quality. He mentions that he and his brother, Tony, are waiting for the results of their hearing. Leo assures Daniel by saying,

We are feeling well and I hope all of you are the same. Regards to Loretta, the children, and Keith and don’t forget to cheer up Ninetta. Tony and I are always together. That’s quite a consolation. We can discuss our trouble and pass our time much faster. Your dad, Leo.

Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli and his brother Antonio (Tony) Mascioli were both interned at Camp Petawawa during WWII.

Letter from Daniel Mascioli to Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli, June 20, 1940

MAKER
Daniel Mascioli

DATE
June 20, 1940

CREDIT LINE
With the permission of the Mascioli Family

This is a one page typewritten letter from Daniel Mascioli to his father, Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli – interned at Camp Petawawawa. It is dated June 20, 1940.

Daniel tells his dad that the family went down to Toronto to see him but a guard informed them that they were not “allowed to see anybody down there.” Daniel was referring to the holding grounds in Toronto where a lot of the internees were held before being sent to Camp Petawawa. There were three known holding grounds: Don Valley Jail, Landsdowne barracks, and Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) grounds.

Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli and his brother, Antonio (Tony) Mascioli were both interned during WWII.

Letter from Daniel Mascioli to Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli, December 21, 1940

MAKER
Daniel Mascioli

DATE
December 21, 1940

CREDIT LINE
With the permission of the Mascioli Family

This is a typewritten, one page letter from Daniel Mascioli to his father, Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli – interned at Camp Petawawa. The letter is dated as December 21, 1940.

Daniel begins by stating that the entire family is disappointed that Leo is not home in time for Christmas. He mentions that care packages have been sent which include turkeys and other things. He also informs his dad that he gave out the usual Christmas bonuses to their employees.

Daniel signs off with:

This is hardly the occasion to wish you a Merry Christmas in the usual way but perhaps the circumstances will serve to make us remember Christmas in its true interpretation — that it is is a day of joy because of the birth of Chirst who was not born for joy but to suffer on our behalf that we may be spared greater sorrows than man can stand. If we can appraise our condition in relation to this thought Christmas day will not have been meaningless to us this year and in this sense I wish you a good Christmas with all my heart. My thoughts are with you, Daniel.

Letter from Daniel Mascioli to Reverend D.J. Harrington, November 4, 1940

MAKER
Daniel Mascioli

DATE
November 04, 1940

CREDIT LINE
With the permission of the Mascioli Family

This is a one page typewritten letter from Daniel Mascioli to Reverend D.J. Harrington, dated November 4, 1940. The Reverend is referred to as Captain, K. of C. Hut in Petawawa.

Daniel asks the Reverend to have a mass on November 19 “for the repose of the soul of my mother…and also another mass on November 10 for the repose of the soul of my grandfather. It will afford spiritual consolation to my father if these masses are celebrated at the internment camp and he can attend.” Also interned were priests, such as Father Maltempi and Reverends Balo, Sauro, and Scalera, who apparently also held mass at the camp for their fellow internees.

Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli, along with his brother, Antonio (Tony) Mascioli were both interned at Camp Petawawa during WWII. Leo’s wife died in 1914 and left Leo with three children.

Letter from Daniel Mascioli to Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli, January 30, 1941

MAKER
Unknown

DATE
January 30, 1941

CREDIT LINE
With the permission of the Mascioli Family

This is a typewritten one page letter written in English, dated January 30, 1941. It was sent by Daniel Mascioli to his father, Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli.

Daniel confirms that he made a cheque out to Ms. Constantini, as requested by Leo in his January 27, 1941 letter. Dan mentions that his brother-in-law, Keith Stirling, was in town overnight on a business trip. Dan informs his father: “he had been requested not to write to you as it is against military regulations for an enlisted man to write to persons interned.” Keith Stirling was serving in the Canadian Army fighting overseas, at the same time that Leo and Antonio Mascioli were interned.

Letter from Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli to Daniel Mascioli, January 27, 1941

MAKER
Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli

DATE
January 27, 1941

CREDIT LINE
With the permission of the Mascioli Family

This is a handwritten one page letter from Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli to his son, Daniel Mascioli. Dated January 27, 1941. Written in blue ink on lined paper and in Italian.

Leo tells his son to send $50 to a Miss Catarina Constantini in Ottawa, because he owed it to her before he was arrested and interned. He also sends his regards to a Mrs. C. Pierce who sent him a case of grapefruit. He asks Dan to send him more cigars and cigarettes in the next care package. Regarding business affairs, he reminds Dan to do the necessary repairs in all of their properties. He says that it’s cold in Petawawa but that he doesn’t work outside because he’s on the seniors’ list. “I’m only waiting for our release and it gets to our nerves. With a bit of time, we just forget about it. Hello to our friends if there are any left….”

Letter from Daniel Mascioli to Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli, January 19, 1941

MAKER
Daniel Mascioli

DATE
June 19, 1941

CREDIT LINE
With the permission of the Mascioli Family

This is a typewritten one page letter from Daniel Mascioli to his father, Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli. Dated January 19, 1941 and written on Daniel’s business letter head, which reads “Daniel J. Mascioli. Barrister, Solicitor, Notary Public, Timmins, Ontario.”

Daniel tells his father that he personally received many cards from the usual group, but that he also received many others from those individuals who normally send them to Leo directly. He says, “The idea being, I suppose, that I would act as your representative in receiving their good wishes.” He also assures his father that Caswell, one of the men that Leo chose to run one of their businesses, is doing well and that clients have good things to say about him. Daniel also reports on the various companies:

The operations of the various companies have been satisfactory for the past year. The hotels will show less operating profit as buisness was down in the first eight months but it was better than last year in the last four months of 1940. The theatres are about the same as in 1939, the Garage was better than last year, as also was the Lady Laurier Hotel. Construction is about the same as 1939. All companies have substantial cash reserves to meet any contigencies. I feel that you will find things in good shape when you return.

Daniel took over his father’s business affairs while his father was interned at Camp Petawawa.

Letter from Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli to Daniel Mascioli, October 24, 1940

MAKER
Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli

DATE
October 24, 1940

CREDIT LINE
With the permission of the Mascioli Family

This is a handwritten, one page letter from Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli to his son, Daniel Mascioli. Written on lined paper with blue ink in Italian. Dated October 24, 1940.

Here, Leo tells his son that a fellow internee “Domenic” has been sent home. He also makes mention of the latest care packages that he received, stating that he didn’t imagine the chickens would be sent by car. He also sends his hello to his daughter, Loretta, and her kids. He writes of his granddaughters: “I am pleased that Sandra speaks well and that Joan likes school. Remind Keith to not be as severe as a soldier with them. This way they’ll love him more.”

Letter from Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli to Daniel Mascioli, October 22, 1940

MAKER
Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli

DATE
October 22, 1940

CREDIT LINE
With the permission of the Mascioli Family

This is a handwritten, one page letter from Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli to his son, Daniel Mascioli. Written on lined paper with blue ink. Dated October 22, 1940.

Here, Leo writes about some of the things he and his brother, Antonio (Tony) Mascioli, do to the pass the time:

…You want to know what we are doing here? Not very much as far as work is concerned, but we pass our time fairly well, everything considered. Church service every Sunday, also the rosary every night by an able interned priest. Also quite a few fellow prisoners organize some funny entertainment and I tell you some of them are very clever. We certainly get good laughs whenever they do them and forget our trouble while we listen.

Letter from Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli to Daniel Mascioli, December 24, 1940

MAKER
Daniel Mascioli

DATE
August 20, 1940

CREDIT LINE
With the permission of the Mascioli Family

This is a handwritten, one page letter from Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli to his son, Daniel Mascioli. Written on lined paper with blue ink in Italian.

The translation provided by the Mascioli family is as follows:

December 24, 1940.

Dear Children,
I’ve received your beautiful letters today and it was truly a consolation to receive them before Christmas. I would bet that your disappointment of us not returning was greater than ours because we’re becoming more realistic here knowing that the authority always takes more time than we believed. We experienced a lot of disappointment in the past. For the rest, I’m more disappointed for you than us here. We are truly good and Christmas we are passing it fairly happily with all our good friends here.

You have done well to have given the usual Christmas gifts to the employees as have done in the past. Those that deserve it, we must remember them. I am pleased that the affairs for the current year were good. At least what I built with so much love and sacrifice and many years of work, without a doubt I have another consolation that you are truly worthy to move forward so well, the monument built by me with so much know how and good sense. (The same things that were told to the judge). I understand your words that baby Jesus came into this world to suffer. Imitate his example and let’s not give too much weight to our insignificant suffering considering that half the world is suffering today. I hope that this arrives for New Year’s. I send regards from Tony as well to all. Give a kiss from me to Joan and Sandra and I hope to find them beautiful and in good health. To Loretta and Keith, tell them that I always think of them. To you, a hug and thoughts.

Your affectionate father, Leo.

Letter from Daniel Mascioli to Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli, August 20, 1940

MAKER
Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli

DATE
December 24, 1940

CREDIT LINE
With the permission of the Mascioli Family

This is a typewritten, one page letter to Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli from his son, Daniel Mascioli. Dated August 20, 1940.

Daniel informs his dad that he has sent sheets and pillows for him and his uncle Tony – Antonio Mascioli. He also sent an English dictionary as per Leo’s request and offers to send an English-Italian one if needed. Further, Dan writes: “I got in touch with North Bay about the fruit and told them to change the fruit dealer; please let me know if future parcels received are of good quality. I suppose someone was trying to get away with sending inferior stuff.”

Daniel also tells his dad that the family businesses are going well and that construction is ongoing. With regards to the trial, Daniel assures his dad that news will come soon. He signs off with: “With best wishes to you and Tony and the hope that we shall be together again soon. Your son, Daniel.”

Letter from Roy Thomson to Daniel Mascioli, July 16, 1940

MAKER
Roy Thompson

DATE
July 16, 1940

CREDIT LINE
With the permission of the Mascioli Family

This is a handwritten one and a half page letter written by Roy Thomson to Daniel Mascioli, son of Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli. It was written with blue ink on a Prince Arthur Hotel stationary. The letter is dated as July 16, 1940.

Roy Thomson was a successful Canadian media mogul and businessman. He owned many radio stations and newspapers in Ontario, as well as other businesses. In 1931, he acquired a radio station, CFCH, which aired out of North Bay, ON. In 1934, he acquired his first newspaper, Timmins Daily Press. It was likely during this time that he met construction magnate, Leopoldo Mascioli. According to Leo’s granddaughter, Joan McKinnon, Roy was one of the few who remained friends with Leo during and after the internment period.

In this letter, Roy informs Daniel that he will be in North Bay in the coming weekend and then heading out to Petawawa on Monday morning. He invites Daniel to come with him to Petawawa to attend the trial – presumably Leo’s trial.

Letter from Lieut.-Colonel H. Stethem to Daniel Mascioli, June 22, 1940

MAKER
Lieut.-Colonel H. Stethem

DATE
June 22, 1940

CREDIT LINE
With the permission of the Mascioli Family

This is a typewritten one page letter from Lieut.-Colonel H. Stethem to Daniel Mascioli, dated June 22, 1940. Daniel is the son of Leopoldo (Leo) Mascioli and nephew of Antonio (Tony) Mascioli, both interned at Camp Petawawa during World War II. Also enclosed is a one page typewritten Instructions form, meant as a general guide to families when writing to an interned family member.

Stethem informs Daniel that he has received his letter to his father, and that it has been forwarded to the camp. Stethem also explains to Daniel that there is no restriction to the amount of letters that his father can receive, “provided that the correspondence is not unreasonable and the letters are of reasonable length.” Further, that any letters written in another language other than English will be sent to Ottawa to the Department of the Secretary of State, Internment Operations, for translation. The internees were allowed to write one letter a week, of up to two pages for letters written in English and French, and one page for those in Italian. Internees’ outgoing letters were free of postage.

Also attached as a separate page were intructions meant to provide guidelines to families when writing to internees. The guide includes 13 points, some of which include:

1) Letters must be written in either English, French or German and Italian and limited to a reasonable number.
5) Letters must not contain drawings, pictures, shorthand, music, unintelligible signs or marks and all surnames referred to must be written in full. The use of abbreviations, odd letters or unnecessary figures is prohibited.
11) Letters must not contain any reference to the operations of war nor economic nor political situation.

Prohibited items were also listed such as fountain pens, ink, writing paper, notebooks, candles, inflammable materials, cigarette papers or pharmaceutical products.

Letter to Luisa Guagneli from son

MAKER
Unknown

DATE
June 22, 1940

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Luisa Guagneli

This is a handwritten letter from Eugene Guagneli to his mother, Luisa Guagneli, while she was interned at Kingston Penitentiary during WWII. The letter is dated February 23, 1941. It is written with blue ink on lined loose-leaf paper. In this letter, Eugene tells his mother that the family is worried because they haven’t heard from her in weeks. He assures her that everyone is fine back home, including his younger sister Marie “who takes her cod liver oil daily.” He talks about going to the movies to see Gone with the Wind and about his project at school which he received 45 out of 50. He also writes, “Today, I went to church … I pray for you always and I have taught Marie the Lord’s Prayer. We say it together every night.”

Mail correspondence between internees and their families underwent a censorship procedure by the Internment Camps. In fact, Eugene writes in this very letter: “In your last letter there were seven lines cut out. I am very sorry there were some lines cut out of mine. I can’t imagine what I could have said that should have been cut out.”

Luisa Guagneli was one of four women interned during World War II. Her son Eugene and her husband Arturo were designated as enemy aliens.

Letter to Luisa Guagneli from son

MAKER
Unknown

DATE
June 22, 1940

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Luisa Guagneli

This is a handwritten letter from Eugene Guagneli to his mother, Luisa Guagneli, while she was interned at Kingston Penitentiary during WWII. It is written with blue ink on lined loose-leaf paper. In this letter, Eugene tells his mother of his marks recently received at school; for example in French, he got “the highest” in his class with a 93. He also writes, “Daddy has a lot of work right now so you don’t have to worry.” Lastly, Eugene tells his mom that he has been saving up for Christmas and asks her what she would like. He signs off: “Your loving son, Eugene Guagneli. Love and Kisses from all. Hundreds + thousands from Marie (his sister) and me.” The letter is dated December 5, 1940.

Mail correspondence between internees and their families underwent a censorship procedure by the Internment Camps.

Luisa Guagneli was one of four women interned during World War II. Her son Eugene and her husband Arturo were designated as enemy aliens.

Envelope addressed to Luisa Guagneli from son

MAKER
Unknown

DATE
December 06, 1940

INSCRIPTIONS
Verso: (Stamp, black ink, bottom right) NIAGARA FALLS ONTARIO 1940 DEC

Recto: (Handwritten, black ink, centered) Mrs. Guagneli, / Female Internment Quarter / Box 22, Kingston, Ont.
(Stamp, black ink, top center) NIAGARA FALLS / Dec 6 / 1 PM / 1940 / ONTARIO
(Stamp, red ink, right center) CANADA INT. OP. CENSORED

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Luisa Guagneli

This is an envelope addressed to Luisa Guagneli when she was interned during WWII at Kingston Penitentiary. Enclosed in this envelope was a letter from her teenage son, Eugene Guagneli. The envelope is postmarked Dec 6, 1940 1PM at Niagara Falls, Ontario and also features the internment camp’s censored stamp. Mail correspondence between internees and their families underwent a censorship procedure by the Internment Camps.

Luisa Guagneli was one of four women interned during World War II. Her son Eugene and her husband Arturo were designated as enemy aliens.

Letter from J. Healey, RCMP Inspector, to Domenic Gaggi, October 4, 1943

MAKER
J. Healey, RCMP Inspector

DATE
October 04, 1943

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the daughters of Yolanda and Domenico Gaggi

Letter from J. Healey, RCMP Inspector, to Domenic Gaggi, October 4, 1943. During the war, Domenico (naturalized British subject since 1937) and his Canadian-born wife Yolanda were designated as Enemy Aliens. Under the Defence of Canada Regulations (DOCR), enemy aliens were not allowed to keep guns, only under certain conditions and with special permission.

Letter from J. Healey, RCMP Inspector, to Domenic Gaggi, October 4, 1943

MAKER
J. Healey, RCMP Inspector

DATE
October 04, 1943

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the daughters of Yolanda and Domenico Gaggi

Letter from J. Healey, RCMP Inspector, to Domenic Gaggi, October 4, 1943. During the war, Domenico (naturalized British subject since 1937) and his Canadian-born wife Yolanda were designated as Enemy Aliens. Under the Defence of Canada Regulations (DOCR), enemy aliens were not allowed to keep guns, only under certain conditions and with special permission.

Envelope, addressed to Domenic Gaggi, from the RCMP, October 4, 1943

MAKER
Royal Canadian Mounted Police

DATE
October 04, 1943

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the daughters of Yolanda and Domenico Gaggi

Envelope, addressed to Domenic Gaggi, from the RCMP, October 4, 1943. On the face, handwritten in pencil is Hunting licenses.

During the war, Domenico (naturalized British subject since 1937) and his Canadian-born wife Yolanda were designated as Enemy Aliens. Enemy Aliens were not allowed to keep guns, only under certain conditions and with special permission.

Letter from J.P. Ebbs, to Giuseppe Costantini, January 6, 1941

MAKER
J.P. Ebbs

DATE
January 06, 1941

CREDIT LINE
With the permission of Rosemary Poggione

Letter from J.P. Ebbs, to Giuseppe Costantini, January 6, 1941. Ebbs seems to be acting in a legal capacity for Costantini and his family. The letter notes ongoing discussions with Costantini’s eldest daughter. The letter was sent to Costantini at Camp Petawawa, and bears a censor’s stamp.

Costantini was interned for just under 8 months. A widower, his seven children, six of which were dependants, were left to fend for themselves.

Letter from J.P. Ebbs, to Giuseppe Costantini, December 3, 1940

MAKER
J.P. Ebbs

DATE
December 03, 1940

CREDIT LINE
With the permission of Rosemary Poggione

Letter from J.P. Ebbs, to Giuseppe Costantini, December 3, 1940. Ebbs seems to be acting in a legal capacity for Costantini and his family. The letter notes discussions with a judge, likely from the Advisory Committee, appointed to review the internees’ objections to internment. The letter was sent to Costantini at Camp Petawawa, and bears a censor’s stamp.

Costantini was interned for just under 8 months. A widower, his seven children, six of which were dependants, were left to fend for themselves.

Letter from the Superintendent of Personnel, to J.P. Ebbs, April 3, 1941

MAKER
Superintendent of Personnel, Canadian National Railways

DATE
April 03, 1941

CREDIT LINE
With the permission of Rosemary Poggione

Letter from the Superintendent of Personnel, to J.P. Ebbs, Canadian National Railways, Montreal, QC, April 3, 1941. The letter indicates that Giuseppe Costantini is to be reinstated in his former position as Parcel Clerk, Union Station, Ottawa. He had lost this employment due to his internment on June 10, 1940. Following his release, after about 8 months at Petawawa Internment Camp, he had asked to return to his position.

Letter from Frank Costantini, to Giuseppe Costantini, December 5, 1940

MAKER
Frank Costantini

DATE
December 05, 1940

CREDIT LINE
With the permission of Rosemary Poggione

Letter from Frank Costantini, to his father Giuseppe Costantini, December 5, 1940. Frank expresses his expectation and hope that his father will be home for Christmas: “don’t you worry, we will all be eating Christmas dinner just like we have been doing for the past 23 Years, may god see to that”. In fact, Costantini was not released by the holidays, but early in the following year. The letter bears a stamp indicating it has been reviewed by the censor.

Receiving mail was an important occasion for internees. For most, letters were the only contact they had with family.

Letter from Fr. Philippe M. Forguis, to Giuseppe Costantini, February 1, 1941

MAKER
Frank Costantini

DATE
February 01, 1941

CREDIT LINE
With the permission of Rosemary Poggione

Letter from Fr. Philippe M. Forguis(?), written in Italian, to Giuseppe Costantini, February 1, 1941. The letter also references interned Priest Benedetto Maltempi, who was released a day prior, and presumably internee Gino Tiezzi, who was also from Ottawa and actively involved at the local church — St. Anthony’s.

The priest writes Costantini not to lament Maltempi’s release, who provided solace and comfort to the internees. He notes that hopefully, Costantini too will soon be freed. There is also a vague reference to much work and/or activities undertaken by the priest, with some struggle and opposition, the purpose for which is not specified. He notes he has frequently visited Costantini’s family. He also explains why he has not written Costantini. It seems that communication from the camp and from home allowed for timely updates and any news to be known, so writing was not considered necessary. He asks Constantini to take care of himself — not to loose additional weight. He also takes some credit for the camp visit over the past Christmas Holidays by a unnamed papal official.

Letter from Marietta Monaco, to Price Waterhouse, September 25, 1940

MAKER
Marietta Monaco

DATE
September 25, 1940

CREDIT LINE
Library and Archives Canada, RG 117, Vol. 656, File 3853

Letter from Marietta Monaco of Montreal, QC, wife on internee Antonio Monaco, to Price Waterhouse, detailing the family’s situation and asking for assistance to pay rent.

The letter reads as follows:

Gentlemen:

I am a very needy Italian woman with four children God intrusted in my care. My husband has been interned at Petawawa Internment Camp since June 10, 1940.

I receive my relief from the city but I haven’t sufficient for to buy fuel for to keep the house warm for my children; nor enough to buy clothing for myself and the children. My landlady haunts me day in and day out for her rent but I cannot afford it on the small amount I receive each week, so could you help me in paying my rent and in that way help this little family keep together? May God Bless you in your good work!

Sincerely,
Marietta Monaco [signature]

Note that the style of the signature does not match the penmanship of the body of the letter. This suggests that the letter was written by another person, perhaps a family friend or nieghbour.

Draft letter from Ruggero Bacci, to Deputy Minister of Justice, May 25, 1942

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
May 25, 1942

CREDIT LINE
With the permission of his granddaughter Alda

Draft letter from Ruggero Bacci, to Deputy Minister of Justice, May 25, 1942, two pages. The second page of the final copy which was mailed to the authorities is in possession of the family. That version also bears Bacci’s signature and a stamp from the censor. It is not known what happened to the first page, and how the letter came into the possession of the Bacci family. However, the information in the final mailed version is the same as the text in this draft.

Internee Ruggero Bacci wrote this typewritten letter in Camp Petawawa. He reviews the legal circumstances of his case. Originally detained under Regulation 21 of the Defence of Canada Regulations, Bacci is now held under Regulation 25(8). He does not understand the change and asks for an explanation. He admits that he was active in the fascio, noting that membership and such activity was not considered illegal prior to the war. He also vehemently denies any action by himself or other members of the fascio that would be “detrimental to this country”. He claims the fascio was non-political, and was instead “a simple moral organization”. This contention is suspect given what is known about the fascio and those involved. However, at this point, Bacci had been interned for almost 2 years, and his family was struggling at home.

Also, it is clear that the charges against Bacci and others were not fully communicated to the internees themselves. As Bacci notes, he is told that due to his past conduct, the authorities have determined that his release would not be in the interest of the state. However, “I do not know what my supposed accusation are and as the word conduct is mentioned, I should like to know if by such a statement they are referring to my activities in the above mentioned association [fascio] or else my conduct in general”. In response, he writes “I have loved my country of origin and likewise, I have loved this country of my adoption, where my family, and I have lived, live and intend to live. My conduct has always been beyond reproach towards the laws of Canada and have brought up my family in this way.”

He notes that he is willing to fight for Canada in the war, but would not fight against Italians. This is likely a reflection of what he was asked in his hearing over a year previous. Among the standard questions posed to internees during their hearings were: Are you willing to fight defending Canada?; followed by: Are you willing to fight for Canada against the Italian state? Bacci writes “As I said to the Hon. Mr. Justice Hyndman, I am sorry that these two countries, Italy and Canada, which are close to my heart, are at war, and I must truthfully say that this, Sir, was never my wish, but after all, as this war is a reality, am I perhaps responsible for such a state of affairs?”

Bacci also notes his wife’s health has suffered during his internment as had the education of his children. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. His oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family.

Bacci would be interned for another year. After his release in May 1943, he returned to Toronto, where he remained for the rest of his life.

Letter from D.C. Saul, to Mrs. M. Tambosso, September 9, 1942

MAKER
D.C. Saul

DATE
September 09, 1942

DIMENSIONS
ca. 10 x ca. 8 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

Letter from D.C. Saul (RCMP Inspector, Registrar General for Enemy Aliens), to Margaret Tombasso, September 9, 1942, regarding the internment of Ruggero Bacci. Saul notes that Bacci is not being considered for release.

Margaret Tombasso is identified as Bacci’s sister-in-law. It’s unclear what her relationship was, if any, to Alessandro Tambosso, an internee also from Toronto.

Also see LICEA2012.0002.0058.

Letter from F. Cockerill, to Mrs. Erminia Bacci, January 29, 1942

MAKER
F. Cockerill

DATE
January 29, 1942

DIMENSIONS
10 x ca. 8 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

Letter from F. Cockerill (Major, Acting Adjutant, for Commandant, Petawawa Internment Camp), to Mrs. Erminia Bacci, January 29, 1942.

This letter provides notice to Erminia Bacci that she is permitted to visit her husband, internee Ruggero Bacci, on February 8, 1942. She is also permitted to bring her two sons. Regulations that govern the visit were enclosed with the letter. The document referenced is most likely LICEA2012.0002.0075.

During the early stages of internment, family visits were prohibited at the camps. As time passed, it does seem that in rare cases, family members travelled to Petawawa for a brief meeting with a husband or father.

Also see LICEA2012.0002.0087 and LICEA2012.0002.0051.

Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. His oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

Letter from D.C. Saul, to Commissioner of Internment Operations, September 22, 1942

MAKER
D.C. Saul

DATE
September 22, 1942

DIMENSIONS
11 x 8.5 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

Letter from D.C. Saul (RCMP Inspector for Registrar General of Enemy Aliens), to Commissioner of Internment Operations, September 22, 1942.

In this letter, a report is provided on the condition of internee Ruggero Bacci’s wife. Previously, Bacci had requested release or temporary parole to be with his wife, who he wrote was not well. The RCMP in Toronto investigated and recommended that “no good purpose would be served” in granting Bacci’s request. They note, “She does not appear to be suffering from any nervous condition” and is expected to be released from the hospital within a couple of weeks.

According to family, Bacci’s wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. His oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

Also see LICEA2012.0002.0077 and LICEA2012.0002.0071.

Letter from C. Batch (RCMP), to Mrs. M. Bacci, May 7, 1942

MAKER
C. Batch

DATE
May 07, 1942

DIMENSIONS
10 x 8 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

Letter from C. Batch (RCMP Inspector for Registrar General of Enemy Aliens), to Mrs. M. Bacci, May 7, 1942.

In this letter, the R.C.M.P. Inspector writes to the wife of internee Ruggero Bacci. The inspector notes that as an Italian national, Bacci comes under the jurisdiction of the Registrar General of Enemy Aliens, who considers Bacci a threat to public safety. He further advises that given the evidene in Bacci’s case, his release is “improbable”.

Bacci was interned for almost three years. According to family, Bacci’s wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. His oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

Letter from D.C. Saul, to Alfo Bacci, September 22, 1942

MAKER
D.C. Saul

DATE
September 22, 1942

DIMENSIONS
10 x 8 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

Letter from D.C. Saul (RCMP Inspector for Registrar General of Enemy Aliens), to Alfo Bacci, September 22, 1942.

In this letter, the R.C.M.P. Inspector writes to the youngest son of internee Ruggero Bacci. Previously Bacci had asked to be released to see his wife, who needed emergency gallbladder surgery (LICEA2012.0002.0071). His request seems to have been denied. As indicated in this letter, the authorities investigated her condition and determined it to be “progressing quite favourably”. The writer also tells the son that a thorough review was made of his father’s case, resulting in a recommendation that his internment be continued.

According to family, Bacci’s wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. His oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

Letter from C. Batch (RCMP), to Mrs. E. Bacci, January 31, 1942

MAKER
C. Batch

DATE
January 31, 1942

DIMENSIONS
10 x 8 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

Letter from C. Batch (Inspector, Assistant Intelligence Officer, RCMP), to Mrs. E. Bacci, January 31, 1942.

In this letter, the R.C.M.P. Inspector writes the wife of internee Ruggero Bacci. Originally detained under Regulation 21 of the Defence of Canada Regulations, Bacci is now held under Regulation 25(8). As a result, he apparently is “not privileged to appeal”.

Under Regulation 21, the Minister of Justice had the ability to intern any individual suspected of acting “in any manner prejudicial to the public safety or the safety of the state.” Under this regulation, habeas corpus – the need to produce evidence against an internee – and the right to a fair trial were suspended. However, after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice.

Under Regulation 25, the Registrar General of Enemy Aliens, appointed by the Governor in Council, could also intern enemy aliens considered a threat to public safety and who refused to sign an undertaking.

As a leading member of the Fascio Umberto Principe, Bacci was originally detained under Regulation 21. He did have a review of his case, and his detention was ordered continued by Justice J.D. Hyndman. It appears as an Italian national, he then fell under Regulation 25, and his internment was continued under this provision.

Letter from Ruggero Bacci, to the Deputy Minister of Justice, May 8, 1942

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
May 08, 1942

DIMENSIONS
13 x 8 inches

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto:
(Typewritten, black ink, body text):
On July 15, 1940, I had a hearing before Mr. Justice Hyndman, / and in October 1940, I received a letter form your Department / stating that my detention shoul be continued for the time being / at least.

Since then I have not heard anything further regarding my case. I do not know whether the Advisory Committe will review it and give it further consideration, and for this reason I shoul like to / know the present status of my case. /

I have always been a law-abiding and loyal citizen to this / Country, and have raised my children to respect the laws of this / Country and be good Canadian. I have no criminal record whatso- / ever and I feel that I am liked in my district as the letters of / reference on my behalf will attest. I conscientiously feel that I / have never been a danger or menace to this country, and I am certain / that I shall never be. / This is the first letter that I write to your Department and / I was only prompted to do do because I am needed at home. / Trusting that you wil re-consider and review my case in the near / future and hoping to receive a favourable reply regarding my case, I am

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

Letter from Ruggero Bacci, to the Deputy Minister of Justice, May 8, 1942.

In the letter Bacci refers to a review of his case by the Advisory Committee and Justice J.D. Hyndman in Fall 1940. The result was his continued detention for another 19 months, and no additional explanation about his case. Bacci asks whether an additional review will take place, noting he has always been a law-abiding resident of Canada.

Under the the DOCR (Defence of Canada Regulations), after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice.

Letter from F.P. Varese, to Margaret Tombasso, September 29, 1941

MAKER
F.P. Varese

DATE
September 29, 1941

DIMENSIONS
10 x 8 inches

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto:
(Typewritten, black ink, body text):
With reference to your letter of / the 15th instant, I may say that an Advisory / Committee recommended the continued detention of / the above party and there is, therefore, nothing / further which can be done at the present time with / respect to this case.

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

Letter from F.P. Varese, Assistant Deputy Minister of Justice, to Margaret Tombasso, September 29, 1941, regarding the internment of Ruggero Bacci. Varese notes that as a result of Bacci’s case review by the Advistory Committee, a decision has been made to continue his detention.

Margaret Tombasso is identified in another letter as Bacci’s sister-in-law. It’s unclear what her relationship was, if any, to Alessandro Tambosso, an internee also from Toronto.

Letter from F.P. Varese, to Margaret Tombasso, September 29, 1941

MAKER
Government of Canada

DATE
May 25, 1943

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

Route letter for Ruggero Bacci, issued by the Commandant, Fredericton Internment Camp, May 25, 1943.

The document was issued to Bacci upon his release and is also signed by him. A standard form, it notes the second-class train ticket provided, along with a food ration for the return home. The internee also acknowledges receipt of his personal effects and the balance of his camp account.

Letter from D.C. Saul, to Mrs. R. Bacci, November 20, 1942

MAKER
D.C. Saul

DATE
November 20, 1942

DIMENSIONS
10 x 8 inches

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto:
(Typewritten, black ink, body text):
Dear Madam: / 1. Your letter of recent date addressed / to the Minister of Justice has been transferred / to this Department for reply. / 2. The condition of your nerves and health / generally are fully appreciated by this Department / and are much regretted. / 3. Your husband, an Italian national, was / interned principally on account of his prominence / in the Fascio. As such he had sworn to assist the / leaders of the Fascist regime to the utmost of his / ability. While in times of peace the fact that he / had subscribed to such an oath does not mean very / much, in time of war such a fact leaves no doubt / in the minds of the authorities but that his / liberty constitutes a serious danger to the safety / of the State. / 4. Under the circumstances, it is regretted / that no action can be taken to bring about your / husband’s release.

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

Letter from D.C. Saul, RCMP Inspector for the Registrar General of Enemy Aliens, to Mrs. R. Bacci, November 20, 1942.

In the letter, the RCMP provides an explanation to the wife of internee Ruggero Bacci regarding his internment. The reason for his arrest and detainment centre on his involvement with the Fascio Umberto Principe. The letter highlights some of the frustrations and confusion faced by the families and internees. They could not understand why certain men had been arrested and interned. Membership in organizations like the fascio, the Italian War Veterans Association, and the Order Sons of Italy were often the cause. Yet, these organizations had operated for years. The fascios themselves were only declared illegal in June 1940.

Also, the letter indicates the inaction on the part of the government with respect to the situation faced by the families left behind. Although the writer expresses regret for the impact on Mrs. Bacci’s nerves and health, little or no real assistance was provided to her or other wives of internees. Instead, Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. The oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

Letter from Ruggero Bacci, to his wife Minnie Bacci, March 2, 1943

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
March 02, 1943

DIMENSIONS
ca. 13.5 x ca. 6.25 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

Letter from Ruggero Bacci, to his wife Minnie Bacci, March 2, 1943. The letter is typewritten in Italian on standard issue paper and is sent from Fredericton Internment Camp.

In the letter Bacci reports that the group hearing the objections to internment had not been present at camp since February 5th. Of the four Italian Canadians remaining from Toronto, he notes that three are not citizens (naturalized British subjects). He asks his wife to remain patient, and to also obtain work reference and referral letters for him, one copy of which should be sent to the authorities. He also asks that his children write in a timely and regular fashion, as he fears for their health when there is a delay. He notes his stomach condition is improved. He also send greetings and thanks to Primo and his other friends. It is likely this is the same Primo Danesi, who sent a letter to Bacci in camp (see LICEA2012.0002.0015).

Letter from Primo Danesi, to Ruggero Bacci, Toronto, ON, February 16, 1943

MAKER
Primo(?) Danesi

DATE
February 16, 1943

DIMENSIONS
11 x 8.5 inches

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto:
(Typewritten, blue ink, body text):
How are you coming along now? Good I / hope. Everything here is fine except the weather. / It’s terrific!!! / Aldo is still working for me and he is / coming along real good with his painting. Aldo / was telling me he thought there was hopes of your / coming home. I was speaking to your wife and they / are all happy with the prospects of your home coming. / I really want to see you back myself, Ruggero and / I’m sure lots of other people do. / I guess you know how hard it is to get / people for my type of work just now and I want you / to know I have a job for you as soon as you’re / released. / I’m in my new home now but however I / won’t explain that as you’ll see it when you come/ out.

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

Letter from Primo(?) Danesi, to Ruggero Bacci, Toronto, ON, February 16, 1943. The letter is sent on stationary for the Danesi Art Manufacturing Co.

Prior to his arrest, Ruggero Bacci had been working for the Florentine Lighting Company. He was arrested at his workplace along with co-workers Antonio and Pietro Danesi. The exact relationship of the Danesi brothers to the writer of this letter is not known.

The writer notes that Bacci’s son Aldo is employed by the company, and implies a strong friendship between himself and the Bacci family.

Letter from Ruggero Bacci, to Minnie Bacci, March 25, 1943

MAKER
Ruggero Bacci

DATE
March 25, 1943

DIMENSIONS
ca.13.5 x ca. 6.25 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

Letter from Ruggero Bacci, to his wife Minnie Bacci, March 25, 1943. The letter is typewritten in Italian on standard issue paper and is sent from Fredericton Internment Camp.

In the letter Bacci asks that his wife ignore what others in the community may be saying about him. Bacci believes he had done nothing to be ashamed of, noting that he is interned because he is Italian and not because of any criminal activity. He believes an indifferent attitude to them from her is the best response. He recognizes that his children and wife are suffering due to his internment, but expects it to be temporary. He also reports that although the group hearing the objections to internment had been present at camp, he himself had not been interviewed. He mentions the expected release of the “doctor” but does not name him. Regardless, he is likely speaking of Donato Sansone. Bacci himself was released about 2 months after this letter was written.

Letter from W.H. Davis, The Florentine Co. Limited, March 9, 1943

MAKER
Unknown

DATE
March 09, 1943

DIMENSIONS
11 x ca. 8.5 inches

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto:
(Typewritten, blue ink, body text):
This is to certify that Rodger Bacci was / in our employ for several years being / apprehended in June 1940. / During his long association with us we / found him industrious, reliable and of good / character. / If at any time he applied to us for work / with Selective Service credentials we would gladly / find a place for him.

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

Letter from W.H. Davis(?), The Florentine Co. Limited, March 9, 1943, on behalf of Ruggero Bacci.

Ruggero Bacci was employed by the company at the time of his arrest. In fact, he was taken directly from his workplace, along with co-workers Antonio and Pietro Danesi, and the co-owner of the company, Massimo Iacopo Magi.

Letter from W.R. Jackett, to Ruggero Bacci, July 5, 1940

MAKER
W. R. Jackett

DATE
July 05, 1940

DIMENSIONS
13 x 8 inches

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto:
(Typewritten, blue ink, body text):
I have been directed by the Committee / appointed by the Minister of Justice to deal with / your objection to your detention to advise you that / your detention has been deemed necessary in the / interest of the state because representations have / been made that you:- / (a) are a member of the Fascist Party, / of the Dopolavoro and the G.I.L.E.; / (b) are a fascist organizer and agitator; / (c) donated gold to Italy; / and in the view of the above, you appear to be disloyal / to Canada. / Unless you make some representation / with regard to the date of hearing, you will be / heard by the Committee at Petawawa on or after the / 15th day of July, and I would suggest that you be / ready to present your case by that day.

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the Bacci Family

Letter from W.R. Jackett, to Ruggero Bacci, July 5, 1940, explaining the three charges resulting in Bacci’s detention.

The letter was written in response to Bacci’s objection to his internment. Under the DOCR (Defence of Canada Regulations), after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice.

The charges centre around Bacci’s membership and work with the Fascio Principe Umberto in Toronto. However, such groups were not illegal in Canada until June 1940; Bacci was interned on June 10.

Letter from Windsor Police, to Douglas N. Brombal, December 5, 1990

MAKER
James C. Adkin and John W. Whiteside

DATE
December 05, 1990

DIMENSIONS
11 x 8.5 inches

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of Doug Brombal and Family

Letter from Windsor Police Chief, James C. Adkin, and Chair of the Board of Commissioners of Police, John W. Whiteside, to Douglas N. Brombal, December 5, 1990. The letter advises Doug Brombal of the special presentation scheduled for December 11, 1990 to take place at City Hall, City of Windsor regarding his father’s termination from the Windsor police force in 1940.

Nereo Brombal immigrated to Canada from Italy ca. 1914. He had met his German-born wife Johanna in northern Ontario. The family would settle in Windsor and the Brombals had 2 children.

In 1940, Brombal was fired from the Windsor Police Department due to his Italian birth. His son Douglas remembers a few tense years during the war, given his mixed German/Italian family.

Brombal would never return to his position as a police officer. However, in December 1990, the Windsor Police Commission apologized to Brombal’s family. They also created Camp Brombal, for underpriviliged kids, and run by volunteers from the police department, in Nereo Brombal’s honour.

Letter from the J.S. Woodsworth M.P., to Mrs. Sauro, October 18, 1940

MAKER
J.S. Woodsworth

DATE
October 18, 1940

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto:
ICEA2010.0005.0055.a
[t-b, l-r]: [printed on paper] [crest] / House of Commons / Canada [handwritten in ink] 60 Maryland St., / Winnipeg, Oct. 18, 1940. / Dear Mrs. Sauro.- If your story is / correct – and I can readily credit it – / the situation is outrageous. / There are two lines along which it / seems to me possible to work. First, / Civil Liberties, second, the Church. / I have presented the case through / a friend, to the moderator and have / sent a copy of your letter to our Head / Office in Ottawa asking the Secretary / to take whatever action is possible. / Unfortunately I myself am quite ill and cannot follow this matter up

ICEA2010.0005.0055.b
[t-b, l-r]: [handwritten in ink] 2. [printed on paper] [crest] / House of Commons / Canada [handwritten in ink] personally but trust that something / may come out of the lines I have / initiated. / With kindest regards / Yours sincerely, / J. S. Woodsworth. / (per L. L. W.)

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from the J.S. Woodsworth M.P., to Mrs. Sauro, October 18, 1940, two pages.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

From his arrest, Clementina was relentless in her mission to have her husband released. She wrote many letters on his behalf, including letters to M.J. Coldwell, an M.P. from the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation of Canada Party (CCF), and as indicated in this case to J.S. Woodsworth, M.P. and the first leader of the CCF. Although ill, Woodsworth did personally write Clementina.

Coldwell would also follow-up with Clementina (see ICEA2010-0008-0040). In fact, Coldwell raised the issue of Libero’s internment in the House of Commons, pointing out that Sauro’s sons were in the Canadian services. Other letters indicate that Coldwell continued to interest himself in Sauro’s case and those of other internees (see ICEA2010-0008-0051, ICEA2010-0008-0052, ICEA2010-0008-0053).

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from M.J. Coldwell M.P., to Rev. L. Sauro, July 8, 1941

MAKER
M.J. Coldwell

DATE
July 08, 1941

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [printed on paper] [crest] / House of Commons / Canada [typed] Ottawa, July 8, 1941 / Rev. L. Sauro, / St. Paul’s Italian United Church, / 104 Millwood Road, / Toronto, Ont. / Dear Mr. Sauro, / Thank you for your letter received this / morning. I got in touch immediately with the / Department of Justice and I am informed that Mr. / Giuseppe Boccaccio’s appeal had been heard, that a / recommendation has been made and that it will be disposed of in the near future. / I am glad to be of service to you at any time. / Yours sincerely, [signature in ink] M. J. Coldwell [typed] MJC//A M. J. COLDWELL

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from M.J. Coldwell M.P., to Rev. L. Sauro, July 8, 1941.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

After his release, Sauro continued to help other internees and their families. This letter is a response to one Sauro had sent on behalf on internee Giuseppe Boccaccio (see ICEA2010-0008-0049, ICEA2010-0008-0051and ICEA2010-0008-0052).

M.J. Coldwell, an M.P. from the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation of Canada Party (CCF), had provided assistance in Sauro’s own case, when contacted by Clementina, Sauro’s wife. Internees were not charged with a crime and so not entitled to habeas corpus. However, under the the DOCR (Defence of Canada Regulations), after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice. Unfortunately, this process seemed beset with delays and some confusion in many examples.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from the Office of M.J. Coldwell M.P., to Rev. L. Sauro, April 21, 1941

MAKER
A.E. Anderson

DATE
April 21, 1941

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [printed on paper] [crest] / House of Commons / Canada [typed] Ottawa, April 21, 1941 / Rev. L. Sauro, / 104 Millwood Road, / 410 College Street, / Toronto, Ont. / Dear Sir, / The following letter had been / received from the Department of Justice during / the absence of Mr. M. J. Coldwell, M.P., in / Western Canada: / “Dear Mr. Coldwell, / J. R. 4519-3-40 / With reference to your letter / of the 16th instant respecting / the case of Giuseppe Boccaccio, I / may say that this case was heard by / Mr. Justice Henderson on the 26th / March last, but so far there has been / no recommendation. / Yours sincerely, / (Sgd.) P. M. Anderson.” / Yours very truly, [signature in ink] A. E Anderson [typed] Secretary to – / M. J. Coldwell, M.P.

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from the Office of M.J. Coldwell M.P., to Rev. L. Sauro, April 21, 1941.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

After his release, Sauro continued to help other internees and their families. This letter is a response to one Sauro had sent on behalf on internee Giuseppe Boccaccio (see ICEA2010-0008-0049 and ICEA2010-0008-0051).

M.J. Coldwell, an M.P. from the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation of Canada Party (CCF), had provided assistance in Sauro’s own case, when contacted by Clementina, Sauro’s wife. Internees were not charged with a crime and so not entitled to habeas corpus. However, under the the DOCR (Defence of Canada Regulations), after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice. Unfortunately, this process seemed beset with delays and some confusion in many examples.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from M.J. Coldwell M.P., to Rev. L. Sauro, April 16, 1941

MAKER
M.J. Coldwell

DATE
April 16, 1941

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [printed on paper] [crest] / House of Commons / Canada [typed] Ottawa, April 16, 1941 / Rev. L. Sauro, / 104 Millwood Road, / 410 College Street, / Toronto, Ont. / Dear Mr. Sauro, / Thank you for your letter received / sometime ago. / I was glad to know that your case / had been investigated and that you had been released / unconditionally. I am afraid that some very grave / injustices were done both in Canada and in Great Britain / during the panic of last June. / I visited a number of internees from / England in September, and lately heard Mr. Patterson / who was sent here by the British Home Office, state / that he had returned one thousand to England, approved / the release of another thousand to the United States, / and expressed his regret that injustices had been done. Of course / we know that there was some excuse. / I hope that by this time that Mr. Giuseppe / Boccaccio of the City of Hamilton has had his hearing. I / cannot understand these long delays. / Yours sincerely, / [signature in ink] M. J. Coldwell [typed] MJC//A M. J. COLDWELL

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from M.J. Coldwell M.P., to Rev. L. Sauro, April 16, 1941.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

After his release, Sauro continued to help other internees and their families. This letter is a response to one Sauro had sent on behalf on internee Giuseppe Boccaccio (see ICEA2010-0008-0049).

M.J. Coldwell, an M.P. from the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation of Canada Party (CCF), had provided assistance in Sauro’s own case, when contacted by Clementina, Sauro’s wife. Internees were not charged with a crime and so not entitled to habeas corpus. However, under the the DOCR (Defence of Canada Regulations), after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice. Unfortunately, this process seemed beset with delays and some confusion in many examples.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from Libero Sauro, to M.J. Coldwell M.P., March 19, 1941

MAKER
Rev. Libero Sauro

DATE
March 19, 1941

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from Libero Sauro, to M.J. Coldwell M.P., March 19, 1941.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

After his release, Sauro continued to help other internees and their families. As is shown in this letter, he points out some discrepancies whereby known fascist sympathizers (he names Gino Tiezzi) have been released from camp, but those who lack connections and affluence remain interned. He also notes a point of grievance in the community, as several active fascists remained free — including Camillo Vetere, whom most suspect bought his freedom by providing lists of names to the authorities. He especially advocates for Giulio Mancini and Daniele Iezzi.

M.J. Coldwell, an M.P. from the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation of Canada Party (CCF), had provided assistance in Sauro’s own case, when contacted by Clementina, Sauro’s wife.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from Libero Sauro, to M.J. Coldwell M.P., March 19, 1941

MAKER
Rev. Libero Sauro

DATE
March 19, 1941

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [typed] March 19th 1941 [three forward slashes] / Mr. M. J. Coldwell, M.P. / House of Commons, / Ottawa. / Dear Mr. Coldwell: / Although kid [sic] of late, I want to thank you for the interest you / took in my case while I was interned. / As already stated to you, I was arrested on September the 7th. / 1940, under charge of having violated Canada Defense Regulations, Section 21, on / September 4, 1940. I stayed two days in the Don Jail and 45 days in Lansdowne / Barracks. On October 24th I was taken to the Internment Camp. There I filed my / objections. My case was heard on December 20th before Justice Fortier and my release / was signed on December 24th. I was actually released (unconditional release) on / December 26th. / The treatment of the prisoners at the Internment Camp is good, / and I wish I could say the same of the treatment we went through here in the / Lansdowne Barracks where some Officers and Guards were drunk 24 hours a day, and / where, among other things, we were compelled to march in goose step under and ex / German Officer, also a prisoner. I could not help feeling ashamed of the wrong / impression of our Canadian Army created by this group of Veterans, in the minds / of the several hundred war prisoners that came in contact with them. / At no time did I blame the Authorities for my detention / because I realized the safety of the State comes first at time of war, but what / I cannot understand is the slowness to deal with these caases [sic]. I was indeed / fortunate that my case came up so soon, there are many cases which have not been / heard yet. / I would like to bring to your attention the case of Giuseppe / Boccaccio of the City of Hamilton, a Christian gentleman. He is an Elder of the / Italian United Church of the Reddemer [sic], a noble character and a truly loyal British / subject. He was arrested on August 5, 1940, taken to the Internment Camp on / September 4, an [sic] he immediately filed his objections as pe [sic] regulation 21. Now, over / seven months of his arrest, his case has not yet been heard. / His wife and family are becoming very impatient about this and / we would appreciate any effort on your part to urge an early hearing. / Yours respectfully,

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from Libero Sauro, to M.J. Coldwell M.P., March 19, 1941.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

After his release, Sauro continued to help other internees and their families. As shown in this letter, he is advocating on behalf on internee Giuseppe Boccaccio.

M.J. Coldwell, an M.P. from the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation of Canada Party (CCF), had provided assistance in Sauro’s own case, when contacted by Clementina, Sauro’s wife. Internees were not charged with a crime and so not entitled to habeas corpus. However, under the the DOCR (Defence of Canada Regulations), after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice. Unfortunately, this process seemed beset with delays and some confusion in many examples. As a result, Sauro who was released unconditionally did so after 111 days of internment. Boccaccio would serve 598 days of internment.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from Clementina Sauro, to W.R. Jackett, December 11, 1940

MAKER
Clementina Sauro

DATE
December 11, 1940

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [handwritten in ink] 104 Millwood Rd. Toronto, / Dec 11, 1940 / Mr. W. R. Jackett / for the Advisory Committee / on Orders of Restriction and Detention. / Dear Sir:- / In view of the fact that one of / the charges against my husband is that he / his [h crossed out] a member of the Order of Sons of Italy, I am / enclosing a letter from Price Waterhouse and / one from the Department of Insurance as /evidence that the Order is even now / in good standing with both the Provincial / and the Federal Governments. / Yours truly, / Clementina Sauro.

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from Clementina Sauro, to W.R. Jackett (Advisory Committee on Orders of Restriction and Detention), December 11, 1940.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

From his arrest, Clementina was relentless in her mission to have her husband released. She wrote many letters on his behalf, including letters to M.J. Coldwell and J.S. Woodsworth, her husband’s colleagues at the United Church, and others. She also hired and worked with lawyers to facilitate Sauro’s hearing and work towards his release.

Under the DOCR (Defence of Canada Regulations), after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice.

As Clementina suggests the evidence against Sauro included his involvement with the Order Sons of Italy. However, this organization does not appear to have been banned by the government and continued its operations during the war (although much reduced). We know that the outcome of the hearing noted in this letter was the unconditional release on December 27, 1940 of Libero Sauro.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from C. Sauro, to unnamed M.P., October 9, 1940

MAKER
Clementina Sauro

DATE
October 09, 1940

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from Clementina Sauro, to unnamed M.P., October 9, 1940, three pages. Based on other letters in the collection, it can be assumed that this letter was sent to J.S. Woodsworth, the first leader of the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation of Canada (CCF).

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

From his arrest, Clementina was relentless in her mission to have her husband released. She wrote many letters on his behalf, including letters to M.J. Coldwell, an M.P. from the CCF, and as indicated in this case to J.S. Woodsworth. She also wrote to her husband’s colleagues in the United Church and others.

The response from the CCF National Office notes Woodsworth’s illness (see ICEA2010.0008.0038). Despite this, Woodsworth did indeed personally write Clementina (see ICEA2010-0008-0055.a-b). Coldwell would also follow-up with Clementina (see ICEA2010-0008-0040). In fact, he raised the issue of Libero’s internment in the House of Commons, pointing out that Sauro’s sons were in the Canadian services. Other letters indicate that Coldwell continued to interest himself in Sauro’s case and those of other internees (see ICEA2010-0008-0051, ICEA2010-0008-0052, ICEA2010-0008-0053).

Clementina points out the bureaucratic red-tape to which families were subjected in trying to learn of their loved ones status and in trying to effect their release. She also refers to the lack of evidence — an act he supposedly undertook on September 4th — which would result in 111 days of internment. Clementina believed (as other letters indicate) that her husband was an innocent victim of an unscrupulous community informant.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from Department of National Defence, to Libero Sauro, January 7, 1941

MAKER
A.E. Andrews

DATE
January 07, 1941

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [typed] ECD [printed on paper] IN REPLY PLEASE QUOTE / NO. [dotted line] [typed] I. O. Pwa. 4-21 [printed on paper] [crest] / CANADA/ Department of National Defence / [dotted line] [typed] Petawawa, Ontario, / 7th January 1941. [printed on paper] 194 [dotted line] [typed] Mr. L. Sauro, / 104 Millwood Road, / Toronto, Ontario. / Dear Sir, / A few days ago a parcel of vegetables arrived / in this Camp for you. The contents showed marked / signs of deterioration so we selected the unspoiled / portions and distributed same among your friends here. / We trust our action meets with your approval. / Yours truly, [signature in ink on dotted line] A. E. Andrews Lieut. [typed] For Commandant, / Petawawa Internment Camp. [printed on paper] NAT. DEF. B. 448 / 1,600M-7-40 (5853-4-5) / H.Q. 17772-39-767

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from Department of National Defence, to Libero Sauro, January 7, 1941.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

Internees were allowed to receive parcels from family members. These packages were searched thoroughly by camp guards before being distributed. Internees mostly received food and clothing.

After his release, Sauro continued to help other Italian Canadian internees and their families. In a later postcard, he himself is thanked for a parcel he sent to a group of 38 internees for the Easter holidays (ICEA2010.0008.0004).

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from Department of National Defence, to Libero Sauro, December 29, 1940

MAKER
D. Ireland

DATE
December 29, 1940

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [printed on paper] IN REPLY PLEASE QUOTE / NO. [dotted line] [typed] I. O. Pwa. P-879-S. [printed on paper] [crest] / CANADA [typed] PBR [printed on paper] Department of National Defence / [dotted line] [typed] Petawawa, Ontario, / 29th December 1940. [printed on paper] 194 [dotted line] [typed] L. Sauro, / 104 Milwood [sic] Road, / Toronto, Ontario. / Dear Sir: / Enclosed find please cheque No 337 in / the amount of &12.82 which is the balance of / your account when released. / Yours truly, [signature in ink] D Ireland [typed] (D. Ireland), 2nd Lieut., / Assistant Adjutant, / Petawawa Internment Camp. [printed on paper] NAT. DEF. B. 448 / 1,600M-7-40 (5853-4-5) / H.Q. 17772-39-767

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from Department of National Defence, to Libero Sauro, December 29, 1940.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

While in camp, internees who were under sixty years old did manual labour or vocational work. Manual labour included road repair, chopping wood used for cooking and heating, and maintaining the camp. Vocational work involved trade or professional tasks. Others worked where they were needed. For instance, the camp kitchen was staffed by chefs or cooks as well as others with no experience in food preparation. Internees did not work every day.

Internees were paid twenty-five cents for a day’s work. This money could be used to purchase items from the camp canteen such as toothpaste and cigarettes. Family members were also able to send money for the internees which was credited to their camp accounts. On their release, internees were issued the balance from their accounts.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from Mason, Foulds, Davidson & Kellock, to Rev. Libero Sauro, December 28, 1940

MAKER
Mason, Foulds, Davidson & Kellock

DATE
December 28, 1940

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [printed on paper] MASON, FOULDS, DAVIDSON & KELLOCK / Barristers, Solicitors, Notaries [illeg.] / G. W. Mason, K.C., A. Foulds, K.C., / W.W. Davidson, K.C., R. L. Kellock, K.C., / R. D. Walter, E. C. Gordon, E. W. Ireland, / G. A. Gale, J. D. Arnup. K. A. Foulds. / Telephone Elgin 2481 / Cable Address “Masemidon” / Sterling Tower Building / 372 Bay Street / Toronto 2 / Canada [typed] December 28, 1940. / Rev. Libero Sauro, / 104 Millwood Road, / Toronto. / Dear Mr. Sauro:- / I was much pleased to hear from Mr. [sic] Sauro that you / expected to be home yesterday. / I received letters from Mr. H. B. Johnson of Pembroke / enclosing a letter from Mr. W. R. Jackett to him, dated the / 24th instant, stating that he had been directed to inform you / that the Minister of Justice had signed and order for your release. / Mr. Johnson also sent a copy of his notes of the statements made / by you to Mr. Justice Fortier. In his letter of the 24th / instant he told me that he believed that the Judge was impressed / with the statements made by you. / I have some material [sic] which should be returned to / you and shall be glad to hand them to you or Mrs. Sauro when it / is convenient for either of you to call. / GWM//Mac. Yours Truly, [signature in ink]

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from Mason, Foulds, Davidson & Kellock (Barristers, Solicitors, Notaries), to Rev. Libero Sauro, December 28, 1940.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

Under the DOCR (Defence of Canada Regulations), after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice.

To assist in this process, some educated and established internees were able to hire lawyers to represent them during their hearings with an appointed judge. Legal counsel was not available to the majority of internees. Many families hired lawyers at great cost. The Tiezzi family received a $2000 bill — an even more significant amount in the 1940s.

This letter refers to Sauro’s hearing before Justice Fortier and the outcome resulting in his release.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from Advisory Committee (Restriction & Detention) to Mrs. C. Sauro, Dec. 14, 1940

MAKER
W. R. Jackett

DATE
December 14, 1940

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [typed] WRJ//PD / 40-487 [printed on paper] OTTAWA [dotted line] [typed] December 14th, [printed on paper] 19 [dotted line] [typed] 40. / Mrs. Clementina Sauro, / 104 Millwood Rd., / TORONTO, Ont. / Dear Madam: / Re: Rev. Libero Sauro / I have to acknowledge receipt of your / letter of the 11th instant, with reference to your / husband’s detention, together with the enclosures / referred to therein, and to say that I am placing / this material before the committee which will most / likely be hearing your husband’s case next week. / Yours truly, [signature in ink] W. R. Jackett [typed] for the Advisory Committee / on Orders of Restriction and Detention.

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from Advisory Committee on Orders of Restriction and Detention, to Mrs. Clementina Sauro, December 14, 1940. This letter is likely a response to another in the collection (see ICEA2010-0008-0048).

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

From his arrest, Clementina was relentless in her mission to have her husband released. She wrote many letters on his behalf, including letters to M.J. Coldwell and J.S. Woodsworth, her husband’s colleagues at the United Church, and others. She also hired and worked with lawyers to facilitate Sauro’s hearing and work towards his release.

Under the DOCR (Defence of Canada Regulations), after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice.

We know that the outcome of the hearing noted in this letter was the unconditional release on December 27, 1940 of Libero Sauro.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from Mason, Foulds, Davidson & Kellock, to Mrs. Libero Sauro, December 3, 1940

MAKER
Mason, Foulds, Davidson & Kellock

DATE
December 03, 1940

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [printed on paper] MASON, FOULDS, DAVIDSON & KELLOCK / Barristers, Solicitors, Notaries [illeg.] / G. W. Mason, K.C., A. Foulds, K.C., / W.W. Davidson, K.C., R. L. Kellock, K.C., / R. D. Walter, E. C. Gordon, E. W. Ireland, / G. A. Gale, J. D. Arnup. K. A. Foulds. / Telephone Elgin 2481 / Cable Address “Masemidon” / Sterling Tower Building / 372 Bay Street / Toronto 2 / Canada [typed] December 3, 1940. / Mrs. Libero Sauro, / 104 Millwood Road, / Toronto. / Dear Mrs. Sauro:- / I enclose draft affidavit to be made by you, and shall / be obliged if you will make such amendments of additions to it as / you may think necessary. / I have spoken to a number of ministers and will prepare / the affidavits as soon as I can this week. / GWM//Mac. Yours truly, / ENCL. [signature in ink]

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from Mason, Foulds, Davidson & Kellock (Barristers, Solicitors, Notaries), to Mrs. Libero Sauro, December 3, 1940.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

From his arrest, Clementina was relentless in her mission to have her husband released. She wrote many letters on his behalf, including letters to M.J. Coldwell and J.S. Woodsworth, her husband’s colleagues at the United Church, and others.

Under the DOCR (Defence of Canada Regulations), after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice.

To assist in this process, some educated and established internees were able to hire lawyers to represent them during their hearings with an appointed judge. Legal counsel was not available to the majority of internees. Many families hired lawyers at great cost. The Tiezzi family received a $2000 bill — an even more significant amount in the 1940s.

This letter refers to affidavits, including one by Clementina, some of which are available in the collection (see ICEA2010.0008.0012.a-c, ICEA2010.0008.0018.a-b, ICEA2010.0008.0020, ICEA2010.0008.0019, ICEA2010.0008.0017, ICEA2010.0008.0016, and ICEA2010.0008.0015).

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from M.J. Coldwell M.P., to Mrs. C. Sauro, November 28, 1940

MAKER
M.J. Coldwell

DATE
November 28, 1940

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [printed on paper] [symbol] / House of Commons / Canada [typed] Ottawa, November 28, 1940 / Mrs. C. Sauro, / 104 Millwood Road, / Toronto, Ont. / Dear Mrs. Sauro, / Thank you for your letter received / this morning. I am glad to know that your husband is / cheerful under the difficult situation in which he finds / himself. I cannot understand why it is that persons / arrested are not informed of the charges against them / immediately. You say your husband was detained on September 7 / and, up to November 19, he had not been made aware of the / charges against him. As a member of the Committee charged / with the revision of the Defence of Canada Regulations / and as a minority member of that Committee, I can say that / all the members of the Committee were of the opinion that / persons detained ought to be given an early opportunity / of making an appeal against charges laid against them. / There was no division of opinion on this matter. We shall / press for a very definite understanding on this point. / I may say that I am most anxious that the / rights of our citizenship shall be safeguarded while recognizing / the need for the prevention of sabotage etc., in connection / with this country’s war. / Yours sincerely, [signature in ink] M. J. Coldwell [typed] MJC//A M. J. Coldwell

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from M.J. Coldwell M.P., to Mrs. C. Sauro, November 28, 1940.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

From his arrest, Clementina was relentless in her mission to have her husband released. She wrote many letters on his behalf, including letters to M.J. Coldwell, an M.P. from the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation of Canada Party (CCF). Coldwell did indeed follow-up with Clementina, as seen in this letter. In fact, he raised the issue of Libero’s internment in the House of Commons, pointing out that Sauro’s sons were in the Canadian services. Other letters indicate that Coldwell continued to interest himself in Sauro’s case and those of other internees (see ICEA2010-0008-0051, ICEA2010-0008-0052, ICEA2010-0008-0053).

In this letter, Coldwell notes that internees were not informed of their legal status right away. Under the DOCR (Defence of Canada Regulations), after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice. As Coldwell suggests, the result was a delayed and lengthy process. Sauro, who had much support from the United Church and with much effort from his educated wife, still would be interned for just under four months as a result.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from Peter Bryce, to Mrs. L. Sauro, October 22, 1940

MAKER
Peter Bryce

DATE
October 22, 1940

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [printed on paper] Metropolitan United Church / [symbol] / The Very Reverend Peter Bryce, D.D., LL.D. / Minister [typed] 51 Bond Street, / Toronto, / October 22, 1940. / Mrs. L. Sauro, / 104 Millwood Rd., / Toronto. / My dear Mrs. Sauro:- / Since your visit to me, I / have been in touch constantly with Mr. Agar / and with Dr. Dorey. They have been acting / for us on your behalf. I have not heard / anything from them for the past few days / but trust that before long you may have good / news. / Assuring you of my friendship / and my desire to be of service to you. / Very sincerely yours, [signature in ink] Peter Bryce

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from Peter Bryce, to Mrs. L. Sauro, October 22, 1940.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

From his arrest, Clementina was relentless in her mission to have her husband released. She wrote many letters on his behalf, including in one example, a letter to M.J. Coldwell, a Social Democratic politician and a fellow clergyman. As a result, Coldwell raised the issue of Libero’s internment in the House of Commons, pointing out that Sauro’s sons were in the Canadian services.

It does seem that many member of the United Church also rallied to support Sauro. The author of this letter, Peter Bryce, would later provide a written testimony on Sauro’s behalf (see ICEA2010.0008.0016), as would the others named, Mr. Agar and Dr. Dorey (see ICEA2010.0008.0018.a-b and ICEA2010.0008.0015).

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from Co-operative Commonwealth Federation, to Mrs. C. Sauro, October 21, 1940

MAKER
H. W. Dalton

DATE
October 21, 1940

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [printed on paper] J. S. WOODSWORTH, M.P. / President / M. J. COLDWELL M.P. / Chairman / C. GRANT MacNEIL, M.P. / Vice-Chairman / Co-operative Commonwealth Federation of Canada / [symbol] 2 / DAVID LEWIS / National Secretary / National Office: / 127 WELLINGTON STREET / Telephone 2-0782 / OTTAWA, ONTARIO [typed] October 21, 1940. / Mrs. C. Sauro, / 104 Millwood Road, / Toronto, Ont. / Dear Mrs. Sauro:- / Your letter to Mr. Woodsworth of / October 9, has been forwarded to this office for / attention of Mr. Coldwell, since Mr. Woodsworth / is not well. Unfortunately Mr. Coldwell is at / present on a speaking tour in Western Canada and / will not be back until around November 4 or 5. / However, immediately he does return your letter / will be brought to his attention. For your / information I would say that Mr. Coldwell and / the CCF have already interested themselves in the / cases of internees such as your husband, [sic] The former / has visited and [d crossed out] internee camp and interviewed a few / of them. You may rest assured, therefore, that he / will do all he can to assist you. / Yours sincerely, [signature in ink] HW Dalton [typed] H. W. Dalton. / National Office.

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from Co-operative Commonwealth Federation of Canada, to Mrs. C. Sauro, October 21, 1940

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

From his arrest, Clementina was relentless in her mission to have her husband released. She wrote many letters on his behalf, including letters to M.J. Coldwell, an M.P. from the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation of Canada Party (CCF), and as indicated in this case to J.S. Woodsworth, M.P. and the first leader of the CCF. The response from the CCF National Office notes Woodsworth’s illness (he died in 1942). Despite this, Woodsworth did indeed personally write Clementina (see ICEA2010-0008-0055.a-b). Coldwell would also follow-up with Clementina (see ICEA2010-0008-0040). In fact, he raised the issue of Libero’s internment in the House of Commons, pointing out that Sauro’s sons were in the Canadian services. Other letters indicate that Coldwell continued to interest himself in Sauro’s case and those of other internees (see ICEA2010-0008-0051, ICEA2010-0008-0052, ICEA2010-0008-0053).

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from Toronto Home Missions Council, to Mrs. Libero Sauro, October 12, 1940

MAKER
Toronto Home Missions Council

DATE
October 12, 1940

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [printed on paper] MALCOLM STRACHAN / PRESIDENT / A. P. JOHNSTON / VICE-PRESIDENT / CHARLES E. EDMONDS / TREASURER / REV. J. C. TORRANCE, B.A. / SECRETARY / The Toronto Home Missions Council / The United Church of Canada / CHURCH EXTENSION / FRESH AIR CAMPS / TREBLE SCHOOL HOUSEHOLD SCIENCE / WELFARE / SPARROW LAKE VACATION CAMP / HOSPITAL VISITATION / VICTOR HOME FOR WOMEN / 139 JARVIS STREET, TORONTO 2 / ELGIN 9022 [typed] October 12th, 1940. / Mrs. Libery Sauro, / 104 Millwood Road, / TORONTO, Ontario. / Dear Mrs. Sauro; / Confirming our telephone conversation this / morning the Executive of the Board of Home Missions at its / recent meeting decided that we would continue to pay Mr. Sauro’s / salary until his case is finally disposed of – and [in ink] he is either / interned for the duration of the war or released. In case his is / interned the salary will cease. It was further decided to pay the / salary direct to you, but that our office should deduct from it / sufficient to pay for pulpit supply. / In the light of the above information from the / Executive, we are enclosing Cheque made direct to you covering / the salary for the month of October. We have, however, deducted / $30.00 from the October cheque and that will pay Mr. Scarlatta / up to and including Sunday, the 13th of October, at the rate of / $5.00 per Sunday. From then, the middle of each month we shall / pay Mr. Scarlatta at the rate of $25.00 per month. / Yours very sincerely, [signature in ink] [typed] Secretary, / The Toronto Home Missions Council. / JCT//B. / Enc. – Cheque – $78.33

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from Toronto Home Missions Council, to Mrs. Libero Sauro, October 12, 1940.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

The majority of internees were men with families, and often the sole breadwinners. The assets of most internees were seized by the Custodian of Enemy Property. Bank accounts were frozen. Wives, or other family members, had to request the government’s permission to access funds. The women did whatever it took to make ends meet.

In this letter, Clementina is informed by the United Church that she will continue to receive her husband’s pay, although reduced, until the outcome of his hearing. This is a unique example. In fact, in other circumstances, families had to fight to receive the last pay righfully due to their husbands.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from Mr. Perkins, to Mrs. L. Sauro, October 2, 1940

MAKER
I. G. Perkins

DATE
October 02, 1940

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [printed on paper] Superintendent / REV. I. G. PERKINS, B.A. / Phone 1095-J / W.M.S. Deaconesses / MISS R. CHURCHILL / MISS E. EMPEY / All Peoples’ United Church / and Community Center / United Church of Canada / “THE HOUSE OF FRIENDSHIP” / MAIN BUILDING / ALBERT AND HUDSON STS. / PHONE 1905-W / BRANCH: / BAYVIEW UNITED CHURCH / SAULT STE. MARIE. ONT. [typed] Oct. 2, 1940. / Dear Mrs. Sauro: / I was quite shocked to receive your letter about the / internment of my good friend Mr. Sauro. I have written / the Minister of Justice suggesting that it is my sincere / opinion that Mr. Sauro is not only innocent but his / presence among his country men in times like these would be / very helpful in combatting unCanadian [sic] [in pencil] influences. / Mr. Pinch has promised me that he will write and I / will get some others to do the same. What attitude does / the Home Mission Board take? No doubt you have already / contacted Dr. Cochrane. I hope that this mistake will / be speedily corrected, because I do think it was a mistake. / I hope you and the children are well, although I can / well imagine that you are greatly worried. Keep your chin / up and I am sure everything will work out O.K. We are / passing thro’ [sic] very serious days—days in which many people / are called upon to bear great burdens. / Very best regards to you all from Mrs. Perkins and myself. / Sincerely yours, [signature in ink] I. G. Perkins.

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from Mr. Perkins, to Mrs. L. Sauro, October 2, 1940.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

From his arrest, Clementina was relentless in her mission to have her husband released. She wrote many letters on his behalf, including in one example, a letter to M.J. Coldwell, a Social Democratic politician and a fellow clergyman. As a result, Coldwell raised the issue of Libero’s internment in the House of Commons, pointing out that Sauro’s sons were in the Canadian services.

Under the DOCR (Defence of Canada Regulations), after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice.

This letter is a response to one sent earlier by Clementina asking for help (ICEA2010.0008.0034).

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from Emmanuel College, to Mrs. L. Sauro, September 24, 1940

MAKER
Richard Davidson

DATE
September 24, 1940

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [printed on paper] EMMANUEL COLLEGE / TORONTO / THE OFFICE OF THE PRINCIPAL [typed] September 24, 1940 / Mrs. L. Sauro, / 104 Millwood Rd., / Toronto / Dear Mrs. Sauro: / I have written a note to the / Minister of Justice telling him that / your husband’s conduct with us had been entirely satisfactory. / You will not be unduly concerned. / For your husband will be exposed to / no real hardship. / Yours very sincerely, [signature in ink] Richard Davidson

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from Emmanuel College, to Mrs. L. Sauro, September 24, 1940.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

Clementina was relentless in her mission to have her husband released. She worked tirelessly to gather written testimonies for use during her husband’s hearing. In this case, she seems to have successfully requested a letter from Emmanuel College in Toronto, where her husband studied.

Under the DOCR (Defence of Canada Regulations), after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from C. Sauro to Mr. Perkins, September 22, 1940

MAKER
Clementina Sauro

DATE
September 22, 1940

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from C. Sauro to Mr. Perkins, September 22, 1940.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

From his arrest, Clementina was relentless in her mission to have her husband released. She wrote many letters on his behalf, including in one example, a letter to M.J. Coldwell, a Social Democratic politician and a fellow clergyman. As a result, Coldwell raised the issue of Libero’s internment in the House of Commons, pointing out that Sauro’s sons were in the Canadian services.

Under the DOCR (Defence of Canada Regulations), after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice.

In this letter, Clementina refers to the belief at the time that many men had been singled out for arrest by informants. There is supporting evidence. The motivations of community informants varied, but it would appear that some did so for personal reasons. She does not name the priest and communist referenced in the letter, and not enough information is provided to pinpoint their identities. There have been accusations that Antonio Spada, a known communist, was an informer. An active member of the Order Sons of Italy, he was involved in the schism in that organization in Quebec which resulted in the formation of the Order of Italian Canadians. Spada himself denied that he ever acted in such a capacity.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Draft letter from C. Sauro to Mr. Zavitz, September 22, 1940

MAKER
Clementina Sauro

DATE
September 22, 1940

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [typed] 104 Millwood Rd., Toronto., / Sept [sic] 22, 1940 / Dear Mr. Zavitz., / My husband has been interned under the Defence of Canada / Regulations on Sept. 7th. / The lawyer tells me that all the committee of investigation / requires, is, as many letters as possible regarding his character and / activities. These letters are to be addresses to the Minister of Justice. / Having served as president of the Memorial Home and / School and also as a member of the Home and School Council, I believe that / a letter from each of these groups would be very helpful at this time. / I would appreciate it very much if you would kindly / bring this to the attention of both these groups, and urge them to act as / soon as possible. / Thank you for your trouble [signature in ink] C. Sauro [handwritten in ink] Mr. Fingland – Ministeral Ass. / Mr. Strange – Horticultural Society

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Draft letter from C. Sauro to Mr. Zavitz, September 22, 1940.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

From his arrest, Clementina was relentless in her mission to have her husband released. She wrote many letters on his behalf, including in one example, a letter to M.J. Coldwell, a Social Democratic politician and a fellow clergyman. As a result, Coldwell raised the issue of Libero’s internment in the House of Commons, pointing out that Sauro’s sons were in the Canadian services.

Under the DOCR (Defence of Canada Regulations), after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Draft letter from C. Sauro to Mr. Zavitz, September 22, 1940.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

From his arrest, Clementina was relentless in her mission to have her husband released. She wrote many letters on his behalf, including in one example, a letter to M.J. Coldwell, a Social Democratic politician and a fellow clergyman. As a result, Coldwell raised the issue of Libero’s internment in the House of Commons, pointing out that Sauro’s sons were in the Canadian services.

Under the DOCR (Defence of Canada Regulations), after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Draft letter from C. Sauro to Mr. Zavitz, September 22, 1940.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

From his arrest, Clementina was relentless in her mission to have her husband released. She wrote many letters on his behalf, including in one example, a letter to M.J. Coldwell, a Social Democratic politician and a fellow clergyman. As a result, Coldwell raised the issue of Libero’s internment in the House of Commons, pointing out that Sauro’s sons were in the Canadian services.

Under the DOCR (Defence of Canada Regulations), after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Draft letter from C. Sauro to Mr. Zavitz, September 22, 1940.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

From his arrest, Clementina was relentless in her mission to have her husband released. She wrote many letters on his behalf, including in one example, a letter to M.J. Coldwell, a Social Democratic politician and a fellow clergyman. As a result, Coldwell raised the issue of Libero’s internment in the House of Commons, pointing out that Sauro’s sons were in the Canadian services.

Under the DOCR (Defence of Canada Regulations), after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from Price Waterhouse & Co., to Mrs. L. Sauro, December 14, 1940

MAKER
Price Waterhouse & Co.

DATE
December 14, 1940

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [printed on paper] PRICE, WATERHOUSE & CO. / ROYAL BANK BUILDING / TORONTO [typed] December 14 1940. / Mrs. L. Sauro, / 104 Millwood Road, / Toronto, Ontario. / Dear Madam: / LIBERO SAURO / We enclose [sic] letter addressed to your husband which was / diverted to us by the postal censors. This letter evidently refers / to matters connected with the Sons of Italy and we should be obliged / if you would forward it to the proper officials of that society. / Yours very truly, [signature in ink] Price, Waterhouse + Co. [typed] Inspectors for the / Custodian of Enemy Property. / Enc. – Letter

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from Price Waterhouse & Co., to Mrs. L. Sauro, December 14, 1940.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

Price Waterhouse & Co. was an agent employed by the Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP), a branch of the Canadian government that oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens.

Internees were allowed to write three letters and four postcards per month. The maximum length for letters was twenty-four lines and eight lines for postcards. Exceptions were made for those who ran businesses and had to respond to letters from CEP. All camp letters were read by a censor. Contents deemed inappropriate were blacked out with ink. The same applied to incoming mail. Camp letters that were written in Italian were first translated into English before being read by a censor.

It’s unclear why this letter was not sent through to Libero Sauro and instead sent to the CEP agent, Price Waterhouse & Co. Although it does pertain to the affairs of the Order Sons of Italy, the organization itself was not among those banned by the Canadian government, although many of its leaders were interned.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from Price Waterhouse & Co., to Mrs. L. Sauro, November 23, 1940

MAKER
Price Waterhouse & Co.

DATE
November 23, 1940

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [printed on paper] PRICE, WATERHOUSE & CO. / ROYAL BANK BUILDING / TORONTO [typed] November 23 1940. / Mrs. L. Sauro, / 104 Millwood Road, / Toronto, Ontario. / Dear Madam: / LIBERO SAURO / We enclose two letters addressed to your husband which / were diverted to us by the Postal Censors. /Yours very truly, [signature in ink] Price, Waterhouse + Co. [typed] Inspectors for the / Custodian of Enemy Property. / Enc – Letters (2)

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from Price Waterhouse & Co., to Mrs. L. Sauro, November 23, 1940.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

Price Waterhouse & Co. was an agent employed by the Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP), a branch of the Canadian government that oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens.

Internees were allowed to write three letters and four postcards per month. The maximum length for letters was twenty-four lines and eight lines for postcards. Exceptions were made for those who ran businesses and had to respond to letters from CEP. All camp letters were read by a censor. Contents deemed inappropriate were blacked out with ink. The same applied to incoming mail. Camp letters that were written in Italian were first translated into English before being read by a censor.

It’s unclear why the letters referenced in this email were not allowed through to Libero Sauro and instead sent to the CEP agent, Price Waterhouse & Co.

Receiving mail was an important occasion for internees. For most, letters were the only contact they had with family.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from Price Waterhouse & Co, to Mrs. L. Sauro, November 22, 1940

MAKER
Price Waterhouse & Co.

DATE
November 22, 1940

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [printed on paper] PRICE, WATERHOUSE & CO. / ROYAL BANK BUILDING / TORONTO [typed] November 22 1940. / REGISTERED / Mrs. L. Sauro, / 104 Millwood Road, / Toronto, Ontario. / Dear Madam: / LIBERO SAURO / We have now been advised by the Custodian of Enemy Property / that he has no further interest in your husband’s affairs and we / should be obliged if you would be guided accordingly. / We also return herewith the following items belonging to / your husband, which were forwarded to us by the internment authorities: / 1 Canadian Passenger Association travelling certificate / No. 78216. / 1 Ordine Figli D’Italia No. 66 / 1 Gold wrist watch / 2 Key. / Yours very truly, [signature in ink] Price, Waterhouse + Co. [typed] Inspector for the / Custodian of Enemy Property.

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from Price Waterhouse & Co, to Mrs. L. Sauro, November 22, 1940.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

Price Waterhouse & Co. was an agent employed by the Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP), a branch of the Canadian government that oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. The government office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Each accounting firm hired by the CEP would bill an internee for administrative costs even though internees did not ask for the CEP to be involved.

In cases where internees did not have any assets or debts of note, CEP often would remove themselves from the case. it would appear this was the situation for Libero Sauro, as indicated in this letter. Regardless, Sauro was charged a $15.00 administration fee (see ICEA2010.0008.0007).

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from Deputy Minister of Justice, to Mrs. C. Sauro, October 2, 1940

MAKER
W. R. Jackett

DATE
October 02, 1940

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [typed] WRJ//PD [printed on paper] PLEASE ADDRESS / THE DEPUTY OF JUSTICE / OTTAWA / OTTAWA [dotted line] [typed] October 2nd, [printed on paper] 19 [dotted line] [typed] 40. / 40-487 / Dear Madam: / Re: Rev. Libero Sauro / Further to my letter of the 26th / ultimo, I beg to state that I am now informed by the / R.C.M.P. that your husband had been detained under / Regulation 21 of the Defence of Canada Regulations and / he will be given an opportunity of filing a Notice of / Objection in due course. / Yours truly, [signature in ink] W. R. Jackett [typed] for the Advisory Committee / on Orders of Restriction and Detention. / Mrs. C. Sauro, / 104 Millwood Rd., / TORONTO, Ont.

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from Deputy Minister of Justice, to Mrs. C. Sauro, October 2, 1940.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

From his arrest, Clementina was relentless in her mission to have her husband released. She wrote many letters on his behalf, including in one example, a letter to M.J. Coldwell, a Social Democratic politician and a fellow clergyman. As a result, Coldwell raised the issue of Libero’s internment in the House of Commons, pointing out that Sauro’s sons were in the Canadian services.

This example is a follow-up to one sent earlier (ICEA2010.0008.0026). The government is now confirming her husband’s internment and his right to a hearing (ICEA2010.0008.0032).

Under the DOCR (Defence of Canada Regulations), after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from Deputy Minister of Justice, to Mrs. C. Sauro, September 26, 1940

MAKER
W. R. Jackett

DATE
September 26, 1940

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [typed] WRJ//PD [printed on paper] PLEASE ADDRESS / THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF JUSTICE / OTTAWA / OTTAWA [dotted line] [typed] September 26th, [printed on paper] 19 [dotted line] [typed] 40. / Dear Madam: / Re: Rev. Libero Sauro / I have been directed by the Minister / of Justice to acknowledge receipt of your letter of / the 22nd instand, with reference to the detention of / your husband, and to say that I am asking the R.C.M.P. / for a report with reference thereto and will write you further upon receipt thereof. / Yours truly, / [signature in ink] W. R. Jackett [typed] for the Advisory Committee / on Orders of Restriction and Detention. / Mrs. C. Sauro, / 104 Millwood Rd., / TORONTO, Ont.

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from Deputy Minister of Justice, to Mrs. C. Sauro, September 26, 1940.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

From his arrest, Clementina was relentless in her mission to have her husband released. She wrote many letters on his behalf, including in one example, a letter to M.J. Coldwell, a Social Democratic politician and a fellow clergyman. As a result, Coldwell raised the issue of Libero’s internment in the House of Commons, pointing out that Sauro’s sons were in the Canadian services.

This example indicates the lack of information provided to the families. Many wives and children sought information on the status of their husbands and fathers, only to receive a standard acknowledgement of the receipt of their letters.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from Deputy Minister of Justice, to Libero Sauro, July 22, 1942

MAKER
Assistant Deputy Minister of Justice

DATE
July 22, 1942

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [typed] PMA//LR [printed on paper] PLEASE ADDRESS / THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF JUSTICE / OTTAWA / OTTAWA [dotted line] [typed] 22nd July, [printed on paper] 19 [dotted line] [typed] 42 / Dear Sir: 40-191 / Re: Luigi Ciano / The Minister of Justice, on the / recommendation of the Advisory Committee which / considered the above party’s objection to his / detention under the Defence of Canada Regulations / has ordered that such detention be continued. / Yours truly, [signature in ink] [typed] Assistant Deputy Minister / of Justice / Rev. L. Sauro, / 104 Millwood Road, / TORONTO, Ontario.

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from Deputy Minister of Justice, to Rev. L. Sauro, July 22, 1942.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

After his release, Sauro continued to help other internees and their families. In this letter, he is being informed of the continued internment of Luigi Ciano, a member of Rev. Sauro’s church and a fellow member of the Order Sons of Italy. Ciano’s daughter lived with the Sauro family during some of the period of her father’s internment.

Under the DOCR (Defence of Canada Regulations), after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice.

This letter indicates that Ciano’s case was reviewed and his release denied.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from Libero Sauro (unsigned), to Canadian Bank of Commerce, February 16, 1942

MAKER
Rev. Libero Sauro

DATE
February 16, 1942

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from Libero Sauro (unsigned), to Canadian Bank of Commerce, regarding the affairs of Donato Olivieri, February 16, 1942, two pages.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

After his release, Sauro continued to help other Italian Canadian internees and their families. In this apparent draft of a letter, he is writing employees of the Canadian Bank of Commerice on behalf of Donato Olivieri, a fellow member of the Order Sons of Italy. The intent of the letter is not clear. Olivieri was still interned at the time of the writing, but it may pertain to business interests which he held.

In the letter Sauro names Camillo Vetere, a known community informant. An active fascist, Vetere provided names to the RCMP from communities throughout Ontario and in Montreal. He himself was never interned. Sauro notes that he met with Vetere in January 1941, and Vetere admitted his direct involvement with the Italian government in promoting fascism in Canada.

Olivieri’s case is interesting in that his wife Francesca was also detained although not interned. The RCMP files note her leadership role with the Fascio Femminile.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from Price Waterhouse & Co, to Libero Sauro, February 25, 1941

MAKER
Price Waterhouse & Co.

DATE
February 25, 1941

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [printed on paper] PRICE, WATERHOUSE & CO. / ROYAL BANK BUILDING / TORONTO [typed] February 25 1941. / Rev. L. Sauro, / 104 Millwood Road, / Toronto, Ontario. / Dear Sir: / LUIGI CIANO / We are in receipt of a letter from the above party authorize- / ing the release to you of his furniture and effects stored at J. H. / Robertson & Sons, 292 George Street, upon payment of the storage and / warehouse charges, which we understand will be paid by the Department / of Public Welfare. We understand that you will be responsible to Mr. / Ciano for the care of his property, and we should be obliged if you / would advise us where it will be stored. / Yours very truly, [signature in ink] Price Waterhouse + Co. [typed] Inspectors for the / Custodian of Enemy Property

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from Price Waterhouse & Co, to Libero Sauro, regarding the affairs of Luigi Ciano, February 25, 1941.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

After his release, Sauro continued to help other Italian Canadian internees and their families. In this letter, he is undertaking the responsibilty for the personal belongings of internee Luigi Ciano, a member of Rev. Sauro’s church and a fellow member of the Order Sons of Italy. Ciano’s daughter lived with the Sauro family during some of the period of her father’s internment.

Price Waterhouse & Co. was an agent employed by the Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP), a branch of the Canadian government that oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. The government office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Each accounting firm hired by the CEP would bill an internee for administrative costs even though internees did not ask for the CEP to be involved.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from Deputy Minister of Justice, to Libero Sauro, January 27, 1941

MAKER
W.R. Jackett

DATE
January 27, 1941

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [typed] WRJ//PD / 40-492 [seal] [printed on paper] PLEASE ADDRESS / THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF JUSTICE / OTTAWA / OTTAWA [dotted line] [typed] January 27th, [printed on paper] 19 [dotted line] [typed] 41. / Dear Sir: / Re: Leonard Franceschini / I have to acknowledge receipt / of your letter of the 25th instant, together / with the enclosure referred to therein, and / to inform you that this will be placed before / the committee which hears the above man’s case. / Yours truly, [signature in ink] W.R. Jackett [typed] for the Advisory Committee/ on Orders of Restriction and Detention. / Reverend L. Sauro, / 104 Millwod Rd., / TORONTO, Ont.

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from the Deputy Minister of Justice, to Reverend Libero Sauro, January 27, 1941.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

After his release, Sauro continued to help other internees and their families. In this case, he seems to have provided information regarding the case of Renaldo (Leonard) Franceschini, the younger brother of internee James Franceschini, renown and wealthy businessman. It is likely this letter is a response to Sauro’s oath/declaration on Franceschini’s behalf (see ICEA2010-0008-0014).

Under the DOCR (Defence of Canada Regulations), after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from Department of the Secretary of State, to Libero Sauro, October 18, 1943

MAKER
G.G. Beckett

DATE
October 18, 1943

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [printed on paper] CANADA / DEPARTMENT OF THE SECRETARY OF STATE / OFFICE OF THE CUSTODIAN / ADDRESS ALL / COMMUNICATIONS / TO THE / CUSTODIAN’S OFFICE / PLEASE REFER TO / FILE NO. [dotted line] [typed] Victoria Building, 7 O’Connor Street, / Ottawa, October 18, 1943. / 2501 / Legal Section / GGB//CB / Dear Sir: / I beg to refer to my letter of / the 8th of September last, to which no reply / has been received. / As we are anxious to close this / case, an early reply enclosing a money order / for $15.00, or a part payment on account, will / be greatly appreciated. / The money order should be in the / name of theCustodian [sic] of Enemy Property. / Yours very truly, [signature in ink] [typed] G.G. Beckett, / for Assistant Deputy Custodian / Libero Sauro, Esq., / 104 Millwood Road, / Toronto, Ont.

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from the Department of the Secretary of State, Office of the Custodian, to Libero Sauro, October 18, 1943.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

The Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP) was a branch of the Canadian government that oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. The office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Each accounting firm hired by the CEP would bill an internee for administrative costs even though internees did not ask for the CEP to be involved.

In this letter, the CEP is contacting Sauro regarding the collection of the $15 administration fee owing to the department. Comparable to ca. $250 today, Sauro was interned for less than four months. This is a third follow-up letter to another in the collection (see ICEA2010-0008-0009, ICEA2010-0008-0008 and ICEA2010-0008-0007).

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from Department of the Secretary of State, to Libero Sauro, September 8, 1943

MAKER
G.G. Beckett

DATE
September 08, 1943

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [printed on paper] CANADA / DEPARTMENT OF THE SECRETARY OF STATE / OFFICE OF THE CUSTODIAN / ADDRESS ALL / COMMUNICATIONS / TO THE / CUSTODIAN’S OFFICE / PLEASE REFER TO / FILE NO. [dotted line] [typed] Victoria Building, 7 O’Connor Street, / Ottawa, September 8, 1943. / 5501 / Legal Section / GGB//CB / Dear Sir, / I beg to refer to my letter of July / 30th last, to which no reply has been received. / As we are anxious to close this case / as soon as possible, an early reply enclosing a / money order for $15.00 will be greatly appreciated. / Yours very truly, [signature in ink] [typed] G. G. Beckett, / for Assistant Deputy Custodian / Libero Sauro, Esq., / 104 Millwood Road, / Toronto, Ontario.

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from the Department of the Secretary of State, Office of the Custodian, to Libero Sauro, September 8, 1943.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

The Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP) was a branch of the Canadian government that oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. The office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Each accounting firm hired by the CEP would bill an internee for administrative costs even though internees did not ask for the CEP to be involved.

In this letter, the CEP is contacting Sauro regarding the collection of the $15 administration fee owing to the department. Comparable to ca. $250 today, Sauro was interned for less than four months. This is a second follow-up letter to another in the collection (see ICEA2010-0008-0008 and ICEA2010-0008-0007).

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from Department of the Secretary of State, to Libero Sauro, July 30, 1943

MAKER
G.G. Beckett

DATE
July 30, 1943

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [printed on paper] CANADA / DEPARTMENT OF THE SECRETARY OF STATE / OFFICE OF THE CUSTODIAN / ADDRESS ALL / COMMUNICATIONS / TO THE / CUSTODIAN’S OFFICE / PLEASE REFER TO / FILE NO. [dotted line] [typed] 5501 / Legal Sec. / GGB//PM / Victoria Building, 7 O’Connor Street, / Ottawa, Ontario, / July 30, 1943. / Dear Sir: / I beg to refer to my letter of the / 21st ultimo to which no reply has been received. / As we are anxious to close your / case as soon as possible an early reply enclosing / a money order for $15.00 will be greatly appreciated. / Yours truly, [signature in ink] [typed] G.G. Beckett / For Assistant Deputy Custodian / Libero Sauro, Esq., / 104 Millwood Road, / Toronto, Ontario.

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from the Department of the Secretary of State, Office of the Custodian, to Libero Sauro, July 30, 1943.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

The Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP) was a branch of the Canadian government that oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. The office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Each accounting firm hired by the CEP would bill an internee for administrative costs even though internees did not ask for the CEP to be involved.

In this letter, the CEP is contacting Sauro regarding the collection of the $15 administration fee owing to the department. Comparable to ca. $250 today, Sauro was interned for less than four months. This is a follow-up letter to another in the collection (ICEA2010-0008-0007).

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Letter from Department of the Secretary of State, to Libero Sauro, June 21, 1943

MAKER
L. Legault

DATE
June 21, 1943

INSCRIPTIONS
Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [printed on paper] CANADA / DEPARTMENT OF THE SECRETARY OF STATE / OFFICE OF THE CUSTODIAN / ADDRESS ALL / COMMUNICATIONS / TO THE / CUSTODIAN’S OFFICE / PLEASE REFER TO / FILE NO. [dotted line] [typed] 5501 / Financial section / LL//SC. / Victoria Building, 7 O’Connor Street, / Ottawa, 21st June, 1943. / Dear Sir: / The Custodian’s charges in connection / with the administration of your affairs while you were / interned are $15.00. I shall be glad accordingly to / receive a Money Order for this amount at your earliest / convenience. / Yours very truly, [signature in ink] [typed] L. Legault, / For E. Arpin, Comptroller / to Assistant Deputy Custodian. / Libero Sauro, Esq., / 104 Millwood Road, / Toronto, Ontario.

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Letter from the Department of the Secretary of State, Office of the Custodian, to Libero Sauro, June 21, 1943.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

The Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP) was a branch of the Canadian government that oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. The office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Each accounting firm hired by the CEP would bill an internee for administrative costs even though internees did not ask for the CEP to be involved.

In this letter, the CEP is contacting Sauro regarding the collection of the $15 administration fee owing to the department. Comparable to ca. $250 today, Sauro was interned for less than four months.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Prisoner of War mail, addressed to Mrs. C. Sauro, December 22, 1940

MAKER
Eugenio Roiz

DATE
December 22, 1940

INSCRIPTIONS
Verso: [t-b, l-r]: [handwritten in ink] Petawawa, Dec. 22 – 1940 / Dear Clementina- / The case was heard last Friday before Justice Fortier / It seems quite clear that the whole thing was based on alleged / fascist speeches made to the Lodges in various places. The argumen / ts presented should have been sufficient to prove the contrary. However / it is up to him to decide. Did the best to be truthful and spared nobo / dy. It seem [sic] the dear friends were Camillo and Zaganello. The latter / is the school teacher at Dufferin, the one Bersani helped with the Immi / gration Dept. Will give you details and instruction next letter. Regards to all [circular stamp] CANADA [crown] INT.O.P. / 5 / CENSORED [handwritten in ink] Yours [signature in ink] Eugenio [handwritten in ink] [illeg.]W 917 Eugenio Roiz

Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [printed on paper] PRISONER OF WAR MAIL FREE / FRANC DE PORT [circular stamp] PETAWAWA / PM / DE 24 / 40 / ONT. / [wavy lines] [handwritten in ink] Mrs. C. Sauro / 104 Millwood Rd. [circular stamp] CANADA [crown] INT.O.P. / 5 / CENSORED [handwritten in ink] Toronto – 12 – Ont.

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Prisoner of War mail, addressed to Mrs. C. Sauro, December 22, 1940.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

In this postcard, internee Eugenio Roiz writes to Sauro’s wife Clementina about the outcomes of his hearing. Under the DOCR (Defence of Canada Regulations), after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention to an advisory committee appointed by the Minister of Justice. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice.

Here, Roiz mentions that the evidence supplied against him seems to come primarily from community informants. Their motivations varied. Here he names two of the more notorious — Camillo Vetere, a former school teacher and journalist, and Reverend Augusto Bersani.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Prisoner of War mail, addressed to Rev. L. Sauro, April 14, 1941

MAKER
Giuliano Zalfa

DATE
April 14, 1941

INSCRIPTIONS
Verso: [t-b, l-r]: [handwritten in ink] Petawawa 14-4-1941- / Gent.mio Signor Sauro- / Lo scrivente appartiene all’equipaggio del s//s Capo Moli, / la presente fa seguito alla lettera scrittá in commune ma io / sento il dovere di ringraziarvi personalmente e particolarmente / non solo voi [elze] avete avuto l’iniziativa ma anche i vostri compa / gni [elze] gentilmente hanno volute ricordarsi di noi pur non / [conoscerci]. [Grastita] i puì sinceri saluti ed auguri, sperando di / potervi presto ringrasiare personalmente. Tanti saluti anche ai vostri compagni / Vostro affino [signature in ink] ZGiuliano [circular stamp ] CANADA [crown] INT.O.P. / 5 / CENSORED [handwritten in ink] P.W. no. 397- Zalfa Giuliano –

Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [printed on paper] PRISONER OF WAR MAIL FREE FRANC DE PORT [circular stamp} PETAWAWA / PM / AP 15 / 41 / ONT. / [wavy lines] [handwritten in ink] A Rev. L. Sauro / 104 Millwood Road [circular stamp] CANADA [crown] INT.O.P. / 5 / CENSORED [handwritten in ink] Toronto (Canada)

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Prisoner of War mail, addressed to Rev. L. Sauro, April 14, 1941.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

After his release, Sauro continued to help other internees and their families. In this postcard, he is being thanked by an Italian merchant marine for a parcel he sent to a group of internees.

Internees were allowed to write three letters and four postcards per month. The maximum length for letters was twenty-four lines and eight lines for postcards. Exceptions were made for those who ran businesses and had to respond to letters from the Custodian of Enemy Property. All camp letters were read by a censor. Contents deemed inappropriate were blacked out with ink. The same applied to incoming mail. Camp letters that were written in Italian were first translated into English before being read by a censor.

Internees were allowed to receive parcels from family members. These packages were searched thoroughly by camp guards before being distributed. Internees mostly received food and clothing.

Receiving mail was an important occasion for internees. For most, letters were the only contact they had with family.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Prisoner of War mail, addressed to Rev. L. Sauro, April 14, 1941

MAKER
[Illegible]

DATE
April 14, 1941

INSCRIPTIONS
Verso: [in Italian] [t-b, l-r]: [handwritten in ink] Petawawa Ont. Aprile 14. 41 – / Carissimo Signor Sauro. / Quanto speditomi per le feste di Pasqua / e stato diviso per trentotto persone, giusto / come vostro desiderio, da essi e stato molto / gradito e di tutto cuore vi dicaro immensa / mente grazie il sottoscritto e stato uno di benificati, non potendo scrivere io / direttamente. Saluti ed auguri, riconoscente / P.W. 910- C[illeg.]. G. [circular stamp] CANADA [crown] INT.O.P. / 5 / CENSORED [handwritten in ink] vostro [signature in ink]

Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [printed on paper] PRISONER OF WAR MAIL FREE / FRANC DE PORT [circular stamp] PETAWAWA / PM / AP 15 / 41 / ONT. / [wavy lines] [handwritten in ink] Rev. L. Sauro / 104 Millwood Road

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Prisoner of War mail, addressed to Rev. L. Sauro, April 14, 1941.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

After his release, Sauro continued to help other Italian Canadian internees and their families. In this postcard, he is being thanked for a parcel he sent to a group of 38 internees for the Easter holidays.

Internees were allowed to write three letters and four postcards per month. The maximum length for letters was twenty-four lines and eight lines for postcards. Exceptions were made for those who ran businesses and had to respond to letters from the Custodian of Enemy Property. All camp letters were read by a censor. Contents deemed inappropriate were blacked out with ink. The same applied to incoming mail. Camp letters that were written in Italian were first translated into English before being read by a censor.

Internees were allowed to receive parcels from family members. These packages were searched thoroughly by camp guards before being distributed. Internees mostly received food and clothing.

Receiving mail was an important occasion for internees. For most, letters were the only contact they had with family.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.

Prisoner of War mail, addressed to Mrs. L. Sauro, September 9, 1940

MAKER
Government of Canada

DATE
September 09, 1940

INSCRIPTIONS
Verso: [t-b, l-r]: [printed on paper] FORM I.O. 13 / I have been interned under the Defence of Canada Regulations. I will / write you more details soon. / Address my letters: / c//o INTERNMENT OPERATIONS, / Department of the Secretary of State, / OTTAWA, Ontario. / Date [dotted line] [handwritten in ink] September 9th 1940 [printed on paper] Signature [dotted line] [signature in ink] L Sauro [printed on paper] (Nothing except signature and date are to be written on this side.)

Recto: [t-b, l-r]: [printed on paper] FREE / PRISONER OF WAR MAIL / (THIS SIDE FOR ADDRESS ONLY) [handwritten in ink on dotted lines] Mrs. L. Sauro / 104 Millwood Rd / Toronto / Ontario [printed on paper] FOR DELIVERY IN CANADA ONLY

CREDIT LINE
Courtesy of the family of Libero & Clementina Sauro

Prisoner of war mail, addressed to Mrs. L. Sauro, September 9, 1940.

Internees were often arrested and detained without any notice or explanation to their families. Many waited days and weeks to learn of the whereabouts of their loved ones. Although many heard through word of mouth that their family members had been arrested, and a few had opportunities to see their loved ones at detainment centres throughout the country, this postcard was often the first official notice received by families.

Rev. Libero Sauro was arrested on September 7, 1940 and held at Don Jail before being transferred to Petawawa Internment Camp.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials donated by the Sauro family.