Archibald Copeland Scott

90th Rifles / 8th Canadian Battalion
Royal Winnipeg Rifles “Little Black Devils”
Canadian Expeditionary Force – First World War

Service Summary

Archibald Copeland Scott originally homesteaded with his brother Bob near Ogema, Saskatchewan. He later sold his land and enlisted for service during the First World War.

He served overseas in France with the Royal Winnipeg Rifles, whose regiment was famously known as the “Little Black Devils.”

Wartime Experience

Archie served as a runner, carrying messages between units under dangerous front-line conditions before modern battlefield communications existed.

These duties required courage, endurance, and speed, as runners often crossed exposed ground under enemy fire.

While stationed in England, Archie suffered a broken jaw during a football game, requiring his jaw to be wired while it healed.

Post-Service Life

After the war, Archie purchased land south of Minnedosa in 1924 through the Soldiers Settlement Board.

He married Elsie Mildred Cracknell of London, England, and they raised two sons:

• Glen Copeland (born 1927)

• Reginald Wilfred (born 1930)

Archie became well known at local Rookhurst picnics, where he ran bingo and the Wheel of Fortune. His famous call of “howsy, howsy” always drew a crowd.

He was a member of Royal Canadian Legion Branch #138, a Life Member of the B.P.O. Elks, and served as Trustee of the Rookhurst School.

Archie passed away in 1966.

Medals & Honours

• 1914–1918 War Medal

• Medal for Service at the Front

• Great War for Civilization Medal (1914–1919)