In celebration of its 90th anniversary the Moorefield and District Horticultural Society is planning a number of community events during 2016.
Digging through the society’s archives, dating back to 1926, uncovers the grassroots beginnings of the organization. This article covers some happenings from 1926 to 1950.
The Moorefield Society held its first annual meeting on Jan. 3, 1928, two years after its inception. Mrs. McKay was appointed chairperson with Mrs. Campbell and Mr. Hattatt as auditors. To encourage an increase in membership, a prize was given to the member who recruited the most new members that year.
In 1931 Mrs. Robb served as president with Mrs. Sara Wildfang and Mrs. R. Stricker sharing the duties of the office of vice-president.
By 1932 membership was at 31, down from the original 39 members. Membership fees remained at $1. Income reported in 1933 was $166 with expenses at $164. Some executive positions in the society received a small stipend for their hard work. In 1927 treasurer Lorna Hamilton was paid $5 for her efforts throughout 1926. By 1932 the treasurer was recognized with salary of $15.
Railway expenses were paid for two members to attend a convention in Toronto in 1939. Records indicate Mrs. Stan Johnson received an award for service to the horticultural society.
Flower shows have been a consistent event, held each year with the exceptions of 1928 and 1935. Prizes for displays were not given until 1936. In June of the same year, a tulip show was held at the home of Mrs. Fowler. First and second places in the show went to Mrs. R. Wildfang and Mrs. R.S. Johnston. The evening ended with a violin solo by Miss B. Wildfang.
Aside from the regular activities of the society, a committee was formed in March of 1927 to plan flower beds in Moorefield and area. As a result of the committee’s work, shrubs and flowers were planted at the Moorefield Hall and Bethesda Cemetery in 1941. More plantings were done at the park, three schools and three churches in the 1950s.
The organization’s first fundraising event was a euchre and dance in 1934. Admission was 15 cents or two for 25 cents, with profit totalling $18 for the evening.
The horticultural society is asking anyone in the community with pictures, Newspaper clippings, Newsletters, ribbons or other artifacts from the society’s past 90 years (1926-2015) to contact Linda Timmerman at 519-638-3021. Pictures showing past horticultural events and people involved are needed for displays at local events.
