Item 2020.010.01 - Physical Training

The dating of this card is 1941-1945 due to a few factors. The AZO marked stamp box on the back can suggests that this style of stamp box was done until the 1940s. As well, the phot used for this postcard is taken at the A25 Canadian Small Arms Training Centre (CSATC) in Long Branch. This training centre was open between 1940-1945 but the base changed its name to A25 CSATC in 1941.

The CSATC shared the base with the Canadian weapon manufacturer Small Arms Limited. The factory was housed in a large purpose-built factory, and it built weapons for the Second World War. Prior to the opening of this factory, Canada did not have a military small arms manufacturer but with the Second World War, the need was apparent. In June 1940, the Department of National Defence approved the proposal to build the plant. This location was ideal as it was next to the existing rifle range, it was close to potential employees, and close to a streetcar line. On December 31, 1945, the Small Arms Division of Canadian Arsenals Limited (CAL) took over SAL and employees were let go as weapons were not long being constructed.

This scene was captured with the purpose of showcasing strength and security under the looming threat of Second World War. The postcard shows a company of male soldiers performing training exercises outside Small Arms Limited.

This postcard is printed as “Real Photo Postcard”. Real photo postcards began to be produced in the early 1900s. They were first produced using the Kodak “postcard camera” where the camera could take a picture and then print a postcard sized negative of the photo. This camera allowed anyone to be able to make photo postcards (either as a hobby or a business). As a result, many real photo postcards produced were one of a kind family photos or events, but many businesses continue to use this new technology to continue to show landmarks and city sites. Real photo postcards differ from printed postcards as they are developed from the negative rather than printed.