In desperation, many people simply left the province. At first, those who left intended to return once conditions on the Island improved.

As conditions continued to deteriorate, people were confronted with two choices — stay or leave. Many simply pulled up stakes and never returned. Even M.]. McIvor, the “Potato King,” was not able to weather the Depression. He sold his magnificent home in Kinkora to the Sisters of St. Martha for use as a convent and left the province. For those who remained, optimism was tempered by doubt.

The slow and steady decline in Prince Edward Island eroded Islanders’ self—confidence and spirit of independence. Rural farm families like the Keefes had no other choice but to busy themselves with the practical business of living.

Despite the great suffering many experienced during the Depression, farm families like the Keefes fared somewhat better. They had food and fuel, and the eXtra money earned by Leslie and Mary who taught at nearby schools no doubt helped provide some eXtra cash. Everyone in

the community was feeling the effects, but a spirit of sharing prevailed. Hobos would be kicked off the train in Kinkora, where they were able to rely on handouts of food; when the train left and they would hop back on board until they were kicked off again. With the Keefe home adjacent to the railway station, it was not uncommon for them to knock on the door looking something to eat. They did not go away hungry.

52 KATHLEEN MURPHY, MAITRIARC