HomeMy WebLinkAbout2008-00064Post bound scrapbook,82 pages, compiled by the Altona Women's Institute,
covers the years 1910 to 1981.
"Alton Women's Institute
June 18 1910 - 1981
Book #1"
"FOREWORD
I am so glad to hear that the Women's Institutes of Canada are compiling village history books.
Events move very fast nowadays; houses are pulled down, new roads are made, and the aspect
of the countryside changes completely in a short time.
It is a most useful and satisfying task for Women's Institute members to see that nothing
valuable is lost or forgotten, and women should be on the alert always to guard the traditions of
their homes, and to see that water colour sketches and prints, poems and prose legends should
find their way into these books. The oldest people in the village will tell us fascinating stories of
what they remember, which the younger members can write down, thus making a bridge
between them and events which happened before they were born. After all,
it is the history of humanity which is continually interesting to us, and your village histories
will be the basis of accurate facts much valued by historians of the future. I am proud to think that
you have called them ""The Tweedsmuir Village Histories.""
Susan Tweedsmuir.
"
"Mrs. Adelaid Hoodless
Founder of the first Women's Institute in the world at Stoney Creek, February 19, 1897."
"To Find the Hunter Hoodless Homestead
-The Adelaide Hunter Hoodless Homestead where Adelaide Hunter, later Mrs. Hoodless was
born and where she lived as a girl. We are told that a great many visitors,
sometimes busloads from another part of Ontario, travel to Stoney Creek, the birthplace of
Women’s Institutes, expecting to find the Hunter Hoodless Homestead there.
The accompanying diagram shows the location of “the Homestead,” the house where
Adelaide Hunter was born in 1858 and where she lived until she married John Hoodless in 1881.
The house is only one-half mile from Highway 24, near the village of St. George in Brant country.
The nearest cities are Brandtford and Galt. Stoney Creek is farther away close to the city of
Hamilton.
--
BEQUEATHS $6,710 SCHOLARSHIP FUND – Star Jan 29/ 1953
-Hon. Fletcher S. Thomas, minister of agriculture, announced today that a cheque for $6,710.25
had been received from the executors of the estate of Joseph Bernard Hoodless, former civil
servant, which had been turned over to the Ontario Agricultural college to establish a scholarship
fund for students of Macdonald institute. The bequest was made by Mr. Hoodless in memory of
his mother, Adelaide Hoodless, who was largely responsible for the introduction of instruction in
household science and manual training in the public schools of Ontario. Mrs. Hoodless died
suddenly in 1910 while addressing the Women’s Canadian Club of Toronto.
The fund will be named “the Adelaide Hoodless Trust fund.” Scholarships will be awarded
students in the department of home economics at Macdonald institute. Income from the fund is
expected to be available during 1953-1954.
The Birthplace of Adelaide Hunter Hoodless, Founder of the Women's Institutes
The homestead was purchased by the Federated Women's Institutes of Canada and is being
restored in the period when Adelaide Hunter lived here, 1857 - 1881.
Adelaide Hunter married Mr. Hoodless and lived at Stoney Creek, when the first
Women's Institute was organized.
"
"ERLAND LEE
(1864 - 1926)
Of United Empire Loyalist stock, Erland Lee had a reputation as a good farmer, and had a keen
interest in the welfare of his fellowman. On the Lee farm, he raised Jersey cattle, was one of the
first to grow grapes commercially, and he shipped carloads of R.I. Greenings apples from his
orchards to the British market. He was one of the first maple producers in the area to use an
evaporator. He served many organizations: secretary of his local Farmer's Institute for 19 years,
Township Clerk for 20 years, first president of the Wentworth Seed Fair, president of the
Wentworth Agriculture Board, and Secretary-Treasurer of the Saltfleet Agricultural Society.
But it was his work with Mrs. Adelaide Hunter Hoodless to found the first Women's Institute in the
world that gained him most acclaim. The organization was his idea originally; he convinced
Mrs. Hoodless of its merit and proceeded to develop the Constitution and By-Laws and carried
out the necessary negotiations with the Minister of Agriculture to secure the Charter.
The Erland Lee (Museum) Home is now an historic site at Stoney Creek, preserved and
maintained by the Federated Women's Institutes of Ontario in memory of its co-founder, Erland Lee.
"
"The interior of the Erland Lee Homestead showing the famous walnut table on which the first
Constitution of the Women’s Institute was written.
THE ERLAND LEE HOMESTEAD
Originally a letter was received from Wentworth County Women's Institutes requesting the
Federated Women's Institutes of Ontario to look into the possibility of assuming ownership or
preserving the Homestead. Unveiling and dedication of an Historical Plaque at the Erland Lee
Homestead, Ridge Road, Stoney Creek by the Archaeological and Historic Sites Board of
Ontario took place on October 1. 1967. In 1969 FWIO was granted the right to become a
charitable organization for this single project from the Department of National Revenue.
This means that individuals or groups receive an official receipt which can be used when filling
out their income tax. In this same year the option was signed for $40,000.00 to be picked up in
June 1972. Donations to date: Stoney Creek W.I. $3,000.00 promised County of Wentworth
$5,000.00 at time of purchase, with possibility of further donations for the next two years. Industry,
Women's Institutes and individuals $8,500.00 as of February 28, 1971.
HISTORIC BACKGROUND OF THE ERLAND LEE PROPERTY
This property is known as Edgemont, crown grant 1801 to John and Mary Lee on their marriage.
The first dwelling was a log cabin built by John Lee for his bride. The young couple surrounded it
with cuttings of Sweet Mary, Myrtle, Yellow Roses and a Snow Ball Bush.
The cabin has long since vanished but the plants are still flourishing. A frame house was later
built and in time the back part of it was removed by Abram, son of John, and in the 1860s the
present house was planned. It was built in front of the older part. The wood was virgin pine cut on
the property and a fourteen-year-old boy spent the whole summer hand cutting all the
ornamentation on the outside of the house. All the hardware is original and the old iron latches
and hinges are still there in the older part of the house. Much of the furniture has been handed
down through the generations. Of interest is the walnut dining table which Janet Chisholm
brought with her when she came as a bride of Erland Lee. The table was her grandfather's
and on it she and Erland worked on and wrote the Constitution of the first Women's Institute in
the World. It is important to Women's Institutes that this house be preserved for its historical
value but more important that eventually it might be used as a centre for Women's Institute
activities.
--
Women's Institute history was made on August 9th, when over 400 Women's Institute members
from across the province and interested friends from all over gathered at the Erland Lee Home,
Ridge Road, Stoney Creek, for the official opening of the ""Home"". Eight bus loads came from
as far as 350 miles to be present. The occasion was to celebrate the acquisition of the property
by the Federated Women's Institutes of Ontario in June, 1972 and to honor Erland Lee and his
wife Janet. With Adelaide Hoodless providing the idea, Erland Lee, then secretary of the
South Wentworth Farmer's Institute, and his wife had helped found the first Women's Institute in
1897. The first constitution was written by Janet Lee on the beautiful dining room table still sitting
in the dining room of the ""Home"". The last of the Lees to reside in the house were Frank,
son of Erland, and his wife Katie. Among the special guests at the event were Frank's sisters,
Miss Marjorie Lee and Mrs. H. C. Freal, both of Stoney Creek; daughters, Mrs: R. L. Davis,
Mrs. Frank Ryan and Miss Allison Lee of Hamilton also Mrs. Leslie Tulk of Newfoundland.
The crowd gathered under the shade of the whispering pines in front of the house for the brief
ceremony. The Honorable William Stewart, Minister of Agriculture and Food, brought greetings
from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food, commending the Federated Women's Institute of
Ontario for the great contribution it had made to the growth of the individual member,
to the communities of Ontario and now in acquiring the Home for members all over the world.
Greetings were brought from the Associated Country Women of the World, by their deputy
president Dr. Irene Spry of Ottawa and congratulations were read by Mrs. Austin Zoeller,
New Hamburg, from Mrs. John McLean, Nova Scotia, president of the Federated Women's
Institutes of Canada. Mrs. H. L. Noblitt, president of the Federated Women's Institute of
Ontario chairman of the event, gave a short history of the Lee family from James, a staunch
United Empire Loyalist, who came to Canada from USA in 1872, to the present,
paying respect to this progressive, public spirited family who had played such a prominent part
in the development of their communities and especially to Erland and his wife for their part in the
formation of the Women's Institutes. Credit was also given to the members of Wentworth County
for their enthusiasm in accepting the idea put forth by Mrs. Hoodless and in organizing and
forwarding the idea, which spread in Ontario within 15 years to a membership of 29,000 and
has since encompassed the world.
The daughter of the first president, Mrs. E. D. Smith,
Mrs. Gordon Conant of Oshawa, who was nine years old at the time of the first meeting,
in 1897, shared some of her memories of those days. Mrs. Leslie Tulk spoke for the
Frank Lee Family; Mrs. Thomas McCreadie, present president of the South Wentworth District,
recalled the day on May 28th, 1961 when her District erected a memorial plaque on a large
boulder in front of the house, to Erland and Janet Lee; Mrs. Everett Small of Essex,
president of the F.W.I.O. at the time, told of the plaque erected there on October 1,
1967 by the Historic Sites Board at the instigation of the F.W.I.O.
The ribbon was cut by Mrs. Russel Wise of Puslinch and Mrs. Allan Dickenson of Mount Hope,
who had been members of the committee who began negotiations to acquire the Home,
and also Mrs. Lyla Lymburner of Port Colborne, president of the F.W.I.O. at the time.
Following the ceremony the guests toured the house and drive shed and enjoyed refreshments
out under a large marquee erected at the back of the property.
Mrs. H. L. Noblitt, Ottawa.
"
"MARY STEWART COLLECT
Keep us O Lord from pettiness; let us be
large in thought, in word and in deed;
Let us be done with fault finding and leave
off self seeking;
May we put away all pretence and meet each
other face to face, without self pity and
without prejudice;
May we never be hasty in judgment and
always generous;
Teach us to put into action our better impulses straightforward and unafraid;
Let us take time for all things; make us grow
calm, serene and gentle.
Grant that we may realize that it is the little
things that create differences; that in the big things of life we are one
And may we strive to touch and know the
great woman's heart common to us all, and,
O Lord God, let us not forget to be kind.
--
The Mary Stewart Collect
This is the Season of District Annuals . . . and From Ottawa to Sarnia and Wallaceburg to
Fort William, Members of the Federated Women's Institutes of Ontario Will Be Repeating
Together This Prayer.
BY KATHRYN HANSULD.
SOME 47,000 women in Ontario alone know how Mary Stewart touched
""the great human heart common to us all"" with her collect which was first published in 1904
and is now used to open meetings of branches of the Women's Institute.
Not only do the Associated Countrywomen of the World (of which the Federated Women's
Institutes of Canada is a part) have as their own the Mary Stewart Collect, but year books of
hundreds of groups around the world include this famous prayer to be used in their meetings.
The collect was first printed in The Delineator, a women's magazine no longer published,
but then nationally popular in the United States. The first large women's organization to adopt it
was the General
Federation of Women's Clubs. The author was a native of Ohio, but moved to Colorado when
she was very
young . Following her graduation from the University of Colorado she became principal of a
high school in Longmount, where she wrote the famous collect. The collect was introduced to
the Women s Institutes in England by Mrs.Alfred Watt, M.B.E., who later presented it to the
Associated Country Women of the World. She was president of the A.C.W.W:
at the time and the author had given the copyright to that international organization.
In a letter to Mrs. Watt, the author told how she came to compose the prayer.
I wrote the collect when I was principal of the Longmount High School in Colorado.
It was my first position after college and the friendly Longmount women made me a
member of their Fortnightly Club ... and the first far gleam of what women, working together,
might accomplish, came to me. It was written as a prayer for the day. I called it A Collect for Club
Women because I felt that club women working together with wide interests for large ends were
a new thing under the sun and that perhaps they had need for the special petitions and
meditation of this aim.""
This must be true, for the collect has found its way round the world, wherever women,
especially English-speaking women get together. Miss Stewart was a very public-spirited
woman. She helped organize the National Federation of Business and Professional
Women's Clubs and was an enthusiastic supporter of women's suffrage. As well as
being an educator (doing junior guidance work and placement work in its pioneer days)
she was a writer of some success. She contributed to newspapers and magazines and
produced a volume impressively titled Metrical Translations From the Latin Lyrics of
Poet Catullus. In 1921 she became assistant director general of the U. S. Employment
Service and from 1928 until a year before her death in 1943 was assistant director _ of
education in the Bureau of Indian Affairs. In 1927 she was honoured by her alma mater,
the University of Colorado, which conferred a degree in recognition of her work in education,
social and civic service. All the early copies of the collect were signed Mary Stuart, a spelling
used as a pen name which led to some error in credit of authorship. The composition has even
been accredited to Mary, Queen of Scots, who was also Mary Stuart!
A few slight deviations from the original text were bound to creep in with so many groups using it.
When the title was A Collect for Club Women, some organizations used the wording ""
The great woman's heart common to us all,"" substituting ""woman's"" for ""human.""
Miss Stewart herself acknowledged the substitution, commenting that ""groups may decide
for themselves which form they like."" She preferred the latter, explaining, ""While one of the
ways we still work most effectively is in women's groups, we work for ends that concern men and
women alike, and our greatest need, as our greatest strength, is to think and act in terms that are
human ""
One mistake she deplored was the substitution of “as one” for “at one” in the text . “At one” she
explained, ‘is a fine old English idiom with rich connotation. To be ‘at one’ in aim and in spirit is
not necessarily to be ‘as one’. In fact, we may have one common purpose, fix our vision on one
high, far goal and yet move toward it from many directions, richer for their diversity and ennobled
for the tolerance which they demand.”
Before her death in 1943 she released her own version and comments through the General
Federation of Women’s Clubs in the United States.
Institute members everywhere have reason to be grateful for the author who found words for
their deepest thoughts. It might have been yesterday, instead of almost a decade ago that she
wrote to those who had adopted her prayer.
""Indeed, we have need to grow calm, serene and gentle, if in these dire days our
judgments would be generous.""
Altona Branch
South Ontario Women’s Institute
1953 – 1954
OPENING ODE
(Tune : ""Auld Lang Syne"") A goodly thing it is to meet
In friendship's circle bright Where nothing stains the pleasure sweet
Or dims the radiant light. No unkind word our lips shall pass
No envy sour our mind; But each shall seek the common weal,
The good of all mankind.
--
The Women's institutes.
One of Canada's outstanding contributions to the good and welfare of the world is the Women's
Institute, which had its origin here and from this country spread far and wide.
It is good to find official recognition of this fact in the monthly magazine of the Department of
Health and Welfare. It comes in an article by Mr. J. E. KIDD, director of the Canadian
Association for Adult Education.
Mr. KIDD reminds his readers that doctors and departments of health
""have a great many more allies than they sometimes suppose"", and he explains:
""The adult education forces have grown In remarkable fashion in the past two decades,,
even though their budgets ' have never greatly exceeded the annual bill for bubble-gum.
""The most famous example, on many counts, is the origin of the Women's Institutes. .
Here is the case of one institution that has developed in Canada;and spread all round the world,
in the face of the usual flow of influence by which Canada has borrowed from Britain. France.
or the United States.
""It all started with a small group' of women in one community who were concerned about the
health and safety of their children. One can imagine that at the earliest stage an unwise doctor
might have chilled and deflated the group by telling them to look after their family and homes,
that matters of public health were not for ignorant women but only for well-educated specialists.
Instead they received enough encouragement in their early campaigns that their institute was
well-established and soon the idea spread and spread.
""Organized farm women continue to be one of the best channels for health education.""
This is no new discovery, of course, but it is good to have it on the departmental record.
Members of Women's Institutes will value and appreciate this generous tribute to the importance
of their movement here and elsewhere.
--
A World Movement – that started in Canada
THE Women's Institute plays an important role on the Canadian scene—particularly in rural
Canada, where it has a large and active membership. It is a matter of pride to Canadian women
that this world organization had its origin in their own country.
The sad experience of losing a beloved child as the result of using impure milk, at the close
of the 19th century, brought home to an Ontario woman the great need of special courses in
education for rural Canadian mothers. The year was 1897; the woman was Mrs. Adelaide
Hoodless of Hamilton, and it was through her earnestness and enthusiasm that the Women's
Institute was founded. To-day, this association, which had its beginnings at a meeting held on
February 19, 1897, at Stoney Creek, Ontario, functions in every province of Canada except
Newfoundland. (In that province rural women are organized in groups known as Jubilee Guilds,
which are affiliated with the Federated Women's Institutes of Canada.) Membership in the
F.W.I. of Canada numbers nearly 100,000, with almost 4000 branches from coast to coast,
and in some 24 other countries there are now similar groups, comprising a membership of
close to 5,000,000 women and girls. An excerpt from the early Minutes of the first Women's
Institute branch expresses the motivating thought behind this organization.
""A nation cannot rise above the level of its homes. Therefore, we women must work and study
together to raise our homes to the highest possible level."" Better homes mean better
communities. Rural women and girls, through the years, have banded together to study nutrition,
home nursing, sewing, handicrafts, farm accounting, housing, public affairs, etc. Most provincial
Departments of Agriculture co-operate wholeheartedly with the Women's Institute branches,
often providing instructors and helping to organize classes. A fine community spirit and a
happier social life have resulted for farm women across Canada.
Future Leaders
The farm women of Canada are not without thought for future leaders among their ranks.
Institute branches in many provinces underwrite scholarships which enable young farm women to
take university courses in home economics and allied subjects. In many cases these young
women in turn become directors and teachers of courses sponsored by the Women's Institute.
Monthly meetings of many branches these days are taking on a different aspect, as newcomers
to this country take their place in the community.
--
Scottish Tartan Ribbon – the enclosed ribbon is a gift from the Scottish Women’s Rural Institutes
to your Branch. Mrs. Norman Kennedy, head of the Scottish delegation, brought out sufficient of
these ribbons to send to each Branch Institutes in Canada as a token of friendship from our
Scottish sisters. This bow ws ad by Mrs. McVey, Rodingside Cottage, Mauchline,
Ayreshire, Scotland."
"Badges and Life Memberships
-Upper left: F.W.I.O. Badge. Upper right: F.W.I.C. Badge. Centre: A.C.W.W. Badge.
All of the above may be worn by all Ontario Women’s Institute members.
Lower left: Life Member Badge, worn only by Branch Life Members. Lower right: Board Member
Badge, worn only by F.W.I.O. Board members.-
OF THE badges shown in the accompanying illustration, the following are available from the
Women's Institute Branch and Home Economics Service, 1207 Bay Street, Toronto 5, Ontario,
at these prices: F.W.I.O., $1.20 each; P.W.I.C, $1.70 each; A.C.W.W., 50 cents each. Also,
Cuts of the Women's Institute Crest, size 1 inch by 1 1/2 inch, price $1.95. Crests 2 1/2 by 13/4
or 4 by 2 1/2 inches may be borrowed for a limited length of time.
Life Member badges and Provincial Board Member badges are purchased through the
Secretary-Treasurer of the Federated Women's Institutes of Ontario, Mrs. J. H. McCulloch,
R.R. 2, Brampton, Ontario. These badges may be worn only by members fulfilling the special
qualifications indicated by the name of the badge.
The Provincial Board Member badge costs $2.25.
Branch Life Membership may be granted to an active member who has been a member in good
standing in any branch Institute in Ontario for at least 10 consecutive years. This life membership
must be approved by the branch Institutes's Board of Directors, and a fee of $5.00 must be
paid to the F.W.I.O. Provincial Treasurer. Application forms for life membership will be forwarded
by the Provincial Treasurer on request. The price of the Branch Life Member badge is $2.00.
District Life Membership may be granted to a branch Institute life member upon the to have a
""District"" bar attached to a Branch payment of $10.00 to the district funds. Application forms
can be had from the F.W.I.O. Provincial Treasurer on request. It costs $1.50 Life Member badge
for a District Life Member.
Provincial Life Membership in the Federated Women's Institutes of Ontario may be granted by
the Provincial Board of F.W.I.O. to a District Life Member for outstanding Women's Institute s
ervice in Ontario. Recommendation for this Provincial Life Membership may be made by a
District, a Convention Area, or a member of the F.W.I.O. Provincial Board. The sum of
$10.00 shall be paid to the F.W.I.O. Provincial Treasurer by the organization submitting the
application for this Life Membership. Again, application forms can be secured from the
Provincial Treasurer of F.W.I.O. Provincial Life Member badges cost $2.25.
Branch Women's Institute Life Membership absolves the member from paying all future
membership fees. The Branch in which the member is granted Life Membership is absolved
from any future payment of this member's annual F.W.I.O., F.W.I.C. and A.C.W.W. dues,
but must assume payment of her annual District fee, if any. When she is granted District Life
Membership, the Branch is absolved from this fee, too.
The Handbook may also be purchased from the Provincial Secretary-Treasurer,
Mrs. J. H. McCulloch, R.R. 2, Brampton. The price is 25 cents.
--
She has a hearty laugh, a twinkle in her eye, and a head full of original and stimulating ideas.
Meet Your New Director
By Vicki Fremlin
IT'S a formidable enough title: Director of Home Economics Service, Extension
Branch, of the Ontario Department of Agriculture. Fortunately, the lady who has fallen heir to
this imposing appellation looks as if she's going to bear up under it pretty well.
We want you to meet Miss Helen McKercher, a farmer's daughter from Dublin, Ontario; holder of
a bachelor's degree in Foods and Nutrition, and M.Sc. (Cornell) in extension education; an
ex-Navy type who, in basic training days—at 90c per day—performed such functions as washing
walls and cleaning windows, and later, as one of the first four dietitians in the Canadian Navy,
took on the job of ""victualling"" ten thousand men daily.
With that sort of experience, the new director should be pretty well equal to any exigencies that
might arise in the course of her work.
Miss McKercher takes over the position vacated last year by the former Miss Anna P. Lewis,
who left the post (known then as Director of the Women's Institute Branch) after ten years'
service, to marry Professor W. T. Ewen of the Ontario Agricultural College, Guelph.
No immediate replacement was made in the director's post, and the work was carried on by
Miss Ethel Chapman, always a pillar of strength to Women's Institute work. Miss Chapman is
editor of Home and Country, and she took over the work of the director on the understanding
that it would be only temporary. Miss McKercher was at that time with the Department of
Fisheries in Ottawa, and when her appointment was made in September, she was unable for
family reasons to take over until the end of the year. Miss Chapman carried on in both posts—
director and editor— from April to December, and did a superb job on both. Miss McKercher
took over her duties as director in January.
HELEN McKercher's home is in Dublin, Ontario, where the fourth generation of McKerchers is
now growing up on the family farm managed by her brother. She studied dietetics at Macdonald
Institute, but at the time there was no degree course available there, and she qualified as a
dietitian by an ""internship"" in the Ottawa Civic Hospital for Sick Children.
Her first job was with the Ontario Department of Agriculture, with which Helen's life seems to be
inescapably involved. Every so often she gets away from the Department, but it always contrives
to win her back again. She was assigned to York County, where she gave short courses and
conducted coaching classes to prepare girls for judging competitions, and generally fulfilled the
function of the present-day Home Economist. In 1936 the regular homemaking club programme
was established, and the first local leaders training schools were conpioneer days) she was a
writer of some success. she contributed to newspapers and magazines and produced a
volume impressively titled Metrical Translations From the Lahn L^>ncs °f Poet c9-tullus-In
1921 she became assistant directo rgeneral of the U. S. Employment Service and from
1928 untl1 a year before her death in 1943 was assistant director _ of education in the Bureau
of Indian Affairs, In 1927 she was honoured by her alma of mater, the University of Colorado,
which conferred a degree in recognition of her work in education, social an,d civic service, t wer
All the early copies of the collece signed Mary Stuart, a spelling used as a pen name which led
to some error in credit of authorship. The composition has even been accredited to Mary,
Queen of Scots, who was also Mary Stuart!
A few sli ht deviations from the original text were bound to creep in with so many groups usingit.
When the title was A Collect for Club Women, some organiza- tions used the wording
""The great woman's heart common to us all,"" substituting ""woman's"" for ""human.""
Miss Stewart herself acknowledged the substitution, commenting that ""groups may decide
for themselves which form they like."" She preferred the latter, explaining, ""While one of
the ways we still work most ef-fectively is in women's groups, we work for ends that concern men
and women alike, and our greatest need, as our greatest strength, is to think and act in terms
that are human. ""
One mistake she deplored was the substitution of “as one” for “at one” in the text . “At one” she
explained, ‘is a fine old English idiom with rich connotation. To be ‘at one’ in aim and in spirit is
not necessarily to be ‘as one’. In fact, we may have one common purpose, fix our vision on one
high, far goal and yet move toward it from many directions, richer for their diversity and ennobled
for the tolerance which they demand.”
Before her death in 1943 she released her own version and comments through the General
Federation of Women’s Clubs in the United States.
Institute members everywhere have reason to be grateful for the author who found words for
their deepest thoughts, It might have been yesterday, instead ofalmost a decade ago that
she wrote to those who had adopted her prayer,""Indeed, we have need to grow
calm, serene and gentle, if in these dire days ourjudgments would be generous.""
ducted.
Next move was to act as Home Economist for Wellington, Dufferin, Middlesex and Perth,
where she stayed until 1943, when she left to join the Royal Canadian Navy.
There were women in the Navy at that time, but so far none had presumed to meddle with what
had always been a strictly male preserve—the galley, (Kitchen to you.) The arrival of four
dietitians of the fair sex was not greeted with overwhelming warmth. At first, however, the
interlopers were happily unaware of their chilly welcome; they were hugely enjoying the
experience of basic training at H.M.C.S. Conestoga in Galt. All four girls were accustomed to
responsible jobs in which they planned activity, directed programmes, and generally shouldered
the burden of making decisions. Basic training brought halcyon days in which they had nothing to
do but what they were told. It was so delightfully carefree that the government's 90c per day pay-
cheque seemed charmingly generous.
The girls lived in the Preston Springs Hotel. There was no classification of dietitians at that time,
and they solemnly took a course as supply assistants. There, while awaiting draft, they found
themselves assigned to work parties on which, clad in dungarees they painted walls, patched
plaster, cleaned plate-glass windows. Accustomed to working with efficiency and dispatch,
they whirled through their duties at an unheard of speed; too fast for their fellow workers.
This headlong rush was not the Navy way, and they were instructed to cut it out:
""Take the slow easy pace of the Navy,"" was the watchword.
This delicious suspension in Never-Never-Land came to an end with posting to an officers'
training school and shortly thereafter probationary Sub-lieutenant McKercher was posted to
H.M.C.S. Cornwallis in Nova Scotia, HERE our young Navy officer found that the
honeymoon was over, with a vengeance. Her job was the ""victualling"" of 10,000 men
who were scattered about in six different places.
In 1943 the base at Cornwallis was new, supplies were hard to get, and it was difficult to find
adequate stocks of fresh milk and fresh vegetables; they sometimes had to use reconstituted
milk and dehydrated vegetables, and Helen became familiar with the favourite Navy pastime of
""nattering""—complaining about the food.
It appears that nattering is a healthy sign: the time to worry is when it stops. Nevertheless,
Helen looks back nostalgically to the first day when she served a roast chicken dinner with
ice cream for dessert and experienced the thrill of hearing instead of the incessant ""nattering""
an appreciative ""Good dinner, ma'am!""
For a long time she fought resentment among the men, some of whom had years of
Navy experience and whose pride was hurt by the presence of a young woman,
with superior rank, who blithely admitted to knowing nothing at all about the Navy.
She realized that she was accepted when an old signalman who had been in charge of
mess decks announced to her one day that from now on he was going to call her ""Ma'am.""
""Maybe you've noticed that up to now I haven't called you anything,"" he explained.
After a year and a half, Helen was posted from Cornwallis to St. Hyacinthe, Quebec.
It is interesting to note that she was replaced at Cornwallis by five dietitians.
She explains modestly that this was due to expanded establishments, and the admission by the
Navy that dietitians were on the whole A Good Thing. In St. Hyacinthe she had a comparatively
easy job—only 4,200 men, and all under one roof.
ANOTHER eighteen months service, and the war was over and Helen back in civilian life.
She started back with her old friend the Ontario Department of Agriculture as home economist in
Welland, Lincoln, and Haldimand.
After a year in this work, Miss McKercher decided to use her D.V.A. credits for further
academic qualifications. She enrolled at Cornell and completed her bachelor's degree in
foods and nutrition, then entered the graduate school and studied for a master's degree in
extension education. She then returned to the Ontario Department of Agriculture and spent two
years as supervisor of home economics education.
Her wide experience in provincial work made her feel that it would be interesting to see
the picture from a national level, and the next move was to the federal department of Fisheries,
where she worked with home economists across Canada in promoting fish consumption.
""Our motto was to get people to want to eat more fish,"" she says, ""not just to get them to eat
more."" But it seems that the Ontario Department of Agriculture is in some way involved in
McK's destiny, and now she finds herself back at home base.
THE new Director has no immediate plans for changes in the function of her department.
The change of name, she explains, indicates that it was felt that the time had come when
extension work should be directed to people as a family unit—men as well as women.
Hence the change from ""Women's Institute Branch"" to ""Home Economics Service,
Extension Branch."" Men and women are equally interested in many of their undertakings,
Miss McKercher feels — farm management, money management, child training—even kitchen
planning is of as vital interest to men as to women.
The programme, the Department of Agriculture hopes, will be based on the needs and interests
of the people; as those needs and interests change, the programme will adapt to the new
circumstances.
Miss McKercher's idea of leisure occupation is to ""Find time to enjoy a good book.""
Her job is usually her whole life. She showed me a letter of congratulation from the former
Miss Bess McDermand, first woman to hold the post of director to which Miss Helen has now
succeeded. Miss McDermand, now married and living in the U.S., warned the new incumbent
that the job was apt to absorb all one's energies, so that you worked at it, played at it, ate with it
and slept with it. ""You mustn't let yourself get too much involved in the work,""
Miss McDermand wrote. ""Be sure that you keep a corner of your life just for fun and leisure.""
""I'll try,"" says Miss McKercher.
"
"ALTONA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE
Organization Meeting held at Miss E. P. Howitts Home, Altona, Ontario, on June 18th, 1910.
Miss W. Campbell of Brampton, Ont. and Miss R. A. Walsh of Orono, Ont. were the Lady
Delegates who addressed the meeting.
Organized with a membership of 26. Officer's elected as follows:
President ...... Miss C. Hoover, Altona, Ont.
Vice-President. . . . Mrs. A. Reesor, Altona, Ont.
Secretary-Treasurer . Miss E. P. Howitt, Altona.
Assistant-Secretary . Miss A. White, Altona, Ont.
Director's:
Mrs. R. White . . . Altona, Ont.
Miss A. Coates. . . Claremont, Ont.
Miss M. Yake .... Altona, Ont.
Miss E. Lapp . . , Altona, Ont.
"
EAM
Mise May Mowd"r
Mrs. Frank Maroh
M- E.. G""'
Mrs. M. Loydd
Mra. Edwin Forsythe
MSss Millie Marksy
Mies M"tl. 2.1ot
OMARTER M ERR
SUPE 1910
P. 0. ADDRESS
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"The Tribune, Stouffville, Ont., Thursday August 22. 1957
Mrs. Barkis Reesor, 81, of Altona is a noted authority on early pioneer life in Pickering Township.
One of her many scrapbooks (above) contains a wealth of information on the life of the first settlers
in the district. She was a member of the Research Committee of the Altona Women’s Institute.
A portion of this information appears on page 5 of this issue.
--
Mrs. MacKay Was Altona Resident 37 Years
Charter member of the Altona Women's Institute and a resident of the district east of Stouffville for
37 years, Mrs. Wm. T. MacKay passed away on Friday, Sept. 25, 1942, at the old home now
occupied by her son Floyd.
Mrs. MacKay was in her 80th year and had been in ill health for a long time. During her active life
she was an enthusiastic member of the Institute being one of its promoters and first members.
Born at Port Perry she was a daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. J. Matthews. Following her
marriage to her late husband the couple went to North Dakota, and 37 years ago located at
Altona where Mr. MacKay died 16 years ago. The parents are survived by one son Floyd,
and one daughter, Mrs. Henry Slack, also a grandchild, Billy MacKay. Mrs. Gailer, Toronto,
is a surviving sister. The funeral on Monday afternoon was taken by her pastor Rev. D.
Macgregor of the Baptist church, interment being at Stouffville cemetery.
The pall bearers were Messrs Wm. Duncan, Charles Barkey, Fred Ramer, Alf. Trewartha,
Stanley Lewis and Bertram Lewis.
--
In Markham Township, on June 4th, 1876, Hannah and Christian Wideman welcomed into their
home, a blue-eyes baby girl, who they named Ida Jane. Red hair and freckles was the only
disappointment as this little girl grew to womanhood.
Her interests included sports and games of many kinds. Nothing pleased her more than a horse
race with a team of colts. She liked competition and the desire to win often led her to complete
an enterprise that many persons with higher education would not attempt.
In 1900, she married Barkis Reesor. They farmed in Altona on the Reesor homestead.
Early in her twenties she became a Christian. Her faith in God and her Christian experience
overshadowed her many activities all her life.
In 1910, she became a member of the Women’s Institute at Altona. She served on the
Historical Researched Committee. From her many scrap books much valuable information was
gathered about the pioneers and their contributions to the early Canadian life as it was lived in
Markham township. It took much courage to carry on after the sudden passing of her husband in
1938. Much of her life was given to sharing her time, tenth money and spiritual interests with
friends and neighbours. People came from many walks of life and for many miles to receive her
healing touch and to find a renewed sense of security in Jesus Christ, our Lord.
At Altona she was a staunch supporter of the Christian Church and a member of the United
Missionary Church. The Sunday School held a special place in her heart. She was the organizer
and teacher of a class of teenage girls. They accompanied her when she was the speaker for the
Sunday School in neighbouring vicinities.
She took a keen interest in people’s problems and seemed never too busy to lend a helping
hand, often driving many miles to bring comfort and relief to suffering people.
One motto domineered her life “Never Give Up.”
She went to be with He whom she served in March 1959.
--Blanche Lackey (Daughter)
"
"Mrs. Ida Reesor
From the book, ""String of Amber"" by Blodwen Davies. The following is in relation to the chapter
24 under the title of Charming and Divining.
An aspect of ancient and inherited wisdom was the practise of charming. It survives to-day in the
form of healing. Many charms were taken from a verse of scripture in the Holy Bible and ended
with the invocation of the name of Christ. The healing charms were a carefully kept secret by those
who practised the old art. They could only be passed from an older man to a younger woman,
or from an older woman to a younger man.
Some charms were used to stop bleeding. It possibly was a very much used one in settlement days
when many bad accidents happened in the midst of clearing land and building by amatuers.
A neighbor of Blodwen Davies had a persistant nose bleed one day to the extent he was getting
weak and alarmed. He phoned a charmer 10 miles away and told her of his condition.
Within minutes of the call the bleeding stopped. The lady he had phoned was Mrs. Barkis Reesor,
one of the most celebrated healers in the area. She died a few years ago after a long life of healing.
Like all genuine charmers she would never accept a fee for her work.
People went to her, many of them complete strangers, from many miles around and she would lay
aside whatever she was doing to help them. Late in life she finally gave up her practise,
because whenever she healed, she suffered acutely herself and became exhausted.
Mrs. Reeseor was born Ida Wideman, a descendant of the first Mennonite minister to arrive in
Markham Township in 1803. Vivacious, alert, independent, red-haired, kind and eager for life and
a real Christian.
When she married Barkis Reesor they setled on a farm not far from Stouffville (east of Altona) and
the home still stands. Robert Lewis purchased the property from Mrs. Reesor's son Stanley in
1970. When she was a young mother her son fell into a pail of very hot water. The question of
healing was in the back of her mind, so she sent for the Mennonite preacher to anoint the child
and she prayed for his healing. In a way it seemed almost miraculous the child was healed of his
serious burn. Three of her children were healed at various times in this way. Her husband was
sympathetic with her absorption in the growing idea of healing and supported her in whatever
she chose to do.
Her dedication to healing soon became widely known. John Hoover, another Altona resident,
himself a known healer in Ida Reesor's youth was now an older man and he often prayed that he
would find the right person to whom he could transmit his healing lore and charms.
Mrs. Reesor showed herself to be the hoped for disciple and he turned over to her all his
knowledge and formulas.
A daughter of Mrs. Reesor told Blodwin Davies ""never did one charm fail"".
Oddly enough some of her own church people were critical and disapproving,
yet the countryside was full of the tales of her healing power, her humility,
her overflowing kindness. The use of the charms sometimes made her violently ill.
A mother took her child suffering from a terrible case of eczema to Mrs. Reesor for healing.
The child was healed.
In Mrs. Reesor's Mennonite blood was an infusion of Welsh blood by way of her Quaker mother.
She was a very active community worker as well as a local historian, writing and speaking on
pioneer days. But her church came first in her life. Before using her charms ahe always anointed
a patient before attempting this procedure. Among other things she could ""take the inflamation
out of anything"".
This was one of the principal charms many people practised taking the burn out of a burn.
Like Nancy Lehman Barkey another charmer, she could ""always blow the fire out of a burn"".
Mrs. Reesor sometimes had premonitions of where she was needed.
-Lillian Byer
"
"Charter Members continued
Miss Addie Hoover, Mrs Lydia Hoover, charter members
Mrs. N. Bunker (M Burnham)
Miss Mildred Barkey
Mrs. Melville Kester
Floss Spang (Mrs. Soden)
Miss May Mowder
Mrs. Joe Cadieux - Charter member, grandmother of Ted Cadieux-photographer- Stouffville, Ont.
Miss Lillis Smith
Mrs. Rolph White"
"Still Operates Farm At Age 82
BROUGHAM — Mrs. Edith Soden was born on a farm a mile north of Claremont station 82 years
ago. Today she has a herd of 35 beef cattle on 135 acres on the Fifth Concession of Pickering.
Mrs. Soden operates her farm with just the help of a neighbour, John White, and his son, Paul to
do the heavy work. Mr. White and Paul harvested the hay, 9,000 bales this year, and do the winter
feeding. ""It's my job to look after them during the summer,"" says Mrs. Soden.
Mrs. Soden also has a mixed flock of bantams, chickens, ducks and geese numbering 75 to 80 but
they are kept mostly as a hobby. The eggs are laid helter-skelter and those that aren't broken are
given away. The variety ranges from bantams to mallard ducks to three Canada Geese.
From . her husband's death in 1945 until 1955 Mrs. Soden had the help of a hired hand but since
then has depended on the help of her friends. Because she is alone she has had to change her
style of farming. At one time she kept, horses and pigs but had to give them up because they
involved too much work.
People often ask her if she gets lonesome but she says, ""I have a TV and a telephone and lots of
things to do. I have friends I don't believe in so many friends, just a few friends,
that's all you need.""
Mrs. Soden stays on the farm because ""it's nice here, I like nature, the animals, the birds,
the trees, the creek,""
Until five years ago the farm, totalled 307 acres but only 135 acres remains. However, she is
determined not to sell the land the creek flows through. In the early days of Pickering Township
it was known as Spring Creek. The first Brougham Post Office was located on Mrs. Soden's land
and she has erected a cairn on the site.
--
Portraits from the past
The Bethesda and Stouffville Telephone Company was purchased by the Bell in March,
1960. One of the veteran switchboard operators of that day was Miss Mildred Barkey,
Main Street East. She was employed with the local firm over 40 years.
The premises was in the building next to Greenwood T.V., Main West. –Jas. Thomas.
--
Raspberries now?
Adelaide Boomer of Concession 3 Uxbridge has a raspberry patch seemingly unaffected by the
cold weather. She picked the box of berries shown above just last week from her garden in her
backyard. Even Adelaide, who is 86 years old was surprised by the amount of the ripe berries
she was able to get, and wonders if anyone else has been able to reap the fruit this late in the
season.
--
Area native, Altona W.I. Charter member
Ross Phillips, manager of Bethany Lodge, Unionville, conducted the service for
Mrs. Albert Boomer from the O’Neill Funeral Chapel following her passing, June 27, 1980 in
Scarborough Centenary Hospital.
Mrs. Boomer, the former Adelaide Coates was born near Claremont. A resident of Bethany
Lodge, she had been in declining health for the past six years.
Besides her husband, she is survived by one brother, Bill Coates in Claremont. She was
predeceased by one brother and one sister.
Interment was made in the family plot at Uxbridge.
"
"LOCAL HISTORY OF ALTONA
The Bible is the greatest book in the world and you will find that its first words are
""In the beginning, God"". So also will you find that the greatest things in life can be traced back
to these words which make me think that the Church is a good beginning for this paper on Local
History. In any generation the Church stands above all other organizations in the community.
Abe Reesor gave the land. The Church was built in 1875 by the Christians and Mennonites and
held services alternately.Rev. Mr. Hainer and Rev. Mr.Percy were former pastors of the
Christians and Rev. Mr. Goudie and Rev. Mr. Bowman were pastors
for the Mennonites.
The Sunday School has gradually increased and is the Banner School of Pickering Township.
Prayer meetings have been kept up since the beginning and the attendance and interest is good.
The Church was renovated and redecorated. A basement with furnace, a new platform and the
girls organized class saved their coppers for one year and bought the piano. Albert Davis made
and gave us the Piano bench.
The Altona Dutch Mennonite Church is situated on the Pickering-Uxbridge townline,
some two miles from Stouffville. Just where the first families located near this site is not known
definitely.
The Markham settlement began about 1803. The Stouffers came to the village, named after
them in 1804.
Barkeys, Hoovers, Nighswanders, Lehmans and several other families spread over this area
from Markham as the second generation sons set up their homes. Daniel Ereider was a
minister in l825. The present brick building was erected in 1852, Christian Stouffer donated one
acre of land for church purposes. It bears the date l835. A school house stood on the site of the
church and was used for preaching in many years before this Church was built. Elizabeth
Stouffer's was the first grave in that cemetery and bears the date 1835.
In January, l85l, a Ministers Conference decided to ordain a minister and deacon for the district
with the 10th Concession as boundry, Samuel Hoover was ordained to the ministry in 1873
and served twenty years. It was during his ministry that the English language was used regularly.
He was aggresive and loyal to the Church and was highly respected within as well as without the
Church. John G. Hoover came next in 1892 and served faithfully until 1914 when he was stricken
with paralysis. He died in 1920. She present pastor is Rev. Fred Nighswander. The cemetry is
kept up and cleaned by the present church officials.
Altona is a farming community where most of the farmers made thier money by mixed farming.
A real contrast to the commercialized farming of to-day. Edgar Cliff owned the woolen mill and is
now turned into an Apple-Butter factory owned by Peter Nighswander and his products are sold
to all parts of Ontario and the North West. The old grist mill owned by Abe Reesor and in later
years owned by Hugh McIntosh has been burned and Mr. Alexander has purchased the grounds
and the adjoining farm of Mr. McNair for a Bird Sanctuary. The old hotel owned by Luxey Brown,
now owned by our present storekeeper, Oliver Madill, is an asset to the community where we get
our gas and weekly supplies, also an egg-grading station. William Eckardt operates a lumber
mill and owns a garage on the corner.
Altona also finds it name on the list of prize winners at the Royal Winter Fair and it is one of its
worthy sons in the person of Vincent Baker who owns the best team of horses and gets prizes
at the fall fairs. Also the Duck farm where they raise many thousands of ducks for Toronto
Markets.
We have seen the transformation from the horse and buggy days to the automobile and
aeroplane, from the coal oil lamps to electric lights, instead of the great butchering days to hydro
power and refrigeration where we keep our meat and vegetables. Instead of hand power
washing machines, we have a machine that washes, rinses and dries our clothes.
Hydro lights our homes, pumps our water and chops our grain.
Altona is a business community. We have a few specials outside of local farming.
Beekeeper Stanley Lewis owns three bee yards. Harold Lewis is a cabinet and wood worker
who makes many beautiful pieces of furniture. Fred Lewis, the poultry man, has a general feed
store. Ross Stover, handy man. Fred Raymer, a market gardener. Isaac Lehman,
caretaker of the Church. F. Goudie, a plumber, David Crosier, a retired trucker. Wm. McNair
and Hugh McIntosh, our prize men at pitching horseshoes, Stanley Thompson, contractor,
Sam Fretz, ""Maple Syrup King"". Fred Nighswander, pastor of the Dutch Church, Ab. Davis,
the eldest man in Altona. Weyman Irwin, our watchmaker. Wm. Clarkson, the sheep-shearer.
Norman Bunker, contractor. Fred Pilkey, another handyman. Bert Lewis, a farmer and
wood-worker. John Pallister and his wife have celebrated their fiftieth wedding anniversary.
Walter Carter, our up-to-date farmer. Wm. Reesor has been Reeve of Pickering Township also
Warden. Charles Barkey, ""Apple King"". Delos Morris raises turkeys. Reesor Bros.,
lumber and hockey.
A paper given by Mrs. B. Reesor at an Institute meeting.
--
List of Papers prepared and given at W.- I. meetings over a period of years by Mrs. B. Reesor.
1. My Country, My District, My Home.
2. Winter Vegetables.
3. A Woman's View of Life,
4. Preparations for a Bride-to-be.
5. Home Duties for Boys and Girls.
6. True Spirit of Christmas Giving.
7. Some Thinks Make Life Worthwhile.
8. Living a Life is More Than Making A Living.
9. What All The World is Seeking.
10. Which Has the Greater Influence, Heredity or Environment?
11. Pioneer Life of the Surrounding Community.
12. Gardening for Health,Food and Beauty.
13. The Girl and Her Responsibilities as a Citizen.
14. A Woman's obligation to Hew Country.
15. Hospitality in Grandmother's Day.
16. Farm Problems in Grandmother's Day.
17. History of Some Pioneer Families (Jones, Forsyths, and Reesors)
18. The Hardships of the Pioneers.
19. Pioneer News
20. Historical Research.
21. To be Seventy Years Young Sometimes
Better than Forty years old.
22. Paper (no title)
23. Making Common Place Life Interesting
24. History of Pickering Township.
25. History of our two Churches.
"
"HOSPITALITY IN GRANDMOTHER'S DAY
by Mrs. B.. Reesor
What Is the meaning of hospitality? Is it possessed by the people of to-day?
It is the gentle art of making people feel at home under any conditions. People were more friendly.
Folks dropped in to see you without a special invitation. Friends were asked to accept the
hospitality of the home even though common neccessities were present. They were asked to stay
for meals. Often a mother went to visit the sick giving help to the mother and new baby playing the
part of Doctor, nurse and maid. The minister felt at home and he could stay all night or longer if he
wished to. He read the Bible and with the family and Grandmother they wrapped a parcel for him
when departing. Family worship was a necessity with some in Grandmother's day.
Fathers were revered and children were taught strict obedience also to reverence their parents.
All the family went to church either In a sleigh or carriage. Father's word was law and not one was
left behind. People were anxious about soul saving and wanted to see all their children brought into
the church. Courtship was real and people married for love and there were very few divorces.
Father went on horseback through bush from Dixon Hill to Stouffville to seemother for three years at
the home where Lambert Stouffer now resides. Mother received four dollars a month for four years
andout of that money she bought a china set of dishes also a burrow and clothed herself,.
They rose early in the morning and worked until nine o'clock at night with a tallow candle.
There were seven boys and one girl in the Stouffer family. Grandmother's home was one of
hospitality. We always received white loaf sugar and large raisons and I got five cents every time
I went. One of her grandchildren said she always got bulleyes, A neighbour siad she remembered
hearing two girls talking and theone said ""Oh, I would rather go to Grandmother's than to Heaven"".
Grandmother always carried a needle case and a knife in her pocket. She would take me down
into her beautiful garden and cut such lovely bunches of grapes which she trimmed herself.
She always came once a year to visit us when mother's garden was at its best. She talked
dutch and mother answered in English, Nearly all her children and grandchildren attended
Church at Dixon Hill and from there we went to Grandmother's for dinner* Her son, Martin,
was married to Fanny Stouffer and lived in one-half the house and between the two women
they provided abundance for all also a welcome. Oh the work and patience it must have taken to
provide for all of us. Once Grandmother's pump went wrong and they sent for Mr. Windsor,
the well-digger to come. Two men came and tried to get the pump out of the well but could not.
Grandmother looked on and said ""Stand by"" and she lifted the pump out of the well herself
and they always teased these two men afterwards. Another time Grandfather planted an
orchard and he was so particular just to have the sods in their proper place it took so long so
Grandmother said give me the spade and she finished planting the orchard and all of her
trees grew and Grandfather's trees died. At logging beea her son David Wideman was always
chosen first and my father second out of one hundred and fifty men. They used oxen, a team
of horses and an axe, Mr* McClintock had a wife and two children. He lived on the seventh of
Markham, They drove to Tilsonburg, took up land, made a log house and had a stump of a
tree for a table for years: and in 1900 we went to Aunts on our wedding trip. They had seven
boys and two girls and gave each boy one hundred acres and the girls each $3000 a piece all
good land and a lovely home.
Mr Kester could come to our place and always brought a treat, pails of lovely plums, pears,
sweet corn, the first fruit of the season and mother just seemed to know what to send in return,
they lived 40 years joining farms and were better friends and true friends until death parted them.
The women had the wool cared and they spun the yarn and made it into full cloth flannel.
The Tailor came and sat cross-legged on a table and made suits for all the family once a year.
Every woman wore a home made flannel dress, pedicoats and drawers and all home knit
stockings with bright stripes around the legs. This was made for winter. Then for summer they
wore linen made from flax grown on the farm. They made it into toe then spun it, and wove it into
linen towels, table cloths, dresses, shirts. Men and women all wore linen. Most of the boys
teased their fathers until they bought them a pair of copper long legged red top toed boots,
then they were ready to go to see the girls because they were up to date, also a top buggy and a
nice driver. I can see my brother now when he first went to see his sweetheart and the tricks we
played on him, putting tin pans above the door and when he came in very sly all these came
rattling down and father jumped out of bed wondering what had happened. Recreation was a lot
of pleasure in those days. Nearly all knew how to sing by note. There were quilting bees and then
a party at night with all kinds of games. At these bees lads and lasses occupied alternate seats.
If one of the lads found a big red' ear of corn he had the privilege of kissing the lass next to him
and it was surprising how many big red ears were found. Later home-made cheese, cake and
punch was served. Maple Sugar Taffy pulls was another great treat. Father had maple syrup on
his table three times a day the year around, also maple sugar. Dancing, Skating, Sunday School
picnics, logging bees, sleigh riding parties were all enjoyed. Dr. Lloyd was a grand old man.
He came to Mrs. Lehman and she wanted to pay her doctor bill so she brought all she had and
he took some coppers and left her the rest. Nearly every home had a herb bed in their garden.
This they usedin times of sickness; sage and thyme were for dressing and soup horhound for
colds. We very seldom had a doctor as mother used all her herbs for some type of sickness.
Many of these sturdy pioneers were good law abiding citizens. These sturdy pioneers have
passed on and we are reaping the rewards of their labor. Our farms are all cleared.
No automobile purred up to their door. No hydro will all its conveniences and electric appliances.
No radios with all the latest news and inventions. No tractors to do their work.
Their jails were not crowded like the present time. No overcrowded hospitals or asylums.
Very few seemed to know much about nerve or heart trouble. No old age pensions.
This is a much faster age. Peiple used to travel by train now we have aeroplane if you want to go
faster than the cars. In these days of war and unrest how much we need a Saviour to bring all our
burdens, cares and troubles to and find in Him all Power to heal all our sickness, to bind a broken
hearted person, calm the storms; prayer is the key that unlocks God's storehouse,
and God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Psalms 34:17.
The righteous cry and the Lord heareth and delivereth them out of all their troubles.
Scatter goodwill and sunshine as you go. It will be like bread cast upon the water.
It shall return to you again.
--
THE PUGHS
The Pughs lived in Wales, came to Pickering March 15, 1777. they had farms rented in Wales
and as their lease expired they came out. David Pugh was the last to come out. He came from
Toronto in a toe boat drawn by horses on land. As the horses would tire out they had to wait
until they were fed, they landed in Whitby with nothing to eat and then walked to Hugh Pugh's
farm where he met his mother. They had the choice of land but wouldn't take a farm unless it had
hills and water on it, also they wanted it to resemble Wales. IN Wales if the renter could pay his
rent and got along fine, the landlord would raise the rent. Grandfather came out when he was
fifteen and grandmother was nine years old. It took them six weeks to cross the ocean.
Edward Pugh came with wife and four little children. She died on the way and the whales
followed the boat so they had to put her overboard in the sea. He settled in Claremont and never
married again.
Mrs. Barkis Reesor.
"
"HISTORICAL SKETCH OF ALTONA PIONEERS
Grandmothers Day at the Women's Institute at the home of Mrs. W. D.Parker, Atha,
on Wednesday, March 10th, 1926, the Altona Women's Institute held their monthly meeting.
A paper was given by Mrs. Barkis Reesor on Pioneers of Altona.
In the year 1801 - one Christian Reesor came over from Pennsylvania to examine the country in
Markham township. They traded their team for a piece of land and returned home on foot.
Three years later he returned with his four sons and their families. l8l6 was commonly referred to as
the summerless year when all the grain froze. What little was saved was gathered by men wearing
overcoats as a protection from the cold.
At this time there was but one store in Toronto, and these early pioneers made the trip by horse-
back or on foot in order to get supplies.
On February 28, 1848, Simon Reesor was married to Susannah Nighswander.
The wedding supper was served on the farm owned by Lewis Burkholder.
It was of simple fare, cornmeal mush and milk and served in tin cups from pewter spoons.
Mr. and Mrs. Reesor commenced farming on the place now owned by Elias Reesor,
his wife Susannah was raised on the farm now owned by Peter Nighswander.
She was accustomed to assisting in her father's woollen mills, spinning webs of blankets and
flax. Butter was 8 cents a pound, and eggs 5 cents a dozen. In exchange tea was $1.00 per
pound. Mr Reesor died while a young man. He was regarded as a successful farmer.
The first school house was a log building situated at the east corner where the mennonite church
shed now stands. The pupils sat on backless benches. The next schoolhouse was built in 1834.
Mr. A. McSween was, the teacher for ten years at a salary of about $375.00 per year.
In 1911 the new building was erected. Following are the names of teachers since 1834 - Wesley
Wonch, Mrs. John Millard, James Bassingwaite, Thomas Beare, Frank Sangster, James Forfar,
W. J. Stark, R. F. Andrews, Miss Abbie Irwin, Donald Noble, Mason Flumerfelt, Wm. Henderson,
Charles McDonald, J. M. Titan, John Yake, Miss W. Wallace, Miss M. Leach, Miss Nicholson,
Miss Watson, Miss Johnson, Miss Ridley, Miss Sprung, Mrs. Bright, Miss Murray, Miss Bi€hn -
Drewery, Miss Irene Reesor, Miss Vida Lee - Locke, Miss Harper - Jones, Miss Fanny Ramer-
Pugh.
Fred Johnston married Susan Kester. He died in 1894, aged 79 years. He well- remembered
going to Toronto for anything they required - such as an axe or white flour which they ground
between two stones in those early days. There were no bridges to ford the Rouge River;
they sometimes had to wait until the water lowered so they could pass through on horseback.
Michael Johnston, his son, died in 1901, aged 63 years. His wife, Eliza Ann Dowswell, died in
1912 aged 63 years. The son, Fred Johnston, married Janet Hope and worked the farm until his
death which is now owned by Joseph Nighswander.
Jacob Lehman came to Canada in 1833 and lived on the farm owned by George Carter, Isaac
Lehman's grandfather, Daniel Lehman, came from Pennsylvania in 1827 and brought out horses
and traded then for land and returned on foot; this he did seven times.
Samuel Hoover was married to Esther Reesor on December 25th, 1845. In 1875,
Mr Hoover was elected by the Mennonite Brethren as the first minister to preach English in that
church. Mrs. Hoover's grandfather gave them 75 acres of land and Mr. Hoover traded a horse for
the 25 acres between Barkey's and McKay's. They were accustomed to taking their family when
going to Markham to visit her parents with a sleigh and team of oxen. Mrs. Hoover used to help
with the harvesting of grain. She used to sit the baby in a basket in a fence corner while
she helped her husband. Deer trailed across the farm and bears often stole the little pigs.
Wolves were plentiful and all kinds of game. They were able to spear white fish with a pitchfork.
Mr. Hoover was the first man to erect a bank barn. Their eldest daughter spun the yarn and knit a
small pair of stockings for her cousin Peter Reesor at the age of four years.
Hiram Yake was married to Laney Kester and owned the farm where his son, Harmon,
lived for many years; now owned by 0. Fretz. Mr. Beesan built the house where Mr. Bunker lives
now. He once caught a fish at Holland Landing. It weighed 75 pounds and brought it down to
Altona pond. Being out of water too long it died. I have heard Enoch Kester tell of his father
taking a team of oxen and picking a road to Whitby to get enough lumber to board up the gable
end of his house.
Levi Nighswander was a shoemaker in Altona. The people engaged a shoemaker also a tailor
to make their clothes and they went from house to house as they could not buy anything ready
made. Their purchases had to last until their next visit which was once a year. Samuel
Nighswander owned the woollen mills with Mr. E. Cliff next proprietor. Elisha Shrigley Millright
was noted for his bravery, always carried a tomahawk and said he was not afraid of anything.
Sam Nighswander put a sheet over him and stood in the path where"" he had to pass,
then Shrigley threw his tomahawk and ran for his life.
In 1878 the grain was sown in March and sheep were sheared. Mrs. Elias Reesor had her
spinning done by 21st of May and she knit 50 pairs of mitts also 50 pairs stockings by hand
every year and sold them to Thomas Beare, storekeeper at Whitevale.
Flavius Reesor married Mary Barkey in 1866, January 30, and they have celebrated their
Diamond wedding. Jacob Stouffer married Annie Reesor on May 13, 1856, and lived on the
farm now owned by Thomas Lewis his sons and grandchildren. Mr. Stouffer led the singing in
the Christian Church. In March 1904 they moved to Alberta where they died.
The Dutch church was built about 1852. The first preacher being Jacob Grove, Marlin;
David and Samuel Nighswander owned the land now occupied by Peter and
David Nighswander. John Stouffer lived in a house across from them and ran the sawmill.
In l855, Edward Meyer came from Switzerland to Canada at the age of 13 years.
He married Magdalena Wideman in 187O and lived in Markham but moved to Pickering in
1878 and he crossed the ocean eight times.
William Feaster, father of Rachael an esteemed member of our Institute and wife of Harmon
Yake, did the mason work for the first school house also the mason work of the Mennonite
Church and caught a cold which afterwards proved to be the cause of his death.
In l85O Abraham Reesor, wife and family came and built the flour mill, saw mill and house.
In 1855,he died leaving a wife and eight children. It is told that his father John Reesor got 600
acres of pine at Bethesda for a horse saddle and bridle. Another pioneer was Joseph
Monkhouse who came to Canada in 1845 and began storekeeping in Altona. In 1857
he married Christena Reesor and leaving the store began milling in 1865- his wife died and in
1874 he moved to Lot 32-Con. 9 where for 12 years he managed the farm. His second wife was
Elizabeth Kester. Besides being a successful business man and farmer he took considerable
interest in public affairs and served 10 years in council being Reeve from 1884 to 1887 and
Warden of the County the latter years. On his brother's death in 1886 he returned to the store
continuing till his death in 1903. He was succeeded by his son Willis J. Monkhouse who
continued the business. Mr. Fishburn and Andrew Brown kept the hotel. Mr. Brown's son Robert
was for a number of years in charge of the page boys in the Parliament Building, Toronto.
Mrs. Eli Lehman's great grandmother Barkey, came from Pennsylvania, and on the way here
they milked the cows and cooked the meals.
Christian Wideman married Hannah Pugh on Feb. 16, 1862, and settled
"
"on the farm now owned by Henry Wideman. He considered himself up to date with a fiery horse
and saddle. It was necessary for him to go through 10 miles of bush to see his girl who later
became his wife. In religion they belonged to the Mennonite Church. Mrs. Wideman died on
Oct. 13, 1912, and Mr. Wideman died Feb. 3, 1924.
John White born 1835 married Susan Derusha and lived on Lot 29, Con. 9. He was a successful
farmer and planted the maples around the farm also 2 fine orchards, also got the first binder
around Altona. His seven sons moved to the West with the exception of Henry (deceased)
who lived on the 3rd of Uxbridge.
Thomas Stevenson came from England in the year 1834 with his wife and family.
They were eleven weeks coming across the water in a sailing vessel and settled on the 5th con.
of Pickering near Whitevale. We have one grand daughter, Mrs. MacKay and one great
granddaughter, Mrs. H. Slack as members of this branch of the Institute.
Daniel Barkey was born April 2nd 1824 on the old Barkey homestead 7th con. Whitchurch-was
married ot Barbara Pike-Mar. 24-l846, at their home east of Dixon's Hill and moved the same
spring to Lot 28, 9th Con. Pickering, into a small log house. During the next 15 years 60 to 70
acres of this land was cleared of the wood mostly maple, beech and elm and completely tile
drained making one of the most splendid grain and stock farms in the township. This farm was
covered with cobble and huge, boulder stones which were blasted. They gathered enough to
build the new house in 1857. The Barkey's had 6 children who all lived to see their Golden
Wedding celebrated March 24, 1896. Those early days were not devoid of teasings and playful
tricks on youthful lovers. While Mr. Barkey was courting Miss Pike and he calling on her with his
dashing saddle horse bedecked with saddle and bridle straps with looping ivory ringed
martingales, his jealous boyfriends would wire down the road gate, so he could not get out,
and once went so far as to steal his saddle and hide it in a wheat field. It was not found until
hearvest time when nearly eaten up by grasshoppers. The Barkeys lived long past the
Scriptural allotment-Mrs. Barkey passed away Aug. 29, 1905 and Mr. Barkey, Feb. 19, 1913,
both having lived here until their deaths passing the farm on to the son Wilmot-then to his twin
sons Charlie and Willie.
Abijah Jones born Nov. 7, 1808, died Jan. 27, 1889, he was married to Mary Yake, daughter of
Michael Yake on May 18, 1852 by John Durant, Congregational minister, Stouffville.
Three sons and five daughters were born of this union,on the old homestead now owned by
Ralph Jones and sister. The mother, Mary Jones ( or Polly) died Oct. 5, 19l5, aged 87 years.
Michael Yake was one of three sons of John Yake who left Strasburg-on-the-Rhine the latter part
of the 17th century, and came to Pennsylvania burying his young wife at sea. He came with his
young daughter to Hamilton. She grew to womanhood and married one George Baker.
Their descendents are many. They came to York-now Toronto he having married again and
settled on a farm. Branch of the Christian Church in Altona was organized by Elders Tattan and
Sholtz, April 22, 1872 with the following pioneer members, Samuel Burkholder, Merida- his wife,
Jacob and Annie Burkholder, Elijah Peterson, Martha Paterson, Abram Nighswander,
A. I. Brown, Elizabeth Morden, Sarah Pearson, Charlotte Mighton, Regina Conner,
Nancy Connor, Esther Brown, Maggie Wideman, Charlotte Stover. The Union Church was built
in 1876 and Noah Detwiller was the first Mennonite preacher. The Millards came to Uxbridge
Township from Newmarket about 95 years ago. Timonthy Millard bought the 200 acres known as
Lot 3, Con. 2.
--
Lot 2 now known as the Morris farm was the property of Samuel Millard.
These farms were first granted from the crown to Jacob Winn in the year 18O5. The Crown
deed had the seal of George III attached.
William Eckhardts great grandmother traded her shotgun for the 200 acres of land now owned
by Wm. Eckhardt at Glasgow. Mr. Edwin Boothby conducted the Blacksmith shop,
his wife was Hannah Forsyth. They and their family were faithful attendants of the Glasgow
Methodist Church which was connect with the Claremont circuit. The pastors of this circuit have
been the following- Charles A. Simpson 1884-6 Charles J. Dobson 1887-9,
James M. Simpson 1890-2, Joseph E. Sanderson, 1893, George Browne l894-5,
Thomas W. Leggott 1896-8, W. H. Adams 1899-02, J. W. Wilkinson 1903. J. W. Totten 1905-8.
R. Duke 1908 to the present time.
Glasgow community and church attendants were Hiram Kester and wife, Maria Forsythe,
Tommy Latcham, Mrs. Latcham, their son, John Latcham and family, Lizzie Hutchinson,
Charles Forsyth, Mrs. Forsyth, sons Frank and Ralph and John, Mr. and Mrs. E. Cliff, Mr. and
Mrs. Brewery and family, Mr and Mrs. Michael Johnson and family, Nettie (Mrs. O'Boyle)
Mary-Ann (Irwin) and Fred, Joyces, Thompson's, Prynes, Mowat, Davis, Amos Stover wife and
boys Herb and Fred, Mr. Rodanz, 3rd con., Bastons, Vanburn, Forsyth and family, Grenville,
Elizabeth, (Libb, Mrs. Frank White), Martha (Mrs. Clayton Stouffer), Edwin, Levi, and Hazel
(Mrs. Roland Winn) Allen's, Storry's, St-John's attended school comming down the 2nd Con.
were the Grice, later John Scott, and Mr. and Mrs. James Slack, Snider, Reynolds, Hunts,
Smiths, Lewis, Boothbys, Millards, Corsier, Eckhardts, Robinson, McFarlane, Burnham, Morden,
Lehman, Morris; probably the most widely known man in Glasgow section was Benjamin Parker.
Mr. Parker married Rachael Forsyth, sister of Mrs. Boothby and Mrs. Kester. He was
song-leader in the church for many years. Many have passed on and are buried in the
two cemetries.
"
"History of Hardships of the Pioneers
One can scarcely believe that a century ago the land for miles in all directions from where we now
sit was nothing but unbroken bush. Their winter homes were huts of logs cut from the surrounding
forest. As the long winter months dragged on the men busied themselves in felling trees to
construct boats to take them further inland.
In 17 8 there was a complete crop failure and many actually died of starvation while others were
saved only by the game and wild pigeons which they were able to capture. In 1801 Christian
Reesor, accompanied by his son Peter, travelled from Franklin County Pennsylvannia on
horseback to examine the land and country and bring back information. They traded their horses
for land on the tenth concession, lot 4, as the site of their future home, and the two men travelled
on foot back home. In 1904 Christian and his four sons, Peter, John, Abraham and Christian Jr.
came. John had fifteen children. They spent six weeks on their journey, travelling in covered
wagons and camped wherever night overtook them. They drove their cattle with them and the
animals fed by the wayside. They were milked night and morning. The butter was churned by the
vibration of the rude vehicles. Then the first crop was harvested the grain was threshed by flails.
They would take a sheet on a breezy day and throw the grain up in the air to blow out the chaff.
The grain was then carried on horseback over bush trails to Toronto to be ground into flour.
There was only one store in Toronto. Water supply was another problem and sometimes water
was obtained from pools formed by the rain. One type of food in ample supply was fish. Large
salmon could be caught in Range River at Cedar Grove.
As soon as a young man had erected his log cabin in the woods he was ready for marriage and
the Bridal Tour was made over a blessed trail to the new abode. The Bible was read by the
flickering blaze of a pine knot. Next came the candles and the lamps. Mr. Daniel Barkey was the
first man to own a lamp. Grandmother Reesor said “Does it get hot?”, took hold of the glass and
burnt her fingers. Preachers travelled by horseback and carried their belongings in the
saddlebags. It was hard to get a schoolteacher. A payment of two dollars was made by the
parents for each child per quarter.
Everything in the way of clothing was made at home. Linen was made from flax,
wool was made into yarn and the yarn was made into stockings, blankets, shirting, etc.
The tools and implements used in cultivating the land were made by farmers or local blacksmiths.
Wooden harrows were made into the shape of a V so that they could readily pass over stumps.
Iron forks, hoes and ploughs were made by a blacksmith for prices ranging from seven to twenty
dollars. First came the eye sickle, then the scythe, the cradle, and next the Ball Ohio reaper,
In 1834 the horses were driven tandem style and a man stood on the platform to throw off the
sheaves. This would cut 12 acres a day. After this period came the binder,
and finally the combine which enabled man to work much more quickly.
There were no stoves, and most of the fireplaces were built with a mixture of clay and straw.
In the chimney was placed a cross-bar of wood and iron from which the iron pots and kettles
were hung. In some places brick and clay ovens were built outside the house for baking bread.
--
Wild fruit abounded, and this was gathered and dried or preserved by maple sugar. Walnuts,
butter-nuts, hickory nuts, chestnuts and beech-nuts were stored away for winter use.
Honey was obtained from wild bees. Maple sugar was made in large quantities every spring.
Game was plentiful and each settler had a store of venison and squirrel salted down in barrels
made from the hollow trunks of trees. Tea was scarce and used on state occasions only.
The first settlers used sage, sassafras, thyme, spicewood and hemlock.
Coffee was made from peas, barley, acorns & roots of dandelions. A farmer named Joseph
Slack killed on his farm one hundred and ninety two deer, forty six wolves, and thirty four bears.
Bounty of four dollars each for wolf heads and two dollars for bear. The best hardwood delivered
to Whitby was sold for one dollar a cord.
The best of pine, elm, maple & beech legs were rolled together and burned in huge bonfires to
clear the land.
The Queens bush in uxbridge affected a plentiful supply of timber as no one held claim to it.
Planks were cut with a whip saw. A platform was built on a bank & supported by posts,
a pit was dug beneath this about seven feet deep. One man would stand in the pit and pull the
saw down while another on top pulled it up.
They cut an average of three hundred feet a day, which machinery of to-day one can cut seven
hundred feet an hour. The Pioneers had horns & mould boards to call the men for dinner.
The Yoke on their shoulders to carry the water. Peddlers came around with all kinds.
They made the soap from the lye of hardwood ashes.
There were plagues of Cohlers along the St. Lawrence river & 1,000 people died.
A Doctor came over from New York to help in the stricken area. He wore a beard like that of a
prophet & drove a light wagon with a team of ponies attached by rope harness. His Remedies
were of the simplest. Powered charcoal. Maple sugar & lard administered internally &
lye poulticeses made from wood ashes as strong as the patient could stand applied externally.
He would not accept any fee but they raised a public subscription & gave him some money.
His name was Hoover. The tailer came once each year & made a suit for each of the family.
The shoemaker made a pair of shoes for all the family & these had to last all year or until he
came again. In the year 1833 came army worms in countless millions & literally covered the
ground & trees were left barren. At the doors of houses they swarmed like bees at the entrance
to a hive. Now we have woolen mills. Sewing machines. Recreation. Claremont Band, Skating.
Taffy pulls parties. Prayer meetings. Gossip. Public Schools. High Schools. University for the
education of our children. Bible students. Good roads & Highways. Churches. Hydro with all it’s
conveniences to assist us in our work.
Atomic Bomb, also which can be used to heat & light our homes etc. Our homes will be built
with allumium & plastic. A piano will only way about 80 Lbs. Airplanes. Gildertrains. Automobiles.
Television. Tractors. Radio. Telephones. Do we fully appreciate the inheritance.
The patient toil & determination & herein by which that heritage was won.
Do we realize by what the privations and suffering the foundations of old Ontario was laid.
Unknown & uneticed.
Daily the tides of life go ebbing & flowing besides them then thousands of throvving hearts
where theirs are at rest forever.
"
"Altona 1935
The Altona Institute will meet at the home of Mrs. C. Badgero on Wednesday, Oct. 9 at 2.30.
The pro¬gram includes roll call by your maiden name, paper on Historical Research,
exhibit and demonstra¬tion. Program in charge of group 4 under leadership of
Mrs. W. Parker This is grandmother's meeting, and they are all welcome,
old and young —The exhibit is to be of grand¬mother's work of to-day and of the past.
--
Altona – The Jubilee Meeting
On Tuesday afternoon, June 1-8,1 the Women's Institute of Altona] held a
Silver Jubilee Reunion at! the home of Mrs. H. Yake, when iaj great number of old members
of the branch attended, eighty-five being present. .
The program was very interesting. The District President, IMirs. Holli-j day of Brooklin
gave a brief speech, congratulating the branch on attaining its twenty fifth birthday.
IMIrs. Wm.McKay gave an outline of the organization meeting held at Miss E. P. Howitt's
Home,, Altona, on June 18th 1910, (where Mr. P. Waggs now reside.) The
lady organizers who addressed the meet- j ing were Miss S. Campbell of Brampton
and Miss R. A. Walsh of! Drono, when twenty-six enrolled; and;-..forty-two had joined by
end of! year, the first president ibeiag Miss' . Hoover, now Mrs. I. Stouffer, of reenshields,
Alta, and first) secretary |M!iss B. Howitt now Mrs. j John Sodon, of Brougham,
Ont. At! this point the meeting was open for j discussion, when Mrs. B. Reesor and ; aa S.
Stewart made a few {brief remarks.
At the Jubilee meeting Mrs. F. Byer rendered a solo, which she composed for the occasion as
follows:
IN THE YEAR CHP JUBILEE
Have you joined the Institute,
this year of Jubilee, Will you sing its ode, with a
heart right full and free Will you give your services,
;. sincere and willingly,
In this year of Jubilee.
horus:—
The Institute, it is for you and me. We'll learn just why our
country is so free, i We'll sing and talk and play
and happy be. ha. this year of Jubilefc.
Will you do your part, if you are' asked to read• A paper or a poem, or do some
little deed, There, may, be¦ some' hungry •
""¦'''¦ ¦soul, that you can a'bly feed,; In this year of Jubilee.
Will you keep the tn6tto that, :
to us is very dear, Live for home and country every
day this year, It will be a pleasure just to .
give your neighbor cheer In this year of Jubilee.
Following this was an address by the President, Mrs. Wm. Slack as follows:
We have now come to a verj pleasant part of our programme, k When, we
first thought of having j this little anniversary gathering we I wondered just what we
Would do. | On looking over the books we dis¬covered that we have today nine
members in our branch who joined I the first year of its organization.
It might be interesting for you to hear who these members are, so I'll mention their names and
also the number of years that each have been members of this branch—Mrs. A. -Carruthers,
twenty-four years, Mrs. Jas. Slack, twenty-three years, j tVPrs. Wm. Black, seventeen years,
Mrs. N. Bunker, eleven years.
Then we have five charter mem¬bers who have never missed joining,, our branch during
the twenty-five i years of its organization.
As I call their names will they j kindly come forward—Mrs. H. ; Yake, Mrs. Wm. 'McKay,
Mrs. B i Reesor, MrsT*W. Reesor, and |Mirs. I Eli Lehman.
On behalf of the members of our ! Institute Branch, I would like to j xtend to you our
sincere apprecia- \ ion for your loyal faithful and ! tindly co-operation during
these [ ;wenty-five years of Institute work. I You have been members that we j. all look
up to and esteem very j lighly. You have been really the [ sackbone of our branch,
because J ou have been sincere and reliable, | always attending the meetings and doing
your part when possible at all, which shows keen interest on your part.
So in order that we might convey to you in a small way our apprecia¬tion and love and that.
you might remem'ber with pleasure the time you have spent in these meetings |
month after month for twenty-five! years because your desire was that J our homes land
country might be a better place to live in, we. ask you bo accept these pins . as a token of |
our regard for your cheerful and kindly service and social fellowship, and we ask God that
He will richly bless your lives and give you health and strength so that you may still be active
members in this Institute branch for many years to come. Signed on behalf of the
Altona Women's Institute Mrs. Wm Slack, President Mrs. D. Crosier, Secretary Dainty
refreshments were serv¬ed including a birthday cake with [the twenty-^five candles,
making it \oery attractive looking, a few of the older members having the pleasure s\%
making it.
The officers present of former, years were asked to come forward j to cut the cake
and those responded were Mrs. John Sodon, Miss Sadie Stewart, IMirs. ER. Farthing
Mrs. J. | Meyer and 'Mrs. H. Yake, the eldest1 member and hostess of the day, who .
was the first to place the knife in the j cake.
The meeting closed all feeling it; had been a real re-union of the old members, a
nd a hope of looking forward to a similar event in the -yiears to come.
A vote of thanks was extended to] the hostess for her kind hospitality,
--
Temperance Hall, situated north-west corner at Altona on the Abijah Jones farm.
(This information given by Mary Jones, now at Brierbrush Hospital, Stouffville, and born April 2,
1873.)
A bargain was to be made between her father, Abijah Jones, Sr., and Joseph Monkhouse.
The land was to be bought for $50.00, to pay only $25.00 really, as $25.00 was to Mr. Jones’
share. But the bargain was not kept by either party. No deed was ever granted. People in the
community paid shares and the building was erected.
Mr. Cliff requested Mr. Jones to produce the deed, but there was none. The building was used
for all religious purposes, even a group called the Universalists, whose belief was that all
punishment is meted out in this life. It was used as a Temperance Hall; also as a school
approximately in years 1909 – 1911. It was torn down between 1923 – 1926.
"
"Central Ontario W.I. Greatly Increases War Contribution – Nov 18, 1942 Family Herald & Weekly Star
AN INCREASED amount of war work, whole hearted support of the Government in its national
effort, a telling contribution on the farm labor front which eased the shortage of workers,
concerted ac¬tion taken in the field of better nutrition and health, were among the successful
activities reported when delegates met in Toronto recently for the 41st annual convention of
Central Ontario Women's Institutes. They heard their Area president, Mrs. G. Gordon Maynard
say that:
""Behind every war effort is the human effort, and we have definite duties to perform now as
individuals as well as branches. As homemakers we can give immeasurable support to the
various departments of our Government which are carrying the heavy burden of conserving the
national wealth for the nation's good. We can obey strictly, the ration law, keep a record of our
purchases, check up on those who are not obeying those laws.
""We must do all we can to provide the Government with funds to carry on by purchasing war
bonds and certificates,"" she said, reminding her audience that ""the war is costing the country
seven million dollars a day.""
""We must realize that the health of our people is of paramount im¬portance—this was brought
home to us when we learned hundreds of of our young men were rejected as physicially unfit due
to improper diet over a period of years,"" she said. ""To improve this condition We must study
nutrition as we never studied it before."" First-aid and emergency nursing courses as a
""preparedness"" step were also urged by the president.
""We must take steps now to prepare for the day when our returning forces are again becoming
absorbed into our every day life,"" she also advised. ""Many who came from cities and towns
will not return to their former avocations, but will look to the open spaces of the country for a
livelihood,"" she predicted. ""And who will have a greater opportunity of helping them than our
rural women?""
Last year's financial support of the war effort $15,611, showed an increase of $2,358 over the
previous year, raised by the 238 branches in the Central Ontario Area.
Mrs. James Gordon, Beaverton, convener of War Work, reported that 72 per cent of the Institute
Branches were working with the Red Cross, the remainder with the I.O.D.E., Salvation Army and
other war agencies. Assistance was given by the Institutes to the Navy League,
Soldiers overseas, British War Victims, Russian and Polish relief funds and others.
Members contributed through their own efforts, 12,210 knitted articles, 13,269 sewn garments
and
filled 212 ditty bags, also made were 3,383 quilts, 5,469 pairs of socks, 1,532 sweaters, 950
pairs of pyjamas, 6,006 articles of clothing for British civilians, 262 pillow¬cases, 1,107 scarfs,
897 helmets, 763 pairs of seamen's socks, etc.
Mrs. Gordon related how Institute members had, during the recent labor shortage, gone into the
fields to run tractors, binders, and mowers, had stooked grain and done innumerable other jobs
on the farm, formerly the work of men. This in addition to their every day care of poultry, pigs,
garden — to say nothing of the milking. Considerable help was given in canning factories as
well.
""Their motto,"" Mrs. Gordon said, ""seems to have been, ""I'll do whatever I am able to,
wherever I am needed.""
H.R.H. Princess Alice in addressing the Institutes said that there could be no war effort
without the food produced on the farms across Canada, and at the same time pointed out that
the Women's Institutes must prepare now for ""the days of great change and readjustment when
the men and boys and girls come home.""
Farm Effort Praised
""I know how marvellously the farming, communities have responded to the call for the greatest
possible war effort in the face of shortages of labor and of farm machinery, and the difficulties of
obtaining necessary animal food stuffs,"" she said. ""It is nothing short of miraculous what has
been achieved to date, and more is still needed if we are to hasten the day of victory.""
""I do hope,"" she said, ""that all you women, and the men who are working on the farms realize
that though theirs is less spectacular work and seemingly nothing but dull routine of everyday life,
no boy could fight or fly or sail without bread and milk and meat and cheese in his stomach,
and no girl could make munitions, parts of an airplane or a gun without the food that you produce
""on the land. The starving people of Greece are dying in thousands unless you can send them
wheat from Canada,"" she added.
But while all this tremendous and increasing effort is straining every nerve, there is still time for
the Women's Institutes to think and plan for the postwar period and the return of the boys and
girls, she averred.
""The Women's Institutes have it in their power to pander an immense service at the conclusion
of the war,"" she said. ""You must not just be content to carry on, you will have to welcome youth
into your associations, through your Junior Institutes,"" said Princess Alice.
""It seems to me that we should be ready to offer them something more than a loving welcome
home,"" she said.
The W.I. must ""enlarge its scope and extend Institutes into community centres to give the lead in
modernizing life in the rural areas,"" she added.
It is important to remember, said Her Royal Highness, that ""so many of our disasters have been
due to the fact that we failed to prepare for war in time of peace. Let us not make the equally
grievous error of failing to prepare for peace in time of war.""
Hon. P. M. Dewan, Ontario Minister of Agriculture, brought greetings and praise from the
Department.
""Rural civilization,"" he said, ""is at the base of all our national culture. All our civilization stems
back to the rural people. It is important that we keep high the standards of rural life.""
Junior Institutes, he said, are giving training to the young people to become better farmers and
better citizens. He praised the Institutes for their marvellous war wor-k undertaken in addition to
their important peacetime avocation of feeding ""the nation.
Other speakers at the convention included, Miss Mary A. A.- Clarke, superintendent, Ontario
Institutes; Mrs. J. S. Atkinson, John Collingham Reade; Mrs. Arthur Ellis, president-elect,
Canadian Red Cross.
--
Competition Brings Fine Rug Designs
Which one will prove the winner? was the subject of speculation yesterday as guests, including
the international delegates to the coming ACWW triennial, viewed more than 60 beautiful rugs
submitted by Women's Institutes from all over the province in a provincial and convention area
rug competition.
The exhibition took place at the Salada Tea Co.'s headquarters on King St. W.
All rugs were group efforts and were the winners in district competitions. They were all made
from original designs planned and executed by institute members. They came from as far away
as Thunder Bay and Rainy River.
Variety of design was remarkable and beauty of workmanship made many of them suitable as
wall hangings. Some of the finer ones approximated needlepoint. Coronation designs,
were much in evidence,
with a total of eight.
A number portrayed the Canadian beaver at work. This theme was worked into a lovely pastel-
hued rug which greeted the triennial with the ""ACWW— 1953"" at the bottom of the design.
In addition to conventional designs, a number of the rugs depicted scenes of Canadian rural life,
such as the old mill, and the country church, which were of special interest to the international
visitors.
Among unusual patterns were the Sleeping Giant, submitted by Port Arthur Institute;
a freight boat going through the lift bridge, by Sydenham River; a tea party, by Lakeview,
Elgin district; a modernistic design in yellow, orange, black and grey by Rockley Institute,
Temiskaming South.
In contrast to the quilt competition of last year, there was a noticeable dearth of maple leaf
designs.
Rug's, for which cash awards will be announced later, were judged for design, color and
workmanship, including even texture, and durability of finish.
Judges were Mrs. Dave MacPherson of Dutton, president of the women's division of the
Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies, and Ina Hodgins, Carp, and Mrs. Norman Hyslop,
Caledonia, past presidents of the division.
Anna P. Lewis, director of the Ontario Women's Institutes, introduced the international guests
and Audrey Spencer, in charge of the WI handicrafts division, spoke briefly on the competition.
--
The Globe and Mail, Saturday, August 8, 1953.
Admiring some of the rugs submitted in the Women’s Institute competition yesterday are
international delegates to the triennial of the Associated Country Women of the World.
From left to right they are: Mrs. F. B. De Mel, president of the Ceylon Women’s Institutes;
Lady Coomaraswamy, also of Ceylon, a nominee for the ACWW presidency, and Mrs. Geerda
van Beekhoff van Selms, one of the five delegates from Holland.
"
"About fifty ladies attended the Women’s Institute meeting on Saturday last. Mrs. E. Lehman
gave a paper on “Hints on Home Dressmaking”; a reading was given by Miss White, entitled
“The sunny side of life”. After which an interesting question drawer was held. At the close of the
meeting an address was read to Miss E. Howitt, in recognition of her services as secretary-
treasurer of the Institute, as she is severing her connection with this branch. The following in
address—
To Miss Edythe Howitt,
We, the members of the Altona Women’s Institute now present, cannot allow your departure
from among us without giving expression to the sincere regret which that occasion causes us.
During your connection with the Women’s Institute you have not been behind the foremost in the
friendliness of your spirit and in able and vigorous efforts in promoting the well being and
prosperity of the Institute of which you have been secretary.
As an expression –not by any means an adequate one—of the high esteem in which you are
held by us, we beg your acceptance of this present.
Trusting that we shall share in your affectionate remembrance, we at the same time assure you
that you will be followed by our sincere desire and best wishes.
Signed on behalf of the Altona Women’s Institute.
MISS C. HOOVER
MRS. W. REESOR
MRS. K. KESTER.
Miss Howitt was completely taken by surprise and replied in a few well chosen words,
thanking the members for their kindness and encouragement, stating that what she had done;
for the Institute had been performed with the greatest of pleasure.
--
On Tuesday evening; about 100 members and friends of the W. I. gathered at the beautiful home
of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Reesor to spend a social time. After the business had been, transacted,
Mr. E. B. Hoover, Ex-Reeve of Pickering township, occupied the chair and presided in his usual
agreeable manner. He informed the W., I. that they had received a grant of $7.32 from the.
Counyy Council, also that this brahch had sent in the best report of expenditures to the County
Council. A splendid program was then presented when several solos and recitations were given.
The District President of the Women's institute for North Ontario, Mrs. Lunau of Goodwood was
present. Rev. Mr. Lunau gave a splendid address on ''Our Duty to Our Home and Country.""
Excellent nusic was furnished by the Altona Orchestra and was thoroughly enjoyed by all.
The collection amounted to $12.00. After all had joined in singing God Save the King the ladies -
take charge of the pantry and served an excellent lunch.
--
The South Ontario District, W.I. will sponsor a concert In aid of the Canadian National Institute
for the blind, to be held in the United Church, Whitby, on Thursday, Nov. 28, at 8 p.m.
No admission, but an offering will 'be taken. All are invited to attend.
--
ALTONA
The Box Social under the auspices of the Altona Womens Institute held in the School house
Friday evening, March 17th was a Splendid success. Program consisted of Community
singing led by Miss Middleton of Stouffville. Reading and instrumental music, and a drama,
""A Perplexing Situation"", was well played by the following.
Mr. Middleton ........Eli Lehman
Mrs. Middleton . . .Mrs. Eli Lehman
Tom .............Floyd McKay
Jessie ........ Mrs. Wm. Eckardt
Sue ............Miss Lena Baker
Lu< v............Miss I. Harper
Maud...........Mrs. Wm. Slack
Mrs. Nosie......., . Mrs, H. Slack
Alex Wilson..........Ray Yake
Mary.........Mrs. Chias. Barkey
Fritz .............Chas. Barkey
Uncle Eptimis ........J. V. Spang
Health Officer ....... Vinc Baker""
Proceeds of sale of boxes', Forty dollars.
--
The Whitevale Women s Institute had as their guests the members of the Branch at Altona at
their regular August meeting. It was a very warm day but the attendance was large,
and those who had to iisten to the very excellent program and engage in conversation
afterwards enjoyed what breezes there were. Three very interesting papers and several
musical numbers, all given by the visiting friends, held the attention of everyone. Mrs. J.'A.
Pugh's lawn was an ideal setting for the occasion, refreshments being serv¬ed on small tables
in a sheltered cor¬ner of the grounds. It is expected that a prominent woman of Toronto will be
the speaker at the Septem¬ber meeting. Date and place of the meeting will be announced later.
--
The W. I. held two quilting bees on Wednesday last, one at the home of Mrs. M. Harris and the
other at the home of Mrs. Wm. Slack, pot luck dinners were served and everyone enjoyed the
days outing in spite of unfavorable weather.
The Just-So Club met at the home of Mrs. Crosier on Saturday afternoon, when fifteen were
present. They welcome any of the girls In the community. This work is put on through the
Agriculture Department.
--
The Women's Institute will meet at the home of Mrs. Wm, Slack of Stouffville on Thursday,
March 10th, at 2 p.m. Motto— ""In the heart of the bulb is the promise of spring."" Roll Call —
Favorite names of babies. Paper— ""Living together in the Family."" Newsy News—
Mrs. C Kerswill. Demonstration—Potatoes. All visitors are welcome.
The sewing course under the auspices of the W.I. was completed on Friday last. Miss Dora
Burke of the Department proved a very efficient instructor.
--
The Altona Women's Institute was represented by twenty members at the District Annual at
Brooklin on Friday. Altona won first prize on their wardrobe for a 6-year-old girl, also first prize
for their oil painting done by Mrs. Fred Byer. Two carloads of WI members visited the Victor
Home for Girls in Torontc on Wednesday.
--
Consume 246 lbs. Of Turkey at Softball Dinner
More than 300 enjoyed an old fashioned turkey supper sponsored by the Altona Women's
Institute on Friday evening of last week. The large gathering consumed 246 pounds of turkey.
Out of the proceeds the W. I. donated $100 towards the purchase of jackets for the Champion
Altona Club.
--
Altona like best its programme put on by the young mothers of the Institute. A dentist spoke on:
""The Young Mother and Her Diet."" Brooklin also chose a programme of special interest to
young mothers with the topics ""Teaching health in the home,"" ""Mother to-be"" and ""Growth of
a Child.""
Kinsale: the historical research programme when four members gave the histories of four local
churches and old time pictures were on exhibition.
--
Prize Quilt Displayed by Altona Institute Secretary – June & Nov 1952
The Altona Women's Institute stepped into the spotlight at the Central Ontario Convention held in
the Royal York Hotel, Toronto, by being presented with the first prize award for their quilt which
they as a group had spent so much of their time in preparing.
Eighteen districts representing 238 branches from over Central ""Ontario attended.
Such counties as Dufferin, Grey, Ontario, Peel, Peterboro, Victoria and York were all competing
for the first prize award.
Sunderland took 2nd prize while North Ontario and Burwick, West York were tied for the third
prize. Mrs. F. Goudie is the president of the organization and Mrs. M. Dunkeld holds the
position of secretary. The club has a membe¬ship of 47 and hold their meetings at the homes
of the different members once a month Mrs. Dunkeld is shown here proudly displaying the
winning handiwork.
"
"Our Museum Jan. 8, 1954, written by Mrs. F Roberts Whitby, Ont.
In the early part of the month of June 1949, a delegation from the Whitby Branch of the
Women's Institute composed of Mrs Patterson, Mrs H.Wilson, Miss B.Fletcher, and
Mrs F.Roberts visited at the home of Miss M.V.Powell and presented her with a Life
Membership pin and certificate.
During the afternoon the conversation drifted to the coming of our 50th Anniversary and Miss
Powell suggested that we commemorate our 50th Anniversary by starting a museum, as she
said many valuable artifacts were being taken out of the county and given to other museums.
The 50th Anniversary of Whitby Branch was held on June 29th 1949 and as Miss Powell was
unable to attend,the torch was taken up by the secretary Mrs F.Roberts and was endorsed by
all members present.
At the next regular meeting of Whitby Branch this proposition was unanimously adopted, and a
committee set upconsisting of Mrs. H. Wilson, Miss G C Powell, Miss B. Fletcher,
Mrs. Burrill and Mrs. Roberts (Convener)
In Jan.. 1950 Miss Powell passed away but her suggestion lives still.
Sometime later it took the form of a District Project for S. Ont. but all agreed the museum
should be located in the County Town of Whitby.
The first problem was to find a suitable place. In answer to a letter written to the Town
Council, the Town Clerk stated that when a new town hall was built every consideration
would be given to have a special room to house antiques. In the meantime Mrs. Roberts
wrote to the Library Board and permission was granted to place a cupboard in the auditorium.
In due time a cupboard was purchased and with contributions from, the branches and freinds
it is now filled and more space could be used. I might suggest that each branch retain such
articles as they can until more space is available, and then put them together in one building.
This project is financed by contributions from the branches in S. Ont. and the Historical
Convener of each brandh is on this committee and is expected to look after her own branch and
get as many articles as possible.
Miss May Brown, District Treasurer, has charge of the funds.
A tag is placed on each article with the donor's name, age of aticle and any other information
obtained. These donations are subject to withdrawal at any time by the donor, so do not feel
that you are giving away anything you might want later on for yourself.
In conclusion I would like to see more enthusiasm shown in this project.
It is one of Miss Lewis' pet hobbies and will mean so much to the future generations.
I am told that the museum at Barrie was started with a cupboard in the Library.
For the first 2 or 3 years nothing much was ccomplished,then it suddenly took on new life and
contributions started to come in. They were fortunate in getting two room in the old Registry
Office, andnow they have the whole building. ""What others can do, we can do"".
Rome was not built in a day"".
So we are hoping that some day we shall have a museum to be proud of.
Mrs. F Roberts
Whitby, Ont.
Tena Roberts
Conv. Museum Com.
--
Pickering Twp. Museum
Education is one of the most important functions of a museum — and one of its most difficult
prolems is ""having to accept things it does not need."" So said Kenneth E. Kidd, curator of
ethnology, Royal Ontario Museum, at a general meeting of the Pickering Township Historical
Society held at Brougham Thursday.
During the meeting, the executive committee was authorized to proceed for purchase of the
schoolhouse and grounds which will be the site of the proposed Township Museum in Brougham.
Pickering Township bought theold public school and grounds at Brougham and it is now a twp
museum.
--
Altona W.I. gives $50 to Museum
Women's organizations in Pickering Township are supporting the drive for funds for
establishment of a museum at Brougham. W. G. Lawson, chairman of the Historical Society,
announced the Altona Women's Institute had contributed $50.00 to the drive for the minimum of
$10,000.00 while the Township Horticultural Society had contributed $25.00 with the stipulation
the money be used towards landscaping and beautification of the grounds at the museum site.
"
14. "O CANADA;sung by audience and choir. Words on page 8.)
13. Organ Music—Kathleen Stokes.
(Supper Interval, 4.30-7 p.m.)
Eve ag Semon, ) p.m.
I& Pageant, "DOMINION OF DESTINY;' a dromo8c and —i'.] p emoban d
Canada's
"'Y pragromme of Pageant, pages 4-7I
Sat - , Aagast SS -
2 p.m.— Condensed Programme of "CANADA DAY,' op M the general public.
1. Organ Music—Rothleen Stokes.
2. Opemmg Remarks by Mrs. Hugh Summers, President,
Federated Women's Instit— of Coaoda.
3. Greetings Freadrl by Mme. J. B. Codrin, President,
les Certles de Fermie.es.
4. Junior Fnrmeri Choir o ORford -I,,condoned by Henry A. Clark.
"Canada, Deo. Canada"—Henry A. Clark.
"One World"—Geoffrey O'Hara.
"Come to TI Fair"—Eastlwpe Martin.
5. Address by Mrx Raymrnd Sayre, P—W—,
The Associated Country Women of the World.
6. Greetings from Delegates and the new A.C.W.W. President.
]. Organ Salo by KaMleen Slakes:
"Blue fango."
Ilmermiuianl
8. Pageant, "DOMINION OF DESTINY."
FEDERATED WOMEN'S INSTITUTES OF CANADA
MAIN COMMITTEE
FOR
A.C.W.W. CONFERENCE PLANNING
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CONFERENCE SUB -COMMITTEE CONVENERS
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PROGRAMME AND HOSPITALITY COMMITTEE
11
ALTONA WOMEN'S INSTTTIITL' 2 o
"A.C.W.W. Delegates Entertained…The Seventh Triennial Conference of the Associated
Countrywomen of the World. Held in Toronto in 1953, was attended by over 1000 international
delegates. Pictured here is a representative group of women who were entertained at the farm
home of Mrs. J. E. Houck, Brampton, Ontario. Left to right are: Begum Mian Aminudden, Pakistan;
Mrs. Solverg Aubert, Norway; Begum Hussian Malik, Pakistan; Dr. Krishnabai Nimblkar, India;
Mrs. J. E. Houck, hostess; Mrs. J. Rose, Manitoba; Mrs. Matilda Greiss, Egypt; Anna P. Lewis,
Ontario Women’s Institutes Director; Mrs. Adelaide Richani, Lebanon.
--
Today, as we greet you, our hearty good wishes go to nearly six million members, including those
of one hundred and twenty affiliates representing twenty-five countries beyond our borders.
We are proud of your achievement in the betterment of rural life, and of the fact that it had its
beginning in Canada.
Yours is a history of steady progress since 1897; a record of high ideals and unity of purpose
which may look to the future assured of still greater advancement.
--
A.C.W.W. Officers for 1953-56.
Left to right—Front Row; Mrs. Dahlerup-Peterson (Denmark); Lady Coomaraswamy (Ceylon);
Mrs. A. M. Berry, new president (Austrailia); Mrs. Hugh Summers (Canada); Mrs. Ian Macdonald
(U.S.A.). Back Row; Miss Beryl Hearnden (England); Mrs. Kleyn-Menalda (Holland);
Mrs. Elema-Bakker (Holland); Miss M. E. Payne (Austrailia); Mrs. Olufine Riseng (Norway);
and Mrs. George Apperson (U.S.A.). Lady de Soysa, Vice-president, is not in the picture.
--
Australian Is ACWW President
Operating a 42,000-acre sheep station with only three permanent helpers, including her
manager, seems a big job for any woman, especially when she happens to be the new
president of the Associated Country Women of the World. She also is active in several
national organizations.
""But there is a great deal less work in sheep raising in Queensland, Australia, than there would
be in Canada,"" explained Mrs. A. M. Berry, who succeeds Mrs. Raymond Sayre as ACWW
head.
""Climatic conditions are different. We don't have to raise crops to feed the sheep, and the
lambs are born, right in the pastures.''
Mrs. Berry took over the sheep raising business when her husband, a First World War veteran,
died five years ago. It was not too difficult, she says, because she always had worked with him.
She now makes her home in Brisbane, about 500 miles away, flying in and out to the station.
This is partly to be near her two married daughters, and her six grandchildren.
Mrs. Berry, who headed the 20-member delegation from Australia, is not contemplating any
new plans for the 6,000,000 ACWW.
""I think it is wise just to carry on feeling my way, especially following in the footsteps of so
eminent a leader as Mrs. Sayre,"" she said. ""Plans are very well laid for the present.""
Extension of membership into countries not now affiliated will be one thing on which the
organ¬ization will concentrate.
Mrs. Berry received invitations from India and Israel to visit those countries in the near future,
and will go to India en route home.
"
"History of Altona Branch of Women's Institue 1910 - 1954
compiled by Mrs. Fred E. Byer
History of the Altona W. I. gleaned from the minute books. The Altona W. I. first came into being
on June 18th, 1910, at the home of Miss E. P. Howitt, who was the first secretary-treasurer.
Miss S. Campbell of Brampton, Ontario, and Miss R. A. Walsh of Orono, Ontario were the lady
delegates who addressed the meeting.. The Institute organized with a membership of twenty-six,
though there were fifty present at the meeting. Before the end of the first year there were forty-two
members.
We understand a charter member is one who joins an organization during its first year, hence we
had forty-two charter members. Of this forty-two who joined forty-four years ago, there are
twenty-one still living (1954) and of these, five are present members. At first, this branch was
grouped with the North Ontario County district. Since January 1922 we have belonged to the
South Ontario County district due to closer mileage.
The first president was Miss Charlotte Hoover who later married Mr. Isaac Stouffer and moved to
the west. Receipts for the fist year were $13.50, Expenses $4.75, Balance on hand $8.75 as
compared with in 1954.
The early meetings were held in the Village Hall on the second Saturday of each month at 2.30
o'clock and the procedure of the meeting were similar to that which we now have.
I note the meetings were opened by singing a verse of a hymn or patriotic song rather than the
opening ode which is now used. Meetings were closed with the National Anthem as is done now.
Miss C. Hoover was the first delegate to attend a convention.
During the early years, once a year usually in January, the north Ontario county farmers
Union met in conjunction with the W. I. Afternoon meetings were held separately,
with a union meeting in the evening. The first meeting of this kind was held in
Mrs. E. Graves' Home.
The topics discussed that day were ""The Stairway to Success"" and ""Happiness in the Home"".
From the reading of the minute book we are impressed that the first year was a very profitable
and successful one.
The first transaction of donating money that I note was in the second year when 50c was given
to a ""Mrs. Hoodless Fund"".
The first invitation to visit another Institute came during the second year.
In January of the second year the meeting started being held in the homes due to hall being in
bad condition. This arrangement still exists, except usually once a year an open meeting is
held in the school house.
There were only twenty-two members the second year, why the drop from forty-two I do not know.
At the beginning of the third year, the meeting date changed to the second Tuesday of each
month. This third year I noted the ""opening ode"" was sung for an opening, though it wasn't
used every time. Quite often ""The Maple Leaf Forever"" was used. Since 1910 the ""Ode""
has been used regularly.
The minutes state Mrs. Barkis Reesor gave a paper on ""How to keep the boys on the farm"".
Mrs. Reesor was noted for her good papers. From then until now Mrs. Reesor, according to the
minutes,prepared and gave twenty-five papers which are recorded elsewhere in the book.
Some of her historical research papers are printed in their entirety in this book.
I note that the hostess usually prepared the refreshments and quite often pie was mentioned.
Catch any W. I- women to-day making pie for fifty women the morning of the Institute and having
her home ready as well.
During this third year the branch purchased a vacuum cleaner to be used free by the members;
non-members to pay a rental of $1.00 day. It was purchased from the T. Eaton Co. for $12.50
and to include all attachments. This was sold at Mr. McBrides' sale in 1926. There were thirty
members the third year.
During the fourth year, the first demonstration of foods is mentioned and it was a bowl of salad.
We still enjoy these demonstrations and have them fairly often. (1954).
Two members were sent to convention in the fourth year. Each were paid $1.00 toward
expenses. Quite different from 1953, when twenty-seven dollars was paid for expenses on one
delegate. Number of members the fourth year were forty-one.
By this time World War 1 had begun and there was much discussion and business as to the
raising of money for war work and Red Cross, sewing of quilts for Belgians is also mentioned.
Concerts were held raising funds. First donation to Red Cross was twenty dollars.
During the fifth year it was voted on, concerning omiting lunch after meeting (a tie resulted).
Lunch continued, also moved men (chauffers) be invited in on a cold day. Apparently some
of the hostesses were highlighting the lunch hour by providing too many good things. Discussion
resulted in a motion that any hostess providing more than two kinds of food be penalized.
Delegates were not sent to convention that year, rather money was used for war work.
A draw of tickets sold is mentioned. It was for 2 quilts for war work. This branch has embraced
this method of money raising.
During the next year, 10c teas ware organized for raising funds $3.8O was realized at the first
one. Pickering Twp. Council made grants to the amount of twenty-five dollars for war work.
In addition to other war work mentioned, parcels were sent to local boys.
About this time a special meeting named ""Annual Summer Series Meeting"" started at which a
lady delegate from Institute Dept. was speaker. I presume she came by invitation as a service
from the Dept.
The Branch sponsored ""The Getting of Peaches"" wholesale direct from the fruit belt for
members who wished to obtain them. On four different occasions brooms were ordered from the
National Institute for the Blind"" and sold for $1.00 each. Many donations during the years have
been sent to the Sick Children's Hospital. The first of such was in 1918 and was the proceeds
from an autograph quilt amounting to $36.26.
No mention is made of any celebration in the Branch at end of war. No doubt they were happy in
heart. In fact the meeting of that very month (November) found the members packing ChristmaS
boxes for the boys overseas..
In 1919, day of meeting was changed to the second Wednesday of each month and is the same
at the present time.
The first record of a picnic is in 1921. It was held in co-operation with the Stouffville branch of the
W. I. in Stouffville Memorial Park. This feature is an annual event.
In 1923, discussion arose concerning purchasing the old ""Temperance Hall"", which if repaired,
might become a meeting place and of use for community affairs. Minutes report no votes in favor.
It was usual for the members to pay their own federation fees which were 15c By now three
dollars was allowed delegates for convention expenses.
The Flower Fund box was started in 1924 with Mrs. T. Dunkeld as convener. Community singing
was instituted into the meeting also in 1924, and is still a feature. The summer series of
meetings were now being held in conjunction with Claremont.
The first grandmother's meeting was in 1926. For a number of years the annual grandmothers
day became a notable event, with old fashioned clothes and papers of yesteryears.
Our Institute held its first bazaar in 1927• This means of money raising has not been a yearly
event. Some methods of money raising over the years have been box socials, waist measuring
(one cent per inch), 10c teas, shoe size 25c for up to size five, (five cents per size over that),
weight measuring. Those who weighed approximately correct for age and height 20c,
overweight and underweight fined 5c extra. The year this was done only one person weighed
correct to chart. All others paid fine of five cents. The weighing took so long the roll call had to
be ommitted. Garden parties, booths at farm sales and catering.
The branch has sponsored various competions for the students of the four schools embraced in
our Institute district. The first was an art competition, spelling matches, temperance essays,
singing competition. A shield was purchased for singing competitions which is in Atha school at
present.
The first girl to be sent by this branch to a Girl's conference at Guelph was Miss Flossie McNair,
now Mrs. Stan. Thompson. Several were sent in prior to our sponsoring a girl's club.
The first mention of Girl's club work is of July 1934 and has been sponsored annually
by this branch. Mrs. Arthur Wagg (now deceased) was the first appointed leader with
Miss B. Carter, now Mrs. Arthur Wideman as assistant. Since the second year Mrs. Crosier has
been the leader with several assisting.
"
"The Institue presents each girl with a silver teaspoon for each project. This branch assisted in
compiling a district cook book when members provided choice recipes for same.
Since 1929, every new baby whose mother is a branch members received a bank book of $1.00
entered.
Baby Margaret Wideman (now Mrs. Robt. Lewis) wasthe first to receive one. This is still done,
1954. New brides who are members from then until now receive a gift, usually a silver article.
In 1929, this branch made Mrs M. Harris a member to the league of Nation's society.
A great treat was experienced by this branch in June 1930 when Laura Rose Stephens visited us.
The memory of which many have spoken. She spoke on her thirty-five years experience in Institute
work. The meeting this day was at Mrs. H. Pointon's home. It was Laura Rose Stephens who chose
the Institute motto ""For Home and Country1"", also she sketched the design for pins.
In 1931 Altona W. I. received a special mention by Mr. Putman concerning splendid amount of work
accomplished and harmony among members (only once a hitch).
In June 1935, this branch celebrated its twenty-fifth birthday at the home of Mrs. H. Yake. Present
was Miss McDermid, first lady Supt. of Women's Institutes, who replaced Mr. Putman who was
superanuated. At this time there were five charter members who had retained membership for
25 consecutive years. Each were presented with an Insitute pin. Since then members who have
completed 25 years service in this branch receives one of these pins. This branch has one life
member, Mrs. David Crosier, the honor bestowed on her in appreciation of twenty years labor as
secretary, also she was presented with an electric floor lamp.
This same year, 1935, found us competing with other Institute for the first time at Markham Fair
and have done so fairly continually since. Some years we did not do so well in prizes,
others we exceeded our expectations.
In 1938 Altona branch entertained the District Annual Convention for the first time.
It was held in Glasgow church (now torn down). Dinner was served at the home of Mrs. H. Slack.
In the winters of 1939, 1940 and 1941, we sponsored monthly evening Study groups.
By now we were in the midst of World War 11. Our efforts of assisting were in co-operation with
the North Pickering and Claremont branch of the Red Cross. Our branch divided into two units
for this work (north and south Altona). Flower fund money was donated to this work except in the
case of a members death.
The first booth at Farm sales was at Mr. Frank Wagg's sale from which $24.42 was realized and
was given for war work. Me have held a goodly number since then.
Whenever we needed and auctioneer, Mrs. Wm. Slack , very often throughout the years,
filled this post and a good one she was too.
The branch's first experience at entering was in 1943 for the local plowing match held on the
Carruther's farm at Atha. Banquet was held in the Altona school house,charge made was 60c
per plate for adults, 25c for children. Branch realized a balance of $105.58 from this venture.
This same year Altona purchased a fifty dollar Victory Bond. Since then a great deal of money
has been raised catering to the Lion's Club, ball club and wedding receptions.
Since its organization, this branch has made donations to charity..
In the earlier years the flowers from the flower shows were sent to the ""Home of Incurables""
in Toronto.
Candy left over from Christmas meetings sent to ""House of Refuge"" in Whitby. For a number
of years canned fruit to ""Sick Children's Hospital"".
Many contributions were sent to the Navy League. White gifts to Toronto Missions.
Gifts to burned out families.
Also many money gifts to organizations that depend on public support for funds. $50.00
was donated to Stouffville Veteran's Hall. On several occasions money has been donated to
improve Altona in which we hold most of our open meetings.
Our members have enjoyed fellowship with the larger Institute family. Several car loads
attended the 50th anniversary at Guelph in 1947. A number journeyed to Whitby to be guests at
their 50th anniversary. Our own district of South Ontario celebrated 50 years at Brooklin in June
1950. We have enjoyed several bus trips for education and pleasure.
This branch has been fairly successful in the Salada Tea competitions. The first venture in 1952
with a quilt won first at District Annual . The next year with a hooked rug we tied for first place at
District Annual and received 3rd at Convention.
This year, 1954, we tied for first place with Honeydale on the child's wardrobe at our District
Annual. First prize on our oil painting done by Mrs. Fred E. Byer. These articles, also our
Tweedsmuir History will be sent to Toronto for judging prior to the convention November 1954.
Up until now (1954) this branch has had an average of forty members yearly since organization.
"
"ALTONA
The regular monthly meeting of the Altona Women's Institute was held at the home of Mrs. M.
Dunkeld on Wednesday May 12. The President, Miss Grace Lehman, was in the chair.
The delegates to the district
Annual which is being held at Brooklin, May 28, are the Presi¬dent Mrs. F. Goudie, Mrs. E.
Carruthers, and Mrs. M. Harris. W. I. pins were presented to five ladies who have been members of
the W.I. 25 years. They were Mrs. A. Wideman, Mrs. F. Goudie, Mrs. M. Reesor, Mrs. F. Byer and
Mrs. C. Hodgson.
The officers for the year 1964-55 are as follows: Past President, Mrs. F. Goudie; President,
Miss Grace Lehman; 1st Vice President, Mrs. E. Carruthers; 2nd Vice President, Mrs. N. Bunker;
Directors, Mrs. H. St. John, Mrs. J. Harris, Mrs. J. Tran; District directors, Mrs. F. Goudie,
Mrs. C. Hodgson; Flower Committee, Mrs. O. Fretz,—""Con"", Mrs. T. Dunkeld, Mrs. M. Harris,
Mrs. H. Tindall, Mrs. Byer; Community Activities and Public Relations, Mrs. E. Wideman ""Con"",
Mrs. D. Tran, Mrs. F. Powell; Historical Research and Current events, Mrs. W. Carter ""'Con"",
Mrs. A. Carruthers, Mrs. H. Feasby, Mrs, L. Hill; Home Economics and Health, Mrs. D. Crosier ""
Con"", Mrs. F. Wagg, Mrs. J. White, Miss J. Ford; Agriculture & Canadian Industries,
Mrs. W. Slack ""Con"", Mrs. H. Slack, Mrs. W. Wallace, Mrs. F. Lewis; Citizenship and Education,
Mrs.H. Lewis ""Con"", Mrs. R. Winn, Mrs. F. Hope, Mrs. N. Dickin¬son; Social Committee,
Mrs. A. Wideiman ""Con"", Mrs. C. Kens-well, Mrs. C. Hodgson, Mrs. R. Lewis, Mrs. C. Barkey;
Sewing Committee, Mrs. R. Couperthwaite ""Con"", Mrs. C. Bielby, Mrs. -M. Bunker,
Mrs. E. McAloney; Auditors, Mrs. M. Harris, Mrs. R. Winn; Pianist, Mrs W. Carter, Mrs. C. Gostick.
"
"Prize-winning outfit in the handicrafts competition for Women’s Institute members is admired by
Mrs. H. G. Holder (left) of Caledon East, district secretary of the North Peel branch. It was entered
by Crosby WI of Leeds North. At right, Provincial President Mrs. Gordon MacPhatter and artist
A. J. Casson winning entry in art competition, an oil painting of Niagara Falls by Mrs. Mabel
Grundtisch of Welland.
--
Art, Handicraft Winners Announced at WI Tea
At a tea sponsored by the Women's Institute branch and Home Economics Service of the Ontario
Department of Agriculture yesterday, prize winners in the third annual Salada Tea Competition
held in conjunction with the Tweedsmuir Cup Competition, were announced.
There were 32 entries in the handicraft and about 150 in the cultural group.
Handicrafts award went to to the Crosby Institute of Leeds North. Project was a complete summer
outfit for a 6-year-old girl to consist of dress, slip, coat, hat, socks, sweater, play-suit, pyjamas,
housecoat and bedroom slippers or scuffies. Awards were based on neatness, design, color,
trimming, suitability, harmony of fabrics, quality and workmanship. Prizes were $100, $50 and $25.
The Model Institute, Middlesex West placed second, the Altona Institute of Ontario S. third/*
The prize-winning entry included a dress of white rayon-textured cotton with smocked waist,
a lace-edged slip, a loosely-flared coat of blue, pink and yellow mottled wool with peaked
feather-trimmed hat to match, rose knitted scuffies, a housecoat of rose embossed cotton,
flower print pyjamas, white cable-stitched socks with sweater to match and a three-piece orange
and green plaid playsuit.
Entries in the art competition came from all parts of Ontario. Artists A. J. Casson and H. S. Palmer
were judges.
In commenting on the entries, A. J. Casson said: ""They have an honesty about them that is
refreshing. I have judged many amateur art contests and so many times you find people trying to
say something they don't feel—they try to be very modern, to do something they don't understand.
But here there is a feeling of honesty. A good many of them show remarkably good color
sense and a sense of composition.""
Winners were: Mrs. Mabel Grundtisch, Peace Bridge Branch, Welland; Mrs. M. McBride,
Walkerton; honorable mention, Mrs. H. A. Rowlands, Fairgrove Branch, Leeds East;
Mrs. R. Elliott, Morrish Branch, Durham East; Mrs. T. C. Holland, Vittoria Branch, Norfolk South;
Mrs. C. D. Gray, Hawthorne Branch, Carleton East; area prizes: east, Mrs. Harry Stevenson,
Combermere Branch, Renfrew South; centre, Mrs. J. M. DeMarbois, Haysville Branch,
Waterloo South; west, Mrs. Alton McAl¬lister, W h i t e m e n's Creek Branch, Brant S.; north,
Joan M. Bowman Thornloe Branch, Temiskaming S.
--
Altona – Nov. 1954
The open meeting of the Women's Institute which was held last Friday evening in the school,
was well attended. After a few words of welcome to the visitors, by the president Grace Lehman,
the minutes of the previous meeting were read and the roll call was answered by
""My favourite subject in school."" Mrs. Ed Wideman, convener, then took charge of the
meeting. -Muriel Byer, dressed in an appropriate costume, sang ""This Old House,""
We were then favoured with a piano duet by Grace Lehman and Charlotte Ann McNair and
two selections by the Altona Trio. The motto was taken by Mrs. Fred Byer. After community
singing everyone enjoyed the piano music of Dot Meyers. Then a play entitled ""An Old Time
Institute Meeting"" was presented by Miss Grace Lehman, Mrs. Jim Harris, Mrs. Harold Lewis,
Mrs. Harvey Feasby, Mrs. Ernie Carruthers, Mrs. Art Wideman and Mrs. Cyril Bielby. Everyone
enjoyed this humorous play. At the close, the cast accompanied by Mrs. Fred Byer and
Mrs. M. Reesor sang a number called ""Old Fashioned Hats"". The meeting closed with
""The Queen"" and a social half-hour.
"
"Altona Institute Ladies Entertain at Supper -1955
On Tuesday evening last, in the Masonic Hall, Stouffville, a very unique event took place in the form,
of a pot-luck supper, turkey included, provided by the Altona Women's Institute. They entertained
their families to a very 'bounteous supper which everyone enjoyed. A presentation followed when
Mrs, B. Reesor, Mrs. Wm. Slack, Mrs. N. Bunker and Mrs. A. Carruthers were presented with
Women's. Institute Life membership pins and certificates, by the President, Mrs. E. Carruthers and
Secretary Mrs. M. Dunkeld, assisted by Mrs. David Crosier who had received her life membership
pin a few years ago. Each expressed surprise and thanks to the members in a very gracious
manner, for the honor which had been bestowed on them. There was also a presentation of W.I.
pins to Mrs. B. Lewis, Mrs. Geo. Thompson, Mrs. J. Sodan and Mrs Howard St. John,, who have
been members for twenty-five years. Another feature was the presentation of a Provincial Honor
Pin and certificate . to Jessie Ford, a 4-H Club member, for completing twelve projects in Home
Economios. This makes six from Altona to receive this honor
Mr. Joe Tran of Atha who has just recently returned from Sweden and the British Isles showed his
pictures of the trip. Joe won this Esso trip by his splendid art of ploughing, thus having the honor
of
ploughin in the world competition. The pictures were typical of a very educational trip,
the scenery,
dwellings and countryside as a whole, including the plowmen at work, made one feel he has
seen many places of interest in that particular part of the world. Joe also had a reel of pictures
that amused the younger ones and indeed the older ones had a laugh. A vote of thanks was
extended to Joe for his part in the program. We would like to see more of our young farmers
enjoy the same honor.
Around one hundred and fifty were present, only a few odd members being unable to attend,
due to illness. It was real family night.
--
Altona -1955
Too -Late For Last Week
The Altona W.I. is sponsoring a demonstration on ""Oven Meals"" to be held on May 4th and
5th at 1.30 p.m. at the home of Mrs. Ed McAloney (corner of 9th of Pickering and
townline). Miss Isobel A. Wishart, Home Economist of the W,I, branch and Home
Economics Service of the Ontario Dept. of Agriculture, will conduct the demonstrations,
Emphasis will be placed on the advantages gained from efficient use of your oven.
Suggestions will be given and a recipe book distributed to each person in attendance.
Come and bring-your friends.
--
“New Lamps for Old”
Lampshades of every style and description were displayed at Summary Day, held in the
United Church, Uxbridge, Wed., March 23rd. Groups participating were from Altona, Atherley,
Brougham, Brooklin and Claremont.
The majority of the lampshades were fashioned from parchment paper with colourful designs.
One shade featured burlap covering with a painted design in dulled cherry shade to match the
lamp base. An outline of gold binding gave a professional finish. Another group displayed a pair
of lampshades made of colourful abstract design drapery fabric over cardboard. This matched
the draperies of the room in which the lamps were to be placed. A unique design of pin pricked
holes in a dark green lampshade showed attractively when the lamp was illuminated.
Just right for a teenager's desk lamp constructed from a map of Ontario.
The display of lampshades was commented on by Jeanne Armour,
House Furnishing Specialist from the Home Economics Service of the Ontario Department of
Agriculture, Toronto. Chairman for the afternoon programme was Mrs. E. Powell of Brooklin.
A demonstration of lampshade designs and trimming was given by Mrs. L. Pugh, Claremont.
Member's of the Atherley group told details about their exhibit in a short skit, giving the audience
ideas on how a lamp can be easily made at home. Two readings were given by Mrs. G. Harvie
of Claremont. Brooklin presented a skit, ""Shady Styles"" to complete the programme.
Lunch was served by members from Brougham.
The possible 1960-61 programme was discussed by Miss Wilda J. Gordon,
Home Economist for York and Ontario Counties. The Local Leader Training Schools are
sponsored by the Ontario Department of Agriculture, Home Economics Service.
A Leader and Assistant Leader are sent by their sponsoring group to the training school.
The Leaders return to their communities and give the course to any interested members of the
community. Summary Day gives the members an opportunity to display what they have learned
and to exchange ideas with others in the County. Each Women's Institute Branch will be given an
opportunity tc vote on the Local Leader Training School of their choice for 1960-61.
The selection will be announeed at the District Annual* in May.
"
"Mrs. James McCreight visits the United Nations, 1955. member of Altona W.I 1936; 9Pres.) -
1941-43, 1972-3-4.
Aerial view of the United Nations Headquarter taken from East River side, showing tall Secretarial
Building, Conference Bldg. in foreground, and General Assembly Hall. The small white building,
extreme r.h.corner, marks playground, built by United Nations for the children of the neighbourhood."
"United-Nations Trip March 1955
On March 16th. at 7.30 p.m. along with 59 other members of the Business; and
Professional Women's Clubs of Ontario I left Toronto for New York to attend the United Nations.
We arrived the following morning which was the Glorious 17th. to many New Yorkers. We didn't
see the actual parade but portions of it turned up all day in fact until the Friday night - I think was
the last ones we saw still celebrating— they didn't know the 17th. was over. Well how many of you
have been to New York? I was quite thrilled with it - buildings, traffic etc.
New York is called the Wonder City. It consists of 5 Boroughs, there is Manhatten, The Bronx,
Brooklyn, Queens and Richmond. These 5 boroughs cover an area of about 320 square miles and
have a population of eight million. New York has over 3200 miles of paved streets, more than 200
Parks and 170 Playgrounds, 7 Railroads have their terminals there-a Passenger train arrives every
50 seconds, more than 5000 vessels arrive yearly in the Harbour. An average of 300,000 Visitors
are in New York daily. There are 1550 Churches. There are 2-1/2 million Hebrews, 1/2 million.
Italians,1/4 million Germans and 325,000 Negreos residing there. The worlds tallest building The
Empire State Building is in New York and is 1250 feet high. One of our guides told us that every 3
minutes there is a wedding, and every 5 minytes a Birth. We were told this different times but the
last time on a bus trip the guide added that there was a death every 7 minutes so that they were
keeping ahead. From the Grand Central station where we arrived we went right to our hotel
The St. Moritz which is at the south side of Central Park. We had lovely rooms.
This hotel has 1000 rooms. We just had time to perk up a bit for the busses were waiting to take
us to the United Nations where we arrived at 9.30 a.m. The nearest thing to a world Capital,
yet achieved by man, is the permanent head quarters of the United Nations. It arises from an 18
acre tract in the heart of New York city. It is bounded on the south by 42 nd. St.,
on the North by 48th. St., on the west by what was formerly a part of 5th. Ave. known now as United
Nations Plaza and on the east by the East River. The structures which form this head quarters is
made up as follows- first there is the low domed General Assembley Building with its great
Assembly Hall next the glass and marble work shop The Secretariat building which is 39 stories
high, the long rectangle on the river side is the Conference Chambersand to the south and west
The Library. This area was a region of slums, slaughter houses and breweries when on
December 11th. 1946. Mr. Warren R. Austin who was then permanent representative of the
United States to the United Nations made a very important announcement to the Assembly.
The United Nations were meeting in its temporary quarters at Flushing Meadows on Long Island
at this time. Mr Austin told them that Mr. John D. Rockefeller Jr. had offered $ 8,500,000 to buy
the East River site as a permanent home for the United Nations so within 38 hours his offer was
accepted. New York city gave to the United Nations the remaining land needed to round out the
headquarters site as it exists to-day and deeded over the streets and waterfront rights along the
East River. New York has contributed around 26 million towards the United Nations. Eighteen
months after the contract was signed the buildings began to be occupied. Our group of 60 was
split into 3 groups and one guide took 20 on a tour of the buildings. The visitors entrance to the
headquarters is at the north end of the assembly building and from this main lobby you can go
downstairs to the Unitd Nations Book Shop, the Gift Centre and Postal Sales Counter. The
check room and telephones are there too. In the General Assembly Auditorium there are 750
seats for Delegates 270 seats for 0bservors,234 for the Press and 800 for the public.
The opening meetings are held here after which the assembly assigns the items on its agenda
to 6 main committees. They are,Political,and Security, Economic and Financial, Social
Humanitarian and Cultural, Trusteeship, Administrative and Legal. The main part of the
Conference Building is occupied by 3 Council Chambers passing from North to South.
We were shown first the Economic and Social Council Chamber which was desinged by a
Swede and the Swedish Government contributed toward the cost of decorating this chamber.
Next was the Trusteeship Council chamber and this chamber was designed by a Dane and
Denmark contributed toward the furnishing of it. The third chamber - The Security Council
Chamber was designed by a Norweigan with the Norweigan government contributing toward the
cost. Each chamber is the same size 72' wide and 135' long with 24' ceilings. The Conference
building also contains 3 large conference halls and 6 smaller committee rooms
(we had meetings in one of these smaller rooms) there is also a Cafeteria,
a Delegates restaurant and 2 private dining rooms all over looking the river.
Here also below the street level are the maintanence work shops, a complete fire
fighting unit, a large printing works and a garage with parking space for about 1500 cars.
The Secretariat building is 73' wide and 287' long rising
"
"505' above the street level with 3 levels below the street. It is of metal and blue green glass.
There is every convenience for efficient work there. Members of the Secretariat are international
civil servants recruited from member and non-member countries of the United Nations all over the
world. They are bound by oath of office not to seek or receive instructions regarding their work for
the U.N. from any government or outside authority. The Secretariat takes care of all the
administrative matters of the United Nations. The United Nations Library is a huge place.
It is a reference centre for current world affairs. Its holdings in books, periodicals and government
documents number 160.000 volumes. It is not open to the general public. Visitors are welcome to
the United Nations and all but a very few meetings are open to, the public and admission is free.
At most meetings speeches are interpeted into the different languages,Chinese,French, English,
Russian and Spanish. Ear phones wired into a telephone dial system are provided at each seat.
Visitors must refrain from applause and remain silent during meetings. This covered our guided
tour of the buildings. We attended a session of Commission on the Status of Women and had
various speakers speak to us in the smaller committee rooms. Our party had luncheon on the
thursday at International Centre which is right close to the U. N. and on the friday we were at the
Beekman Towers Hotel for luncheon. This was a lovely place and they served a most delicious
luncheon. On friday evening the New York State Federation of Business and Professional Women
gave a Tea for us at the Women's City Club. They just couldn't do enough for their Canadian
Visitors and the food was delicious. Friday night we went to Radio City Music Hall.
It has accomadation
for 6200 people. It was a good show and well worth seeing. We went out to eat after the show and
wondered when New York slept and came to the conclusion that there was no night there for the
crowds and traffic was just the same as daytime. On Saturday morning we went on a guided tour of
Rockefeller Centre. This was very interesting. We went up to the Observation roof and had our
picture taken—this was 70 stories above the street. Saturday afternoon we had fun shopping we
were just on our own for this but on Sunday we had a bus tour of the Residental and Upper
New York. We stopped at different places the longest was at the Cathedral of St.John the Divine.
This is the largest gothic cathedral in the world. It has a seating capacity of 7000. Queen Elizabeth
was there for service when visiting in The United states. We were taken through when the people
gathered for 11 o'clock service. They told us the corner stone was laid for this cathedral
December 27th. 1892: and they just build as they have funds. There is not a dollar of debt on the
building. There are parts to be completed yet. The organ contains 700 pipes and a chime.
We went out from there around Central Park back to the hotel to have lunch and get ready for
home. There was so much more to be seen but no more time. We landed back in Toronto on the
Monday morning hoping to get back again before too long."
"Altona Institute Marks Fifty Years of Service to the Community – 1960
(This is the history of the past 50 years of Altona Institute as
compiled! and given by Mrs. Henry Slack at the 50th Anniversary of the Institute.),
The Altona Women's Institute was organized on June 18, 1910, at the home of Miss E. P. Howitt,
now Mrs. Soden of Brougham. Miss Howitt was our first Secretary-Treasurer and is now a
member of Brougham Institute.
Miss S. Campbell of Brampton and Miss Walsh of Orono were the delegates who organized and
addressed the meeting with a membership of 26, although there were fifty present at this
meeting. By the end of the first year, there were forty-two members.
Our first President was Miss Charolette Hoover who later married Mr. Isaac Stouffer and moved
to the West. The receipts for the first year were $13.50 with the expenses four dollars
and seventy-five cents.
The meetings were held in the Village Hall at Altona on the second Saturday of each month at
2.30 p.m. The procedure of the meetings was similar to what we have today. Meetings opened
with the singing of a Hymn or a patriotic song. But the National Anthem was used to close all
meetings. Today we use the Opening Ode, then the Mary Stewart Collect, and the Lord's Prayer
repeated in unison.
For the first few years of the Institute, usually in January, the North Ontario County Farmers
Union met in conjunction with the Women's Institute, men and women having separate meetings
in the afternoon with a joint meeting in the evening, with topics for discussion such as
The Stairway to Success and Happiness in the Home.
The first transaction of donating money was in the second year, when fifty cents was donated to
the Mrs. Hoodless fund. We also had an invitation to visit another Institute.
Due to the condition of the Village Hall, we started to meet in our homes. This arrangement of
meeting in our homes is still being carried on. Usually once a year, an open meeting is held in
the Altona school house, having a special program, then lunch is served, which makes it a very
sociable evening.
For a few years, the lunch was,prepared by the member at whose home the meeting was held.
That was a terrifically busy morning. By this time, the lunch business was getting rather out of
hand, with such a variety of goodies. There was then a vote taken to determine whether we still
continue the lunch or not; however, this resulted in a tie, with the lunch being continued, but the
hostess was not to provide more than two kinds of food. If she did, there would be a fine or some
sort of penalty. Today it is much easier, as the lunch is provided by the members taking a
number from the membership list for each meeting.
By this time, the Institute bought a vacuum cleaner from the T. Eaton Co. for $12.50 with all
attachments, to be used by the members free, with a fee of $1.00 for non-members.
In the fourth year of Institute life, there were two members sent to the convention, each being
paid $1.00 toward their expenses. Today the expense problem is quite different.
Now we were in the midst of World War 1, with lots of discussion as to how we could raise
money for war work and the Red Cross. The Pickering Twp. Council gave a grant of $125.00
which we used to purchase flannel for shirts, wool to knit sox and caps, flannelette for pyjamas.
Quite a few of the members held 10c teas to help make extra money. There were boxes packed
and sent to the boys of our community who were in the armed forces. Also if a neighbor had
friends or relatives in the army, there was a parcel or box sent to them.
The Branch sponsored the getting of peaches wholesale direct from the fruit belt for members
and others who wished to obtain them. Brooms were bought from the National Institute for the
Blind that sold for $1.00 each. I do not remember if there was any particular celebration held by
the Institute at the end of the war, but feel that I am safe in saying that every¬one was happy in
heart that the war was over and won.
For the first years, we were grouped with the North Ontario Branches. It was in 1922 that we
joined up with the South Ontario and I think that it was a good idea, as we seem closer to the
other Branches.
It was in 1924 that a fruit and flower fund got under way. Our money was pretty scarce but we
tried to remember our sick members and their families. Once a year a Grandmothers meeting
was held and it was a very notable event with the old-fashioned clothes, the songs, and papers
of yesteryears. Often prizes were given either to the eldest Grandmother or the one in best
costume.
This Branch has tried many ways to make money, such as Box Socials, Shoe Sizes,
Garden Parties, booths at farm sales, Bake and Apron sales, also waist measurements at 1c
each. Quilts were pieced, quilted and sold.
There have been various competitions sponsored for students of the four schools in our Institute
district, such as Art Competition, Temperance Essay, Spelling Matches and Singing
Competition. A Shield was purchased for the Singing competition and I think, at present,
it is in the Atha school.
First mention of Girls' Club work was in 1934. There have been several projects such as
Cottons May Be Smart, Meat in the Menu, Milky Way, Working with Wool, Club Girl Stands on
Guard, and the Garden Club. As each project is completed, each girl receives a silver teaspoon
from the Institute and, from the Department, a teaspoon with the 4H crest upon it.
We have had many interesting speakers in our time. One very interesting speaker was Laura
Rose Stephens. She spoke of her thirty-five years of Institute work. It was she who chose the
motto "" Home and Country"". She also sketched the design for the Institute pins. Mrs. Putnam,
head of the Women's Institute, complimented us on our splendid work and harmony.
That seemed to give us a bit more encouragement.
In June 1935 we celebrated our 25th Anniversary having Miss McDermid, the first Lady
Superintendent of Women's Institute, speak to us. One special remark she made was that
she was very happy to say that Mr. Putnam was superannuated and not dismissed. It was a
very enjoyable meeting, with five charter members given Federated Women's Institute pins.
The very lovely Birthday or 25th Anniversary cake had the 25 candles on it. Since that time,
as each member completes 25 years of membership, she receives a Federated Women's
Institute pin.
That same year found us competing with other Institutes at Markham Fair. Sometimes
we did not do so well in winning prizes and other years we exceeded our expectations.
By now we were in the midst of the second war. Our efforts to assist were in cooperation with
North Pickering Branch of the Red Cross. That made us all very busy again, sewing and knitting
and getting boxes packed for the boys in the army. We have held flower shows, after which the
flowers were sent to the Home of Incurables in Toronto. The left-over candy from our Christmas
Meeting has been sent to the House of Refuge in Whitby. At spring meetings, we have had sales
of plants and perennials, with a member as our auctioneer. We have been fairly successful in
competing in the Salada tea contests. Have won first prize with a quilt and a rug at the District
Annual. The rug was later sent on to Toronto Convention.
We have enjoyed fellowship with other Institutes. Several carloads attended the 50th Anniversary
at Guelph. Some attended Whitby's 50th Anniversary. Just recently there was Brooklin and
Brougham Institutes that have had their 50th. Many attended and report a very enjoyable time.
We have taken courses in rug-making, sewing, cooking, making of lampshades, millinery, slip
covers, home nursing and others. Sent blankets to the Holland Marsh at the time of Hurricane
Hazel; two dozen layettes and some sweaters sent to Korea.
Last year we held a meeting with the ladies at Fair View Lodge, and they seemed to enjoy it
very much. I think I am safe in saying that our members enjoyed it as much as they.
Then the following week, we were lucky enough to take the tour of the General Motors in Oshawa.
Their trailers were well filled and it was most enjoyable; I think perhaps the workers throughout t
he plant were glad to see us.
For many years we have presented each new baby with a bank book with $1.00 deposited,
providing the mother is an Institute member. Throughout the years, we have sent donations to
the Navy League, Red Cross, Cancer Fund, National Institute for the Blind, Sick Children's
Hospital, Muskoka Hospital—Mental Health, Cottage Hospital at Uxbridge, Retarded Children,
Veterans' Hall in Stouffville, White Gifts to a Toronto Mission, Adelaide Hoodless Fund, and the
Pickering Township museum; given aid to people that had a fire, and Shut-ins at Christmas.
Then, of course, there has been much work put into the Tweedsmuir History book.
We have catered to the Lions Club, Ball Club, Masonic and Odd Fellows banquets and quite a
few wedding receptions—with bus trips for a little enjoyment. We have always had printed
programmes.
To date, there are three life members—with an average of forty members per year since
we were organized.
Our celebration may not see some who are here today, but we ask that God may richly bless
our lives, give us health and strength so that we may be active members in each and every
Institute for many years to come.
"
"Altona Women's Institute
50th Anniversary Meeting
June 15th 1960
On Wednesday afternoon June the 15th a very pleasant afternoon was spent among the Womens
Institute Members and friends at the Masonic Hall in Stouffville. This being the 50th Anniversary of
the Altona Womens Institute, the hall was tastefully decorated with blue and yellow flowers.
The meeting opened with the Institute Ode, followed by the Mary Stuart Collect. Mrs Harold Lewis
presided at the Meeting with Mrs A Wideman assisting.
Mrs A Wideman gave the address of Welcome and Mrs Wm Brown (district Pres) brought
greetings from the District, Anniversary cards were then read.
Mrs. M Reesor sang ""Bless this House"", accompanied by Miss Grace Lehman at the piano.
Our President next had a pleasant duty to preform, which was to call to the front, those of our
seventeen (17) Charter Members, who were with us that day. The following are our Charter
Members. First Mrs A. Carruthers who is our only fifty year Member and Mrs. A Wideman
presented her with an inscribed tray. Mrs. L Hill, Mrs E. Smith, Mrs J. Sodon, Miss M. Barkey,
Mrs Boomer, Mrs J. Cooper, Mrs. R. White, Mrs A. White, Mrs. E. Forsyth Mrs R. Farthing.
"
"were each presented with a plate. Mrs J Shirk, Mrs F. Betz, Mrs H. Ralston, Mrs F. Baker,
Mrs F Jackman were unable to be with us. Mrs N Bunker, a Charter Member and life Member for
many years was called next and received a gold cup and saucer. Mrs D. Crosier, (a life Member),
Mrs T Dunkeld, Mrs. H. Slack Mrs. M. Harris and Mrs F. Wagg also received gold Cups and
saucers.
The following ladies received F.W.I.C. pins for a membership of 25 twenty five years.
Mrs W. Carter Mrs J. McCreight, Mrs R. Winn, Mrs C. Barkey. Mrs C. Kerswell and
Miss Grace Lehman.
A Short Memorial Service was held with Mrs G. Wagg placing a basket of flowers.
Mrs. E. Carruthers read the 23rd Psalm. Then Mrs F Byer sang ""Beyond the Sunset.""
Next came the Roll Call. 183 were present, these being Institute Members, former Members,
and guests who were not.
Mrs. J Soden our first secretary read the minutes of the very first (1st) meeting 1910 Mrs H. Slack
read us a very interesting Fifty (50yr) History of the Altona Womens Institute .
Mrs. F Byer, Mrs. M Reesor, and Miss Grace Lehman (The Alton Trio) sang two numbers for us
Each were dressed in old fashioned clothes Miss Lehman was wearing her"
"Mothers Wedding hat of fifty (50) years ago. A Short Skit was then presented,
""When Ladies Meet"" with members of our Insitute taking part and a vote of thanks go to the
Authors Mrs D Hope, Mrs F. Byer, Mrs H. Lewis and Mrs E. Wideman
Mrs Lewis then thanked all those, that had helped in any way to make the Anniversary Meeting
possible with a special thanks to those looking after the flowers arrangements the Corsages and
to Mrs H Slack for the fifty (50) year history and the Secretary also Mrs A. Wideman for assisting so
capably.
Mrs A. Carruthers cut the Anniversary Cake for us which was a fruit Cake Made in the form of an
open book which was very beautifully decorated, The Meetingwas closed with the Queen and a
very pleasant social time was enjoyed by all.
Secretary Tres. (Mrs E) Doris MacAloney
President (Mrs H) Luella E. Lewis"
"50th Anniversary – Altona Women’s Institute
The 50th Anniversary of the Altona Women's Institute was celebrated on Wednesday, June 15,
in the Masonic Hail with around 200 in attendance. The Hall was decorated with the Institute
colours, using blue and yellow iris, also peonies. There were representatives from 12 branches
present, 9 of these being from South Ontario.
The guests were welcomed by Mrs. Art. Wideman, the Past President, and greetings were
brought by the District President Mrs. Brown of Kinsale. There were 17 charter members
present, each one received a plate as a souvenir. These plates were specially made for the
occasion with a picture of the Old Mennonite Church at Altona on it. Mrs. Arthur Carruthers was
the only one who had been a member for 50 years and she was presented with a brass tray
suitably engraved.
Six members who had belonged over 40 years were given gold cups and saucers.
These were Mrs. D. Crosier, Mrs. Noman Bunker. Mrs. Frank Wagg, Mrs. Thos. Dunkeld,
Mrs. Milt. Harris and Mrs. H. Slack.
The 25-year members, of which there were 6, received their Federated Women's Instftute Pins.
These were Mrs. Walter Carter, Mrs. Rowland Winn, Mrs. Chas. Barkey, Mrs. Geo. Kerswell,
Mrs. J. McCreight and Miss Grace Lehman, and each 1960 member received a lovely corsage.
A short Memorial Service was held for those who had passed on. Mrs. Frank Wagg placed a
basket of flowers in their hon¬our. Mrs. Ernie Carruthers read the 23rd Psalm and Mrs. Fred Byer
sang, ""Beyond the Sun¬set"". The minutes of the first meeting were read by the Charter Secretary,
Mrs. Soden of Brougham. Mrs. Henry Slack compiled and read the history of the past 50 years.
A Trio, composed of Mrs. Fred Byer, Mrs. Millard Reesor and Miss Grace Lehman, dressed in
costumes of 50 years ago sang two numbers. They were accompanied by Mrs. Levi Forsyth as
pianist. A skit, under the leadership of Mrs. Don. Hope, entitled ""When Ladies Meet"" and written
by members of the group, was given and very much enjoyed by those present. An Annivesary
Cake, iced in the form of an open book, was cut by Mrs Arthur Carruthers,and a social time
followed the meeting Mrs. Annie MacKay, a member now living in Windsor, was one that was
present from a distance.
"
"Altona Trio
Thes W.I members regaled in the appropriate ddress of fifty years ago, presented two musical
numbers on theAnniversary occasionof the Altona Women's Insitute on June 15th 1960 in the
Masonic Hall, Stouffville Left to right - Miss Grace Lehman, Mrs Fred Byer Mrs Millard Reesor."
"Atha – 1965
Mrs. E. Carruthers and Mrs. M. Dunkeld attended the W.I. Dist. Annual on Thursday which was
held at Kinsale United Church.
Mr. and Mrs. James Melton and Frank of Burketon spent Sunday with Mr. and Mrs. E. Melton and
family.
Mr. and Mrs. Murray Dunkeld visited Sunday with Mr. and Mrs. Robert Baird of Greenbank.
Mrs. W. McBride and Eileen of Oshawa spent Sunday with Mr. and Mrs. David Tran.
Mrs. T. Dunkeld is spending a few days in Stouffville with Misses Mabel and Louie Hoover.
Altona – June 1965
The June meeting of the Altona Women’s Institute will be held at the home of Mrs. F. Byer on
Wednesday, June 9th at 2 p.m. Roll call: Poem from “Home and Country.” Goodwood W.I. ladies
will be guests.
All ladies are welcome.
Altona – 1965
The April meeting of Altona Women’s Institute will be held at the home of Mrs. Mitchell, Main St. W.
in the apartments on Wednesday, April 14th at 2 p.m. Mrs. L. Edmunds, convenor of citizenship will
be in charge of the program. Motto-Love is the best assurance towards world peace. Roll call-
What I left undone to attend the W.I. meeting.
Parents and friends are invited to attend the 4H Achievement Day at Port Perry this Saturday,
April 10th. The girls will exhibit their blouses made during the project.
The ladies who took the Short Course ‘Focus on Finishes” will be showing the dresses which they
made at Summary Day to be held in the Brooklin Hall on Tuesday, April 13th. Anyone else
interested may attend.
"
"Now that holidays are over, the W.I. will begin holding their regular meetings again.
The Septmeber meeting will be held at the home of Mrs. George Harvie on Thursday, Sept. 15th,
at 8 p.m. (please note the change of time and day.) The motto is common sense is a genius in
working clothes. Roll Call is an occupation mentioned in the Bible.
Brougham is having a bus trip on Sept. 13 to Adelaide Hoodless Homestead and points of
interest. Anyone interested contact Mrs. Geo. Gray of Brougham. 1966
--
Mrs. Hugh Crawford represented Kinsale Women’s Institute at the Central Ontario Area
Women’s Institutes Convention at the Royal York Hotel in Toronto, Thursday.
This district is represented on the executive by Mrs. N. Payne of Thornhill, our new board
member.
At the luncheon Mrs. L. J. Stuart, co-ordinator of Women’s activites for Expo, showed slides
and urged all to attend Expo next year. Miss Bevely Bell of Claremont sang and played the
accordion.
--
Altona Comm. Centre Has Successful Euchre
By Eleanor Bunker
ALTONA – There were sixteen tables of euchre at the card party in the Altona
Community Centre, Monday night. Mrs. Elwood Elson won the lucky draw, a ham.
Other prize winners were – Les Morgason, Walter Brignall, Mrs. Harold Catton and Henry Ogden.
The February meeting of the Altona Women’s Institute will be held at the home of Mrs. Chas.
Gostick on Wednesday, Feb. 8 at 2 p.m. Mr. and Mrs. C. P. Weitzenbauer will be the guest
speakers.
The first 4-H meeting of the Altona Pioneers 1967 was held at the home of Mrs. Stan Thompson,
Jan. 28. The election of officers was as follows: President, Helen Johnson; Vice-Pres.,
Doreen Lehman; Sec., Bernice Dickinson; Treas., Mrs. Thompson; Press Reporter, Karen Fretz,
leaders Mrs. Harvey Feasby and Mrs. Thompson demonstrated the making of blueberry buckles
and succotash which the girls enjoyed sampling.
--
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Barkey of Altona spent several days in Montreal. They toured the
Expo ’67 site and travelled the new subway line opened recently.
--
Spring Hats in the Making
Every Thursday evening more than 30 ladies gather at the home of Mrs. Doris Williams, Altona,
for a hat-making bee. Next week, the completed creations will be modeled at a showing in
Victoria Square, April 10 and Uxbridge, April 11. One of the participants is Mrs. Marina Butler,
Stouffville R.R.3. – Staff Photo.
--
Thirty Six Ladies Study Hat Making
By Eleanor Bunker
ALTONA – The hat making course, sponsored by the Altona Women’s Institute, has an
enrolement of 36 ladies. No more can be accommodatred. Summary day for the project will be
held April 11 at Greenbank. The next work meeting will be held Thursday evening (tonight).
If there is sufficient interest, another course will be arranged at a later date.
The seventh meeting of the Altona Pioneers 1967 was held Mar. 18 at the home of Mrs. Stan.
Thompson. Mrs. Harvey Feasby and Bernice Dickinson demonstrated the making of steak and
spinach, Chinese style, and Karen Fretz and Doreen Lehman demonstrated Almond cakes.
On Mar. 28 the 4-H girls will hold a Centennial Party at the home of Karen Fretz. The foods on
the menu will represent the different countries of the world. All parents of the members are invited.
Mrs. Norman Bunker spent several days last week with her daughter Viola and Dick Jones of
Buttonville.
--
For the past few weeks, hat-making has proved a popular pastime at the home of Mrs. Doris
Williams, Altona, where more than 30 ladies gather every Thursday evening. Mrs. Williams is
pictured here with her new hand-made creation. –Staff Photo.
Ladies attend the hat-making bees from a wide area in preparation for a public showing,
April 10 at Victoria Square and April 11 at Uxbridge. Mrs. Catherine McArthur and daughter
Karen, 9 of R.R.2 Markham, are among the particpants. –Staff Photo
A model, sure to make a hit with the audience is Mrs. Helen Lewis, Stouffville R.R.3.
The program is sponsored by the Altona Women’s Institute. When membership reached 36,
further applications had to be refused. –Staff Photo.
"
"Mrs. Thomas Dunkeld of Atha, received more than 100 visitors Friday, on the occasion of her
90th birthday. WI member. –Staff Photo.
--
Gladys Pearl Slack Was Buried Tuesday
STOUFFVILLE — R e v. Duncan MacGregor, former pastor of Stouffville Baptist Church,
officated at the funeral service of Gladys Pearl Slack, Octber 25.
Mrs. Slack passed away at her home in Stouffville October 22, following a short illness.
She and her husband were on a trip west when she became ill at Sault Ste. Marie.
Born in North Dakota January 6, 1898, she had lived at Altona from early childhood.
Following her
marriage to Henry Slack in 1917 she resided at Glasgow. For the past 15 years she had lived in
Stouffville.
She was identified with Stouffville Baptist Church and a member of Altona Women's lnstitute.
The service was held from O'Neill's Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Glenn Ratcliff. Harry Plight,
Bert L i c k o r i s h, James Cowan, Maitland Spence and Floyd Steckley. Interment was in
Stouffville Cemetery.
--
Mrs. Thomas Dunkeld Ninety Years Young
ATHA -- Saturday, April 8, marked another, milestone in the life of the Atha community's most
highly respected senior citizen. Mrs. Thomas Dunkeld celebrated her 90th birthday.
If was a wonderful reunion of old friends, neighbors and family relatives at the home of her son,
Murray on the 8th concession, Pickering Township where she lives. More than 100 attended
the 'open house'- during the afternoon, and evening hours. Present at the gathering was a
bridesmaid of 65 years ago, now Mrs. Russell Cowie of Whitby. Mrs. Dunkeld,-the former
Matilda Lehman, was born at conc. 8, one of ten children in the family of Abraham and
Elizabeth Lehman. She attended Atha school and can still recall the numerous chores that had
to be done around the farm, includ¬ing the churning of butter and milching the cows.
MARRIED IN 1902
In 1902, she was married to Thomas Dunkeld in a ceremony conducted by the late Rev. W. H.
Wallace of Stouffville, at her parents' home. Sixteen years later, he was stricken by the dreaded f
lu epidemic and died, leaving her with two teenage children, Murray and Vera, now Mrs. James
Melton of Burketon.
As the children grew, older, Mrs. Dunkeld turned her hand to nursing and often accompanied the
doctor, to farms in the district by horse and buggy. She helped many of the sick back to health
and strength and aided in the delivery of many children, some of whom now live in the Atha
community. She did this work for 25 years. ""I'm now retired,"" she said with a smile—but not
really. She makes hand-sewn quilt tops and her nine grandchildren and twenty-one great grand¬
children are enjoying the benefits of this hobby. She is now working on quilts for her great,
great grandchildren.
The Tribune joins a host of friends in wishing Mrs. Dunkeld many more years of health and
happiness as she heads towards one hundred.
--
Institute Delegates –Nov. 10, 1966
ATHA — Mrs. Murray Dunkeld and Mrs. Charles Hodgson were delegates from the Altona
Women's Institute at the Central Ontario Area 64th convention, held at the Royal York Hotel,
Toronto.
Mr. and Mrs. M. Dunkeld called on Mrs. Wm. Wallace of Altona, who is home from the hospital.
Friends and neighbours were sorry to learn of the sudden death of Mr. Arthur Wideman.
Sympathy is extended to Mrs. Wideman and family.
Mr. and Mrs. Percy Norman and family of Utterson spent the weekend with Mr. and Mrs. Frank
Bielby.
Anniversary greetings to
Mr. and Mrs, Norman Lehman 25 years married, also to Mr. and Mrs. Fred Draper who were
married 34 years, Nov. 5.
Mr. Mel. Venn of Saskatchewan called on Mr. E. Carruthers Saturday evening.
Mr. and Mrs. Ernie Carruthers and Ruth Anne visited Sunday afternoon with Mr, and Mrs. Frank
Robb of Markham.
"
"Altona W. I. Sponsors Centennial Antique Show
The Altona Women’s Institute sponsored a very successful Antique Show in the Masonic Hall,
Stouffville, June 22. Mrs. Norman Bunker had several items on display, including this age-old
cow bell. –Staff Photo.
All dressed up in centennial costume is Mrs. Jim Harris, Claremont R.R.3. She Displays an old
Victrola that dates back to about 1890. There was a good attendance during the afternoon and in
the evening that hall was filled. –Staff Photo.
--
The Sanford W.I. annual meeting took the form of an antique show last Friday and some of the
ladies fitted right in with their century old costumes. The Altona ladies entertained the group with
several old-time songs that brought back many memories to the older members of the audience
and gave the younger ladies an insight of the entertainment of yesteryear.
"
"Visitors From Ireland –June/ 1967
By ELEANOR BUNKER
ALTONA—Mr. and Mrs. Herbie Cathcart from Northern Ireland were guests of Walter and
Mrs. Davis for a couple of days last week. On both Wednesday and Thursday evening,
a number of relatives and friends including Rev. Lawrence and Mrs. Higginson of Orillia.
and Mr. and Sam Thompson of. Willowdale visited at the Davis home to meet their cousins.
Mrs. Cathcart is a niece of the late Mrs. Davis.
On Sunday Mr. and Mrs. Walter Davis visited her sister, Mrs Frank Hardy of Uxbridge, also
Mr. Hardy who is a patient in Uxbridge Cottage Hospital. They were also surprised with a visit
from their brother Cecil and Mrs. Mantle of Detroit, Michigan, while there.
A speedy recovery is wished Miss Mabel Huson who is recuperating at the home of her brother,
Rev. Frank and Mrs. Huson, following surgery at the Toronto General Hospital. The Huson's son
Ronald is again in bed at St. John's Convalescent Hospital after a back operation 13 weeks
ago. It keeps the Pastor and his wife busy looking after their own family as well as, ministering to
the needs of our community.
The new addition to the United Missionary Church is progressing well. By the end of this week
the wall will be completed and backfilled.
Joyce and Dave Johnson of Milverton were home for the weekend to visit their parents here
and help Joyce's dad (Fred Lewis) celebrate his birthday.
On Tuesday, 3 carloads of Altona W.I. ladies attended the District Annual at Brooklin.
Mary Bartholomew and Marjorie Fretz were delegates.
--
Dies In Victoria, British Columbia -1968
By ELEANOR BUNKER
ALTONA — Service was held from the O'Neill Funeral Home, Stouffville, on Friday for
Mr. Blake Robinson who passed away last week, in Victoria, British Columbia. Interment was at
Goodwood Cemetery. Sympathy is extended to his sister, Mrs. Bessie Wideman.
Miss Arlene Good, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Willis Good of Irville, Ohio, became the bride of
Enos Nighswander in a ceremony performed by Bishop Carl Good at the County Line
Mennonite Church at Orville, April 16. After their honeymoon through Tennessee and
Virginia the happy couple will make their home at Mongolia.
Mr. and Mrs. Fred Nighswander along with daughters Anna Mary and Martha of Barwiek
attended their son's wedding and on their return from the States visited with relatives in
our community for several days.
Mr. and Mrs. Norman Smith and children and Mrs. and Mrs. Joe Nighswander and family
were also guests at the wedding. Last week Danny Bragg started a Toronto Star paper
route in our community.
The young people of the Altona Community Centre are holding another dance at the Altona
school this Saturday evening, April 29. This is for teenagers only and there will be adult
supervision. Music will be supplied, by ""The Trend.""
Two weeks ago at the teenage dance, over 100 attended.
""Congratulations to Nancy Wideman who became Sfouffville's 'Centennial Queen
Saturday evening. Mrs.Joan Marshman won the door prize of a portable sewing machine
at the 'Take a Chance' program last week.
A speedy recovery is wished Peter Campbell who had several fingers badly
crushed in a recent mishap; also to Mrs. Pointon who is in Uxbridge Cottage Hospital
and Mrs. Levi Fretz who is confined it to a Toronto Hospital for therapy.
Helen and Don Davis, Larry and Brian of Weston had supper with Mr. and Mrs. Merv Bunker and
family on Sunday after visiting Don's mother in the Brierbush Hospital.
On M o n d a y Sharon Marshman and Patti Bunker were supper guests of Lois Wideman to
help her celebrate her 7th birthday. At Monday night's euchre at the Altona Comm unity Centre
winners were Helen Lewis, Mrs. D. Wilson, Les Morgason and Henry Slack, Lucky draw
winner was Mrs. Tom Ogden.
Last Saturday evening the Community Centre was really rocking as it was filled to
capacity with, square and folk dance enthusiasts. Frank Barkey supplied the music.
From May 1 to May 12 the Community Centre will be used for special Pentecostal meetings.
Rev. and Mrs. D. Sargeant of Palmerston were visitors in the community Friday.
The annual meeting of Altona Women's Institute was held at the home of
Mrs. Charlie Hodgson, May 12. Mrs. Mervin Annis, the District President,
conducted the installation of the officers, which is as follows: Past President,
Mrs. Ed MacAloney; Presi dent, Mrs. Fred Byer; 1st Tice, Mrs. Harold Lewis; 2nd Vice,
Mrs. Orval Fretz; Sec'y-Treas., Mrs. Jim McCreight; Assist., Mrs. Harvey Feasby;
Public Relations, Mrs. Ed. MacAloney; Curator, Mrs. Fred Byer; Directors, Mrs. Frank Bidby,
Mrs. Floyd Fairles and Mrs. Howard St. John; District Director, Mrs. Ed MacAloney;
Alternate, Mrs. Jim Harris; Resolutions, Mrs. Reg. McKay; Pianists, Mrs. Frank Bielby,
Mrs. Harvey Feasby; Auditors, Mrs. Art Wideman, Mrs. George Bartholomew.
Conveners: Agriculture and Canadian Industries, Mrs. Ernie Carruthers;
Citizenship and Education, Mrs. Fred Lewis; Home Economics and Health,
Mrs. Charlie Kerswell; Historical Research and Current Events, Mrs. Charlie Hodgson;
Social Com., Mrs. Jim Harris, Mrs. Merv. Bunker, Mrs. C. Williams, Mrs. Russell
Couperthwaite. Flower Convener, Mrs. Murray Dunkeld.
Many members of the Institute and ladies of the community modelled the hats they made at the
millinery course sponsored by the Altona W.I. Congratulations ladies and many thanks to our
leaders Dorry Williams and Eleanor Bunker.
--
Altona W.M.S. Elect Officers –Nov. 14/68
By Blanche Tindall
ALTONA — The W.M.S. meeting was held at the home of Mrs. Frank Huson. In charge of
devotions were Mrs. N. Neal, Mrs. N. Bunker and Mrs. N. Lehman.
Officers are: Hon. Pres., Mrs. Frank Huson; Past Pres., Mrs. Allan Meyer; Pres., Mrs. Ellis
Melton; Vice-Pres., Mrs. Albert Foster; Sec, Mrs. Bruce MacDowell; Treas., Mrs. Clifford
Dunkeld; Missionary Reporter, Mrs. Allan Jones and Pianist, Mrs. Donald Boake.
The winners of the recent euchre were: Ladies, Emma Clodd, Clare Rittenhouse, Dianne
Pickering. Men: Lloyd Britton, Fred Conner, Harold Clodd. Lucky Prize, Lloyd Britton.
The next euchre will be Nov. 18 at the community centre.
Altona Women's Institute meeting will be held Nov. 14 (tonight) at 8 p.m. in the community centre.
Mrs. Delamatter is in charge of the program on Education.
We are sorry to hear that Ricky Dawson, son of Mr. and Mrs. G. Dawson is in hospital. It is his
7th birthday, Nov. 16. If you wish to send him a card, his address is Room 6546, 6th floor. Sick
Chil-
dren's Hospital, Toronto. Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Lewis visited with Mr. and Mrs. Elwood Hardy,
Toronto.
Rev. and Mrs. Frank Huson entertained the young people at their home after church.
--
WE would like to express our thanks to our friends and neighbors who helped us with our sale,
also the Altona Womans Institute who had a booth and served coffee, Hot-dogs and doughnuts
which helped considerable on a cold day. It was all greatly appreciated.
Howard & Mary
St. John
THE famiily of the late Mr. Albert Clark wish to thank our relatives, neighbors and friends for their
many acts of kindness, floral tributes, cards and donations to the Gideon bibles. Special thanks
to Rev. W. S. Whitcombe and the O'Neill Funeral Home. We would like to thank the Churchill
ladies and neighbors for serving lunch. All was very much appreciated.
MRS. Reg. MacKay wishes to convey her grateful thanks to all who sent cards, gifts and flowers,
Altona W.I., Christ Church Anglican, neighbors and visitors, while in York County Hospital and
Princess Margaret. Special mention to Miss Carolyn Bass, R.N. of Newmarket hospital for
favors received, and Mrs. Pat Kinsella for transportation
--
Visit Bible College –Nov. 21/68
By Blanche Tindall
ALTONA — Keith, Gerald and Tom Lewis and Wayne Ogden attended the 'Look-In' at
Emmanuel Bible College, Kitchener. We are pleased to report that Ricky Dawson is now home
from hospital.
Rosalee Nighswander, Margaret, Evelyn Smith and Case Koster attended the Mennonite
Central Committee annual meeting at Rockway.
Friday night, Nov. 22 at 8 p.m. the ""Self-Help"" project will be held at the Community Centre.
Special euchres are to be held in the Atha Community Centre on Nov. 25 and Dec. 9 at 8:30 p.m.
Proceeds to Grade 8 students.
Altona Women's Institute ladies enjoyed their bus trip to St. Lawrence Starch Company
also to the Toronto-Dominion Centre.
Mr. and Mrs. G. Dawson spent the weekend with his parents.
--
Mrs. James McCreight and Mrs. George Bartholomew recently attended the Central Ontario
Area Women’s Institute’s 66th Convention. It was held at the Royal York Hotel in Toronto.
Nov. 21/68
--
Altona Institute Donate $500 to community centres
By Elsie Dunkeld
ATHA — The Women's Institute of Altona will donate $250 to each of the Community Centres at
Altona and Atha. The gift of money to both projects was approved at a meeting, Jan. 8 at the
home of Mrs. Frank Bielby. It will be used to help finance the construction of new kitchens,
now underway. The guest speaker for the occasion was former reeve of Uxbridge Township,
Earl Dowswell.
Mr. and Mrs. Murray Dunkeld and Miss Janet Dunkeld were Sunday dinner guests of Mr. and
Mrs. Fred Byer, Maytree
Avenue, Stouffville.
Mr. and Mrs. Ellis Melton and family visited Saturday with Mrs. J. Melton and Frank at Burketon.
Mr. and Mrs. Bruce McDowell and family were dinner guests, Friday evening with Mr. and
Mrs. Ellis Melton and family.
Frank Bielby, Don Dunkeld, Robert Lewis, Don Boake and Charles Reynolds enjoyed a fishing
trip last week to Lake Temagomi.
Mr. and Mrs. Gordon Ramer of Colbourne, spent Friday with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Isaac
Lehman on the occasion of their 64th wedding anniversary.
"
"Attends Conference –May 7/67
By Eleanor Bunker
ALTONA — Mrs. Charles Hodgson, convener of the Historical Research for Altona Women's
Institute, attended the Officers' Conference at the University of Guelph.
The May meeting of the Altona Women's Institute will be held at the home of Mrs. Baldwin
May 11 at 8 p.m. Mrs. Baldwin lives on the Sideroad north of Stouffville on the former Vince
Wagg farm. Motto, What is our generation leaving behind? Roll Call, What I admire most in
elderly women. There will be a demonstration on spinning and weaving. Ladies, please
wear your centennial costumes.
--
Mystery Tour –May 25, 1967
By Eleanor Bunker
ALTONA — The Altona Women's Institute is planning a mystery bus trip on the next Institute Day,
June 14. Persons wishing to go should contact Mrs. Jim McCreight.
--
4-H Club Meets –Nov. 2 1967
ALTONA – The Altona 4-H club held their second meeting at the home of Mrs. Colin Williams,
Oct. 21. Part of the meeting was spent on dressmaking, with the girls getting their material and
pinning on the patterns.
--
The Altona W.I. met at the home of Mrs. A. Baldwin. Mrs. Fred Byer presided.
Mrs. Chas. Hodgson, convener of Historical Research was in charge of the program.
The motto ""What is our generation leaving behind us"" prepared by Mrs. Winn was read by
Mrs. Chas. Hodgson. The Trio, (Mrs. Fred Byer, Mrs. Frank Bielby and Mrs. Norman Neal)
favored with musical numbers. Most of the ladies wore dresses of days gone by and the
setting was complete when Mrs. Baldwin gave a demonstration and talk on Spinning and
Weaving Mrs. Baldwin uses wool from their own sheep and makes her own dyes from onion
skins and apple tree bark. Mrs. Baldwin used an old spinning wheel to demonstrate.
--
Fashion short course 1969
By Blanche Tindall
ALTONA — The Institute short course, 'Fashion Cues For You' will continue April 10 at the
home of Mrs. Fred Byer from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Ladies are asked to bring a tape measure,
pencil, paper, and lunch. Refreshments will be provided.
Please note the change of date for the meeting of the Altona Women's Institute. It's April 16 at
2 p.m. at the home of Mrs. Murray Dunkeld.
be held April 14 at the home of Mrs. Bruce McDowell.
--
The Altona Women's Institute meeting will be held April 8 at the home of Mrs. James Harris.
This will be the annual meeting and convenors will present their reports. Roll call is a current
event clipping for the scrap book or a fine.
--
The Women’s Insitute Cooking School will hold its summary day program ‘Vegetables with a
Flair’ in the Uxbridge United Church, Feb. 18 at 1.15 p.m.
--
County honors –May 1/69
By Blanche Tindall
ALTONA — Elfriede Balluch of Altona was the recipient of a County Honors Certificate at the
Ontario South 4-H Achievement Day in Claremont. Altona leaders are Mrs. 0. Fretz and
Mrs. C. Kerswill. The project was 'The Milky Way'.
The Altona W.M.S. meeting will be held May 6 at 8 p.m. in the home of Mrs. Bruce McDowell.
Please note the change of place.
The Altona Women's Institute is invited to attend the 60th anniversary meeting of the Claremont
W.I. May 7 at 2 p.m.
--
The Altona Women's Institute will meet Dec. 10, at 2 p.m., at Fairview Lodge, Whitby.
The roll call will be answered with a gift for a senior citizen. The motto is: 'Good food,
like good friends, needs to be tried and tested many times in order to meet with our approval'.
"
"Mrs. Norman Bunker, charter member of the Altona Women’s Institute, cuts the 60th anniversary
cake, at a ceremony held June 18 in the Stouffville Masonic Hall. Peter Harris
Institute anniversary
ALTONA — The Diamond Anniversary of the Altona Women's Institute was celebrated, June 18,
in the Stouffville Masonic Hall with an attendance of 110.
A cake, made especially for the occasion by Mrs. Bielby and Mrs. Dunkeld, was cut by
Mrs. Norman Bunker, a charter member. Others still living include — Miss Mildred Barkey,
Mrs. L. Hill, Mrs. E. Soden, Mrs. A. Boomer, Mrs. J. Cooper, Mrs. F. Betz, Mrs. W. Monkhouse
and Mrs. H. Rolston.
Mrs. Soden read the minutes of the first meeting, June 18, 1910. Mrs. E. McAloney read the
minutes of the 50th anniversary meeting and Mrs. Fred Byer presented a condensed report,
covering activities during the past 60 years.
Charter members were each presented with a corsage and an Institute spoon by the president,
Mrs. Harold Lewis and Mrs. Harvey Feasby.
Miss Beverley Bell sang two lovely solos and rendered two numbers on her accordian.
--
Miss Lynda Bunker,Altona, staff teacher at Ballantrae Public School, is in receipt of a
personal letter from Betty Kennedy, well-known Canadian broadcaster. She expresses
her thanks for the childrens' support of 'Project Schoolhouse'. Funds earned will be used to
build a school in the Commonwealth Caribbean Island of St. Vincent as Ontario's International
Education Year program. Mrs. Kennedy is chairman of the Minister's Advisory Committee on
Educational Assistance.
--
Women’s Institute Anniversary –June 4/70
ALTONA - The Altona branch of the Women's Institute will celebrate its 60th anniversary year at
a meeting, June 18 in the Stouffville Masonic Hall. The president is Mrs. Harold Lewis.
Mrs. Fred Byer will outline the history of the organization since its inception in 1910.
Special music will be provided by Miss Beverley Bell.
--
Hamlet of Altona –Jan. 15 1970
Retain identity in Century City
UXBRIDGE TWP. — There'll always be an Altona.
This is a promise from officials of Revenue Properties Limited, even though the hamlet will be
incorporated into the proposed Century City development of 32,000 persons.
Lou Devor of the Revenue Firm told The Tribune this week that a meeting was to be arranged
with both Uxbridge Planning Board and Council, once the Official Plan and Zoning Bylaw are
approved by the Ontario Municipal Board.
The initial neighborhood, to include 185 acres, will be known as Altona. The east boundary will
extend northward along the second concession to include the former Tapscott Bros. farm.
Much of the buildup at this location will be residential with perhaps several commercial outlets.
Mr. Devor suggested that with total cooperation from all levels of government, the first phase
could begin in 12 or 14 months.
With respect to a proposed meeting between Revenue officials and the Township, a date of
Feb. 12 has been agreed upon.
--
Century City – a long way to go
UXBRIDGE TWP. — Mr. E. M. Coleman, R.R. 3, Uxbridge, has written a letter to the Minister of
Municipal Affa'rs, Hon. W. Darcy McKeough, enquiring into the status of 'Century City' and the
processing of plans that come under the jurisdiction of departments within the Ontario
Government. A copy of Mr. McKeough's reply has been received by The Tribune and reads as
follows:
Thank you for your letter of Nov. 24 inquiring about the status of the Century City proposal in
Uxbridge Township. I have also noted the brochure issued by Century City Developments Ltd.,
which has been circulated by the Company to residents of the Township. Your letter is one of a
number which I have recently received inquiring about the status of this proposal.
We are aware that the Company has secured land and is in the process of preparing plans for t
he land. However, as far as I know, no application has yet been made to the Township Council to
amend the official plan of the municipality which presently indicates the land in a rural category;
no application has yet been made to me for the approval of a plan of subdivision for all or part of,
the area in question.
Until the official plan and zoning by-law are changed, and until a plan of subdivision is approved
the development described cannot occur. When these steps are initiated by the developer
and/or the municipality the government will consider the applications to determine their
appropriateness from a number of standpoints — including the impact on the municipality
and the larger region. If, after comprehensive study, it appears that the proposal is in the public
interest it will be approved. If it does not meet the various criteria which we have established,
and is not in the public interest, it will not be approved.
This will not be an easy application to deal with as it is within an area which is the subject of a
number of government studies (Metropolitan Toronto & Regional Transportation Study and
Oshawa Planning and Development Study) which are concerned with both the structure of local
government and the form of urban growth. These studies have not yet been completed.
Until they are completed, or substantially completed, it will be extremely difficult to take a
positive stand one way or the other.
I trust that the above comments will be of some assistance to you.
W. Darcy McKeough,
Minister.
--
Silver anniversary
By Blanche Tindall
ALTONA
Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Ed MacAloney, who celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary,
May 26. A party was held in the Community Centre, Saturday, with over 60 persons present.
Pat Lewis finished her year at Teachers College and was not required to write any exams.
In the fall, she will begin teaching in Sutton.
The Altona Womens Institute will hold their meeting June 9 at 8 p.m. (note change of date)
in the home of Mrs. Harvey Feasby.
The W.M.S. will meet June 2 at 8 p.m. in the home of Mrs. George Harvie.
Please leave bundles for the paper drive at the home of Bob Lewis or Des Kerr during the
next two weeks.
"
"Sixty years of Women's Institute History - 1970
It is the inclination of most people when celebrating an anniversary to reminisce a little.
The Altona Womens Institute organization meeting, which was sixty years ago today,
was held at the home of Miss ""E.P. Howitt, who is Mrs. Edith Soden, of Brougham and is
present with us to-day. Mrs. Soden was selected the first secretary.
There were fifty ladies at the first meeting and out of the group twenty-six became members
that day. By the end of the year the membership rose to forty-two. This is more than we have at
present but the membership has been as high as sixty.
The first president was Miss Charlotte Hoover, who later married Mr. Isaac Stouffer and moved to
western Canada.
The receipts for the first year were #13.50 and the expenses $4.75. The procedure of the meetings
was similar to that of to-day except that the meetings opened with the singing of a hymn,
or patriotic song.
To-day we use the ""Opening ode"", The Mary Stewart Collect and the Lord's Prayer.
Then as now the National Anthem is sung at the close of the meeting.
The first transaction of donating money was in the second year, when fifty cents was donated to
the Adelaide Hoodless Fund.
The meetings, except for a few, have always been held in the homes of the members.
In the beginning, the hostess proved the refreshments, but as each hostess seemed to try to
outdo the other, a motion was brought forth that no hostess should provide more than two kinds
of food. Now a lunch committee is appointed for each meeting relieving the hostess of this duty.
When vacuum cleaners first came on the market, the Womens Institute bought one, with all
attachments from the T.Eaton Co. for $12.50.
It was to be used by the members free, with a fee of $1.00 for new members.
In the fourth year, two delegates were sent to the convention, each being paid $1.00
toward their expenses.
During World Wars One and Two, sewing and knitting was done for the Red Cross end also
parcels were sent to the boys who had gone from the community.
The Womens Institute sponsored the bringing of peaches from the fruit belt at wholesale
prices for members who wished to obtain them.
For the first few years, Altona Womens Institute was in the North Ontario County district.
In 1922, we were changed to the South Ontario district because of the closer proximity.
This branch has tried many ways over the years to make money for our Institute work,
including such things as Box Socials, Garden Parties, Shoe and Waist Measurements-
(penny an inch), Booths at Farm Sales, Apron Sales, Pot Luck Suppers, and quilts that were
pieced, quilted and sold. Now most of our funds are raised by catering which was started just a
little over ten years ago.
In past years, our Institute has sponsored various, competitions for the students in the four
schools of the district, from which, our members come. There have been art competitions,
temperance essays, spelling matches, singing festivals, etc. To-day three of these four schools,
Atha, Altona, Mongolia have been closed and only Glasgow remains open. The 4-H Club Girls
work was started in 1934 and has continued since then. The Branch gives each girl a teaspoon
in addition to the one that she receives from the department.
In June of 1935, we celebrated our Twenty-fifth Anniversary at the home of Mrs. Hirarn Yake.
At that meeting and since that time, as each member completes twenty-five years of
membership, she receives a Federated Womens Institute pin. The Fiftieth Anniversary was
held in the Masonic Hall, and another decade has gone since them bringing with it more
changes in our world than in any other decade. These changes concern us as women for
""Home and Country"".
Through the years and often annually, our organization has been privileged to help other
organizations as well as W.L. sponsored projects. To name a few there have been-our pennies
for friendship to help relieve poverty and suffering in overseas countries, retarded children,
The Harold King Farm, Cancer Society, Mental Health, Heart Fund, Sick Childrens Hospital,
Northern Ontario Womens Institute projects, Unesco, Canadian National Institute for the Blind,
Adelaide Hoodless Home and Handicapped children. We have collected used eye glasses,
sponsored two foster children, one in Greece since 1961 and the other in Hong Kong since
1962. We furnished a room at the Parkview Home, we assist annually at the Brougham Museum
open house day, made donations to our two local community centres- ""Atha and Altona"",
entered parade floats and also other numerous things in the community and district for those
who have suffered misfortune or have needed some cheer. In all we try to project our motto-
""For Home and Country"". The members have had some outings themselves. Some of cur
catering funds have been spent on educational bus trips. We've toured some interesting
buildings and manufacturing plants are also places of historical Interest. Each of our members
received a centennial crab apple tree in centennial year. We sent a member to the A.C.W.W.
when it was held in British Columbia and also two members were sent as delegates to the Nova
Scotia A.C.W.W. We sponsored and enjoyed a successful Arts and Crafts Show in centennial
year. 'We enjoy our meetings! Each Christmas we go to Fairview Lodge at Whitby to put on a
program and take gifts and treats to the senior citizens. This is probably our highlight meeting.
However, in all our meetings, speakers, pictures, short courses, etc. have given us much adult
education.
Like other organizations we have been caught up by the summer heat-or the call of the open
road, possibly we're just too busy or whatever, so we do not have meetings in July and August.
It is not possible to mentions all the things that should be mentioned since time does not permit
or to give credit where credit is due as the results of our efforts are not always seen openly.
The Womens Institute groups gathered here to-day to help us celebrate our Sixty Years of
Institute Work in the Altona Community is each doing your W.L. work In your own community and
together we will do It for ""Home and Country"".
(compiled by L. Byer for 60th anniversary.)
"
"Home-Made Bread – The Kind Grandma Used to Bake -1968
No, this photo didn’t come out of Grandma’s album. It’s fresh, oven-baked bread,
the result of a 3-week course conducted by the ladies of the Altona Women’s Insitute.
Admiring the loaves is Mrs. Beatrice Wideman, R.R.3, Claremont. –Staff Photo.
--
Mrs. Doris William of Altona couldn’t resist taking a bite-sized sample of these home-made
Chelsea buns. The course, sponsored by the Altona Women’s Institute concludes Feb. 1. –
Staff Photo.
--
This home-made Swedish tea-ring looks mighty tempting even in a picture. It is held here by
Mrs. Winnie DeLaMatter, Stouffville, R.R.3. The subject of the course is “Baking with Yeast.” –
Staff Photo.
--
From Oven to Table
ALTONA — When the sweet smell of home-made bread wafts its way across the countryside
from a south-easterly direction, it's a sure sign that the Altona Women's Institute has reconvened its
baking class. The ladies, about thirty in all, are currently holding half-day courses on the subject
'Baking With Yeast.' They will, meet again, Feb. 1 at the home of Mrs. Beatrice Wideman.
Mrs. Wideman, one of the demonstrators, admitted that there had been a few failures, although
none of these was in evidence on the table. The ladies sample their own goods just to make sure.
One member suggested that after consuming such delicacies as chelsea buns and tea rings, the
organization of an Altona TOPS Club might be in order.
Ladies attending the home-baking course, Jan. 17 included Mrs. Wideman, Mrs. Albena
Hodgson, Mrs. Eleanor Bunker, Mrs. Doris Williams, Mrs. Gertrude Kerswill, Mrs. Grace Bielby,
Mrs. Marjorie Fretz, Mrs. Elsie Dun-keld, Mrs. Muriel McKay, Mrs. Winnie Delamatter,
Mrs. Gladys Badgero, Mrs. Edna Allen, Mrs. Doris MacAloney, Mrs. Lillian Byer,
Mrs. Ruth Lewis, Mrs. Blanche Tindall, Mrs. Winie Harris and Mrs. 01lie Hulshof.
--
Brandtford trip –Sept 3/70
By Blanche Tindall
ALTONA – The Altona W.I. are planning a bus trip, leaving Stouffville at 8 a.m. September 10,
for Brantford, where they will visit Pauline Johnson’s home, the Mowhawk Chapel and other
places of interest. Contact Mrs. Fred Byer or Mrs. James McCreight.
--
Altona W.I. members supper, May 28, 7.30, Manchester. Bring husband or friend. 1973.
"
"Every year women’s year, institute told
WATERLOO, Ont. (CP) — The president of the Federated Women's Institute of Canada
said reaction to International Women's Year is mixed and warned ""there is a danger that
thousands of taxpayers' dollars could be literally going down the drain.""
Mrs. John A. McLean told an Ontario Women's Institute conference at the
University of Waterloo, ""we could wind up with an International Women's Year that is purely a
public relations job with Why Not! slogans and extensive advertising through the media.""
-Mrs. McLean said every year is women's year ""or if it's not it should be.""
She said while institute members have been urged to be conscious of their responsibilities as
wives and mothers, they must also broaden their interests and involvements, move outside their
homes, develop their capacities and take advantage of opportunities.
She said, in its 78-year existence, women's institute has encouraged such participation but has
not been successful.
Provincial Agriculture Minister William Stewart asked institute members to submit their views of
violence depicted on television programs and its effect on society.
He told delegates that the recently-formed royal commission to study violence in the
communications industry seeks to find whether there is any connection to the incidence of crime.
Mrs. Herbert Maluske, of Oiesley, the new Ontario institute president, said the organization must
continue to voice strong united opinions against man's inhumanity to man.
--
Women must seek changes – -women’s institutes leader
CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. (CP) — Women must learn to exert pressure on governments for
policies that affect the quality of family life and the future of women, says the president of the
Federated Women's Institutes of Canada (FWIC).
""When legislation is presented, it is up to us to know what is in that legislation and we have to
be watchdogs . . .of laws and in the marketplace,"" said Mrs. J. A. McLean, of Eureka, N.S.,
at the institutes' convention.
""One of our priority challenges is to be concerned with land use. Another is with social and
economic disparities that exist,"" she, said.
The organization, which consists mainly of women from rural Canada, should also be involved
in problems facing the agriculture industry, in nutrition education and in the problem of the
increase in alcoholism, particularly among the young, she said.
Mrs. Olive Farquaharson, of England, president of the Associated Countrywomen of the World,
of which FWIC is a member, urged delegates to realize that while they have important work in
their own areas they were also citizens of the world.
They must, she said, ""ever be conscious of socio-econom¬ic changes taking place and need
to understand and show concern and take a stand to combat very real inequalities between
rich and poor.""
A basic aim of the world body is to help people improve homes and families and to foster
understanding of one another, she said. Thus, it must encourage societies to improve the status
of women, to promote equality between men and women and to Change attitudes.
Mrs. Farquaharson said it was not easy for women to throw away their traditional roles but those
who did want to change should not have obstacles placed in their way.
--
75th Anniversary celebrated
Mrs. Harvey Noblitt of Ottawa, president of the Federated Women’s Institutes of Ontario,
and Olive Farquharson of England, president of the Associated Country Women of the World,
admire model of Erland Lee Homestead, Stoney Creek, where the constituton for the first
women’s institute was written Feb. 19, 1897. It was made by Mrs. Willard Gingerich, Baden,
for the luncheon today for 1,610 members who have bought tickets for the FWIO celebration in
the Royal York Hotel. The Ontario organization has also sponsored Mrs. Farquharson’s visit.
--
WI head visiting Canada
In some countries, Women’s Insitutes are still teaching basic nutrition to farm women.
In others they are showing townspeople where their milk comes from.
Olive Farquharson, president of their international organization, the Associated Country Women
of the World, is in Canada to help celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of WI in Stoney
Creek, Ont.
Mrs. Farquharson says: “The most important part of what we’re doing varies with the country.
In very rural areas, in Ghana, for instance, they are busy setting up institues to do what it was
founded to do 75 years ago.
“In England we have a town and country project. Institutes are trying to develop an exchange with
people in new towns, in housing development, even factories to come out and meet the people
in the villages and see that milk comes out of a cow, not a bottle.”
“Not only do we pass on our practical knowledge, our expertise,
to women in the developing countries, but they feel greatly encouraged to take their rightful
place in their own communities by the heartning sense of friendship and understanding that
membership brings to them,” she said in Toronto. –CP.
"
"Mr. and Mrs. George Harvie, R.R.1, Goodwood, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary,
Dec. 24. Friends and family relatives, many from a distance, attended the gathering. –
Jim Thomas. 1972
--
Mr. and Mrs. Jim McCreight, Main Street, Stouffville, celebrated their Golden Wedding
Anniversary, June 23. They greeted hundreds of family relatives and friends at an ‘open house’
in the lower auditorium of the Stouffville United Church. –Jim Thomas.
"
"Winners of W.I Draw, 1975
Quilt - Sharon Crawford, Oshawa
Needlepoint Picture - Marcia Hurst, Brooklin
Afghan - Barbara Burnell - Claremont
Cushion - Nina Waldroff - Finch, Ont.
Ont. S., Ont. N., and Durham West W.I worked together as hostesses for the Region at the
Ploughing Match. Home made cookies, tea, coffee were served. Also a display of crafts and
W.I. work was arranged. Pennies for friendshio amounted to $800.+"
"International Plowing Match –Sept. 1975
PAULINE McGIBBON VISITS
Back in 1973 at the District Annual the announcement was made that in 1975 the International and
World Plowing Match would be in Durham Region. It was agreed Mrs. Fred Phoenix and
Mrs. H. Lewis would act as co-chairman. Many brainstorming sessions were held and ideas finally
put on paper. The three Districts would be asked to promote Women's Institutes in the Regional tent.
The duties would be shared by Ontario North and South and Durham Districts. There would be
three sections, a public relations, craft and demonstrations, and information on courses and WI
publicity. Each District would loan articles, provide capable demontrators, man the display area
and serve coffee.
The next stage in this ""simple decision"" the WI had been graciously offered 60 feet of space —
that's just it — only space. How do you display articles, where do you hang them, what do you sit
on, how do you make it attractive?
It did not take long to realize they needed a truck to transport all their materials,
and a representative from every branch to put this display in order. Armed with the
necessary tools, nails, hammers, ropes, chairs, tables, plywood (which was to be the sub floor
in the kitchen of the new Lewis house), they started in to build. Necessity is the mother of
invention, the women convinced two gentlemen that just happened to pass by to help them.
It proved to be an all day job, patience and hard work does have its reward and the display
area really looked good.
As a Public Relations effort, cookies and coffee would be served and a Pennies For Friendship
jar placed in a visible location.
A simple decision, but it was not in the plans that Mrs. Lewis would grind 72 lbs of coffee herself
at the store. After 1 1/2 hours she left with instructions she'd pick up the remaining 28 lbs.
8000 cups of coffee later and 250 cups of tea to boot. There were the contents of the
""Penny jar,"" $860.29 with $800.00 of it in change, to be wrapped. Mrs. Janet Crawford
and Mrs. Lewis developed sore thumbs, aching muscles from wrapping, then they needed
help to carry the cash to the bank. At this stage the only thing that kept everybody going was
the fact that people had been generous and the money was for a good cause.
There were about 3000 signatures in the guest book from all over Ontario, every province,
many states in the USA, and Europe. The Hon. Pauline McGibbon called in, the Ontario County
Dairy Princess, heads of the World Plow teams of Holland and the USA.
The crafts added a personal touch while members from the three Districts demonstrated
quilting, spinning, painting, broom stick work, beading, and rug hooking.
With the assistance of Mrs. Muriel Wooten, Mrs. Helen McKean and all those many members
from all three Districts who worked hard and long hours, the project was a success.
As Mrs. Lewis said, ""There were so many funny happenings, lots of work, but it was great to
meet so many people. It was a thrill and a most worthwhile public relations effort on behalf of
Women's Institutes.""
--
Post office news
Mrs. Irene Slack of O’Brien Ave. was escorted by her husband, Walter to a dinner at the
Deer Park Inn, honouring her retirement of 15 years of service as Postal Clerk at the Post Office
on Main St.
Mrs. Elsie Sanders, her former Post Master’s wife was present along with 17 of Irene’s fellow
workers.
Mrs. Irene Slack received a piece of luggage and a beautiful flower arrangement.
--
Massive antique collection will be put to auction
ALTONA – This Saturday’s (Aug. 21) auction sale of the property of Mervin and Elanor Bunker
should prove a delight to antique enthusiasts and collectors.
The pieces, collected by the Bunkers over a 25 year period, are so extensive, a full day will be
required to auction them off an accordingly the sale begins at 10:30 a.m.
Mr. and Mrs. Bunker’s home, at Altona, has been expropriated for the now defunct Pickering
airport.
The sale will offer such exotic items as an antique wood barber pole, a pot bellied cast iron
stove, old bayonets and hundreds of other articles.
Stouffville auctioneers Norm Faulkner and Earl Gauslin will have a busy day handling the
bidding.
"
"economists, WI members throughout the province teach both 4-H and Ministry of Agriculture Adult
Programs. In addition, Women's Institutes organize and carry out a wide variety of projects to
raise funds for worthy community causes. Last year alone, more that $500,000 was raised by
Women's Institutes throughout Ontario.
The Women's Institutes are also keeping the history books of Ontario alive by compiling branch
history books and encouraging their members to maintain 'house logs' which tell the story of both
the individual's family and farm.
4-H Clubs; Learning by Doing
Anyone attending a fall fair in rural Ontario will be familiar with 4-H -- because that's the time of
year when these clubs are most visible to the general public. Between August and November,
weekly newspapers across the province honor the winners of ""Best Calf"" contests and pay
pictorial tribute to a wide variety of 4-H presentations and exhibits.
But aside from competitions and displays at annual fairs, 4-H Clubs provide a variety of
year-round educational opportunities to more than 22,000 young members in rural Ontario.
Nearly forty programs are available through 4-H Agricultural Clubs, including beekeeping,
beef cattle marketing, the care and safe handling of a light horse or pony, greenhouse crops,
home beautification, farm building design, small engines, welding, conservation,forestry,
agricultural, meteorology, farm accounting and credit... and many more.
On the other hand, 4-H Homemakinq Clubs offer courses ranging from food and nutrition
(at least one per year) through to crafts, outdoor living, clothing and textiles, home furnishings,
consumer information and citizenship.
Like the Women's Institutes across the province, 4-H receives assistance through the Ministry of
Agriculture and Food, mainly for communications and leadership training.
But the major responsibility for
Enthusiastic 4-H Club member shows off prize-winning steer at the Royal Winter Fair.
carrying out 4-H programs rests with volunteers — members of the Women's Institutes,
parents, church groups and a wide variety of other interested individuals —
who actually teach the programs.
The organization's motto is ""Learning to do by doing"" and the 4-H symbol is a four leaf clover
whose leaves represent Head, Heart, Hands and Health.
In the early years of 4-H, basic agricultural and homemaking skills were emphasized almost
exclusively. Agriculture and home-making are still central to the 4-H program, but today the
organization also emphasizes personal growth and development, helping young people to
develop self-confidence, learn to appreciate rural life, gain a sense of responsibility,
and improve their leadership potential.
Through the years, course content has kept pace with new developments, but the philosophy
has been passed down from generation to generation practically untouched. As older members
of 4-H 'graduate' into adulthood, many in turn provide leadership for younger members of their
communities. It's a family tradition that has deep roots right across rural Ontario.
--
80th year for Ontario W.I.
Kitchener, Ont.: The Ontario Women's Institute is celebrating its 80th anniversary and more than
1,300 delegates gathered here July 14 to take in the festivities.
The Women's Institute was founded in 1897 in Stoney Creek, Ont., by Adelaide Hunter Hoodless
and Erland Lee. The international arm, the Associated Country Women of the World (A.C.W.W.),
was formed in 1933 and now has eight million members. The Women's Institute runs programs
in homemaking, nutrition, and leadership, and contributes to emerging countries.
Lindsay Hacket-Pain, of England, honorary treasurer and finance chairman of A.C.W.W., said
the organization is a ""formidable but informed pressure group if we care to use our influence for
good.""
--
Mount Albert WI holds picnic - 1977
By JEANETTE JORDON
The members of Mount Albert Women's Institute held a picnic meeting at Rita Rolling's cottage.
Plans were made for the district dessert euchre at Belhaven on July 27 and their own public
euchre in Mount Albert Hall on Aug. 10 at 2 p.m. A few games, delightful weather,
companionship and a sumptuous picnic supper all helped make it a most enjoyable picnic.
An 80th anniversary celebration of the founding of Women's Institute was held on July 13
at Bingeman Park in Kitchener. Four members of Mount Albert W.I. Blanche Rose, Violet Wagg,
Roma Harrison and Jeanette Jordan, were among the 1,300 present. Guest speaker was
Mrs. Lindsay Hackit-Pain from England, who is treasurer of the associated country Women of
the World (A.C. W. W.). This organization has evolved from the founding of Women's Institute in
Stoney Creek, Ont. 80 years ago. Mrs. Hacket-Pain is now touring in the northern areas of
Ontario and will also visit Ottawa before her return to England.
The ACWW will be holding its triennial conference in Niarobi, Kenya, in October and a number
of W.I. members from Ontario are planning to attend.
"
"Province lauds community historians - Kitchener-Waterloo Record, May 3, 1979.
By FRANCES L. DENNEY
Record Women's Editor
It's taken 32 years, but Ontario government professional historical researchers have finally
recognized the efforts of the amateurs — the hundreds of Women's Institute community history
curators.
Wednesday, at the 31st annual Ontario WI Officers Conference at the University of Waterloo,
the organization was invited to form a working committee to work with the Heritage
Administration branch of the ministry of culture and recreation.
David Roberts, research co¬ordinator with the branch, told the 600 conference delegates that he,
as a professional historian, believes very strongly that the WI Tweedsmuir community histories
provide an excellent, if not the best, means for recording local histories.
The WI effort, which began in 1947 at the urging of Lady Susan Tweedsmuir,
wife of novelist-historian John Buchan who was Canada's governor-general from 1935 to 1940,
is one of the longest running historical projects in Ontario.
It was in 1936 that Lady Tweedsmuir, herself a member and county president of the WI in
Oxfordshire, England, first recognized the need for preserving the history of a nation.
She especially believed that the history of each local community should be preserved through
comprehensive, factual collection of data.
She was aware that there was a need to pass on one generation's knowledge and
perspectives to the next, and because the community WI was an acknowledged steadying
influence, she believed its members would be able to
provide future historians with an accurate picture of rural life through its compilation of histories.
The Federated WI of Ontario took up the project in 1947 to mark the 50th anniversary of the
founding of the WI.
Roberts, a native of West-port, a small village north of Kingston, said he found a Tweedsmuir
history there, and while it was incomplete and somewhat inaccurate, it still stimulated his interest
in becoming a professional historian.
After the Second World War, he said, there was stimulus to preserve the past of communities,
and the more recent and rapid rise in ""local historical root"" is nothing new. It had its roots in
WI preservation of community histories.
He recalled that the WI in Clinton lamented in 1950 the absence of first-hand information about
that community, and its history — one of the first publications of WI-gathered histories —
it pointed out that its dates were copied from early data that may not necessarily have been
accurate.
In the past year, Roberts said, there has been ""a tremendous upsurge in work by historical
societies, architectural conservationists, museums, and genealogy groups,"" and among it the
work by WI community history curators will become increasingly recognized.
The quality of the WI community histories may vary greatly, he said, keeping in mind the
difficulties inherent in obtaining information, interpreting it and assessing its value.
He said he was in no sense advocating standards which would intimidate WI members
who have a sincere interest in their communities' unique histories, but he was pleased that the
organization had produced in 1973 a manual for compiling Tweedsmuir histories.
His proposal that the WI form a working committee to work with the Heritage Administration
branch, dealing solely with the Tweedsmuir histories, brought loud applause from the conference
delegates. The branch would assist the WI in defining standards of research among other things,
he said.
The provincial government has assisted the WI curators by microfilming material,
and the Archives of Ontario now has 68 microfilm reels containing several hundred
local histories.
--
Promoting Public Awareness
WI praised for immunization role
The 30,000-member Federated Women's Institute of Ontario was praised Wednesday for its
support of the ministry of health's campaign to initiate an intensive awareness of immunization.
Molly McGhee of Toronto, director of the home economics branch for the ministry of agriculture
and food, told an Ontario WI Officers Conference at the University of Waterloo that the
organization had a vital role to play in motivating the public, particularly parents of youngsters,
to make certain that their immunization shots are kept up to date.
It was particularly significant that in the International Year of the Child, she said, there is hope
Canadians will develop a greater appreciation of some measures which can be taken to
improve their rights and opportunities for self-fulfilment.
In 1890, the son of WI co-founder Adelaide Hunter Hoodless, died from drinking contaminated
milk. His death led Mrs. Hoodless, who lived at St. George, Ont., to press for the formation of a
women's organization to discuss improvement of home life, including family health. Her effort led
to the establishment of the first WI in the world at Stoney Creek, Ont., at the home of co-founder
Erland Lee. Both the Hoodless and Lee homes are maintained by the WI as historical sites.
Miss McGhee said the agriculture ministry first provided a home economist, Laura Rose
Stephen, in 1903 to help organize WI branches throughout Ontario and give lectures on
domestic science. ""Our early records show that in 1912 five staff were hired and they put
on courses for 1,167 persons.""
This year, with a staff of 49 home economists and two crafts specialists, the home economics
branch has reached more than 70,000 people in Ontario through its courses, and answered
almost 17,000 consumer enquiries.
""Another 96,000 people were reached through our publications, and many more received
information through newspaper and magazine articles, radio tapes and TV presentations,""
she said.
Although both staff numbers and contact has increased tremendously, history does repeat itself,
she said. ""In 1903 there was a course on bread-making. This year our Spotlight on Bread
program was one of the most successful in recent years. This highlights the fact that each
generation has its own emphasis on certain subjects.""
She said the home economics branch and the FWIO are still working together to disseminate
information to families and communities. She lauded the WI for providing more than 5,000
volunteer leaders to help the home economics branch in supporting hundreds of 4-H
homemaking clubs during the year.
--
Kitcher-Waterloo Record. May 2, 1979.
Meeting child’s material needs
By FRANCES L. DENNEY
Record Women's Editor
Today's kids have never had it so good. Right?
Canada has virtually no Oliver Twists who need to ask for ""more"". But that doesn't mean that
adults can settle back in complacency, a University of Guelph professor said in Waterloo T
uesday night.
Dr. Richard Barham, a New Zealander who heads the university's department of family studies,
told an Ontario Women's Institute conference that most Canadian children have adequate,
even luxurious, space, shelter and warmth. Canadian children are free of ravaging disease,
and that the infant mortality rate of 71.7 deaths per 1,000 live births in 1934 dropped to 15 per
1,000 in 1974.
""But the aims of the International Year of the Child charge us to examine the general well-being
of the nation's children and not to stop with our own immediate family nor how gross the
Christmas stocking has become,"" he said.
Dr. Barham noted some genuine, casualties. ""They (the children) must be one of the last groups
to have any voice that can be heard by the lawmakers or any others who have responsibility
and power
in our country. We hear from farmers, small business, teachers, environmentalists,
pro-abortionists, the right-to-lifers, the pro-nuclear faction, the everything-is-fine-and-dandy'ers,
but we rarely hear from children.""
Dr. Barham said 50,000 couples are divorced each year, about five times the rate of 1964.
One of every four first marriages goes on the rocks, and the rate is heading for one in three.
The consequences of divorce for children means that more than 631,000 are in one-parent
families. The issue of custody means that children are often treated like pawns in a battle
for ownership between parents. ""In the most extreme cases, that can involve kidnap in an
international arena. In other cases, no less tragic, the children are not much more than unclaimed
property — 'left luggage' — of no real importance or value to either party,"" Dr. Barham said.
""The second point is that there are quite serious real-life questions of custody, rights or access
and the like, involved in many of the terminated marriages. And we do not seem to have
gone very far out of our way to study or inform ourselves about either the short or long-run
effects of the various custody and access arrange-
ments on the children in¬volved.""
Dr. Barham said that more than 50 per cent of all one-parent families live in poverty.
Questions must be asked about physical care and shelter, the standard of nutrition and
mental health which can be afforded the children, he said.
""Do these children have a reasonable chance to develop a sense of worth and dignity?
Do they have a reasonable chance of valuing themselves and their community sufficiently
highly that they want to be a positive and active part of it? Or are they hurt, resentful, anti-social?""
Dr. Barham said that for the second year in a row, the number of day care spaces and centres
has fallen, and there has been some rise in the much more loosely supervised family day care.
Between 1976 and 1977 day care spaces fell from 83,520 to 81,651 for all forms of day care,
including arrangements for the school-aged child.
""In 1974, of those 630,000 children in single-parent families, 143,000 were preschoolers.
To look at it from a different angle, only 16 percent of all three-to-five-year-olds whose mothers
work, were enrolled in day care. And just over five per cent of the under three-year-olds whose
mothers worked, were placed in day care.
""They have care arrangements which vary from splen-
--
Not enough, professor tells WIs
did situations with a wider family of friends, through family day care provisions which might be
excellent, but might be very far from adequate, right through to the occasional extremes where
children are left virtually to rot under the most barren conditions, or even on their own for hours at
a time.""
Dr. Barham said he was not debating whether both father and mother, or the single parent of a
pre-school child, should work.
""The question is, what standards of care, of emotional, social and intellectual stimulation, do we
afford a whole generation of children? What accounting can we make for the responsibility we
show towards many, many thousands of utterly dependent pre-schoolers?""
There has never been a time in western civilization when individuals, couples, and families have
been more anonymous, or more independent of the help, guidance and support of their wider
families or their neighbors, he said.
Grandparents don't live around the corner any more, or even in the same town. If they do,
chances are they are both busy and working themselves. ""They are not on hand to give advice,
to participate in the care of the children.
""Young families are often very much alone and terribly unschooled and unprepared in how to
raise children and what standards of care and nurture to provide,"" Dr. Barham said.
""If through weariness, callousness, ignorance or whatever, they fail to provide adequate
provisions, there is often no one standing close by either to lend a hand or to shake them and
pull them up to the mark.""
Child abuse has become so frequent, and people so reluctant to report suspected incidents,
he said, that ""we have had to make it an offence not to report such cases.""
""Do we look to pur own immediate lives and say to heck with the rest! Do we say, as a
community, as a generation, that it is someone else's fault!
""Is it none of our business that virtually 10 per cent of all suicides in Canada were committed
by children or youth under 19 years of age?""
Dr. Barham said he didn't consider himself a dewyeyed romantic1 who thinks heaven can be
achieved on earth. ""But I do think that for all we may have moved away from some forms of
exploitation of chil¬dren by enacting laws, there may be new and serious forms of neglect and
damage.
""We are bound to recognize the relative powerlessness of children to make their own case.""
"
"1) A baking we did go
A baking we did go
High ho to the rising dough
A baking we did go.
2) Luella and Joan were great
As teachers, they take the cake
Many kinds of breads they made
As they punched and rolled and baked.
3) There were 26 ladies in all
As we gathered in the hall
To see how yeasty breads were made
And we ate them, nearly all.
4) With flour and fat in all
And yeast that makes it tall
Add some things to fancy them up
And you can make them all.
A message for N. Ontario Report on Farming, Feb. 1980
From: Mrs. May Brown
Washago, Ont.
I have had requests from Northern Ontario to provide happenings of the Women's Institute,
as apparently yours is the paper that they read:
The Victorian Christmas at the Erland Lee Home at Stoney Creek in Ontario was a memorable
day that will be recorded in the history of the organization. This was a first for the Home and the
decorations were typical of that era.
The cedar tree with its garlands of fresh strung popcorn and cranberries; the hand-tatted
snow-flakes and glass ornaments that were cut from window pane, as well as red velvet bows
attracted much attention.
Ontario's Lieutenant Governor Pauline McGibbon was among the hundreds of visitors and
reminisced about the early rural life and spoke of the important role the Women's Institute
played in helping women who lived in isolation on their farms in the earlier days and how
beneficial was the knowledge that the W.I. provided for them. Mrs. Adelaide Hoodless had
been persuaded by Mr. Lee to address these women and thus the W.I. was organized over
80 years ago.
Was it the smell of fresh-baked bread; the kissing ball that hung in the alcove; the tree-like
arrangement of apples that adorned the Consitution Table in the dining-room; the smell of the
cedar boughs that hung about doors and windows, or the taste of the hot cider and homemade
cookies that will long be remembered? For all who attended there was a greater awareness of
the benefits that the women have, particularly in the rural areas because of the foresight of the
founders of the W.I.
--
Ontario W.I. annual - 1980
By Mildred Mctaggart
GREENWOOD -Mrs. A.J. Brady of Whitby, was elected president of the Southern Ontario
Women's Institute at its 81st annual meeting at Claremont United Church, May 22. Other officers
elected were: Mrs. Clara Warren, Port Perry, 1st vice-president; Mrs. C. Thompson, Port Perry,
2nd vice-president; Mrs. J. Coates, Port Perry, secretary; Mrs. D. Andrews, Cannington,
treasurer. Named convenors were: agriculture and Canadian industry, Mrs. Ellis Britton,
Claremont; education and cultural activities, Mrs. Edward Kelly, Blackstock; citizenship and
world affairs, Miss Isobel Gregg, Sunderland; public relations, Mrs. Isobel Annis, Brougham;
resolutions, Mrs. Madeline Cawker, Port Perry; curator, Mrs. Mildred McTaggart, Greenwood;
federal representative, Mrs. H. Wotten, Blackstock.
--
Life membership
Mrs. Jim McCreight of Stouffville, has been awarded a Life Membership in the Altona Women’s
Institute.
The Presentation was made at a meeting last month.
Mrs. McCreight’s work within the Altona W.I., spans more than 40 years. During this time,
she has held most of the offices including positions at the District 5 level.
“Vi”, as she’s known to a wide circle of friends, is a contributing life member of A.C.W.W.
(Associated Country Women of the World).
The local organization was pleased to recognize Vi’s endeavors in this manner, a token of
appreciation for many jobs well done.
"
"Sweden Hockey Team Visits Stouffville - 1979
Management of both teams sat at the top table at the Saturday afternoon luncheon,
given by the Altona Women’s Institute at the Masonic Hall. (l to r) Murray Redshaw (Manager),
Gord Lewis (Coach), Bob Lapp (trainer), Kjell Hoglund (Swedish Manager), Bob Lewis
(Equipment Manager), Pierre Bengtsson (Swedish Coach), Ronny Adolfsson (Swedish Coach)
and Borje Hultgren (Ass’t. Manager). Dec. 27, 1979 Jim Holt.
--
Presenting the Haninge Hockey Club of Sweden
Back row (l to r) Bjorn Adolfsson, Christer Dahlstrom, Kennet Hoglund, Tomas Bjork, Hans Nilsson,
Sven Sandberg, Ronny Adolfsson (Coach), Kjel Hoglund (Manager), Centre (l to r)
Pierre Bengtsson (Coach), Michael Aberg, Hakan Vinstedt, jan Tjernell, Mats Lundgren,
Tommie Jenssen, Mats Ohrn, Tomas Dahlstrom, Borje Hulgren (General Manager). Front row
(l to r) Petri Toriseva, Ulf Nylander, Bjorn Hultgren, Tony Jakobsson (Tean Captain),
Peter Berggren, Ove Karlsson, Tonny Hedlund. Jim Holt
"
"Altona Women's Institute 70th Anniversary, June 10, 1980.
The Altona Women’s Instiute recently celebrated its 70th anniversary. To mark the milestone,
a gathering was held in the Stouffville Masonic Hall with representatives from many branch
organizations in attendance. The anniversary cake was cut by Mildred Barkey (left), a charter
member assisted by the president, Jean White. Jim Holt Stouff. Tribune June 10, 1980.
--
The family of the late Miss Mildred Barkey wish to thank friends and relatives for flowers,
cards and kind words of sympathy, Rev. Clubine for service, O’Neill Funeral Home,
the Missionary Church ladies for providing lunch, also thanks to Parkview Home. “The Family”
July 8, 1983.
--
Silk flower corsages presented for many years attendance to Mrs. H. (Mary) St. John, Mrs. C.
(Bena) Hodgson, Mrs. A. (Bea) Wideman, Mrs. F. (Lillian) Byer, Mrs. J. (Viola) McCreight.
--
Pins presented by Mrs. H. (Muriel) Wotten for 25 years membership to Mrs. O. (Marjorie) Fretz,
Mrs. H. (Blanche) Tindall.
--
Bouquets presented by Mrs. J. (Jean) White to Charter members Miss M. Barkey (above) and
Mrs. W. Wallace.
"
"
Dearie
Altona W.I 70th Anniverary, June 10, 1980
excerpts of History given
When -
The Altona W.I. was organized on June 18, 1910 at the home of Miss E. Howitt, later Mrs. Soden,
with 26 joining at that first meeting and by the end of the year there were 42 members.
The receipts for that year were $13.50 with $4.75 for expenses. The meetings were held in the
Village Hall on the second Saturday of each month at 2:30 p.m.
When -
The Altona W.I. bought a vacuum cleaner for $12.50 with the attachments, to be
used by the members free, and with a fee of $1.00 for non-members.
Also, when meeting in the homes, the hostess was supplying the lunch of a
variety of goodies, to such an extent that it had to be limited to 2 kinds of
food or pay a fine or penalty.
Our first delegates were sent to the area convention in 1914 with $1.00 each
towards their expenses.
When -
The Altona W.I. did many things to raise money for the Red Cross during the World War 1,
such as sewing, knitting, teas to raise money and boxes packed to send to community boys,
friends and relatives away from home. Fruit and even brooms were bought in quantity and
resold to make money.
When -
In 1922 we joined Ontario South District because we seemed closer to other branches.
In 1924 we started our fruit and flower fund to remember our sick members and their fami lies.
Also we had a Grandmothers meeting yearly to show off old-fashioned clothes, songs and things
of interest from yesteryears.
When -
Money was made through Box socials, shoe sizes, garden parties, bake and apron sales,
waist measurements and sale of pieced guilts.
Many competitions were sponsored by the W.I. from art, temperance essays,
spelling matches to singing competitions. Also we competed with other branches at
Markham Fair, where we didn't always win, but did get experience.
When -
The Girl's Club Work started in 1934 and after each project
was completed, each girl was presented with a silver teaspoon
from the W.I. and one from the Department of Agriculture with the
4H crest on it. The 4H clubs are still continuing but I'm sorry
to say that leaders and girls in this area do not seem so interested.
When -
We celebrated our 25th Anniversary with a special program, featuring Miss McDermid,
the first Lady Superintendant of the W.I. as speaker, and a special cake to mark the occasion.
Eighty-five ladies were present at the reunion at the home of Mrs. H. Yake.
As that time there were 5 charter members still attending regularly -Mrs. H. Yake,
Mrs. Wm McKay, Mrs B. Reesor and Mrs Eli Lehman and they were presented with the
W.I. pin for their faithfulness and service for home and country. This 'tradition is still carried on.
When
During the Second World War We were again involved with the North Pickering
Red Cross sewing, knitting and sending boxes to the boys and girls in the
services. Also each new baby of a member was presented with a bank book
with $1.00 deposited. We also enjoyed fellowship with other W.I. ladies at
conventions, anniversaries, and branch meetings . We did our first catering in the
Altona school for the local ploughing match in 1943 charging 60£ per plate
for adults and 25cents for children.
When -
We took courses in rug-making, sewing, cooking, making lamp shades,
millinery, slip covers, home nursing and others. Our first donation was made
in 1911 to the Adelaide Hoodless Fund for 50 cents. We supplied blankets for
Hurricane Hazel victims, layettes and sweaters for Korea, assistance for fire victims
as well as helping out in the regular W.I. projects around the world.
We 'also contributed to local projects of hospitals, Cancer Society, Mental Health,
Retarded Children, Veteran's Hall, Stouffville, Pickering Twp. Museum and sick,
bereaved and shut ins especially at Christmas. Used glasses were collected and
two foster children have been sponsored since 1962. A room was furnished in
Parkview and Altona and Atha community centres were helped.
"
"When -
We catered for Lions Club, Ball clubs, Ploughing matches, Corn club, Masonic Club,
Odd fellows, wedding and anniversary receptions and funerals. Much of this money is used for
our projects but some goes to entertain our husbands and families at dinners and bus trips to
many places for education and enjoyment. Also floats have been entered in local parades.
When -
We celebrated our 50th Anniversary in the Masonic Hall in Stouffville, as well as our 60th
Anniversary with other branches and former members meeting together for reminiscing and
fellowship.
We used to meet every month, but of late years we do not meet during July and August.
We have a pot luck luncheon at our annual meeting and since our members now are so s
cattered we enjoy a trip to some of our meetings. We helped to entertain our A.C.W.W.
President, Mrs. Farquarson at Brampton.
When -
Times are so different different now the emphasis is put on Nutrition, Consumer
Buying, Conservation, Pollution, Drugs, Credit cards, crafts and handiwork to
mention a few.
Even though times have changed over the passed 70 years, the focus of our
organization is still the same as it was in the beginning with Adelaide Hoodless '
concern for her family and community.
So as we gather together this day may we give credit to what has
been accomplished in the past 70 years by the Altona Women's
institute and may we carry on to continue to do the W.I. work in
our own communities ""For Home and Country"".
Compiled by L. Lewis
Passing Time
How quickly pass the days and years
Time never waits for man.
Unceasingly the minutes fly
To fill the waiting span.
How happy he who may look back
With pleasure and content,
Upon the years forever gone
And feel they were well spent.
And still remember present time
Will only shortly last
And then will be, however lived,
A memory of the past.
"
"Mrs. Nelson Williams
May 1973
Heads Institute
ONT. CITY — The Women's Institutes of Ontario South District comprises twelve local branches
and a membership of approximately three hundred women. Its aim is to promote the advancement
and welfare of the family, home, and the country.
On May 24, the Ontario South W.I. held its 74th annual meeting at Raglan United Church.
During the program, Mrs. A. Rumble, Provincial Board Director, reported on Provincial affairs;
Mrs. Anne Thomspon, home economist, outlined the year's work with the 4H Homemaking Clubs
and W.I. branches; reports were given by convenors of the standing committees and the
release of the financial report revealed that $2,459.08 had been spent in community work.
A new slate of officers was selected for the coming year: Mrs. Helson Williams, Port Perry (Pres.);
Mrs. Harold Lewis, Altona (1st vice); Mrs. Henry Wotten, Shirley (2nd vice); Mrs. Hugh Crawford,
Greenwood (sec. treas.); Mrs. Fred Phoenix, Greenbank ((federated rep,); Mrs. Fred Byer,
Stouffville (pub. rel. officer); Mrs. Chas. McTaggart, Greenwood (curator); Mrs. S. Nicholson,
Greenwood and Mrs. M. McLean, R.R. 1, Locust Hill (auditors).
"
"FAMILY WAS RETURNING to Stouffville home after buying church decorations when accident
occured. Mae Klaue, 41, was killed. Son, Stephen (left), 5; husband, Volker, 37, and daughter,
Esther, 7, are injured and in the hospital.
Crash should inspire the living: Minister
By Dave Norris
Star staff writer –Dec. 3, 1977
A Stouffville minister whose wife was killed Saturday in a traffic accident which sent him and his,
two children to hospital hopes his tragedy will be an inspiration to his congregation.
Mae Klaue, 41, wife ol Volker Klaue, 37, minister of Altona Christian Misionary Church, is dead.
His son, Stephen, 5, is in critical condition, and his daughter, Esther, 7, is in serious condition in
the Hospital for Sick Children.
Klaue is in good condition in Scarborough Centenary Hospital, suffering from a broken jaw and a
concussion.
The family were returning to their Stouffville home on Saturday after buying Christmas decorations
for the church when their car was hit broadside on Highway 7 near the 10th Concession.
""Through this accident, perhaps many people will start thinking about being called to God,""
Klaue said from his hospital bed last night. ""I hope it
will be of real spiritual significance to my congregation.
""About two months ago Mae stood up in church and dedicated herself to the Lord again.
She died on Saturday but I know she was ready. Can others say the same?""
Klaue became minister last year after he and his family had spent two years in Austria as
missionaries for the church.
Klaue said he will return to his church when he recovers to continue the work to which he has
dedicated 15 years of his life.
""Two months ago when Mae stood up in the congregation, and dedicated herself anew to God,
I was a little disappointed that more didn't follow her,"" he said. ""But my congregation has been
visiting me and I have noticed a difference. I think they're ready to make a serious commitment.""
Funeral services for Mrs. Klaue will be held at the Stouffville Missionary Church at 2 p.m. on
Tuesday. The Stouffville church was chosen because her husband's church was considered too
small.
--
STOUFFVILLE — Altona Women's Institute is holding a craft and bake sale, Sat.,
Oct. 18 from 1:30 to 5 p.m., in the Stouffville United Church. Proceeds from from event will go to
Steven Klaue, son of Rev. Klaue. Steven was seriously injured in an auto accident several years
ago. Donations to the sale appreciated. For pick-up of goods or additional information call
640-3071 or 640-1530.
"
"Volker N. Klaue 9-8254-134th Street, Surrey, B. C. V3W 6M2
Dear Mrs. Lewis,
Surrey, November 17, 1980
We received your letter and the cheque of $ 2,020,- for Stephen today. We thank God and
we thank you for your love and fellowship in Stephen's care. The gift was higher than we ever
expected and we are deeply moved to learn that so many people from the Stouffville - Altona
area wanted to help in this way. Please convey to the Altona Women's Institute our most sincere
gratitude for this very generous gift.
Stephen said,to tell them I thank them, too,"" when I read your letter to him and told him that
I was able to deposit the money on our bank. Every month we transfer from Stephen's savings
some $200.- to 300.- for ongoing expenses to our cheqing account, since treatment fees,
transportation and general supplies for Stephen come out of our cheqing account. Stephen
has now $ 3,300.- on his savings. As far as rehabilitation equipment is concerned, we recognize
he is growing and we need to find different seating arrangements for him at home and also at
school. We are also thinking of equipment for bath-rooming for his independence. Since it is
hard to know what is best for him, we should consult with the staff at the treatment centre and
work through trial and error until we know what to look for.
In Stephen's treatment centre a staff of some 20 workers are trying to cope with continuing new
referrals, as there are more then 350 children treated now. Even if we tried, we could not place
Stephen at Woodlands Institute for Retarded Children (New Westminster) or at Sunny Hill
Hospital for Children because we are in Surrey and Surrey should develop their own
rehabilitation and care facilities. But government spending on health is restricted and many
handicapped children are placed in foster homes, where foster parents can hardly cope with
their disabilities. Stephen's treatment centre has opened two group homes recently for severly
handicapped children in Surrey and Stephen is admitted to the nearest home, on government
funds, to allow his parents short term relief. Stephen is going to try the group home next week
end to see how he likes it. Of course he likes home better but since we are involved in pastoral
work it is sometimes difficult.
We may have to move out of the trailer park next year and we hope to see our options more
clearly after the legal settlement of the accident. There are many questions about our work in the
church and Stephen's rehabilitation needs that we can not answer right now. But we are trusting
for God's guidance because God has been gracious to us and He does remember His children
and He is able to meet every need be it housing or health or patience. We are glad we are in
God's family.
We are expecting my Brother Roger, missionary in Brazil, to come and seeus after Christmas.
He came to see us briefly two years ago. The Lord has kept him and blessed him and we are
really looking forward to seeing him. Please, give our regards to Bob and Marg and to your
parents and to your Husband. May you have a blessed Christmas Season.
Best wishes to all
--
Stephen Klaue
‘Home’ for a visit
Survived tragic accident
BALLANTRAE—Back on Dec. 3, 1977, Rev. and Mrs Volker Klaue and children,
Esther and Stephen were involved in a tragic accident at the intersection of Hwy. 7 and Conc. 10,
Markham.
Mrs Klaue was kiiled and Stephen was seriously injured. Rev. Klaue and Esther were also hurt.
Their car was demolished.
That was 8 1/2 years ago.
Rev. Klaue has since remarried with three additional children, David, Philip and Joel.
Esther is now 16 and Stephen is 14. They live at Surrey, British Columbia.
On July 9, Stephen arrived via CP-Air for a two-week visit with his grandfather.
Clarence Summerfeldt, Elm Road, Stouffville, and his uncle and aunt, Mr and
Mrs Melvin Baker of Ballantrae.
Although Stephen remembers nothing of the crash, he relives the effects of the accident
every day. He attends a school for handicapped boys and on his return, will go to a camp not far
from home. He enjoys swimming and displays a keen sense of humor.
Stephen's able to move by crawling, but for the most part, he's confined to a wheelchair.
Stephen's love for his grandfather is very real. Following his arrival, he was taken to his
grandpa's home to see the beautiful flowers.
The 3,000 mile flight here presented no problems. CP-Air allowed Mr Klaue to accompany his
son and return free of charge, a gesture that was much appreciated by the family.
Arrangements were completed through Stonehouse Travel.
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Fourteen-year-old Stephen Klaue, severely injured in an auto accident 8 1/2 years ago,
is holidaying with his uncle and aunt, Mr and Mrs Melvin Baker of Ballantrae, and his grandfather,
Mr Clarence Sunmmerfeldt, Elm Road, Stouffville. Stephen now lives in Surrey, British Columbia.
"
"A shopper – in a hurray
Mrs. Fred Byer, Maytree Avenue, Stouffville, did her weekly shopping in a hurray, Wednesday.
Winner of a lucky draw at the Trade Fair, Sept. 23, everything she could pack into her cart within
the space of three minutes was hers to take home – FREE. The contest was sponsored by the
Stouffville Kinettes in co-operation with the I.G.A.
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Pen pals for fifty years, Mrs. Fred Byer (left) of Stouffville and Mrs. Ted Sinnott of Essenden,
Victoria, Austrailia, met for a first time last week. Mr. and Mrs. Sinnott visted here during a
4-month trip through parts of the United Sates and Canada.
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Plain people
Viola McCreight has, through the years, contributed much to the community, not only here in
Stouffville where she's been a resident since April, 1948, but on the Ninth Line of Markham where
she lived before moving to town. On the Ninth, she served as a school trustee, the first woman to
hold such a position at S.S. No. 19. She was also the first woman secretary-treasurer of a school
board in the County of York. She organized the Ninth Line Sewing Circle and was later honored by
the Canadian Red Cross for contributions towards the war effort. She's a Life Member of the
Altona Women's Institute and has served on the executive of the Ontario South District.
Her connection with the Altona W.I. goes back 45 years. She was president on two occasions
and secretary-treasurer seven years. Her work within the congregation of the Stouffville United
Church has touched almost every area of endeavor. She was president of the Women's
Association, an elder, a member of the congregational board and a teacher in the Sunday School.
At present, she's unit three leader of the U.C.W. and head of the Supply Department that packs
bales for mission houses. Mrs. McCreight served as president of the Stouffville Business and
Professional Women's Club and also held the position of Area Director. In 1956, she organized the
Stouffville Branch of the Canadian Cancer Society and was president of the Unit that year.
She's now the memoriam secretary. She speaks with pride of her family that includes two
daughters, Barbara (Mrs. Ken Vale) of St. Catharines; Isobel (Mrs. Lorne Emmerson),
Markham; one son, Tom in Toronto; five grandchildren and one great granddaughter.
It's because of people like Mrs. McCreight, Whitchurch-Stouffville's a better place in which to
live.
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Mr. and Mrs. Fred Byer, MaytreeAvenue, Stouffville, celebrated their golden wedding
anniversary, Saturday. They were honored at an ‘open house’ in the Silver Jubilee Club.
They have four daughters one son and fourteen grandchildren.
"
"Late Mary Winn W.I. member
Dies at 89
Stouffville -
Service was held from the chapel of the O'Neill Funeral Home, Aug. 7, for Mary Hazel Winn.
She passed away at Parkview Home on Tuesday, Aug. 5, 1981 at the age of 89.
She is survived by her daughter, Gertrude Kerswill, of Stouffville; her son, Walter Winn of
Sunderland; nine grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.
Mrs. Winn was predeaceased by her husband, Rowland Winn.
Interment was in Stouffville Cemetery.
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The Provincial Board of Federated Women's Institutes of Ontario sponsor a ""Rest Area""
Booth at the Royal Winter Fair, Toronto. Board Directors, Central Ontario Area, have staffed the
booth, set up Public Relations information to tell the story of our organization and welcomed visitors
from all over the world who are attending the Royal. Two ladies relax in the Rest Area before going
on to more sights and sounds of ""The Royal"".
"
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Last Saturday, Achievement Day for the project "Being Well Dressed & Well Groomed"
was held in Uxbridge High School. The nine Altona girls completed the unit satisfactorily and each
received a silver teaspoon. Jessie Ford, Marion ;Betz and Evelyn Whitty received certifi¬cates
for completing two units. Four girls from Ontario County received County Honour pins and
certificates for completing six units and four girls received Provincial Honour pins and cer¬tificates
for completing twelve units. Charlotte Ann McNair commented on the Altona Club exhibit and each
of the girls took part in the skit entitled "Would You Be Well-dressed?" The project for next year
will be "The Club Girl Stands on Guard."
"Altona Girl Honoured on Achievement Day
""It's Great to be a Canadian"" was the motto expressed by 4-H Home-making Club girls as they
participated in their Achievement Day activities at the Brook District High School on Saturday.
Through the project, ""Club Girl Stands on Guard"" every girl was alerted to study how best she
might stand on guard for Canada. They found that it involved keeping themselves in the best
possible health, so that they might be as efficient as possible for any tasks assigned to them.
One of the features of the day's program was the display of record books, personal defence,
charts and first' aid kits made by the club members. Following registration in the morning,
Miss Ruth Shaver, County Home Economist, introduced the local leaders from the five clubs
represented at Achievement Day. These local leaders through their untiring efforts, make club
work possible as they carry on the program in their own community. The morning was devoted to
judging menus, answering a safety patrol quiz and identifying hazards that might occur in the
home.
In the afternoon, the clubs set up exhibits on such topics as ""The Way to Good Health"",
""It's Great to be a Canadian"" and ""6 Books We Have Read"". One member from each club
gave a 3-minute comment on the exhibit. As well,, a number of clubs presented demonstrations
and skits on various topics. They included. ""Spending Your Time Off"". ""Our National Pantry
Shelf"" and ""First Aid in the Home"".
At the close of the afternoon program, Ernestine Cooper, of the Altona"" Club, received special
""recognition for completing twelve club projects. Her Provincial Honour Certificate and Pin were
presented to her by her club leader, Mrs. David Crosier.
Five other girls also received special recognition for completing six club projects.
They were: Elizabeth Alsop of Beaverton, Helen Speiran of Udney, Yvonne Barton of Quaker |
Hill Club, Gladys Vessey and; Joan Welsh,of Sunderland. Their County Honour
Certificates and Pins were presented to them by Mrs. Burns, F.W.I.O. Board Director for Ontario
North. A number of club members received Certificates of Achievement for completing
2 units.
Each club member received a silver teaspoon for completing the club project. In addition,
the Local Leaders were presented with teaspoons, in recognition of. their contribution to club
work. The clubs with their leaders were as follows: Altona—.Mrs. David Crosier; Beaverton—
Mrs. Clifford Ross, Mrs. 0. H. Bagg; Quaker Hill—Mrs. T. Forsythe, Mrs. E. Noble; Sunderland —
Miss M. Marquis, Mrs. L. Keeler; Udney I — Mrs. M. Harrington, Mrs. Lloyd Wood,
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ALTONA
The School Christmas Concert will be on Wednesday, Dec. 21, at 8 o'clock. Songs — plays —
rhythm band and Santa Claus. Silver Collection.
The Altona Wardrobe Planners Club met on Saturday at the home of Mrs. F. McNair with Jessie
Ford, President, in charge of meeting. Roll Call— : Show two fabrics for two types of girls.
Discussion on Line of texture to suit personality and figure. An explanation of costume chart.
A study of blouse pattern, measurements, use and laying out for cutting. Home Assignment for
next meeting. Find pictures of two garments with lines that would suit her. Meeting closed with
""God Save The Queen,"" to meet again on December 29th.
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Uxbridge Girl Reports on 4-H Club Chicago Trip - 1955
An accounting of a trip to Chicago, to attend the 4-H Club congress was given to members of
the Ontario County Council by the county representative who attended the congress this year
through the courtesy of the council. Miss Ernestine Cooper. of Uxbridge Township, ad-i dressed
the council yesterday to thank the members for making a grant which made her trip possible
and also recounted some of the happenings on her visit at the 4-H Congress.
Miss Cooper was introduced by Agricultural Representative H. L. Fair, of Uxbridge. Mr. Fair
observed that Miss Cooper in the 4-H Club who has even attained provincial honors.""
Miss Cooper, in thanking the council for financing the trip to Chicago, stated that she had been
one of the 28 delegates from Canada. It had been a wonderful experience, she said,
to meet and talk to young men and women from many countries of the world and learn of the
activities in their young farmer groups. She recalled the fashion parade put on by the young
ladies; a tour of Chicago, which she said might well have covered more of the city than many
natives see in a lifetime; a visit to the Livestock Exposition in Chicago, in which the Canadian
delegates paraded into the arena amid loud applause from the exposition patrons; and a tour of
a farm implement plant.
Later members of the council were to vote a hearty vote of thanks to Miss Cooper for her
account of her trip.
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1963
At Ontario South's Achievement Day for 4H Homemaking Clubs, the District President, Mrs. S.
Cawker, at right, presents two of these girls with Provincial Honors, the rest with County
Honor certificates.
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Debating Champions - 1964
Members of the Ontario County team, winners in the recent Junior Farmers' Association of
Ontario debating contest, receive the Cities Service Oil Company trophy from Manager of
Farm Sales, C. J. Riddell. Topic debated in the finals at Guelph's Ontario Agricultural College
last Friday was; ""Resolved that The Subsidization of Farm Products in Ontario is Beneficial to
Ontario's Economy,"" Front row (left to right) Bob Robertson, Port Perry; Marilyn Downey,
Brooklin; back row (left to right). David Hawthorne, Claremont; C. J. Biddell and Frank Barkey of
Claremont, Last year's trophy was won by the team from Haldimand County.
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President’s Message
It has been a privilege and a pleasure to serve as your President this past year. It has been an
experience I will never forget. With all that being President has to offer, it is indeed a challenge
to anyone who will work up to this position. Don't deny yourself that chance.
My congratulations to Editor John Somerville and the Editorial Board of ""Parade of Progress""
for accepting the responsibility of editing Ontario County Junior Farmers' first Year Book.
They have done a remarkable job.
I would like to thank all of you for your full hearted support in making this past year so successful
and sincerely hope that the coming year will continue to advance.
Frank Barkey,
President, Ontario County Junior Farmers.
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County Debating Team Wins Provincial Honours
The Ontario County Junior Farmer debating team of Marilyn Downey, Myrtle; Bob Robertson,
Port Perry; David Hawthorne and Frank Barkey, Claremont, defeated the Wellington County
team to become 1964 Provincial Champions.
The debate ""Resolved that the Subsidization of Farm Products in Ontario is Beneficial to
Ontario Economy"" was held at the Ontario Agricultural College, Guelph on Friday, March 6th.
The Ontario County team was awarded the Cities Service Oil Company trophy, and cash
awards donated by the Junior Farmers' Association of Ont.
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The Queen and her escort – Donna Johnson and Frank Barkey
"
"Sue Britton Is President
By Eleanor Bunker
ALTONA — The first meeting of Altona Singing Sewers was held Saturday,
Sept. 10 at the home of Mrs. Orval Fretz; The election of officers was as follows —
President, Sue Britton; Vice-President, Marie Tindall; Secretary, Karen Fretz;
Treasurer, Mrs. S. Thompson; Press -Reporter, Lynn Kerwood. The girls
are studying accessories to complete a costume and wardrobe planning.
The club leaders are Mrs. O. Fretz and Mrs. S. Thompson.
Keep in mind the W.I. meeting Thursday flight Sept. 15 at 8 p.m. at the home of Mrs. George
Harvie.
Mr. and Mrs. Harvie Bunker of Goodwood had supper with his mother, Mrs. Norman Bunker on
Sunday.
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Attend Wedding In Toronto
ALTONA — Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Lord accompanied by Mr. and Mrs. A. Batt and Miss Helen
Nicely of Sfouffville attended the wedding on Saturday of Robert Joyce son of Rev. Raymond
Joyce formerly of Stouffville and Miss Julie Silverthorn of Toronto in Trinity College Chapel.
The reception for 500 guests was held at the Granite Club.
Several young folk started back to school this week. Lorne Thompson has returned to Trent
University at Peterboro, Robert McNair has returned to Waterloo University, Sharon Wideman is
enrolled at Toronto Teachers' College and Tom Bunker started his engineering course at
University of Toronto.
Mrs. Orval Fretz led in a discussion on ""Accessories and their colours"" at the 4-H club meeting
held at her home on Saturday. The girls will meet again, Sept. 24 at 9.30 a.m.
Recent visitors with Mr. and Mrs. Walter Davis were, Mr. and Mrs. Herb Burnham of Thornbury,
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hardy of Uxbridge, Mrs.. John Murray of Sunderland, Mr. and Mrs. Jack Terry
of Uxbridge, Leland Johnston and Bill Coates, and Mr. and Mrs. Jim Cooper of Myrtle.
Ladies keep in mind the W.I, invitation to attend Goodwood W.I. in the Goodwood United
Church basement, Sept. 27 at 8 p.m.
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Seventy-Five Attend Meeting
By Eleanor Bunker
ALTONA — Mrs. Margaret Cressman of Kitchener who works with the Mennonite Central
Committee, showed pictures and spoke on the ""Self-Help Program"" for refugees, widows etc.
sponsored by Mennonite groups throughout the world at a meeting held at the home of
Mrs. Harvey Nighswander, Monday evening. Seventy five ladies representing 10 churches of our
area were present. Mrs. Cressman had hand-made crafts, made by the refugees from India,
Haiti, Jordan, Hong-Kong and Korea for sale. The M.C.S. sells these crafts in Canada and the
United States and the money received enables the refugees to care for themselves.
In most cases, it is their only means of support. The articles were authentic designs of each
country and were beautifully made.
Rev. L. K. Sider of Gormley was the guest speaker at the Altona United Missionary Men's
Fellowship held in the church Monday evening. Don Weeks, also of Gormley, presented special
music.
Ladies keep in mind the
W.M.S. meeting has been changed to Feb. 27 at the home of Mrs. Norman Bunker so that it will
not conflict with the special revival services with the Ritchies to be held each evening from
Feb. 28 to Mar. 12.
A speedy recovery is wished Art Clarkson who is in Sunnybrook Hospital for surgery.
Mrs. Colin Williams and Mrs. Merv. Bunker attended leaders training class for ""Hats for you""
at the Uxbridge Agricultural Office this week. Altona W.I. will be sponsoring this short course with
hopes that the ladies will learn to make themselves a new Easter bonnet.
Altona 4-H Pioneers met at the home of Mrs. Stan Thompson Feb. 17. Karen Fretz and Elfrida
Balluch demonstrated potato pancakes and Dutch hot chocolate and the leaders,
Mrs. Thompson and Mrs. Feasby demonstrated pickled eggs and pea soup 1967 style
(was this out of a can?). The girls later enjoyed sampling these dishes.
Glen Fretz left by plane on Sunday for St. Louis, Missouri to visit the Purina Research Farm.
Mrs. Norman Bunker spent a couple of days this week with her daughter, Mrs. Dick Jones of
Buttonville.
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Plan community shower
By Blanche Tindall
ALTONA - A community shower will be held Nov. 8 at the Community Centre in honor of
Lloyd Kerswill and Lyn Reid. Please accept this as your invitation to attend.
There were 14 tables of euchre in the Community Centre. Winners were: Mrs. Swain,
Mary Barrio,
Irene Slack; James Gibson, Jim Weir, Tom Ogden. The lucky prize winner was Dianne Pickering.
The next euchre is Nov. 3.
The children of Glasgow School will be collecting for UNICEF on Hallowe'en night.
The 4-H club girls are holding their meetings at the home of Mrs. Arthur Wideman.
There are 12 taking the course on making dusters.
Best wishes are extended to Mrs. Norman Bunker on the occasion of her 79th birthday, Oct. 29.
The reorganization meeting of the W.M.S. will be held Nov. 4 at the home of Mrs. Frank Huson,
8 p.m.
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Rev. & Mrs. Frank Huson
Fortieth anniversary
By Blanche Tindall
ALTONA — Congratulations to Rev. and Mrs. Frank Huson on the occasion of their 40th
wedding anniversary, April 30. A surprise party in their honor was held in the Sunday School
room. Altona Women's Institute will meet May 14 at 8 p.m. in the Community Centre.
Frank Kerwood, Tracey and Francine of Hampton were visitors Saturday with Robert and
Stanley Lewis and other families in the community.
Mr. and Mrs. George Harvie enjoyed the company of Rev. and Mrs. Frank Huson and Mr. and
Mrs. Frank Bielby for supper last week.
The 4-H girls Achievement Day is this Saturday in the Brooklin United Church. Leaders are —
Mrs. Charles Kerswill and Mrs. Beatrice Wideman.
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Student winner of club award
STOUFFVILLE — The winner of the Anna P. Lewis Scholarship for the Region of York,
is Maryanne Hulshof, of R.R.4, Stouffville.
The $100 award is presented annually to the 4-H Homemaking Club member who is continuing
her education at a university or college.
Maryanne won through her contribution to her school and community during the past year, and
also her academic standing and accomplishments in 4-H work.
Maryanne who has completed 15 units was named an Ontario scholar. June 27/77
"
"Durham West 4-H honors award winners
The Durham West 4H Club honored its members with an awards dinner at the Uxbridge
Community Centre recently. Earning honors were, photo at left, Dorothy Shier, left, who is
accepting the Canada Trust Top Member award for her daughter Karen, from Lon Harnish,
manager of the Canada Trust Oshawa branch. Photo below, David Moore accepts the Ethel P.
Chapman Scholarship Award from Luella Lewis, of the Ontario North and South Districts
Federated Women's Institutes of Canada. Photo at bottom of page, the winners of the Uxbridge
4H Dairy Club awards were Anna Evans, left, with the Herralea Farm Trophy, Mark Irwin, centre,
with the ACO and Ross Evans Trophy, and Craig Mustard with the Armour McMillian special
award. Absent was Michael Wilson, who won the Evanhill Farms Ltd. Trophy.
Photos by Celia Bronkhorst
"