THE KITCHEN 16 by Miss Jessie Fullerton

History records that a new church hall was built in 1895, and, from that time on, until the present kitchen was built in 1965, the ladies of the Kirk were really unhappy with the set—up and made frequent requests for changes.

As early as 1913, the Treasurer's report states: “Improvements to the hall basement are being contemplated in view of the desire of the Ladies' Society. Cost to be in the vicinity of $275."

In l9l9, the Ladies' Aid, with the assistance of the Guild, purchased a new stove. This was a great joy to the workers and filled a longrfelt want.

The Ladies' Aid, in 1934, succeeded in having the kitchen completely renovated, and this proved to be a real bonanza, especially for those who were undertaking big teas or social events.

Even with these changes, unsatisfactory working and serving conditions still persisted. Everything about the place needed to be corrected and modernized. The stove, the sink, and cupboards were outmoded and most inconvenient. The floon in spots, impeded progress, and proved a hazard, not only because of the upheavals, but also, when rain fell, or when there was a spring thaw, water seeped in from everywhere and covered both kitchen and lower hall floors. Only those equipped with rubbers or rubber boots were safe. Navigation was undertaken at one's own risk. The Church Officer at that time tells the story that once on a bright April day all preparations had been made for a tea and bazaar; tables were set and guests were arriving, when suddenly, a severe thunder and lightning storm broke. Water seeped in through kitchen and hall, guests disappeared quickly, and only those equipped with suitable footwear remained on duty.

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This alerted the Ladies' Aid. They insisted on immediate action. As soon as possible a new floor was laid, a more adequate stove was procured,

and men were employed to locate the seepage points and to apply cement or some other substance to eliminate future floods. A new toilet room was added.

Total expenses were as follows: stove $20, carpentry $lh4.15, and plumbing $155.

Time marches on, and the use of the kitchen was much more in demand. In 19A6, after World War II, the much more frequent events again pointed out the inconveniences that existed. Subsequently, a new hot water system was purchased, and a few electric appliances, such as hot plates and kettles,

were procured.

In 1950, a large institutional propane gas range was purchased. The young women's group gave money for a gas water heater.