During the later years his son Archie has taken a keen interest in the various projects, an occupation which indeed must be most gatifying.

As one strolls through the grounds viewing the many replicas, you come to the Mill on the Floss, standing there in its beautiful an- tiquity. The exposed water wheel steadily turns from the supply of water which meanders down the improvised hill, studded with small trees and moss covered stones, a fascinating picture in which one can clearly visualize his youthful years- The latest addition to the replica family is Dunvegan Castle in The Isle of Skye, Scotland. The present and ancestral home of Dam-e Flora MacLeod. This castle is constructed on a larger scale than the other replicas, making it possible for Visitors to enter and stroll around the first and second floors where beautiful antique furniture and oil paintings may be seen.

While on the second floor one has an opportunity to peek into the dungeon, the bottom of which is far far below. The Dunvegan Castle was opened in 1964 at which function Dame Flora was present.

While Col. Johnstone was improving and beautifying his prop- erty and home he had visions of a brighter country side. In fact a more beautiful and attractive Island.

The idea grew in his mind that this could be done. Finally he consulted with community minded people who recognized the need of such a movement and a meeting was called. At this meeting an organiza- tion by the name of The Rural Beautification Society was formed with Col. Johnstone as its president. The idea spread like fire. The society drew up plans and regulations to have contests in various sections of the Island’s rural communities, so that residents would compete with one another in showing the most improvement in their homes and property. Business men and individuals keenly interested in the project donated trophies and cash to be given to the winners of the contest.

The judges for the contest were appointed by the society who after appraising the efforts of the contestants awarded prizes to the winner. Over the years the movement has been steadily growing, show- ing amazing results.

In 1959 The Patriot Publishing Co. of Charlottetown inaugurated what they termed the “Man of the Year” contest. The idea behind it was to have the people of the Island nominate a person whom they thought had contributed in some way the most for the betterment of the Island. The Patriot appointed three judges who would adjudicate on the merit of the nominees. The unanimous decision of the tribunal was

in favor of Col. E. W. Johnstone.

It is worthy of mention that another boy who attended Long River School and later taught there was named “Man of the Year” in 1962, Dr. Eric Found.

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