HomeMy WebLinkAbout613Spiral bound book, 21.5 x 28 cm, 52 pages, researched and compiled by Dorothy Shier,
written and edited by Dorthea Helms, dated 1995.
"Researched and compiled by-Dorothy Shier
Written and Edited by Dorothea Helms
Copyright by the Durham West
4-H Association
1995
"
"1
After a century of settlement and development,
Ontario County was firmly entrenched in an agricultural lifestyle by 1900.
Townships from Pickering and Whitby in the south to Rama and Mara in the north had
become fertile breeding grounds for education, as well as crops and livestock;
hence the opening of the Department of Agriculture in Ontario County in Whitby in 1908.
Since then, Agricultural Representatives have encouraged advancement in farming
products and techniques, with Mr. J.H. Hare being the first to serve in that office.
The Department of Agriculture was moved to Uxbridge in 1920 and to Port Perry in 1992.
J.H. Hare 1908-1913
R.M. Tipper 1913-1924
W.M. Croskery 1924-1936
E.A. Innes 1936-1941
F.M. Campbell 1941-1946
H.L. Fair 1947-1970
H.I. Bell 1971-1987
Bill Baxter 1988-1989
John Finlay 1990-1993
Joel Bagg 1994
The first County School Fair was held in Brooklin in 1912. Three hundred people attended
the fair to view the four poultry and 61 miscellaneous entries on exhibit there.
The event was so popular that the Public School Inspector requested that a fair be held in
each township of the county the following year.
This excerpt from the autobiography of George Wesley Samells depicts the enthusiastic
spirit in which these fairs were held:
""In 1914 was the beginning of the Rural School Fair in the Township of Cartwright.
The Department of Agriculture supplied us with certified seed. We had a choice of one or
more of the varieties. One year, I grew oats on a small plot. The following year,
I had enough oats to plant one acre of G.A.P. no 75. One year I had potatoes and we could
show baking or sewing. We could show a calf or a colt each year 1914 and 1915.
One year my colt won second prize and I got seventy-five cents.
They were judged by the way you had them trained.
The judge asked me after I had lifted up the colt's front feet to lift up his hind feet.
I replied 'I think I'll leave that for you.' He just smiled. The fair was held at Blackstock
Fairgrounds for the Township of Cartwright. One fair day I drove the mother of the colt in
the buggy taking Mother and Flossie in the morning three and a half miles.
The colt ran along by the side of its mother.""
Through those initial school fairs, The Department of Agriculture not only furnished the
seeds for crops, but also the seeds for what was to be the beginning of an ongoing
tradition in
"
"2
rural Ontario: 4-H. Each year the number of school fairs increased; and by 1920 every school
in the county participated. These fairs became an important medium through which the
Department of Agriculture came into contact with large numbers of the county's farmers.
Distributing eggs and seeds to pupils introduced better quality poultry and new improved
varieties of cereal grains to farm families. The fairs offered pupils opportunities to exhibit
displays and compete in public speaking, singing and judging contests,
among other activities. The Junior Farmers' Association began sponsoring livestock
coaching classes, and in 1922 the first annual Judging Competition was held.
"
"3
Even before the Department of Agriculture offices opened in 1908, Women's Institutes had
been active in Ontario County for several years. Each township had a branch of the
organization, and these fine groups initiated and carried through to completion many
worthwhile projects. Later in the century, many of the Institute's members gave excellent
leadership to Girls' Homemaking Clubs.
In an effort to balance the predominance of agricultural and livestock projects across the
county, the Federated Women's Institutes began Sewing Clubs in 1915 and Food, Nutrition,
Gardening and Canning Clubs in 1927.
The 1930s saw the official establishment of the Girls' Clubs, with the development of local
leadership in 1932 and the changing of the name ""Institute Branch"" of the Department of
Agriculture to the ""Women's Institute Branch"" in 1934. In 1935 the Girls' Clubs were
formally introduced by the Women's Institute Branch. It then became the task of the
volunteers to attend two-day workshops before overseeing projects - becoming the key
facilitators with guidance from the Home Economics Extension Program and sponsors and
support from the Institutes.
In 1935, Miss Florence P. Edie became Supervisor of the Junior Extension Service.
With the cooperation of local Institutes in sponsoring clubs and the outstanding service of
the individual women acting as local leaders, the Homemaking Club work has become one
of the most important parts of the Home Economics Extension Program. Miss Edie set high
standards for members in both achievement and deportment, and some of the principles
she pioneered are now generally accepted in other provinces, as well. Miss Edie retired in
1962.
Kathleen Morrison was a member of the Boys' and Girls' Clubs in the early 1930s and
became a leader later in that decade in Lorneville, Victoria County. She continued leading
clubs in Brock Township for thirty years and has her 25-year certificate. In addition,
she earned her 50-year pin for service in the Women's Institute. In 1967 she was recognized
with a framed certificate from the Department of Agriculture and Food for her outstanding
work with rural youth. To this day, the Women's Institutes offer scholarships and provide
valuable support to 4-H.
"
"4
According to the Ontario County Report, the first of the Boys' and Girls' Clubs which
eventually became known as 4-H was started on April 2, 1928. The ""Ontario County
Kiwanis Farm Boys' Potato Club"" had an enrollment of 125 members between the ages of
12 and 18 years. In return for the one bag of Certified Dooley Seed donated by the
Downtown and West Toronto Kiwanis Club, each boy had to give the Kiwanians two bags of
potatoes in the fall. In addition, each member was given 50 lbs. of 2-12-6 fertilizer by
Ontario Fertilizer Ltd.
At the Royal Winter Fair on October 30, 1928, 98 of the members exhibited potatoes,
and these bushels were bought by the T. Eaton Company at an ""excellent"" price.
Of these 98 members, 95 went on a one-day trip to Toronto to attend a banquet
sponsored by the Kiwanis Club at the King Edward Hotel.
In 1929, the following clubs were formed: a Girls' Garden and Canning Club with 18
members, the Scugog Leicester Sheep Club with 12 members and a Young Men's Grain
Club with 96 members. The Toronto Kiwanis provided seed for both the Potato and Grain
Clubs.
According to the Annual Report of Ontario County in 1930, there were 145 School Fairs
with 3,731 pupils taking seeds, and the number of entries was 12,551. Each school board
contributed on a per-pupil basis, and teachers were paid by cheque on School Fair day.
Mac Christie received a silver plate for winning top points at his School Fair in Reach
Township in 1925, which was sponsored by T. Eaton.
In the Boys' and Girls' Clubs section of the report, the following are listed:
Public School Boys' Potato Club - 52 members ages 9-12
Junior Kiwanis Boys' Potato Club - 73 members ages 12-18
Senior Kiwanis Boys' Potato Club - 19 members ages 14-20
Young Men's Grain Club - 97 members ages 14-25
In addition in 1931, a Boys' Swine Club with 46 members was formed in April,
and National Boys' and Girls' Clubs exhibits appeared at the Royal Winter Fair.
From Ontario County, six exhibitors from the ten potato and grain exhibits won prizes.
According to the 1932 Annual Report, four members showed and placed at the Royal
Winter Fair: John D. Moore and Morley Bagshaw competed with their oats and barley,
Richard Rynard with potatoes and George Moore with his sample of white oats.
Provincial Inter-Club Competitions were becoming popular in the early 1930s,
and Ontario County participants fared well. 1933
"
"5
saw the beginning of Foal Clubs, and Dairy Calf Clubs were initiated in 1934.
Beef Calf Clubs were begun in 1936, and Ontario County members did very well at
Provincial Inter-Club Competitions in Peterborough, at the CNE and at the Royal
Agricultural Winter Fair. In 1937, the first Inter-Club Competition was held in conjunction
with the Peterborough Fair.
In 1938, the Kiwanis Club awarded five $10 scholarships to the top five boys in club work
from the county. These scholarships enabled the boys to take a short course at the Ontario
Agricultural College in Guelph.
The first County Breed Show was held in Ontario County in 1939. Organized for the Holstein
breed at the Port Perry Fair by the late R.M. Holtby, this show has become an annual event
at which 4-H members regularly compete.
Also in 1939, the judging team that went to Guelph was chosen as follows:
Dairy Cattle Club
Gordon Beare of Uxbridge and Lloyd Smith of Port Perry
Beef Cattle Club
Walter Beath of Oshawa and Don Christie of Port Perry
Swine Club
Mervin Rynard of Uxbridge and Stanley Miller of Zephyr
Potato Club
Ted Croxall of Uxbridge and Roderick Rynard of Zephyr
Various livestock directors, advisory board directors, clergymen and teachers gave time
and effort to the organization, but it was mainly the Agricultural Representatives who
organized and led the clubs. They took the leadership roles of forming clubs,
recruiting members and organizing events.
"
"6
The focus on club formation shifted to local areas during the 1940s.
Even though each community had at least one club with local leaders,
the Agricultural Representatives still held the major leadership responsibilities.
It was Mrs. Alpha Samells who initiated Girls' Clubs in the area in the late 1940s,
with the help of the Home Economics Service (part of the Women's Institute Branch)
of the Ontario Department of Agriculture. (In 1947 this name was changed to
The Women's Institute Branch and Home Economics Service).
Mrs. Samells had been a member of the Junior Institute on Scugog Island in the late
1930s and had established a friendship with Miss Florence P. Edie, who later became
Supervisor of the Junior Extension Service (a division of the Home Economics Service).
With this background and her knowledge of the enrichment that Homemaking Clubs
added to young girls' lives, she was determined to organize such groups here.
In 1947, these Homemaking Clubs were formed: Cereal Shelf, Sleeping Garments,
Supper and Garden Clubs.
Uxbridge
Leaders Mrs. R.G. Clark and Mrs. Stan Lain
Members
Ruth Barton
Geraldine Gregg
Violet Mercer
Maxine Parish
Lois Simpson
Marie Simpson
Pickering
Leader Mrs. E.B. Brown
Members
Betty Ede
Ruby Ede
Susan Ede
Shirley Howes
Abb Pearce
Irene Salter
Josephine Wasylyk
Veronica Wasylyk
Eden School
Leaders Mrs. Angus Gilespie and Mrs. Russell Morrison
Members
Jane Harris
Joan Ross
Marilyn Ross
Ruth Smith
"
"7
Sandford
Leaders Miss D. Oliver and Mrs. W. Carruthers
Members
Betty Burnham
Marie Burnham
Ilah Hackner
Betty Leek
Maruna Kydd
Helen Meek
Ona Meek
Dorothy Oliver
Doris Oliver
Norene Risebrough
Ruth Risebrough
Marion Smalley
Helen Veitch
Scugog Island
Leaders Mrs. Reg Boundey and Mrs. E.B. Cooke
Members
Evelyn Collins
Bonnie Gerrow
Kay Prentice
Jean Samells
Brooklin
Leaders Mrs. Wm. Heron and Mrs. N. Alvis
Members
Melveen Fisher
Marion Reazin
Loreen Stanton
Brechin
Leader Margaret Young
Members
Beth Harris
Joan Hutchings
Elizabeth Gowanlock
Beaverton
C.G.I.T. Members
Joye Dennis
Elsie Edwards
Gail Miller
Verla Miller
Margaret Evans
Betty Jean McMillan
Betty Stanley
Jean Teer
Irene Veale
Jean Vogt
Joan Watson
Verna Watson
Barbara Smith
"
"8
Altona
Leader Mrs. David Crosier
Members
Florence Betz
Nellie Betz
Lois Baker
Doris Baker
Mrs. Eleanor Bunker
Helen Brown
Ernistine Cooper
Nelda Elson
Although there was always judging at their Achievement Days, Homemaking Clubs were r
estricted to girls only, and no aspect of competition was allowed. Membership totalled 87,
with 15 leaders.
Lois Baker received her Provincial Honours. Each girl received a silver spoon after
completion of the clubs. Six clubs received butter knives, 12 clubs pie servers.
They were all the same design, although the choice of pattern did change over the years.
The leaders were awarded spoons and certificates for 5, 10, 15 and 20 years of service.
The following agriculture clubs thrived in 1947:
Beaverton Baby Calf Club
Sponsored by the Beaverton Agricultural Society
Leader Ross McMillan
President Ted Westlake
Vice President Earl Windatt
Secretary Bob Ross
Members Kenneth Windatt
Lance Beath
Herbert Furniss
Stephen J. Stephen
Donald Metherel
James Blackburn
Mac Christie
Arthur Richardson
Jeanne Pearson
Bert Pearson
Richard Miller
Bill Miller
Everson Norton
Keith Heron
Club members were 12 to 19 years of age. Ross McMillan led this club until 1957,
when Ted Lamb took over. The beef club ran for several years with many members
competing at Inter-County and Provincial shows, as well as at the Royal Winter Fair.
(In the 1930s and 1940s, everyone in the Beef Clubs was allowed to show at the Royal).
"
"9
Illustration:
The winning Beef Calf Team - Ontario County
1946 Inter-Club Competition in Guelph
Left to right: Don Knapp (assistant Agricultural Representative),
Jack Pearson, Mac Christie, Fred Campbell, (Agricultural Representative)
Scott Beef Calf Club (This club ran for many years)
Sponsored by the Scott Agricultural Society
Leader Jack Pearson
President Arthur Richardson
Vice President Jim Scott
Secretary Jim Blackburn
1948 Members
Tom Brown
Jim Blackburn
Arthur Richardson
James Bayne
Jim Scott
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"10
Mac Christie
Grant Parrott
Hugh Baird
Jeanne Pearson
Sinclair Robertson
Oshawa Dairy Calf Club
Sponsored by the South Ontario Agricultural Society
Leader Bob Flett
President Maurice Jebson
Vice President Bill Snowden
Secretary John Thomson
Members
Ronald Werry
Donald Down
Frank Wannacott
Peter Carswell
Lawrence Mountjoy
John Thomas
Edward Teefy
Ronald Flett
Port Perry Dairy Calf Club
Sponsored by the Port Perry Agricultural Society
Leader Wilfred Evans
President Lawrence Evans
Vice President Mac Christie
Secretary Ross Evans
Members
Wilfred Tamblyn
Murry Rodd
Marion Rodd
Bob Ashenhurst
Floyd Evans
Roger Ashenhurst
Donald Sutcliffe
George Stone
In that year (1947) Gerald Teefy of Pickering and 23 other Ontario farm boys and girls
went to the Boys' and Girls' Congress in Chicago. In 1949, the total membership of the
Potato, Calf and Grain Clubs was 125. By 1957, membership had risen to 292.
The clubs were Tractor, Potato, Calf, Grain and Forestry, with the Calf Clubs being the
most popular.
From 1949 to 1956, Ruth Shaver was the Home Economist.
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"11
By the 1950s, more responsibilities were being assumed by-local leaders, with those
volunteers being called upon to help organize clubs and carry out meetings. The many Girls'
Homemaking Clubs underway at this time had very successful completion rates.
Alpha Samells was very active with the Scugog Club. In 1952, Jean Samells and Kay
Prentice went to National Club Week. Kay and Jean had been selected as the Food team
to represent the Province of Ontario and had the opportunity to meet with young people
from all over Canada. Activities for this week included attendance at the horse show at the
Royal Winter Fair, a Maple Leaf Gardens hockey game, a banquet at the Royal York,
as well as trips to Hamilton, Niagara Falls and Ottawa, where participants were received
by the Governor-General at Rideau Hall.
Alpha's two daughters, Jean and Donna, continued in the program, achieving many
awards. Jean became a leader, married Earl Bailey and continued with club work.
After fourteen years, she is still active in this leadership role. In addition, her daughter,
Lynn, has completed eighteen projects.
In 1952, the name changed to 4-H clubs. Several hundred boys and girls in Ontario
County have taken part each year since the program began. The great value of this work
has been recognized throughout the area and continues to be a regular part of the
Agriculture and Home Economics Extension Program.
In 1957, Donna Samells of Port Perry went to 4-H National Club Week.
1957 Clubs: What Shall I Wear?, Club Girl Entertains, The Cereal Shelf and the Garden
Club.
Beaverton
Leader Mrs. Russell Morrison
Members
Gail Gray
Mary Ellen Hill
Mary Eliz Lancaster
Roberta McElroy
Helen Morrisson
Jane Veale
Margaret Veale
Sunderland
Leader Mrs. Jean Keeler
Members
Daphne Eades
Elaine Hogg
Ann Martin
Elaine Park
Pat Pilkington
Gail Shier
Carol Thompson
Beth Mclnnis
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"12
Udney
Leader Mrs. M. Martin
Mermbers
Helen Bickell
Catherine Bickell
Darlene Carr
Lorraine Corrigan
Esther Dryborough
Caroline Duffy
Marie Finn
Marion Gray
Marie Gray
Margaret Gray
Helen Heitzner
Catharine Lightfoot
Gail Martin
Karen Ann Morgan
Cecelia McCarthy
Mary Ann McCarthy
Beverly Newman
Carolyn Newman
Lynda Jean Quinn
Jean Robertson
Meada Speiran
Marilyn Wilson
Altona
Leader Mrs. D. Crosier
Members
Marion Betz
Marjory Cowan
Evelyn Dunkeld
Jean Lewis
Diane St. John
Brougham
Leader Mrs. Mervin Annis
Members
Patricia Gray
Patsy Harden
Barbara Masters
Rosemary Saigo
Dorothy Willson
Bethesda-Reach
Leader Mrs. Chas. Ingleton
Members
Carol Ashenhurst
Gloria T. Ashenhurst
Doreen Evans
Doris Evans
Linda Mesereau
Marion Pogue
Catherine Rusnell
Dorothy Rusnell
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13
Quaker Hill Leader Mrs. E. Noble
Members
Eleanor Bears
Marilyn Bears
Mary Kydd
Lois Noble
Mary Noble
Donna McTavish
Heather Gail Shier
Sandford
Leader Mrs. Wm. Morriss
Members
Heather Archibald
Elizabeth Carruthers
Diane Dick
Lorna Kydd
Marion Kydd
Gloria Joyce
Sandra Leek
Donna Moore
Nancy Moore
Gayle Morriss
Jannette Morriss
Lenora Oliver
Lois Swain
Scugog
Leader Mrs. S. Ploughman
Members
Marion Martin
Thelma McEachern
Miriam Pickard
Joanne Pugh
Marion Shunk
Donna Samells
Joyce Strong
Ruby Strong
Elaine Butson
Other members for that year included Freda Philips, Cheryl Liscombe, Eileen Carter,
Patricia June Harden, Elizabeth Alsop, Donna Smith, Janice Ross, Evelyn Whitty,
Kathleen Betz, Betty Jeanne Tran, Shirley Dunkeld, Margaret Speiran, Lynn Jenkins,
Sandra Trowse, June Newell, Annie May Cragg, Betty Wallace, Linda Bagshaw,
Marilyn Monk, Daphine Eades, Janet McTavish, Gail Shier, Alma Maynard, Betty Noble,
Jeanne Pearson, Norene Ross and Ela Stearmar.
Three members did their presentation at the C.N.E. that year: Donna Samells,
Thelma McEachern and Marion Pickard. There were 16 county awards and seven
Provincial Honours presented at Achievement Day. Members included Carole Shier,
Mary Noble, June Ethel Strong, Gloria Robertson, Helen Paradine, Jo-Ann Smith,
Shirley Ward, Freda Phillips, Patricia Gray, Dorothy Willson, Rosemary Salzo,
Marjorie Cowan, Marian Betz, Evelyn Whitty, Kathleen Betz, Shirley Lewis,
Evelyn Dunkeld, Shirley Jewell, Barbara Martin, Thelma McEachern, Joyce Strong,
Ruby Strong, Miriam Pickard.
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"15
Opposite page: 1950 Port Perry Dairy Club
Club Leader - Lawrence Evans
(Left to right)
Ralph Chambers, Ross Evans, Arthur Dowson, Harold Howsam, Wilf Tamblyn, Paul Bryan,
Don Crosier, Floyd Evans, R.J. Smith, Keith Gibson, Don Hadden, Harold Medd,
Marion Rodd, Lawrence Medd.
"
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"17
Opposite Page:
1952 Beaverton Baby Calf Club Ross McMillan, Leader
(Left to right)
Gladys Vessey, Frank Farrell, Eileen Voycey, Murray Smith, Betty Semple, Donna Windatt,
Harvey Chambers, Jim Gordon, Arthur Cameron, Jim Semple, Paul McRae.
Assistant Agricultural Representative John Gill is standing by #9. Ed Starr was the Judge.
"
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"19
Opposite Page: 1959 Ontario County 4-H Club Leaders
(Left to right)
Back Row: Ross Evans, Allan Ball, Walter Perry, Hugh Baird, Don Hadden, Bob Holliday,
Alan Ross.
3rd Row: Grant Parrott, Bert Pearson, Frank Barkey (Claremont), Bill Boyes, Ron Werry,
Ted Lamb (Cannington), Jack Russ (Agriculture teacher, Uxbridge High School).
2nd Row: Maustyn McKnight, Cloyne Steerman, Duncan McTavish, Elmer Linton
(Brock High School teacher), Gordon Hunt (Pickering), Bob Rattray (Agriculture teacher,
Uxbridge).
Front Row: Alvin Blades (Assistant Agricultural Representative), Ken Holliday, H.L. Fair
(Agricultural Representative).
Following page: 4-H and Junior Farmers Awards Night
(Left to right)
Top Row: Neil Raines, Ross Stephenson, Frank Barkey, Norm Meek. Centre Row:
John Sommerville, Fred Tabeur, Murray Jackson, Carl Shier, Cecil Noble.
Bottom Row: Doug Batty, Gail White, Jean Shier (Alsop), Jeanine (Werry) Carson,
Joan Marshall.
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"21
By 1964, Ontario County had 208 members working on 227 agriculture projects.
Other activities for 4-H members included many opportunities for livestock and land judging,
as well as judging at many events: the Canadian National Exhibition Junior Day, the Lindsay
Fair and the Markham Fair.
The 4-H Championship Show at the Scott Fair had 23 Dairy, 11 Beef and 12 Grain Club
members competing. 275 teams competed at the Inter-Club Competition at Guelph,
and Ontario County, now Durham West, came home with a 4th place in Potato Judging
and a 14th place in Grain. The Royal Winter Fair competition classes consisted of potatoes,
grain and Queen's Guineas. At this time, a member had to qualify to compete at the
Royal with a calf.
Provincial 4-H Leadership Week was held at the University of Guelph, with one member
selected from each province to represent 4-H Agriculture Clubs. Selection for this exciting
opportunity is based on a member's total participation in 4-H clubs and inter-club
competitions, in addition to community involvement. The applicant must be an active
4-H member in the year of selection. Wayne Beath, a member of the Scott 4-H Beef and
Oshawa Kiwanis Grain Clubs, was selected to represent Ontario County in 1964.
In 1965, Margaret Miller of Brougham received the honour of attending 4-H National Club
week.
1967 was Centennial Year, and 4-H members took part in many celebrations and activities
to commemorate the occasion. Tree planting, home grounds improvements and community
involvement were some of the efforts members made. For the Centennial Year,
a special commemorative plaque was awarded to each Agricultural Club member.
This proved to be so popular that plaques became a basic award for Agriculture Clubs
from that time forward. Until 1967, there were also cash awards.
The Homemaking Clubs had two projects that year, one a special project written for 1967
called ""A World of Food in Canada,"" which revolved around customs, foods and recipes
from the different cultures within Canada. According to Dorothy Shier, one of the best pizza
recipes in existence was included in that project.
The other Homemaking project was called ""Sleeping Garments."" Thirty-two leaders led the
310 members who took these projects. Thirty-six County, 18 Provincial and two advanced
Honours were received by enthusiastic members as a result.
C.N.E. Delegates that year were Carol Anderson, Marie Brailey, Violet Cockburn,
Geraldine Ferguson, Jane Flett, Margaret May, Gwen Strachan and Janice Williams.
The Homemaking Club leaders were treated to two days at the Royal for a number of
years. In 1967 the fortunate recipients of this consideration were Mrs. Carl Kydd,
Mrs. Glen Caverly, Mrs. Percy Pugh, Mrs. Claude Watson, Mrs. Ross Robertson,
Mrs. Ross Miller, Mrs. K. Harrison, Mrs. Irene Long, Miss Barbara Carson
"
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and Mrs. James Campsall. There was a limit of two of these trips during anyone's 4-H
Leadership career. Homemaking Club Leaders in 1967:
Sleeping Garments
Bethesda Mrs. Ted Croxall
Goodwood #1 Mrs. Vidler Gordon
Goodwood #2 Mrs. Marg May
Goodwood #3 Mrs. Claude Watson
Greenbank Mrs. J. Couperthwaite
Manchester Mrs. Marjorie Tripp
Port Perry Mrs. J. Carnochan
Prince Albert Mrs. M. Pugh
Quaker Hill Miss B. Brunne
Altona Mrs. C. Williams
Brooklin #1 Mrs. J. Hamer
Brooklin #2 Mrs. Carl Kydd
Brougham #1 Mrs. Effie Surphlis
Brougham #2 Mrs. Robert Miller
Claremont Miss Barbara Carson
Whitby Mrs. Harold Grylls
Atherley Mrs. J.M. Smith
Beaverton Mrs. Robert Mitchell
Brock #1 Mrs. R.J. Smith
Brock #2 Mrs. Ross Miller
Cannington Mrs. John Robertson
Gamebridge Mrs. George Francis
Thorah Mrs. William Cockburn
Udney Mrs. Morris Martin
Wilfrid #1 Mrs. Harvey Chambers
Wilfrid #2 Mrs. Keith Shier
Zephyr Mrs. Irena Long
A World of Food in Canada
Brougham Mrs. R. Harden
Goodwood Mrs. G. Vider and Mrs. P. Pugh
Greenwood Mrs. Ken McTaggart
Mt. Zion Mrs. C. Disney
Whitby Mrs. H.W. Grylls
Atherley Mrs. J.M. Smith
Beaverton Mrs. R. Mitchell
Brock 1, 2, 3 Mrs. Ross Miller
Mrs. K. Harrison
Mrs. R.J. Smith
Gamebridge Mrs. George Francis
Udney Mrs. M. Martin
Wilfrid 1, 2 Mrs. H. Chambers, Mrs. K. Shier
Zephyr Mrs. I Long
Prince Albert Mrs. M. Pugh and Mrs. M. Martin
Alton Mrs. H. Feasby
Claremont Mrs. M. Anderson
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Port Perry Mrs. J. Carnochan and Miss Alice Dodd
Quaker Hill Mrs. J. Campsall
Uxbridge Mrs. C. Ashenhurst
Brooklin Mrs. M. McCool and Mrs. D. Caverly
1967 Agriculture Club Leaders:
Scott Beef Calf Club (12 members)
Brougham Dairy Calf Club (25)
Oshawa Kiwanis Dairy Calf Club (22)
Port Perry Dairy Calf Club (38)
Sunderland Dairy Club (20)
Beaverton Beef and Dairy Calf (9)
Mara Beef and Dairy Calf (14)
Beaverton Junior Dairy & Beef Calf (19)
Scott Junior Beef & Dairy Calf (14)
Brougham Junior Dairy Calf (7)
Scott Potato Club (8)
Brock Grain Club (11)
Oshawa Kiwanis Grain Club (10)
Port Perry Lions Grain Club (17)
Scott Grain Club (14)
Allan Ball
Neil McLeod
Bill Boyes
Frank Barkey
Ken Holliday
Ron Werry
Leslie Smith
Lloyd Wilson
Ted Gordon
Neil Raines
Carle Parliament
Archie Newman
Carle Parliament
John Leask
Hugh Baird
Duncan McTavish
Lorne Disney
Glen Wilson
Walter Kerry
Albert Hockley
Russell Morrison
Jim Davidson
Bill Batty
Larry Burt
Ralph Honey
Norman Meek
1967 Ontario County 4-H Championship Show: Uxbridge Fair October 7, 1967
Junior Holstein Heifer Class 14 entries
Junior Ayrshire Heifer Class 1 entry
Senior Holstein Heifer Class 11 entries
Senior Ayrshire Heifer Class 3 entries
Senior Guernsey Heifer Class 2 entries
Senior Jersey Heifer Class 2 entries
Junior Beef Heifer Class 4 entries
Senior Beef Heifer Class 6 entries
Baby Beef Steer Class 6 entries
Champion Calves:
Holstein Calf Robert Powell
Ayrshire Mary Jane Crosier
Guernsey Bruce Batty
Jersey John Kiezebrink
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24
Beef Heifer Pat Coffrey
Baby Beef Steer Brian Beath
Champion Showman Dairy Allan Pogue
In 1967, there were Potato, Calf, Grain and Cor Clubs, with a total enrollment of 240;
the Calf Clubs were the most popular.
Also in that year, the following 4-H Judging teams went to Guelph:
Potato Linda Johnson (2nd) Uxbridge
James Ross Uxbridge
Grain John Stone (19th) Blackwater
Robert Smith Blackwater
Ted Smith (19th) Blackwater
James Rennie Blackwater
Dairy Sandy Even (25th) Uxbridge
Gary Cooper Blackwater
Brian Stickwood (47th) Stouffville
Paul Hulshop Stouffville
In 1967, Robert Couperthwaite was the Provincial Delegate to Leadership Camp.
Opposite page: 1963 Ontario County 4-H Club Leaders
(Left to right)
Back Row: Bill Batty (Brooklin), Glen Wilson (Claremont), Neil McLeod (Blackwater),
Neil Raines (Blackwater), Frank Barkey (Claremont), John Leask (Seagrave).
Middle Row: H.L. Fair (Uxbridge - Agricultural Representative), Cloyne Stephenson
(Uxbridge), Maustyn McKnight (Uxbridge), Don Hadden (Blackwater), Walter Kerry
(Port Perry), Alan Ball (Uxbridge), Doug Keys (Uxbridge - Assistant Agricultural
Representative).
Front Row: John Hawthorne (Cannington), Bob Holliday (Oshawa), Duncan McTavish
(Uxbridge), Aubrey Buchner (Port Perry), Les Smith (Port Perry), Ken Holliday (Brooklin).
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This decade was one of increased membership, as well as leader and senior 4-H member
involvement. Participation in County, Regional and Provincial level 4-H pursuits was
abundant. It was in 1971 that the decision to present basic wall plaques instead of money to
Agricultural Club members was made. For each completed project during the following
years, a bar with the corresponding year engraved on it is awarded and added to the
plaque.
1972 saw the organization of the Silver Dollar Competition sponsored by the United
Breeders Inc. Senior members wrote an essay on a chosen subject and later in July went to
Erin to compete in Showmanship, Confirmation and Herdmans Classes. In 1973, the 4-H
Championship Calf Show was moved to the Beaverton Fair, and all clubs in the County
compete there.
Regional Government came into effect in 1974, and the Regional Municipality of
Durham was formed. This new region included three westerly townships of Durham
County, and all of the former Ontario County, with the exception of the Townships of Rama
and Mara in the north. Within the region, new townships were created by joining two or
more of the existing townships with at least one urban centre (for example, Uxbridge-Scott).
Several rural organizations that had been county-oriented changed their names from
Ontario County to Durham West.
1977 Clubs:
North Ontario Beef Calf Club (13 members)
Leader George Hewitt
Placed 1st Brenda Munro
Uxbridge Dairy Calf Club (17 members)
Leaders Lloyd Wilson and Doug Wilson
Placed 1st Ruth Harrison
Ontario County Senior Dairy Management (12 members)
Leader Robert Flett
Placed 1st Eldon Werry
North Ontario Dairy Club (17 members)
Leaders Maurice Jebson and Bill Yates
Placed 1st Diane Jebson
South Ontario Calf Club (14 members)
Leaders Bruce Gibson and Art Richardson
Placed 1st Chuck Fiss
Uxbridge Goat Club (10 members)
Leader Mrs. Doreen VanVught
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Placed 1st Sandra Hord
North Ontario Vet Science Club (13 members)
Leader Dr. Gary Colley
Placed 1st Helen Kantere
Ontario County Tractor Club (16 members)
Leaders Paul Harder and Bruce Walker
Placed 1st Jamie Kroekenstoel
Ontario County Field Crops Club (20 members)
Leader Ken Graham
Placed 1st Murray Norton
Port Perry Dairy Calf Club (21 members)
Leaders Keith Phoenix and John Leask
Placed 1st Dean Dusty
Sunderland Dairy Calf Club
Leaders Ted Smith, Ron Thompson, Paul Hadden
Placed 1st Bonnie Snoddon
South Ontario Vet Science Club (7 members)
Leader Dr. Bob McCrae and Dr. Keith Elliott
Placed 1st Alfred C. Parrott
South Ontario Dairy Calf Club (22 members)
Leader Ron Werry
Placed 1st Tim O'Connor
1977 proved to be a busy year. The Durham West 4-H and Junior Farmer Judging
Competition classes were Holstein, Sire Selection, Beef, Sheep, Goat, Hay, Safety
and I.D. Quiz. Eighty-one members participated.
On November 24 of that year, the Durham West Awards Banquet was held at Port Perry
Secondary School, at a cost of $3.50 per meal. Also that year, there was an exchange
trip involving Middlesex to Ontario and Victoria Counties. Gail Stephen and Neil Guthrie
went to Provincial Leadership Camp. Regional Conference Delegates were Kathy
Robinson, Sue Hoskins, Diane Jebson, Paul Kerry, Ron Grandy, Arthur Leppard,
Terry Grills, Rick Werry and Michelle Ste. Marie.
Silver Dollar participants in Dairy were Diane Jebson, Bonnie Snoddon, Tim O'Connor,
Eldon Werry and Dan Donner. Soil and Crop Management Tour Delegates were
David Chambers, Bob Stone and George Sonley.
Homemaking membership totalled 265. At Achievement Day, members were awarded
84 County Honours, 21 Provincial Honours and five advanced Honours. Homemaking
members received a special silver spoon as an award for project completion until 1982,
when the two sections of 4-H were amalgamated; the plaques with
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project plates have been awarded to members and leaders since then.
Project Awards are as follows:
6 projects completed pin
12 projects completed desk set
18 projects completed travel clock
24 projects completed print
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Another name change occurred in 1983: the Rural Organizations and Services Branch was
formed, encompassing Agriculture Manpower and the Agriculture and Horticulture Societies
Branch, along with the Home Economics Branch and the Junior Extension Section
(Agricultural 4-H Clubs and the Junior Farmers) of the Extension Branch. For the first time,
Agricultural and Home Economics Clubs were combined under one administrative unit.
1985 marked the beginning of the Durham West Leaders' Association, with Nancy Colville
as its first Chairperson. Over the years this group has become a very strong organization
supporting local 4-H endeavours.
In 1986, Elaine Johnson, Pat and Karen Shier placed 2nd at the C.N.E. for the
demonstration ""Gardening Makes it Worthwhile.""
By 1987, 4-H enrollment in Durham West was up to 333 members, 43 clubs and 56 leaders.
The Durham West 4-H and Junior Farmers Judging Competition was held on
July 21, 1987 at Wilson's Sales Barn in Uxbridge. The 54 competitors judged Hay, Dairy,
Sheep, Potato, Beef, Wheat and a Safety I.D. Quiz. The Durham West 4-H Championship
Show was held on September 18, 19 87 at the Beaverton Fairgrounds. Sixty-three 4-H
members participated. Robert MacDonald was the judge.
Also in 1987, an Open House Canada Exchange was held with 4-H members from Alberta.
Durham West members travelled to Mountain View, Alberta, and members from that area
visited here later in the month of August. Participating Delegates included Pat Shier,
Wendy Warren, Amy Penny, Steven Taylor, Ken Lamb, Leanne Johnson, Debbie Fintelman,
Susan Hill, Lynn Bailey and Kelly O'Connor. Keith and Peggy Kennedy chaperoned the trip.
Leanne Johnson also served as Delegate to Provincial Leadership Camp that year.
Delegates for the Regional 4-H Conference at Trent University in Peterborough were Yancy
Crosier, Wendy Evans, Kathy Honey, Darryl Leigh, Heather Lowrie, Anne Millner,
Karen Shier, Janet Stachow, Grant Vale, Darrell Wade and Trudy Wilson. Silver Dollar
participants were Kelly O'Connor (2nd Showmanship), Reg Shier, David Beatty
(2nd Type and 3rd in Showmanship) and Scott Wilson (1st in Quiz). The Contact Hays
Classic was held on November 15, 1987. Delegates were Scott Wilson, Barclay Phoenix,
Reg Shier, David Beatty, Dawna Wilson and Ian McFadden. Queen's Guineas - Rob Taylor.
Membership in 1988 had risen to 355 in 39 clubs with 53 leaders. It was in 1989 that the
first Durham West Domestic Science Judging Competition was held. Dorothy Shier was
Chairperson of the event, which attracted over 70 participants. The Top Senior was Kathy
Wetheral; Top Intermediate was Karen Shier; Top Junior was David Reynolds.
Members of the Top Team were Sandra Ingram, Pat and Karen Shier.
This competition is an ongoing success and remains unique to Durham West,
with both Agriculture and Homemaking-type categories included.
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Illustration: 1989 Royal Winter Fair: (Right to left) Reg Shier, Graham Carnegie,
Mike Wilson, Paul Beatty, Ian McFadden, Wendy Evans. Coach was David Beatty.
In 1989 there were 266 members in 54 clubs with 68 leaders. 1989 Highlights:
Domestic Science Judging Competition:
Junior David Reynolds
Intermediate Karen Shier
Senior Kathy Wetheral
High Point Winner Kathy Wetheral
Top Team Sandra Ingram, Karen and Pat Shier
4-H and Junior Farmers Judging Competition:
Novice Matt Phoenix
Junior David Philip
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Intermediate Rob Raines
Senior David Moore
Top Team Rob Raines, Yancy Crosier, David Moore, Wendy Evans
The Go For the Gold Team competed at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair: Ken Carson,
Barclay Phoenix, Yancy Crosier, Steve Taylor. They were coached by Dr. Gerry Blackburn.
The Robert Graham Memorial Judging Competition Team: Wendy Evans and Michael
Wilson.
National 4-H Junior Beef Heifer Show competitors: Chris Barrett, Michelle Barrett,
Janet Clark, Meagan Haney, Kim Irvine, Bonnie Russell. Their coach was Cindy Bagshaw.
Scotia Bank Contact Hays Classic competitors: Wendy Evans, Mike Wilson, Ian McFadden,
Graham Carnegie, Paul Beatty and Reg Shier. Their coach was David Beatty.
4-H Provincial Leadership Camp attendees: Ken Carson and Leanne Drapak.
C.N.E. Delegate Program (2-day): Karen Shier, Trudy Wilson and Anne Miliner.
C.N.E. Judging Competition: Chris and Reg Shier, Kim Irvine, Yancy Crosier, Ed Wetheral,
Kelly Hider, Barclay Phoenix, Darrell Wade, Chris Barrett, Rob Raines, Ken Carson, David
Philip and Robert Ashton joined 150 other 4-H members.
1989 International Plowing Match: Barry DeGeer of Mount Albert, a member of the 4-H
Plowing Club, competed. He was awarded the Tell Trade Show Services Trophy for the
Reserve Champion in Class 2, Group 2, Junior Showmanship.
1989 Regional Conference attendees: Robert Ashton, Joy Carnochan, Nancy Kidd,
Denise McMillan, Chris Shier, Edward Wetheral, Amy Wilson and Melissa Ferguson.
Beef Silver Dollar Competition: Kim Irvine and Chris Barrett represented Durham West.
Kim exhibited the Champion Beef Heifer and placed 2nd for Showmanship. Chris placed
first in his division for Showmanship. They also received Honourable Mention for their
Herdsman display.
1989 Dairy Silver Dollar Competition: Durham West was represented by Craig Wilson,
Reg Shier, Ken Carson, David Moore and Chris Shier. David placed 2nd for his essay,
Craig placed 6th in Showmanship and Ken placed 4th in the quiz. The County was awarded
5th for the Herdsman display.
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4-H Championship Show at the Beaverton Fair:
Champion Reserve Showman Barclay Phoenix
Reserve Dairy Showman Bill Raines
1989 4-H Exchange to South Lake, Saskatchewan
(Petro Canada Youth Exchange Program): Karen Shier, Wendy Evans, Leslie Carnochan,
Kathy Honey, Barclay Phoenix, Yancy Crosier, Rob Raines, Leanne Drapak, Kelly Hider and
Janet Stachow. Dorothy Shier was the group's escort.
1989 Press Reporter of the Year: Kevin Vale
1989 Club of the Year Farm Machinery
1989 24-project awards
Wendy Evans
Karen Shier
Pat Shier
Kathy Wetheral
1989 Leader certificates presented:
Ted Smith 20 years
John Leask 30 years
Tim O'Connor 10 years
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1990 was a year of celebration for 4-H in Ontario, marking its 75th anniversary.
On August 9, 1990, 4-H families from across the province celebrated by attending a
Blue Jays game at Skydome.
1990 Highlights:
Provincial Leadership Camp: Karen Shier, Anne Millner, Janet Stachow and Trudy Wilson.
Inter-County Dairy Judging Competition in Guelph: Barclay Phoenix and Rob Raines
represented Durham West.
1990 United Breeders Silver Dollar Competition in Erin: Paul Beatty, Ian McFadden,
Karen Shier, Rob Raines and Barclay Phoenix.
C.N.E. 4-H Conference Delegates: Joy Carnochan and Nancy Kidd.
C.N.E. Judging Competition: Nancy Kidd, Karen Shier and Joy Carnochan.
Future Talk attendee: Melanie Norton
Domestic Science Judging Competition:
Novice Taralyn Clark
Junior Angela Smith
Intermediate Kerrie Lamb
Senior Kathy Wetheral
High Point Winner Kathy Wetheral
Top Team Kelly Hider
Kerrie Lamb
Michelle Kennedy
Durham West 4-H and Junior Farmers Judging Competition:
Novice Carl Phoenix
Junior Laura Phoenix
Senior Bill Raines
Top Team Rob Raines
Bill Raines
Ian McFadden
Derek Molenaar
Carolann McFadden
Championship Show at the Beaverton Fair:
Champion Dairy Showman Rob Raines
Reserve Dairy Showman Wendy Evans
Grand Champion Calf Wendy Evans
Reserve Champion Calf Darin Bacon
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Inter-County 4-H Central Ontario Championship Show at Lindsay:
Grand Champion Dairy Calf Matt Phoenix
Grand Champion Beef Heifer Bonnie Rusnell
ScotiaBank Hays Classic at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair: Reserve Intermediate
Showman Wendy Evans
Commercial Class at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair: Grand Champion Beef Heifer
Meagan Haney
1990 Press Reporter of the Year Amber Frost
1990 Club of the Year South Ontario Dairy
24-projects award Leanne Johnson
30-projects award Karen Shier
Pat Shier
Kathy Wetheral
1990 Canada Trust Top Member Dave Grandy
1991 Highlights:
Janet Stachow designed the first Ontario Provincial 4-H pin.
4-H Exchange to Peace River, Alberta: Michelle Bedard, Joy Carnochan,
Kristina Hoxford, Kerri Honey, Ian McFadden, Lee Honey, Rob Ashton, Philip McLeod,
Chris Shier, Megan Ballard. Maria Schillings escorted the group to Alberta.
Petro Canada Award winner of $1,000: Karen Shier
Domestic Science Judging Competition:
Novice Krista McFadden
Junior Joanna Vestby
Intermediate Sandra Ingram
Senior Pat (Shier) Crawford
Top Team Pat Crawford
Sandra Ingram
Melanie Fisher
High Winner
Pat Crawford
4-H and Junior Farmer Judging Competition:
Novice Tanya Wilson
Junior Mike Wilson
Senior Wendy Evans
Top Team Wendy Evans
Dave Moore
Mike Wilson
Anna Evans
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Regional Conference attendees: Meagan Haney, Michael Helms, Kerrie Lamb and Sue
Malinowski.
Future Talk: Debbie Fintelman
1991 Canada Trust Top Member award: Ian McFadden
Inter-County Dairy Competition team: Ian McFadden and Derek Molenaar.
Derek placed perfect in four categories. They were coached by Colette McFadden.
Silver Dollar competitors: Paul Beatty, Bill Raines, Karen Shier and David Moore.
Paul placed 3rd in Showmanship; David placed 3rd in the Competition.
Durham West Champion Show in Beaverton: Graham Carnegie received Champion
Dairy Showman.
Champion Show in Lindsay:
Grand Champion Dairy Showman Kevin Vale
Junior Yearling Heifer Troy Karkoulas
Reserve Champion Calf Steven Kidd
Top Junior Holstein Calf Michael Phoenix
Top Intermediate Holstein Calf Graham Carnegie
Champion Dairy Heifer Graham Carnegie
Junior Yearling Holstein Mark Irwin
1992 Highlights (62 leaders and 276 members)
Trip Selection Week-end attendees: Kristina Hoxford and Karen Shier
Domestic Science Judging Competition:
Novice Bethany Starr
Junior Lisa Malcolm
Intermediate Michael Helms
Senior Angela Kennedy
Top Team Karen Shier
Sandra Ingram
Carrie Wilkinson
Top Club Winner Sandra Ingram
High Point (Competition) Michael Helms
Silver Dollar competitors: Laura and Barclay Phoenix, Ian and Carolann McFadden and
Shannon Beddows.
Inter-Club Dairy Judging team members: Shannon Beddows and David Moore
Durham West 4-H and Junior Farmers Judging Competition:
Novice John Werry
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36
Junior Mike Smith
Intermediate Carolann McFadden
Senior Shannon Beddows
Top Team Trudy Wilson, Troy Jackson,
Scott Werry, Tracy Wilson
4-H Leadership Camp: Tracy Wilson
Championship Show at Beaverton:
Champion Showman Barclay Phoenix
Champion Calf Graham Carnegie
East Central Ontario 4-H Championship Show at Lindsay:
Grand Champion Calf Graham Carnegie
Royal Agricultural Winter Fair competitors: Laura and Barclay Phoenix,
Graham Carnegie, Mark Irwin, Mike Smith and Derek Molenaar.
Press Reporter of the Year 1991: Laura Yates
1992 Highlights:
1992 Club of the Year Domestic Science Judging
Canada Trust Top Member Karen Shier
Women's Institute Scholarship David Moore
24-projects awards Lorna Durward, Deborah Fintelman, Philip McLeod, David Moore
In 1993, membership totalled 301, with 111 being new to 4-H.
These members participated in 523 projects run by 56 leaders.
1993 Highlights:
Domestic Science Judging Competition:
Novice Kristen Feasby
Junior Joanne Stephenson
Intermediate Carolann McFadden
Senior Karen Shier
Champion Judge Carolann McFadden
Top Team Karen Shier
Sandra Ingram
Carrie Wilkinson
Josie Starr
National 4-H Conference: Michael Helms was one of six Ontarians to attend.
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Durham West 4-H and Junior Farmers Judging Competition:
Novice Dale Phillips
Junior Michael Phoenix
Intermediate Michael Wilson
Senior Karen Shier
Ontario County Milk Scholarship: Chris Shier
4-H Leadership Camp attendees: Mark Irwin (summer) and Rob Ashton (March).
Members' Conference participants: Christine Weldon, Heather Ferguson, Terri Price,
Lisa Malcolm, Melanie Fisher, Sharon Timbers, Julie Brooks, Carl Phoenix, Mike Smith
and Ryan Duff.
Peterborough Judging Day competitors: Nancy Metcalf (1st in Junior), Scott Werry (7th),
Terri Price (8th).
Championship Show at Beaverton:
Champion Showman Barclay Phoenix
Reserve Showman Troy Jackson
Champion Calf Matt Phoenix
Reserve Calf Graham Carnegie
East Central Champion Show at Lindsay:
Champion Dairy Showman Barclay Phoenix
Reserve Dairy Showman Russell Fisher
Champion Dairy Heifer Carl Phoenix
Reserve Dairy Heifer Laura Phoenix
Premier County Competition at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair: Durham West placed
second. Members were Russell Fisher, Scott Werry and Barclay, Laura,
Matt and Carl Phoenix. Barclay placed Reserve Champion Showman,
and Scott Werry placed Top Junior Showman. Scott was also the Honourable Mention in
the Grand Champion Showmanship class.
Press Reporter of the Year: Laura Yates
1993 Club of the Year Port Perry Dairy
24-project award Tracy Wilson
20-year Leadership certificate Doug Wilson
Top Member 1993 Katie Coates
1994 was a busy year for Durham West 4-H. As of April 1st, the Rural Organization
Specialist is now called the Rural Community Advisor. In addition on April 1st,
the name Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food became the Ontario Ministry of
Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (O.M.A.F.R.A.). Another
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change that occurred was the requirement of voluntary screening in order to become a
4-H leader.
1994 Durham West 4-H Association Executive:
Past President Maria Schillings
President Dave Grandy
Vice-President Jackie Feasby
Secretary Debbie Wilson
Treasurer Maria Schillings
Directors Robert Ashton
Urs Kressibucher
4-h Member Directors Tracy Wilson
Lorna Durwood
Laura Phoenix
Dave Grandy has accepted a nomination for Provincial Director for Region 10 to the
Ontario 4-H Council.
In 1994, there were 307 members and 43 leaders. 1994 Highlights:
Trip Selection Week-end Robert Ashton
Michael Helms
Leadership Camp Karen Wilson
4-H Open House Exchange to Saskatchewan:
Heather Vale
Heather Ferguson
Laura Yates
Michael Smith
Carl Phoenix
Randy Donneral
Claudine Menard
Christine Weldon
Carrie Howells
Andrea Dessureault
Escort Linda K. Dessureault
June leadership Camp Michael Helms
Sandra Ingram
Domestic Science Inter-County Judging Competition:
Seniors 1st Sandra Ingram
2nd Michael Helms
3rd Philip McLeod
4th Carolann McFadden
Intermediates 1st Melanie Fisher
2nd Heather Ferguson
3rd Heather Vale
4th Brendon Beaton
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Junior 1st Kristen Feasby
2nd Scott Werry
3rd Amy Hoskin
Novice 1st Christina Snoddon
2nd Mary Helms
3rd Charlene Creighton
4th David Werry and Melanie Wood
Top Team Kristen Feasby
Sarah Wood
Sandra Ingram
Top Member for Club Charlene Creighton
High Point Winner Amy Clark from Northumberland
Members Conference Anson Crosier
Michael Phoenix
Silver Dollar Team Laura Yates
Mike Smith
Matt Phoenix
Rob Raines
Mark Irwin
Rob Ashton
Inter-County Dairy Judging team: Barclay Phoenix
Rob Raines
Team 2 Ian McFadden
Troy Jackson
Coach Roger Hilby
Go For the Gold Regional Team: Rob Ashton
Carl Phoenix
Laura Yates
Michael Helms
Alternates Shari Batty
Mike Moore
Chris Shier
Coach Eldon Werry
Barclay Phoenix was Top Individual for the Inter-County Dairy Judging Team and was
also a member of the Ontario team at the 4-H National Dairy Cattle Judging Competition
in Madison, Wisconsin, in which Rob Raines placed 11th.
Press Reporter of the Year Laura Yates
Outstanding 4-H Member Award Robert Ashton
North & South District Women's Institute
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Ethel P. Chapman Scholarship ($200) Amy Wilson
Provincial Awards""
18 projects (Alarm Clock) Rob Ashton
Michael Helms
24 projects (Limited Edition Print) Carolann McFadden 30 projects (Writing Portfolio)
Monica Gilsinski
Tracy Wilson
10 Year Leader's Certificate Earl Phoenix
Durham West Championship Show
Champion Showman Barclay Phoenix
Reserve Showman Laura Phoenix
Champion Holstein Heifer Calf Barclay Phoenix
Reserve Champion Calf Laura Phoenix
Judging Competition: Novice David Werry
Junior Sarah Smith
Intermediate Matt Phoenix
Senior Sarah Liddle
Royal Agricultural Winter Fair
National Beef Heifer Show Samantha Diotte
Semi-Final Junior Showmanship Samantha Diotte
2nd Red Angus Class Samantha Diotte
Semi-Final Showmanship Eric Batty
3rd Simmental Class Eric Batty
4th Simmental Class Troy Karkoulas
Semi-Final Showmanship Michael Thompson
Other Members Jenny Bolton
Melissa O'Donahue Jordan McKay
ScotiaBank Hays Classic
Grand Champion Showman Barclay Phoenix
9th Junior Yearling Barclay Phoenix
10th Senior Showmanship Rob Raines
10th Summer Yearling Rob Raines
18th Junior Showmanship John Werry
19th Intermediate Heifer John Werry
4th Senior Showmanship Laura Phoenix
7th Senior Heifer Carl Phoenix
8th Junior Yearling Kendra McCrae
Junior Barrow Show participants: Jeff Crosier
Anson Crosier
Jason Crosier
Reserve Champion Showman Jeff Crosier
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Russell Morrison had a great deal to do with starting Plowing Clubs in the area.
Originally a member of the Boys' and Girls' Clubs, he showed grain at the Royal Winter
Fair for years, winning many prizes. He led Grain and Plowing Clubs, working with Lynn Fair,
who was Agricultural Representative from 1947 to 1970. Russell had many Junior Plowing
Competitions at his farm. His experience as a Provincial Judge for Plowing enabled him to
successfully coach many young people for Provincial events.
In 1946, he was nominated for local Council and remained an elected or appointed official
for 42 years. In 1973, he was elected to the Canadian Plowing Association and went on to
the Board of Governors of the World Association. In 1984, Russell was presented with the
Ontario Bicentennial Medal for Community Service.
In addition to his interest in young people and community work, Russell was an entrepreneur
early in life. At age 14, he created the Beaverton area's first Ferris Wheel and went on to
create more. He and his wife, Kathleen, have three children: Helen, Bruce and Ralph.
Helen went on to complete many 4-H projects. Russell passed away in October, 1994.
The first Durham West Plowing Club was organized during 1987, at the time that Durham
Region was bidding to host the International Plowing Match. Despite the fact that this bid
was unsuccessful, the 4-H Plowing Club has increased in numbers since its beginning.
In 1987, the Plowing Club leaders were Ivan DeGeer (former Canadian Plowing Champion
from Mount Albert) and Leslie Smith of Sunderland. There were 9 members,
all of whom completed the club and were successful in winning the Club of the Year Award.
Top members were Barry DeGeer, Jim Allison and Ian McFadden.
One of the club members, Tina Molenaar, represented the Durham Region Plowmen's
Association in the ""Queen of the Furrow"" competition held at Meaford in Grey County in
1987. She was awarded the prize for the Best Plowed Land.
It is interesting to note that Tina and another club member, Bill Raines, were married in
1992 and in January of 1994 welcomed their first child, Rebecca Marie.
In 1988, membership increased to 14 with the same leaders. In 1989,
there were 13 members with new leaders Paul Harder and Dave Beatty assisting Ivan
DeGeer and Les Smith.
1990 was a challenging year for the 11 members, who expressed an interest in learning
to plow with horses. In August, leaders and members went to Stouffville to the farm of Murray
Grove, who made his fine team of Belgians and single plow available for all to try horse
plowing. Club member Lorna Durward became Durham Region's ""Queen of the Furrow""
for 1990 - 1991.
In 1991, membership increased to 16. Paul Harder and Leslie Smith continued as
leaders, with Jim Ferguson and Barry Timbers
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assisting. In June, Mr. Herb Jarvis brought his Massey-Harris ""Pony"" tractor and single
plow, and Murray Grove brought his horses to Teledale Farms in Sunderland,
where each member again tried a hand at plowing with a single plow.
Lorna Durward again represented Durham Region in the ""Queen of the Furrow""
competition at the International Plowing Match at Lampton County.
1992 continued with 12 members and the same four leaders. Lorna Durward was again a
competitor in the Furrow Queen contest in Victoria County at the International Plowing Match.
Former 4-H member Heather Timbers became Durham Region's new
""Queen of the Furrow.""
Membership increased to 17 in 1993 with the same leaders. The Grove Team and herb
Jarvis' ""Pony"" tractor came again to Teledale Farms to give each of the members a
chance to plow a ""round."" Heather Timbers represented Durham Region at Bruce County
International Plowing Match and succeeded in winning the ""Best Plowed Land"" award.
Due to her busy schedule at University, she retired. Heather Vale, a first year Plowing Club
member, represented Durham Region in 1994 at the International Plowing Match in Renfrew
County.
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The awards and events and clubs of 4-H would be nothing without the people behind the
organization: the members, parents, leaders and those associated with the Department of
Agriculture. Many of these current and former 4-H participants shared insights and
reminiscences for this book.
Maria Schillings, Past President of the Durham West 4-H Association, sees both Judging
Competitions and Go For the Gold Competitions as having bright futures in the organization.
Jack Pearson remembers there being Judging Competitions all across Canada; he judged
at the Royal and at Guelph.
Pat Kingstone has led over 50 projects and is very proud of all the members she worked
with, many of whom have gone on to work in professional capacities. As well,
Marg Couperthwaite, who earned her 25-year Leader pin, is pleased with the achievements
of those members with whom she worked. She was also a teacher and likes to think that she
had a hand in helping those fine young people along the way.
Edward Teefy points out that he received no formal education, except for the short courses
offered at Guelph. The information received in the Agriculture Clubs and the invaluable
leadership provided by the Agricultural Representatives is fondly remembered and
appreciated by him.
Lance Beath holds a great deal of respect and admiration for Fred Campbell, Agricultural
Representative from 1941 to 1946. Lance was very interested in Showmanship and judging,
and Fred taught him a great deal. Fred organized Judging Competitions, took members out
of the county to compete and arranged for farm tours. Lance feels that the information he
gained at a young age has been invaluable. To him, ""Fred was a real agricultural man.""
In fact, all the members from 1947 remember Fred Campbell fondly. Fred Christie recalls
Judging Competitions, many of which were at Guelph. He won the Swine Competition at one
and remembers a trip to Chicago to compete there.
Many outstanding people have been raised in Ontario County, now called Durham West.
W.A. Dryden of Brooklin was the first President of the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair,
started in 1922. He owned Suffolk Sheep Farm and was a Director of the Canadian
Co-Operative Wool Growers' Association.
If certain names seem to dominate the 4-H history book, it is because many families have
been associated with the organization for decades, either as members or leaders,
or both. The Holliday family has been very active in 4-H over the years. Ken Holliday was
leader of the Oshawa Kiwanis Dairy Club, in which Jack, Heather and Robert were
members. Heather's daughter, Kendra, is now involved, also.
Another outstanding example of generational interest in 4-H is the Werry family.
Ronald started as a member in 1948 and went
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on to become a leader. His family members are now leaders, and their families are
members of the third generation (4 members).
Robert Flett, a member in the 1930s, has been a leader for many years, and his two
daughters were members who achieved several awards. Bob has shown cattle at the
Royal for the past 49 years and plans to continue for many more. He is an internationally-
known judge of livestock and considers the training he had in his youth to be important.
Other family names are familiar in 4-H history: the Beath family is well-known for its top-prize
beef cattle, and the Mountjoys and Christies have been active in the organization for
generations.
The late Maurice Jebson was a member of the Oshawa Dairy Club under the leadership of
Bob Flett. Harold Jebson (Maurice's father) was also a leader of the club. Maurice went on to
be an internationally-known showman and judge, as well as leading many Dairy and Judging
clubs. His family members have been very involved in 4-H, completing several projects.
Maurice's two daughters, Diane and Joan, are both former Ontario County Dairy Princesses.
His son, Gary, achieved the Silver Dollar Grand Champion Showmanship Award and went
on to become a 4-H leader.
George McLaughlin of Beaverton was the first President of the Ontario Milk Marketing
Board and has been very supportive of 4-H, along with his active family members.
Another three-generation 4-H family in Ontario County is the Colville family.
Morrison Colville led the Sunderland Grain Club starting in 1951, when his son, Alex, was a
member. Alex's wife, Nancy Colville, led Homemaking Clubs for many years,
and she was the first Chairperson of the Durham West Leaders' Association,
which began in 1985. Nancy and Alex's children have also been involved with 4-H,
with Cheryl receiving Provincial Honours and many other awards and opportunities.
Cheryl has been a leader, too.
The Keith Shier family has always been involved in 4-H. Dorothy's mother, Marion Jex,
was a leader; her brother, Allan, was a member. Keith has been both a member and a
leader, and his brothers, Wilfred and Dean, and sister, Grace, were members, too.
Dorothy has exhibited exemplary involvement, with her selfless contributions as member,
leader and Executive on the Board of Directors. Dorothy and Keith's four children have been
enthusiastic members, with Pat and Karen each completing over 3 0 projects and Pat taking
on the role as leader. All the Shiers have found their 4-h experiences to be rewarding and
are proud to be associated with the organization.
Les Smith was a member of the Dairy Club in 1925. In 1955 he won the Showmanship at
the Royal. He has been generous with his time and knowledge in leading clubs,
and his family of six carries on that tradition. Not only have they been members and
leaders, but now Les's grandchildren are members, too.
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Illustration: Marilyn (Ross) Smith, Ruth Shaver, Janet Stachow and Jean (Samells) Bailey
Ruth Shaver was Home Economist from 1948 to 1956 and says she felt a real
sense of satisfaction working with young people. Jean Bailey's belief that Ruth Shaver was a
guiding light to many is outlined in the following letter:
""Miss Ruth Shaver was the Home Economist for Ontario County during 11 of my 12 projects
required for Provincial Honours. She presented me with both my County and Provincial
Honours pins as well as with the Community Silverplate 'Exquisite' pattern teaspoons which
each girl received upon completion of a unit. Ruth always attended at least one club meeting
during each unit.
I rode in Miss Shaver's car many times since she would take my partners and I to regional
and provincial gatherings when we were representing Ontario County. Particularly I
remember a radio interview I did on CBC Radio Farm Noon Report to which she drove me.
Miss Shaver's hands certainly were pledged to larger service and for that on behalf of all
former Ontario County club members, I thank her!
Jean (Samells) Bailey""
Neil Raines, a 4-H member and leader and a well-known judge, has helped a great deal
with 4-H over the years. His sons, Bill and Rob, were both enthusiastic members,
and Rob showed the Champion Holstein Heifer at the Champion Show in Beaverton in 1986.
"
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Illustration: Three generations of the Evans family: Back Row: Ross Evans,
son Neil and his wife, Rose. Front Row : Barb Evans and grandchildren, Anna,
Graig and Carl.
Members of the Evans family in Epsom have taken a keen interest in 4-H, starting with
Wilfrid Evans as leader of the Port Perry Dairy Calf Club, in which his son, Ross, was a
member. Ross showed cattle and judged at the Royal, then went on to become a leader.
His daughters were Dairy Princesses. His family of six belonged to various clubs and
eventually became leaders, as well. Now Ross has five grandchildren in 4-H clubs,
and the Evans family remains a very dedicated one.
The Teefys have also been an enthusiastic 4-H family for years. The short courses at
Guelph provided Mr. Teefy with his only formal education, but the information he gleaned
through 4-H with Fred Campbell's leadership was most appreciated and worthwhile.
The following letter from H. Ivan Bell, Agricultural Representative from 1971 to 1987,
illustrates the atmosphere of enthusiasm and enterprise evident in 4-H in past years and at
present:
""When I started in the Uxbridge Office in 1971 the 4-H program was well established in
Ontario County. Capable volunteers from the community provided strong leadership in both
the homemaking and agricultural club sectors. This strong leadership coupled with an
enthusiastic membership resulted in a successful and rewarding program for all concerned.
"
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One of the highlights of the club year was the 4-H Championship Show.
This provided an opportunity to bring together 4-H members and their families from across
the area to one central location and also an opportunity to compare exhibits and
showmanship on a broader basis. This show was originally held at Uxbridge Fair but was
moved to Beaverton in the early 1970's. Later in the season awards were presented,
usually on a suitable occasion provided by each of the agricultural club sponsors.
The practice of holding individual award nights for each club was eventually changed to
one awards night for the entire area with sponsors and donors of awards being invited to
attend and make their presentations.
4-H has done much to help shape the lives of a great many people and I know many will
look back with pride and satisfaction on their involvement in the program.
Best wishes in this anniversary year and in the future.
H. Ivan Bell,
Agricultural Representative 1971 - 1987""
HOME ECONOMISTS
1943 - 1944 Jean M. Scott
1945 - 1947 Beth Oliver
1947 - 1948 Marian Hart
1948 - 1956 Ruth I. Shaver
1956 - 1959 Wilda J. Gordon
1959 - 1962 Lois Smith
1962 - 1963 Sandra Schneller
1963 - 1965 Austra Janitis
1965 - 1967 Donna Stewart
1967 - 1972 Louise Gatenby
1972 - 1973 Ann E. Thompson
1973 - 1977 Bea McClonaghan
1977 - 1984 Beverly Brook
RURAL ORGANIZATION SPECIALISTS
1985 - 1987 Ann Hankinson
1987 - 1989 Marlene Werry
1990 Sandra Campbell
1991 Sarah Boswell
1991 - present Barbara Weese
1994 name change to RURAL COMMUNITY ADVISOR
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1950s Members Beaverton Baby Beef: Ken Windatt, Stephen J. Stephen, Ted Westlake,
Earl Windatt, Bob Ross. Jean Miller (Parry), Sunderland Garden & Beaverton Baby Beef,
Margaret Dickson (Evans), Homemaking Clubs.
Durham West 20 to 25 year Leaders:
Corinne Croxall, Uxbridge
Roberta Mitchell, Beaverton
Ted Smith, Sunderland
Doug Smith, Port Perry
Durham West Leaders for 25 years or more:
Margaret Couperthwaite, Uxbridge
John Leask, Seagrave (31 years)
Marilyn Smith, Sunderland
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Illustrations:
- In 1928, when he was 19 years old, Walter Holliday of Columbus won the Ontario County
'Novice' Class Judging Competition at the C.N.E. Years later, his 19 year old son, Robert,
won the same class. In the photo above, Mr. Holliday is shown with his granddaughter
Shelley, daughter of Robert, who is now deceased.
- Keith Shier, member Beaverton Baby Beef Club 1952-1960s; Marilynn Smith (Ross),
member Beaverton Club 1947-1950s, went on to lead over 60 projects; Irene Francis,
Gamebridge Leader 1961-1973; Barbara McCarthy, Gamebridge Leader, Forest Home -
1966-1980S; Ivan Bell, Agricultural Representative 1971-1987; Ruth Windatt,
Gamebridge Club Leader; Jessie West (Shier), Gamebridge member.
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Back Row (Left to right):
Everson Norton - member, Leader 1949 - 1954.
Ted Gordon - member in 1940s, Leader; sons members and
Leader, granddaughter member.
Walter Beath - member in 1940s.
Don Christie - member in 1940s.
Norm Lyons - member 1946, went to 4-H Conference in
Chicago in 1952.
Edward Teefy - member 1940s and 1950s.
Ralph Chambers - member 1940 - 1952, Dairy Clubs.
Lance Beath - member 1936 - 1946, great success in
Judging and Showmanship.
Bill Snowden - member 1947 - 1950s, Beef Club.
Front Row:
Ross Evans - member 1945, Leader, 6 of his family became members and leaders,
5 grandchildren are members.
Less Smith - member 1925, Leader 1950 - 1973, 6 of his family were members,
3 grandchildren members.
Murry Rodd - member 1947.
Marion Perigoe (Rodd) - member 1947 - 1950s, Dairy.
Fred Christie - member 1933 Dairy - won Judging trip to Chicago.
Bob Flett - member 1930s, Leader 1947, for many years helped Judging teams.
Mac Christie - member 1940s, Beef Club - judged at Guelph, won and went to the Royal in
1937.
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Illustration: Kathleen and Russell Morrison
The success of the 4-H Program in Durham West is very-evident in the success of the
individuals who have graduated from the Program. Many of the past and present leaders
of the various organizations in the rural communities of Durham West, as well as municipal
politicians, began their leadership training in 4-H. As well as learning technical skills,
4-H has always placed a great deal of emphasis on developing leadership skills.
The staff members at the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs have been
proud of our association with the 4-H Program. It was through the 4-H Program that we
developed working relationships and often personal relationships with a large number of
farm families in Durham West. It is with these ""4-H families"" that we share many warm
memories and look forward to a continued association.
Historically, 4-H has assisted the introduction of improved methods, technology and skills to
farm families. Ontario County and Durham West have established a reputation for being
leaders in many segments of the agricultural industry. Part of this success can be attributed
to the success of the local 4-H Program, and the ability of its members and leaders to adapt
to a continually changing industry.
Joel G. Bagg,
Agricultural Representative
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I have really enjoyed researching, interviewing and talking to members about their
4-H experiences in Old Ontario County, now Durham West. Many people have a lot of warm,
wonderful memories. I want to congratulate everyone in Durham West for their commitment
to the 4-H Program and also to thank them for their support and encouragement.
Dorothy Shier
In this 80th Anniversary year of 4-H in Ontario it is a time to look back - to share the fun of 4-H,
the tears of projects that just wouldn't turn out, to renew old acquaintances, and to honour all
those adults that in one way or another helped us through those projects. For many of us the
practical skills we learned in our youth are rarely in demand, but the strengths of 4-H -
the decision making, the thinking on our feet (those dreaded reasons), the public speaking
experiences, the insistence that we finish our projects by ourselves, are as relevant today
as they were 80 years ago. Sometimes, I think, they are needed even more today.
As members and sometimes as leaders we often got wrapped up in the subject matter of
the project and forget that 4-H was, is and hopefully always will be about developing people
to be the best that they can be and to do their best with the resources available.
As we move towards the 21st century, may we all pledge...
to think clearly and examine all sides of an issue before speaking or acting
to support our fellow club members, our family and our neighbours even if we don't always
agree with their decisions
to use our talents to help others, to strengthen and build our communities
to act in ways that preserve our health
that we might be the best that we can be and make our corner of the world the best that it
can be.
Barbara Weese,
Rural Community Advisor
"