It was a bright and sunny morning when I was to set out on a metal detecting adventure, eager to explore a historic property rumoured to hold hidden treasures from the past. “Ok well I may have started those rumours” but still, rumours are rumours nonetheless. Armed with my trusty metal detector and a sense of curiosity, I enlisted the help of club members, Darcy Laframboise, and Jason Corbett, fellow enthusiasts from the SEOMDC (Southeastern Ontario Metal Detecting Club).

As Darcy and Jason arrives at my house, we were greeted by a picturesque scene—a charming old yellow house across the street from me, which I had already detected with Dave Arnold a few weeks prior. In behind that property is where we were to be lurking today.

We were surrounded by lush greenery. As mentioned in my previous story, It was said that the house across from me once belonged to the watch keeper or station master of the once established nearby Yarker Train station, adding an air of mystery to our search.

With excitement and anticipation bubbling our blood, we had a total of 5 properties to choose our search area today, we began by sweeping our metal detectors back and forth across the land, hoping to uncover relics that would unveil the secrets of the past of this magical town they call Yarker.

As the first hour passed by without any significant discoveries, nothing but common foil cans and a pewter spoon bowl Darcy had started out on the field expecting some old relics and or some turn of the century Canadian coins. But instead was greeted with not much more then trash.

Large cents were what we both had been expecting. We did not find a single Large cent if I’m to be honest but we remained undeterred, knowing that patience was key in this hobby. And as you will find out soon, what we did unearth was much more satisfying.

Turns out after talking to the property owners. The property was indeed once owned by the Canadian military for a brief period of time just after WWI and was sold to a family that has been there for the past 50 years at least

Not long after my button find, Darcy’s detector beeped, excitedly, indicating a discovery of his own, an Indian Head Penny from 1894. An impressive discovery for sure. Just prior to this find Jason Corbett had unearthed an Indian head Penny of his own. Only Jason’s penny was 1 year earlier however not in as good a condition as Darcy’s penny

The item gave Darcy hope of older and greater items that put a spark in his step and the look of joy in Darcy’s eyes. The thrill of finding historical artifacts continued as I unearthed an early 1900s underwear button, a small but intriguing relic from a bygone era.

To be completely honest, I did not even know what it was until Dave Arnold had explained it to me when I found one when he was here digging a few weeks ago, and when he did I almost dropped in on the ground hesitant to even touch it lol. I guess a 100 years of being buried in the ground, all the hebie giebies should be gone by now as Dave had pointed out lol. So this time I was not as wimpy when this button was unearthed.

Our next find proved to be even more fascinating. I carefully brushed away the dirt to reveal a Edwardian era military Canadian button. Its intricate design and delicate craftsmanship hinted at a time between 1899 and WW1 when the property might have seen military presence? A few weeks ago I had uncovered a militia cuff button from around 1868 It was a remarkable piece of history that we were honoured to hold in our hands. Personally it was my first Victorian button to date.

telling tales of years gone by. The thought crossed my mind. I have found several military items on this property now, so was this property owned by the military at some point? Nevertheless, It was a thrilling find and gave us a glimpse into the history of the property. Unable to put a precise date on the button itself but based on the depth of the find and history of the property, my best guess would be around the early 1900’s? To WW1

And now I hold in my hands a second button from a different era. A bit later, but still an interesting time in Canadian history. As history reveals military presence on the property I could not help but sense a bit of an erie feeling come across my body as I started thinking about how many years of fighting and battles had taken place across this area that has claimed lives so that I can live the life I do today in a free country such as Canada.

So a bit sidetracked there so back to the hunt itself. The highlight of our metal detecting adventure came when Jason stumbled upon another military badge with the initials R.C.E.M.E. ?

Approximately 7” below the surface. Jason Darcy and I tried to guess it’s origin and age, but it remained a mystery, leaving us intrigued and eager to learn more. We would later consult with experts to unravel its secrets and uncover its true history. However it was only a couple feet away from where I had uncovered the Militia button and was approximately at the Same depth of approx7” below the surface.. a short google search revealed the badges true identity.

This was the first RCEME badge & was worn proudly by Canada’s Craftsmen on D Day and in the latter stages of the Italian Campaign. The badge comprised three shields: the cannons and cannonball symbolizing armaments, the lightning flash and the gear wheel symbolizing, respectively, electrical and mechanical power. The shields were surrounded by a laurel wreath symbolizing service and gallantry in battle and surmounted by the Royal Crown. Below was a scroll with the initials RCEME.

 

As the day drew closer and closer to a close, we decided to make one final sweep across the property. Just as we were about to call it a day, Darcy’s metal detector emitted a distinct sound, signaling a significant find. A high tone with a VDI in the high 20’s or low 30’s indicating a possibility the item may be of the .925 nature.

With hopes running high. & renewed excitement, I eagerly watched as he carefully dug into the ground. After a few moments, he triumphantly held up a set of Harmonica reeds lol, not exactly the jewelry we were anticipating. However It was still a remarkable discovery, as there was an old piece of cardboard with writing on it revealing the origin of the musical find. Another testament to the rich history that lay beneath our feet. The piece of cardboard read

 

With our bags filled with much trash and these incredible artifacts, we said farewell to the property for the day, knowing that we had uncovered a small piece of its hidden past. As we walked across the street back towards my home, and Darcy towards his car. we couldn’t help but feel a sense of satisfaction and gratitude for the opportunity to delve into history, like we had just done, one beep at a time.

 

Our adventure with Darcy and Jason, from the SCOMDC metal detecting club had been a memorable one to say the least, filled with fascinating finds and shared enthusiasm. It was a reminder that the world around us is teeming with artifacts waiting to be discovered, and that sometimes, the most intriguing tales are found buried just below our feet

 

Darcy’s and Jason’s Expertise and identification of each of the days items was impressive to say the least . Each time an item was revealed both Darcy & Jason would carefully study each artifact, examining its shape, material, and any inscriptions or markings, They are both seasoned detectorist with a vast knowledge of historical relics, and their expertise was invaluable in unraveling the secrets hidden beneath the soil on this day.

 

As we packed up our gear, tired, yet satisfied, I couldn’t help but feel an appreciation for the rich tapestry of stories hidden beneath the surface. Metal detecting had not only allowed us to uncover forgotten relics but had also connected us to a shared past—a reminder that history lives on, waiting to be rediscovered by those willing to put forth the effort to do so and to those that listen to the stories told.

 

With gratitude for the day’s discoveries and a renewed passion for exploration, Darcy, Jason, and I bid goodby to the property for the day.

We left with a sense of accomplishment, knowing that we had played a small part in preserving the legacy of Yarker, Ontario, and the people who had once called it home. And as we walked away, we carried the memories of that day, forever etched in our minds like the engravings on that old Militia button, a testament to the enduring power of history.