Henry Wake, who was wounded overseas, was the first returning soldier to Manvers Township in 1917. He was greeted by village officials and school children who lined the main street with flags and flowers. The citizens gathered in Bethany for a banquet in 1919 welcoming home the soldiers as well as honouring families of Veterans who served for their country. A bronze plaque was erected on the front wall of the Manvers Township Hall and was unveiled by Sir Sam Hughes, Minister of Munitions and Defence.
Two First World War cannons graced the front entrance of the town hall. They were installed as part of the official dedication of the bronze plaque in 1919. Unfortunately, years later, they were removed and sold.
