THE FARMERS’ INSTITUTE OF MARSHFIELD

The following newspaper article pays just tribute to the Farmers’ Institute of Marshfield.

MARSHFIELD FARMERS

HOLD ANNUAL BANQUET

The banquet held annually by the Farmers Institute of Marshfield, is looked upon as the great social event of the year for this place, coming as it does in the month of February, at a time when the more arduous work of the farm has been completed, gives the farmers time to turn to social activities. During the rest of the year, this organization is busily engaged in the discussion of the more serious problems in connection with their business, but on this occasion, they throw dull care away and go wholeheartedly in for enjoyment.

This is one of the oldest, if not the oldest living Institute on the Island, it being formerly known as the “Marshfield Farmers and Dairymen’s Association,” and organized in 1895; under which name it continued until 1901, when the Government realizing the value of the Farmers Organization came to their financial aid; this branch then, receiving its present name, and has continued practically without break until the present, during which time it has contributed largely to the up— building of the community, having at various times imported pure-bred stock, encouraged the use of pure-bred sires, engaged in co-operative buying, etc., and greatest of all, by full discussions of the various farm problems, have disseminated knowledge among its members, the results of which are at present plainly in evidence by the many comfortable, and modern homes, up—to-date farm buildings, improved live stock, and well kept farms in its vicinity. Also, we could name scores of successful men, who have benefited by contact with this organization but space does not permit the mention of but one, the present Dairy Commissioner of the Province of Manitoba, Mr. L.A. Gibson, who was a very active member during its earlier years, and the experience he then gained in debate, in public speaking, etc., coupled with personal ability, and perseverance has, no doubt, helped class him among our “successful Islanders abroad.”

During the thirty—two years of its existence and holding a banquet almost every year, to say that the

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one held last evening, was the best yet, is indeed “saying something” but such was the unanimous opinion of the large number that were privileged to be present, for despite sickness and some counter attractions which had accidentally fallen upon the same night the spacious hall at Marshfield was filled to capacity, the adjoining districts of Dunstaffnage, York, East Royalty being well represented, upwards of one hundred taking supper.

' Everything went with a swing from start to finish, and great credit is due the different committees, especially the programme committee, Messrs. Heath Foster and J .R. Munn, Jr., who were untiring in their efforts and succeeded in producing an evenings entertainment of a very high order.

Mr. Roland Jay of Charlottetown was present and contributed two very pleasing violin selections.

The musical part of the program was under the direction of Miss McBeath, who with Miss Mill were the accompanists of the evening.

Mr. W.E. Warren the president, occupied the chair and the best of order prevailed while the following program was rendered:

Program National Anthem.

Opening Chorus. Address, President Mr. W.E. Warren.

Vocal solo, Miss Miller.

Violin Solo, Mr. Roland Jay.

Reading, Mr. Talmage Foster.

Instrumental Duet, Claronet and Violin, Miss Pauline Mill, Mr. Walter Bryant.

Tableau, “Modern Maud Mullen.”

Miss Terrel and Foster, Messrs. Foster and Mill.

Trio, Misses Mill and Miller, and Mr. Mill.

Vocal solo, Miss Emma McNevin.

Violin solo, Mr. Roland Jay.

Vocal solo, Miss Margurete [sic] Terrell.

Duet (Hunting Tower) Miss Miller, Mr. Wm. Rhynes.

Camp fire scene by nine girls.

Duet, Misses Pauline and Irene Mill.