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Strachan’s Corners, Puslinch Township The
hamlets of early The farmers of early Puslinch are a well-documented success story and the effective distribution of their prodigious productivity to urban populations propelled continuous improvements in roads and modes of transportation. Eventually, when urban centres were accessible enough as to duplicate the convenience of the business services rendered by hamlets, these tiny jewels were greatly diminished and some, lamentably, evanesced. Strachan’s Corners was one such hamlet. |
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1877 map showing the
location of Strachan’s Corners |
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Named after the family of William
Strachan, who in 1852 purchased lot 15, concession 4, and established a hotel
on the northwest corner of the intersection of Wellington County Road 35,
popularly known as the Downey Road, and Forestell Road, where, for decades,
Mr. and Mrs. Strachan, and later their son, conducted a successful tavern and
store operation. There was also an
adjacent blacksmith shop. In 1891, the
lot and business were sold to Mr. James Barclay. The waning business location passed through
the hands of a number of aspiring owners but neither the businesses nor their
edifices survived the Great Depression. The Strachan’s Corners Correspondent Julia
McWilliams, wife of Walter McWilliams of the 7th concession of Puslinch
Township, was the |
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The News from Strachan’s Corners August 18th 1896. What
is in a name? We all know that the
ancients in naming places or persons applied some name which had some
meaning, some peculiar significance, and hence the above heading will be known
to a great many, and the name will recall a number of scenes of the
past. I need not enumerate any of
them, but to those who may not know, I will state that this particular place
is in the fourth concession of Puslinch, about six miles from Guelph, near
Downey’s schoolhouse, where many a young idea sprouted under the vigorous
application of the rod, as I very well know. Harvest
is about completed in this neighbourhood.
Crops are very good with the exception of oats, which are badly
rusted, and threshings are now in order. Mr.
Chrysler is making preparations for a new barn to replace the old one, which
caved in by weight of snow last winter. The
death of Robert Lennie, at the early age of thirty-seven years, has cast a
gloom over the community. His parents
have the heartfelt sympathy of all in this, their sore bereavement, it being
just fourteen months since the death of their son, John. Robert will be greatly missed, and a great
many met yesterday to pay the last tribute of respect to one so esteemed by
all, there being over a hundred vehicles in the procession. The pallbearers were Geo. Laird, Archie
McLaren, J. Starkey, R. S. Williamson, G. B. Morris, and __ Our
schools opened this morning with Miss O’Donnell as teacher in the |
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Strachan’s Corners August 24th 1896. Mrs.
Snow and Miss Lilly Snow, of Syracuse, N.Y., are visiting at Mr. Lennie’s. Miss
Walker, of Guelph, visited at Mr. Parker’s last week. One
day last week two ladies and a gentleman were seen wheeling homeward, not on
the “Wings of the Morning”, though it was very early, but slowly and
wearily. By the way, if wheeling is
such unbounded pleasure, whence the look of utter misery on the faces of some
who indulge in that fascinating pastime? Mr.
Cam Lennie is home for a few weeks. The
attendance at the schools this week has been very small. It seems a pity that the children could not
be sent as soon as school opens, as there is injustice done to the teacher
and pupil when children are sent irregularly.
Pupils do not take much interest in school if they are allowed to go
two days and stay at home three, and very often the teacher is blamed because
their progress is not so rapid as that of some others in the school. We
caught a glimpse of Miss May Strachan’s winsome face in the neighbourhood
last week. |
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The News from Strachan’s Corners August 31st 1896. It
takes all kinds of people to make a world, and it takes all kinds to run a
newspaper, which could not thrive without its critics especially, and
correspondents have a good deal to hear from those who know how to run a
paper just as it ought to be run, but we all remember the story in the school
readers of the man who tried to please everyone and pleased nobody. The
fine rains of last Wednesday and Sunday have brightened things up
considerably. The apple crop this year
is something enormous. We
congratulate Miss Jane Barclay on her success at the recent examination. Miss
Emma Parker resumes teaching in New Miss
Helena McLachlan, of Guelph, visited Miss Lilly Snow last week. I
wonder what we are coming to with taxation!
If anyone will look over the We
are enjoying fine, cool weather at present. The
farmers on the 7th concession are well pleased to see the gravelling being
done near Crane’s Creek, which part of the road was always a dreaded spot in
the spring, and the work is being well done. The
falsehoods, which have been set afloat, endeavouring to blast the characters
of two of the most respectable young people of our township, must certainly
have been the work of some malicious fiends, and they, as well as those who
kept the ball rolling, deserve severe punishment. |
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“A lie that is all a lie, Is no such a dangerous
thing. But a lie that is only half
a lie, Is the one that leaves the
sting.” |
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The
many sincere friends of the parties have the pleasure of knowing that it is
all a lie, and therefore, not so dangerous, and the pretended friends are of
not much account, and will always continue to roll such sweet morsels under
their tongues when they can, but retribution will surely come. “He
who pelts at every barking dog must needs pick up a good many stones.” |
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Strachan’s Corners September 8th 1896. “Ah, would some poo’er the giftie gie us, To see oorsels as ithers see us, Frae mony a blunder it wad free us, And fulish notion.” The
above quotation is about worn threadbare, but, like a favourite coat, it is
often brought out to view, brushed carefully and used again. Now, I am not going to preach a
sermon. Sermons are not preached any
more. Everything has to be condensed
in these days of hurry and bustle, and one must say a great deal in a few
words, and learn to read between the lines.
The minister has just a little talk with his hearers; no, he never
preaches, and it may be that a few minutes of earnest talk is more effective
than the two-hour sermon of fifty years ago.
We hope so, anyway. We
have received notice that the entry fees complained of last week have been
removed, and it is to be hoped that the Mr.
Walter Laird is at present attending the Miss
Jane Barclay returns to the Collegiate to study for a higher
certificate. Her many friends wish her
unlimited success in her efforts. Miss
Keleher, ex-teacher in the Roman Catholic school here, visited at Mr.
Lennie’s last week. Miss
Maggie Laird is visiting at Corwhin. Miss
Gracie Anderson, who has been ill all summer, is gradually improving. Mrs.
James Crane Jr. is ill with neuralgia of the muscles. Mrs. James Crane Sr. is also ailing. We hope for their speedy recovery. It
is said that sneak thieves entered the residence of Mr. McIntosh, on the 7th
concession, and helped themselves liberally to eatables, and scattered things
around generally, and Mr. George Laird is minus a good new shovel and rake
that he was using in the spreading of gravel near Crane’s creek. A detective is badly needed in this
neighbourhood. The
contract for gravelling opposite Mr. Barclay’s place was let on Saturday
evening. There has been some fine
grading done there, and it ought to be an excellent road. It is a good thing when farmers take enough
interest in their roads to do some good work in statute labour. The
basket makers in the corner house have a number of orders to fill yet. |
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The News from Strachan’s Corners September 16th 1896. We
are all looking forward to the Exhibition.
Fall wheat is sown, corn cut, and the farmer may spend one happy day,
if he can, in the face of low prices and hard times, etcetera. One
of the gentlemen of the Hunt Club was heard to remark that if farmers
remained at home, and did not attend all the shows, there would be no cry of
hard times. What think ye? Solomon
outdone. The
Reverend A. J. Belt, of St. James Church, Guelph, accompanied by Mrs. Belt,
and his father, Reverend Canon Belt, of Burlington, called at Mr. Robert
Porter’s and others of his parishioners, last week. Messrs.
David Barclay and Charlie Chrysler report a good time at the Mr.
Donald McPherson, who was kicked by a horse last week, is improving under the
care of Dr. Lindsay. One
of the chief attractions at the There
was a curious sight witnessed on the road to |
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Strachan’s Corners September 21st 1896. The
show is over and we are settled down to work again. We need to make no comment on the show, but
hope it may improve with age. “Daily living seemeth weary to the one who never
works. Duty always seemeth dreary to the one who duty
shirks. Only after hardest striving cometh sweet and perfect
rest. Life is found to be worth living to the one who does
his best.” The
Paddock whistle is heard in the land at present. Farmers are anxious to get their fall
threshings over and the Paddocks are faithful workmen. It
was with great caution we looked at the end of the account of Mr. Martin’s
induction, owing to the wonderfully healthy looking portrait at the head of
the article, but we earnestly hope he may be spared the necessity of taking
of taking “Pink Pills” or any other kind, and we congratulate Knox Church in
obtaining the services of such a pastor as he promises to be. The
mushroom gatherers are busy scurrying over our fields for that delicacy. The farmers think discretion to be the
better part of valour and refrain from indulging largely. It would be well for someone who really
knows to give an exact description of the difference between the mushroom and
the deadly toadstool. What
is mace? A studious young gentleman
was requested by his sisters to purchase some mace. He searched the dry goods stores faithfully
but they seemed to have none in stock at present, but it was on the way and
could be here in a day or two. Could
he wait? Some kind individual directed
him to Mitchell’s grocery. Mrs.
Snow has returned to her home in Syracuse, The
wild grape and choke cherry, which in their natural state are scarcely
palatable, are being made into wine which is considered by good judges to be
very fine, but what about those homemade wines when the plebiscite is
taken? Can we truly have prohibition
while wine is manufactured at home? It
may be that the poor miserable wretch who forces his wife to go out and buy
his beer for him, may have learned the taste in the home cupboard. Ah me!
What misery the vile stuff causes. |
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Strachan’s
Corners October 12th 1896. We all sympathize with Mr.
McPherson, Downey’s schoolhouse presents a fine appearance now with its beautiful fence, and addition to the woodshed, and other improvements. Remember our harvest home. Miss Wright, the teacher and her assistants, are sparing no pains to have all ready before Friday October 16th, and we hope for a fine night. Aberfoyle show tomorrow. Hope for a fine day. |
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Strachan’s Corners October 20th 1896. The
fall of snow on Saturday night was rather alarming, but we hope for some fine
weather yet, for there is still a large harvest of roots, apples, etcetera,
to be attended to. The
harvest home entertainment in aid of the Hospital, held in the Protestant
separate school, netted quite a large sum.
I have not heard exactly the amount, but it will be somewhere in the
neighbourhood of forty dollars or more.
The people in the section desire to thank all who contributed so
kindly to the good cause. One
of the talented and popular young ladies of Puslinch, in the person of Miss
E. Crawley, eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Crawley, becomes the bride
of Mr. J. M. Dooley, confectioner and grocer, of the Royal City. As the young people are very highly
esteemed by all who have had the pleasure of their acquaintance, if heartfelt
wishes could bring perfect bliss and future happiness, they will be happy
indeed. We join with the many friends
in wishing them long life, happiness, and prosperity. A
friendly paring bee was held at the residence of Mr. Moran on Friday night. A
number from this neighbourhood were successful in winning prizes at the
Aberfoyle show. Mr. J. Hardy was very
fortunate with his horses. Mr. George
McGill, Mr. Anderson, and Mr. Buchanan were also prizewinners. |
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Strachan’s Corners October 26th 1896. Owing
to the stormy weather last week, farmers were anxious about their roots and
apples, and the terrible year, some twenty-seven years ago is recalled, when
winter set in so very early that turnips were out till spring. But surely we will have some fine weather
yet? There
have been some pleasant parties held in the neighbourhood lately, and young
people are looking forward to a merry time.
Winter is always dreaded, but the time passes quickly when there are
pleasant anticipations, and these little social gatherings are indeed very
pleasant for the young people. Puslinch
is a township most peculiarly surveyed and we are constantly hearing of
people losing themselves. A few
directions posted up at the fork roads of the township would be of great
assistance to travellers who are unacquainted with the different roads. A peddler, some time ago, lost his bearings
and lost both time and patience in discovering the right road. Two young ladies, last week, in search of
Stilton cheese were also unfortunate and were badly astray. Many other instances could be given, so that
the authorities ought to seriously consider about directions being posted up. Reverend
A. J. Belt, of St. James Church, begins this week to hold his monthly cottage
services in the neighbourhood, for the winter. These services are much appreciated by the
people who attend, and Mr. Belt is very popular. He is earnest and faithful in his work, not
sparing himself in the endeavour, that the glad tidings may be heralded
throughout the country. People should
attend these meetings if possible for it is certain they will always hear
something by which they will be benefited.
We may differ in our views in some respects but it is certain that Mr.
Belt’s lectures are full of earnest truth, and no one could help but enjoy
them. I
chanced to see a copy of the third paper published in Whitman,
the once despised poet, writes of the seed Perfection: |
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“In this broad earth of
ours, Amid the measureless
grossness and the slag, Enclosed and safe within
its central heart, Nestles the seed
Perfection. By every life a share, or
more or less, None born but it is born,
concealed or unconcealed, the seed is waiting. From imperfection’s
murkiest cloud, Darts always forth one ray
of perfect light, One flash of Heaven’s
glory.” |
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There
is no one sunken so low but we can still find some trace of goodness, and we
ought to always look for the good and not the bad qualities in our fellow
men, and speak a kind word when we can. “We have smiles for the passing stranger, kind words
for the some time guest, but oft for our own, the bitter tone, though we love
our own the best.” |
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The News from Strachan’s Corners November 17th 1896. |
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“The year is swiftly
waning, The summer days are past, And life, brief life, is
speeding, The end is nearing fast. The ever changing seasons, In silence, come and go, But thou, Eternal Father, No change in time canst
know.” |
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We
all dread the autumn with its cold, dreary days, wet weather, and chilling
winds, but we have an occasional fine, very fine day and it seems more
enjoyable than a summer day, but then, when we are in the midst of our
enjoyment we are sure to hear the Croaker say, “Oh! But we’ll pay for this
fine day and it will surely rain tomorrow for so many ladies are out today.” The
fall of snow on Thursday night made one feel as though winter were here to
stay, and things looked a little blue for the Hunt Club who had the trail
laid out in this direction, but bravely they defied the elements and were out
in full force, making quite a fancy picture with their red coats and prancing
steeds, dashing over every obstacle, in their search for what? Mr.
J. J. Chrysler holds a clearing auction on Thursday, the 19th. He has not been long in our neighbourhood,
but he has gained for himself an enviable reputation as a farmer, and what he
has to sell will undoubtedly be of first-rate quality. Not
much excitement at present. Parties continue
with unabated vigour, and young people are enjoying them much. It
is with a feeling of awe that one reads Dr. Torrance’s able reply to the
deserving compliments he has received on attaining his fiftieth year in the
ministry. How many scenes can be
recalled in all these years and Time’s wondrous changes, how vast? We
have heard of the wholesome advice given by the coloured nurse to her charge,
“Count yore marcies chile, count your marcies.” Did we ever pause to count our mercies and
then count our troubles? How small the
trials seem in comparison and even they are often blessings in disguise. We
have read pathetic poems on the “Highway Cow” but we have a highway horse
here and it really seems to plead for mercy.
The tail and mane are filled with burrs, and it looks so utterly
friendless, with a poor prospect of comfort for winter. Farmers
are complaining that their wood and fence rails are disappearing
mysteriously, and there seems to be no clue to the nocturnal rambler, but
some time he may leave a trace, or perhaps be treated to a loaded stick of
wood. The
roads are in fine order for wheeling and these beautiful moonlight nights are
an inducement for many to enjoy a spin. |
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Strachan’s Corners November 24th 1896. Mr.
J. J. Chrysler’s sale was very well attended.
Stock sold fairly well, but implements were cheap. Farmers generally are very hopeful, and the
ten or twelve months credit looks quite simple, but the months fly by, and to
their dismay the sale note is due and the good times seem as far away as
ever, but surely under the new government, ere another twelve months is over,
there may be a change. Barney Barnato
may leave a stroke of good luck in We
are pleased to read of Miss Jane Barclay’s success in winning first prize in
the II Form in the G.C.I., and also pleased to hear her praises sung by Mr.
Johnson in his college song. The
very sloppy weather interfered somewhat with the attendance at Mrs. Meyers’
sale yesterday, but fairly good prices ruled. Saturday’s
snowstorm made travelling very unpleasant for those who attend the market,
but in the evening the roads were very good for wheeling, but some ventured
out on runners. Many
think that patient endurance is a virtue that outweighs all others in value. Endurance is often so contemptible as to
rank with cowardice. The endurance
that tolerates evil is a defect worthy of the strongest efforts to overcome
it. It takes courage, time, patience,
and faith to take a stand and make a fight against evil, whether it is
threatening the nation’s prosperity, or individual rights or comforts. Righteous wrath that would express it self
openly, would put down many evils in their first stages, which endured,
create and strengthen themselves. Mr.
John Meyers has had the contract of threshing for Mr. M. P. Doyle, no less
than five barns. Mrs.
J. Crane’s Sr. friends will be pleased to know she is a little easier this
week. She has been ailing all summer. |
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Strachan’s
Corners November 30th 1896. Colds are very prevalent at
present, owing, I suppose, to the sudden change of weather. Last week was mild as spring, and this a
severe cold snap which makes everyone look blue. Thanksgiving
passed off very quietly. The usual number
of hunters visit the woods in search of game that is not there; the goose or
turkey is killed; some of the faithful go to church and it is another holiday
past. The
day was so very beautiful that everyone enjoyed their outing. It is surprising the number of young boys
who are out with guns, and surely their parents cannot be aware of their
recklessness in handling their firearms.
Farmers should make an effort to prohibit hunting for a few seasons
and reserve the sport for themselves. There
seems to be a large number of teachers desiring schools, judging from the
number of applications trustees are receiving. Salaries are very low, but it is hardly
just that one should take a very small salary in order to oust a teacher who
has enjoyed the confidence of the section for some time. Some wealthy sections that had been
paying $500 or more have reduced the
salaries to such an extent that it is impossible for a teacher to support a
family on such a sum. Perhaps trustees
consider it most economical, but when all expenses are paid the hard worked
teacher has very little over at the end of the year. Farmers
are all complaining that apples are not keeping this year, and even the
winter apples are in bad condition so that ere winter is over it will be a difficult
matter to get any. Some are blaming
apples for causing the death of a large number of horses, and for being the
cause of illness in children who partake largely of this fruit, but it is
scarcely probable. |
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Strachan’s Corners December 7th 1896. It
has often been the wish of a number of people in this neighbourhood that we
have a library, for there are a number of young people who are very fond of
good reading, who could not possibly become members of the Guelph Free
Library owing to certain strict rules in regard to returning books at stated
periods, etcetera. Now I cannot see
any difficulty in the way, and why could we not have a Mechanics’ Institute
in this vicinity? I am not sure, but I
think members pay 25˘ a year after the books are bought, and can thus have
good reading. I could name at least 60
young people in this neighbourhood who could take part in an entertainment,
and with very little training make it a perfect success, and by that method
money enough could be raised to buy a number of good books. Other people adopt this method of raising
money and we could be in fashion, for there is talent here and requires but a
little encouragement to be drawn out.
Now, I merely make the suggestion, and if it can be managed, a meeting
can be called in a few weeks to consider ways and means. Would the young men not make a move in the
matter and they will have plenty of assistance. It is a shame to allow talent to lie
dormant, if we could possibly encourage the young people to make an
effort. When I say there are sixty
young people in this neighbourhood who are particularly bright and
intelligent, I speak advisedly, and they would, I am sure, welcome a
Mechanics’ Institute Library with pleasure.
Now, there may seem to be obstacles in the way, but they could be
surmounted by a little hard work and as it is a good cause, none would object
to a little hard work in connection with it.
The older people of the neighbourhood also should think seriously of
this matter and provide good reading matter at a small cost for the young
people. The provincial government
gives a grant when a certain amount of money is collected. Monday’s
snow has left the roads in a bad state, as travellers realize to their
regret, and they regret also that road-makers do not use more gravel than
they do in the construction of roads. Reverend
A. J. Belt expects to hold a cottage service at the residence of Mr. Jackson
on Tuesday evening, 15th instant. Word
has been received from Miss McWilliams, who has been teaching in the Indian
school at Lakesend, N.W.T. The school
is closed and she is at present at Those
who were not present at the open meeting held in the city hall by the Stock
Association missed a treat. The
speeches by two honourable Ministers of Agriculture were well worth going
through a storm of wet snow to hear, though it was a disappointment not to
have heard Mrs. Hoodless, yet the entertainment was excellent, and probably
many will take advantage of the opportunity to hear her on Thursday night at
the Convocation Hall, Ontario Agricultural College. Judging from the crowd of
reporters present, the press cannot be suppressed and everyone should read
the report of the different speeches. |
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Strachan’s Corners December 22nd 1896. Merry
Xmas to all! What
about our Mechanics’ Institute? School
meeting Wednesday between Christmas and New Year’s. All ratepayers ought to make it a point to
attend. Miss
O’Donnell, I believe, is engaged for 1897 in This
is the season for visiting and feasting.
Were I to enumerate all the visitors who come and go, I should be
taking up too much space. Parties also
are so numerous, too numerous to mention. Just
think of the courage of the Paisley Block residents, to engage Bengough to
come and lecture for them. We dare not
aim so high at present, but time will tell what our young people can do if
they but try. If there should be
sleighing on Wednesday night, there will be surely a large crowd to hear him. |
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Strachan’s Corners December 29th 1896. Happy
New year to you! A new clean leaf
turned now. Grant it may be free from
blots. Those
who had the pleasure of meeting Miss Effie Elliott, of Galt, when she was
visiting Miss Maggie Laird, of this neighbourhood, a few weeks ago, were very
much grieved to hear of her very sudden death last Tuesday morning, and the
funeral on Christmas Day made it a sad day for many. She was a particularly bright and
intelligent young lady, much beloved by a large circle of friends, and the
bereaved parents and family have the sincere sympathy of many in the vicinity
of A
little snow and a little sleighing, but excellent wheeling for Christmas. “Oh,
the shaking of the hand speaks the language of the heart”, so goes the old
song, and this is the season of handshaking.
Of course, you have in your lifetime noticed the many different kinds
of handshakes, from the pump-handle kind of shake to the warm hearty clasp of
a true friend, but the kind of shake most noticeable at present is the quick
grasp of the office-seeker, with the beseeching remember-me-on-election-day
look in the eye. Ah, it makes one
tired! We all honour the man who acts
honourably and we vote for him. Don’t
be led away by the once a year display of friendship, which reminds one of
cheap Jack style, “You are such free
and independent voters, and I am so proud of you. You are such a noble and enlightened
constituency, and I am so ambitious of the honour and dignity of being your
member, which is by far the highest level to which the wings of the human
mind can soar, that I’ll tell you what I’ll do with you...” and so on, ad
nauseum. Nomination day is an annual enjoyable day
for the ratepayers, who delight in hearing speeches from the favourites. Nominations
for Puslinch Council are as follows: Reeve: James Scott, Peter
McLean Deputy Reeve: Hume, by
acclamation Councillors: Angus
McPherson, Gilchrist, S. Pannabecker, John Scott, John Walsh A number
from the neighbourhood attended the lecture given by Bengough in Paisley
Block, and were highly pleased. Sailors
nearing the shore are accustomed to sending out the sounding line; as we are
nearing the end of the year, it would be well to send out a sounding line and
see where we stand. Are we any better
than we were this time last year? What
have we done for the good of our fellow man, for to do good and not evil to
mankind is our duty? What have we been
reading and what have we said? One little kind word may save a soul. Speak it! “A pebble in the streamlet scant may turn aside the
mighty river, A dew drop on the baby plant may dwarf the giant oak
forever.” |
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---from a sermon |
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from the |
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The News from Strachan’s Corners January 8th 1897. I
suppose everyone has got down to plain living and hard work again, after the
holidays, and the burden of 1896 has been dropped, and 1897 donned with a
hopeful heart. New Year’s Day was very
quietly spent, probably by many in reviewing the past year, and making good
resolves for the next. Puslinch Council for the
present year is composed of the following: |
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Reeve: |
James Scott |
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Deputy Reeve: |
Hume |
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Councillors: |
Messrs. Angus McPherson,
McKenzie, Gilchrist, all good & honourable men |
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For |
M. P. Doyle, Edward
Crawley, Patrick Hanlon |
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For the Protestant Separate
School: |
Donald McPherson, Secretary-Treasurer,
Thomas Parker, Walter McWilliams |
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The
section regrets losing the services of Mr. Chrysler who resigned owing to the
fact that he expects to leave the neighbourhood. Welcome
home visitors spent the holidays with a number in this neighbourhood. Miss
Emma Parker resumes teaching in New Miss
Lillie Ruddell, of Berlin, paid a flying visit to friends. Master
Ivan Brazil and Mrs. Brazil, of Brantford, spent New Year’s at Mr. R.
Porter’s. Mr.
Cam Lennie and Mr. L. Snow are home for a visit. Miss
Blyth, of Nichol, has been engaged to teach in the Protestant Separate school
for the present year. She comes very
highly recommended and we trust she may spend a very pleasant year or more
with us. We
are pleased to know that Mrs. James Crane Jr., who has been for some time in A Liberal Principle: “All
governments, indeed every human benefit and enjoyment, every virtue and every
prudent act, are founded on compromise and barter. We balance inconveniences, we give and
take, we remit some rights that we may enjoy others, and we choose to be
happy citizens rather than subtle disputants.
Magnanimity in politics is not seldom the truest wisdom, and a great
empire and little minds go ill together.”----Burke “Most
stories have two sides, but some of them have four sides and a ceiling, and a
sandy foundation.” If
half the kind things we say about people were repeated to them, for there is
no one but we can say something kind about, this would be a happy world, but
Satan laughs gleefully when unkind words are repeated, and you know the rest. We
ought to be as careful as the old Scotch lady who made a practice of saying
something nice about everyone, and when told that it was the belief that even
of his Satanic Majesty she could say something nice, replied after careful
consideration, “Well I winna say but he has great perseverance onyways”. |
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Strachan’s Corners January 11th 1897. “Winter reigneth o’er the land, Freezing with its icy breath. Dead and bare the tall trees stand, All is chill and drear as death.” “Yet it seemeth but a day, Since the summer flowers were here.” “Sunny days are past and gone, So the years go, speeding fast, Onward ever each new one, Swifter speeding than the last.” Reverend
Mr. Belt expects to hold the next cottage service at the residence of Mr.
Thomas Parker, on Tuesday evening, January 19th. We
hope the new council will follow up the good work, and do all in their power for
good roads in our township. At present
some of them are a severe trial to farmers and other travellers, but where
good gravel has been used the complaints have not been so numerous. The overseer should insist on only good
gravel being used, even though it required a little labour to get it there. There
is considerable sickness at present, but no very serious cases are reported. There
is an endeavour being made to have circulating libraries, that is, a case of
books sent into each locality, and when they are read, passed on to the
next. I believe it would work very
well, and it is to be hoped that some one of influence will take the matter
in hand. Our
schools are well attended at present.
Teachers are right into work.
Visitors have come and gone, “And the world goes on as it went
before”. British
Columbia has an attraction for a number of people at present, and some are
seriously considering the advisability of going where they can at least hope
to make a living, and where farm products are not down to starvation prices. Mr.
Joseph Hardy expects to hold an auction sale early in February. He is a good farmer and has a lot of good
stock for sale. |
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Strachan’s Corners February 9th 1897. We
are having such very fine weather that even the chronic grumbler says it is a
model winter that we are enjoying, but then he says, “Ah, but we’ll pay up
for this in March”. Strange, how some
people will borrow trouble and seem to think it is a sin to enjoy today and
let tomorrow take care of itself. For
years and years we have heard of the end of the world coming on a certain
day. You hear people admonished by
cranks to be ready for it is certainly coming soon and to live accordingly. They remind one of the finger post,
something which points the right way but does not travel the road itself. Reverend
Mr. Belt expects to hold the usual monthly service next week, time and place
not decided, but will be announced later. The
many friends of Mr. McGarr and family sympathize with them in their sore
bereavement. Reverend
Mr. Glassford was a welcome visitor in the neighbourhood this week. Sales
are coming fast and furious. Three
sales inside of two weeks is rather bewildering, Messrs. Jackson and Lynch
next week. Mr.
Hardy’s sale was very well attended and prices were fair. The neighbours are sorry to lose Mr. and
Mrs. Hardy and family from their midst for they have been ever kind and
obliging, and they leave with the best wishes of all, that success and happiness
may follow them in their new home. Mr.
Samuel Jackson, who has been very ill with la grippe, is able to be around
again. Sleighing
is grand this week, moonlight “ditto”, and parties numerous. Every
absurdity has now a champion to defend it, and as he is generally much in the
wrong, so he has always much to say, for error is ever talkative. |
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Strachan’s Corners March 1st 1897. March
has been ushered in sufficiently lion-like to bid us hope for a lamb-like
close. Since
the sales are all over and everything settled down to quietness again, news
is rather scarce. We
are pleased to know that Mr. Thomas Jackson has decided to remain in The
problem that is vexing the soul of the farmer at present is whether it is
better to pay wages and have nothing left or worry along alone and have
something. The
kindness of the Hunt Club in treating the farmers, over whose country they
rode, to a supper on Tuesday evening is much appreciated and a pleasant time
is anticipated. It is well for city
and country to sometimes meet for an exchange of ideas, as it will be
beneficial to all, we hope. Mrs.
Crane Jr. is expected home from the hospital, where she has been for the last
three months under treatment. Her
neighbours all earnestly hope for her speedy recovery. Miss
Mabel McMillan, of Erin, who has been visiting at Mr. McWilliams’ for the
past three weeks, has returned home. |
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Strachan’s Corners March 10th 1897. Spring-like
weather now. A
number of the friends and neighbours of Mr. Chrysler surprised him at his
residence on Tuesday evening. An enjoyable
time was spent and the company dispersed, wishing Mr. Chrysler and his family
peace and happiness in their new home.
They leave here some time soon. Mr.
Joseph Hardy has decided to remain in Mr.
Crawley is very ill with la grippe; also a number of others are suffering
severely. On
Sunday, while Mr. and Mrs. Dooley were driving home along the 7th concession,
one of the horses became unmanageable and unfortunately hurt its foot very
badly. Mr. McGill kindly came to his
assistance and kept the injured horse and lent Mr. Dooley another one. Mr.
Gilchrist, on Saturday, also had one of his horses injured, while on the road
nearly opposite Mr. Porter’s. A
meeting of the Patrons of Industry was called for last Thursday night to wind
up matters, but owing to some members being unable to be present, the meeting
was postponed indefinitely. The
farmers from this neighbourhood who attended the Driving and Hunt Club supper
are loud in their praise of the treatment they received and wish the club
pleasure and prosperity galore. |
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The News from Strachan’s Corners March 23rd 1897. The
roads in this neighbourhood last week were almost unfit for travelling,
indeed some spots were dangerous. A
little exertion in shovelling snow in some places would make a difference. This
Wednesday evening at 6:00 o’clock witnesses the wedding of Mr. William Derby,
Paisley Block, and Miss Kate McIntosh of Puslinch. Miss McIntosh has not been a great while in
our neighbourhood, but in the short time, she has gained many warm friends,
who regret exceedingly to see her leave this township. She has always been anxious to devote
herself in any good cause, and lend a helping hand in any time of need, and
it is the sincere wish of all that she may live a long and happy life with
the husband of her choice. Mr.
J. J. Craig, Public School Inspector, visited this section last week. He found the schools in a flourishing
condition. Remember
Mr. Adam Brickell’s sale on Tuesday, the 30th. La
grippe patients are recovering. Syrup
making has scarcely begun yet, although there were some days that the sap
would run. This does not promise to be
a good year for that business. Our
genial assessor, Mr. McLean, paid his annual visit last week. The dogs were all to the fore and were not
hustled out of sight. The dog tax is
not a welcome one, either in city or country. It
is a matter of surprise and regret to many that such a number of prominent
people took such an active interest in the recent brutal and disgusting fight
in |
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The News from Strachan’s Corners March 30th 1897. The
roads are very muddy and disagreeable for travelling. Not
much stir at present owing to farmers getting ready for spring work. A
number of cattle buyers are around, but not so many cattle are for sale this
year as formerly, for various reasons. After
a long siege of illness, borne with Christian patience, Mrs. James Crane Jr.
was laid to rest on Sunday, twenty-one years from the day of her
marriage. There was a large number to
pay their last respects to the dead at |
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The News from Strachan’s Corners April 6th 1897. We
have read many suggestions as to the celebration of the Jubilee Year, but
that of our esteemed Premier, Mr. Laurier, seems the most impossible, even though
it might be the most desirable. “Let
this be the jubilee year indeed; let this year be as of old, a year of
remission; let the past be forgotten; let old scores be put into oblivion;
let strife and contention be forever buried, and instead, let trust,
confidence and goodwill spring from the ground and rise towards Heaven. This is the noblest monument that Canadians
could offer as a contribution to the glory of the jubilee year.” As we read between the lines can we not
understand the utter weariness of the jealousies and bitterness which make
life in high places not the most pleasurable in the world, especially so to a
honourable man and one who conscientiously strives to do his duty against all
odds. This
beautiful spring-like weather gives the busy housewife a careworn expression
of countenance owing to the fact that the dreaded stove-moving season is
around again. Last year, I gave what I
considered to have been a very mild description of how the average man puts
up stove-pipes, and only the other day, I chanced to meet a very big man, oh
such a big man, a perfect giant, intellectually, physically, and---and---I
should judge “temper”---ally, who, to my amazement, accused me of having made
reference to him entirely, as the very man.
He had zealously nursed his wrath from that time, and I leave my
readers to imagine the storm of indignation vented on my luckless self. I am still living, but wishing that Mr.
Laurier’s proposal as to the celebration of the jubilee year might
materialize. As
usual, Puslinch has done well at the seed fair. Puslinch grain has a high reputation, and
farmers in need of good seed can rely on getting it free from weed seed. There are so many noxious weeds in the
country now that it behoves farmers to be careful as to the seed grain that
they buy. |
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Strachan’s Corners April 21st 1897. April
must be starting a sinking fund, or else giving March interest for past
years. This weather is injurious to
the fall wheat and grass. Farm
work has started in earnest, everybody, owing to the late spring, is very
busy plowing and tilling their land; however, very little seeding is done as
yet. The
cry on the farm of late years has been “hard times and hard work without
returns”, but better times must be anticipated for even Yankee stationers and
G.C.I. students are returning to the plow, but this doesn’t say how well they
can handle it and if the furrows are like a dog’s hind leg, it is the fault
of the plow and team, not of these experts.
The farmer calls them green because they are from the city, and of
course, the city Adonis calls them hayseed because they come from the
country. I suppose it had better be
submitted to arbitration. One hears
considerable grumbling about sore hands and tired legs from these freshies. Puslinch
is not forgotten, a person, even from another county, is marching through the
famous land, visiting all the old settlers, and gathering information in
order to compile a history of our township.
I suppose the worthy gentleman, when he gets his history written,
expects to make his fortune by selling his production to the inhabitants, but
I guess he’ll get sold himself and not the book, unless the women take it in
hand. They generally make things move. Maple
syrup season is about ended. The run
this season has been exceptionally good owing to its short duration. Puslinch
is the place for the boys; the girl buys the license, which she gives to her
true love and then the beau goes and marries a second belle, which the first
girl wrongs. People
in Puslinch are grieved to hear that Mr. John Laird, A
boy went out for a widow game the other night. He had first chance but found her armed
with clubs. This was too much, he
wanted diamonds. His grief was
appalling, but his grit surprising.
Determined to succeed, he won the lady of his choice, and at lunch got
two spoons as a sign of the wedding.
Wedding bells are said to ring but we can’t hear them. Parties
are all the go in this vicinity, only select company, O.A.C., Ducks,
etcetera. One
poor fellow mourns the betrothal of a sweet girl, once of our neighbourhood,
so much that he often becomes melancholy.
It is said that he wept, poor fellow, when she got married. I guess he’ll get over it all right. If he doesn’t, we’ll send for the agent who
was around here selling patent medicines, positive cures for the worst kinds
of cancer, catarrh, and heart disease. The
girls around here complain that their sisters who attend the Collegiate are
being spoiled. They won’t do what they
are told. Mr.
Joseph Lester will be busy this spring working his large farm. Mr.
Theodore Cross and Mr. Smith, of Ancaster, are renovating the barn shed of
Mr. Adams, our new neighbour. So far,
they have it raised three feet and set it on rollers. Personals---
Miss Emma Parker is spending her vacation at home. Miss Grace McPherson is enjoying brief
respite from her studies in |
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Strachan’s Corners May 4th 1897. “Oh earth, the thrilling of spring-tide, Pervades your bosom deep and wide. Your chilling sleep again is done, Smile up unto the smiling sun. Forget the gloom and biting frost, Your charms are not forever lost.” The
beautiful, busy spring season is with us again and everyone is very busily
employed with the usual spring exercises, not the least of which is the dreadful
house-cleaning in which the tidy housekeeper is revelling to her heart’s
content, with the accompaniment of the loudly and variously expressed
discontent of the man of the house, without exception. Some
very smart people are through seeding and others hope to be through this
week. Fall wheat and clover are
looking remarkably well, and the woods are gay with the lovely spring
flowers, which abound in great profusion at present. The
high wind last week played havoc with the building Mr. Cross had been
repairing for Mr. Adams. Chimney
fires created consternation among the timid ladies during the storm on
Friday. Where
are our young bachelors when a good farm is lying idle this year in our
section? “It is not so much what you say, As the manner in which you say it. It is not so much the language you use, As the tone in which you convey it.” |
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Strachan’s Corners May 11th 1897. Our
annual and unwelcome spring visitors, the mosquitoes, are here in myriad
numbers at present. It is to be hoped that
their stay will be of short duration. The
war-whoop of the belated waggoner is heard in the midnight air on our roads
these moonlight nights, quite alarming the sleepy residents, but we have the satisfaction
of knowing that some one is returning home happy, in spite of the price of
whiskey and tobacco. Whooping
cough has broken out in our neighbourhood, but we hope that the afflicted
ones will have but a mild attack. Mr.
Cassin, who has been visiting friends in this neighbourhood, has returned to
his home in Chicago, accompanied by his nephew, Mr. Hugh McGill. Tuesday
was observed as Arbour Day in our school.
Parents should take an interest in beautifying the school grounds and
encourage their children by giving something to plant, in the shape of seeds,
roots, or trees. Mr.
C. Lennie came in too close contact with the turnip pulper and consequently
is nursing a sore hand. |
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Strachan’s Corners May 20th 1897. The
incorrigible mosquito still holds the fort, much to the annoyance of
moonlight lovers. Someone was
predicting a scarcity of mosquitoes this year but they seem to be worse than
ever. Small
fruit promise a large yield, judging by blossoms, but apples do not promise
much. Mr.
Barclay is having a good substantial fence built, which will prove a barrier
to the numerous wayside cattle. Reverend
Mr. Martin of The
Misses Mabel and Madeline Ewing, of Farmers
are all busy preparing the ground for the root crop. Hogs
are in good demand. Mr. Lynch
delivered a fine load in Galt on Tuesday, prices fair for live weight. |
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Strachan’s Corners June 9th 1897. There
are two kinds of people who are quite a trial to their friends, and they are the
forgetful person and the one who makes promises and never keeps them. There is no need to dwell on these grave
faults, but we know the trouble caused by letters forgotten, appointments
made and not kept, etcetera. “The
giants who frighten us, most often turn out to be common sized men on stilts” “Every
man is our neighbour, who needs our compassion and help.” Between
the showers, the farmers are getting in their potatoes, mangolds, etcetera,
and in this neighbourhood at least crops are looking exceedingly well. The
long continued cold weather is quite conducive to colds and other
ailments. There are only a very few
cases of whooping cough and schools are well attended. Mrs.
Fitzpatrick is very ill and Mrs. James Crane also is ill this week. Everybody
is looking forward to the celebration of the Queen’s Jubilee, for a
well-earned holiday, and it is to be hoped that they will not be
disappointed. Mr.
Richard Laird had the misfortune to lose a very valuable horse by indigestion
this week. Veterinarian
Howie is getting quite a call in this neighbourhood lately. Our
young people are very much annoyed at the weather, but they try to get in a
picnic at the lake. We can’t say what
sort of time they had. A
number of people were very much interested in the bazaar last week. It was well worth a visit. We have not heard of many prizes being won
in this vicinity. Mr.
and Mrs. Thomas Parker enjoyed a pleasant drive to New |
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Strachan’s Corners June 15th 1897. “No
news is good news” for this week. This
is the picnic season now and the young people are evidently making good use
of their time. There was one from here
to the The
warm weather is very pleasant after the long cool season and all nature seems
to rejoice. The
annual sheep washing is very late this year, but the poor sheep are wishing
to be relieved of their coverings very soon, judging from the appearance of
some of them. The
bicycle is seen flying along our roads these fine evenings. We hope to soon have excellent roads for
wheeling if the council can respond to all the very numerous petitions sent
in, but we think our roads much superior to the indifferent ones in the
corporation of the The
country people are entertaining numerous visitors in this sweet month of
June, and everyone is happy, or ought to be, in this glad season. Some weddings are talked of also, a very
pleasant subject evidently. Just
now, the farmer’s wife wendeth her way to the barn and, with eagle eye,
searcheth for the young chickens, turkeys, ducks, and goslings that may
perchance have put in an appearance, and if she happen to have good luck, in
her mind she calculateth the roll of bills in the pocket next Christmas, if
the prices should happen to be good; for alas, butter is so low she maketh
nothing thereon, and is subjected to hard labour in the making of that
necessary commodity, and the price obtained is not sufficient to cover
expenses of manufacture. |
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Strachan’s Corners July 6th 1897. “It
takes a higher degree of courage to be laughed at than it does to be shot
at.” “We
are living in a high state of grace when we never blame anybody else for our
own mistakes.” The
few days of very hot weather was rather a severe change after the cool spring
but Monday’s heavy shower has cooled the atmosphere considerably. There was not much damage done in this
neighbourhood with the exception of a few trees being blown down, but in some
other parts the storm must have been very fierce judging from the lightning
seen from a distance. The
first of July was spent very quietly, but on Friday some neighbours and their
friends spent a most enjoyable time at the famous The
sick in our midst are all on the mend.
Mrs. Crane has rallied and is much better this week. The
usual number of visitors are enjoying the pure air of our neighbourhood. The
roads are undergoing the usual annual repairing. On some beats, the work is done well, on
others, rather indifferently. Some
young men are thoughtful enough of their lady friends who ride wheels to
remove the stones. “A
pump may be connected with a very deep well of good water and yet need a
pitcher of water to be brought from another source to be poured in at the top
before it can work. So with the mind
sometimes, the reading of a good book helps it into running order.” Farmers
are very busy with their hay, and this week will see a large amount of it
safely housed. Crops everywhere seem
to be excellent and a brighter prospect in view. The grasshopper has not troubled much, and
turkeys are not thriving as well as last year. It is a pity that the turkey could not be
taught to climb the trees where the numerous caterpillars abound. The potato bugs are worse than for many
years. Mrs.
P. Thomson and Master Tasker, of Salem, visited friends here last week, a
farewell visit ere her departure for |
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The News from Strachan’s Corners August 24th 1897. |
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“Here at this hour we view
the sweep Of a vast century to its
close, Sublime in its titanic
throes, And in its plummet, ocean
deep. A century thrilled from
start to end With fearless striving,
fearless hope, Whose larger mind and wider
scope In one eternal progress
tend.” |
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Mr.
Geo. McGill finished harvest on Tuesday.
This is only a day or two later than last year despite the continued
wet weather. We
hear of considerable wet grain being housed, but hope for no bad effects. That
tall potato vine story in Saturday’s issue is scarcely to be believed, but as
the mercury is noted for truthfulness, we must swallow it with a little grain
of salt. Beekeepers
are reporting a very poor yield of honey this year, from various causes, and
this neighbourhood is no exception to the rule. Doubtless, some of the overplus stock of last
year will be for sale this year, and thanks to the bill that was passed a
couple of years ago prohibiting anyone selling adulterated honey in Canada,
we can still have pure honey. Our good
representative for that year worked hard for the protection of beekeepers,
and described a honey which properly ripened and sealed would keep till
doomsday. Mr.
Walter Laird and Miss Maggie Laird visited friends in Eramosa and Erin last
week. Miss
K. M. Armstrong wheeled from the city to visit friends here. Those
who have good wheat this year are jubilantly walking around whispering
audibly, “A dollar a bushel, likely more before spring, hundreds of bushels
in the barn, better than the We
hear of a few picnics after the harvest is safely gathered in. Mrs.
R. Mahoney and little daughter have returned to the city, having spent a few
days in the country. Very
few from this vicinity have joined the great exodus to the Northwest. Ed Kinsella has taken the trip in. It will be a wonder if there is work for so
many harvesters. |
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Strachan’s Corners October 26th 1897. The
exceedingly fine weather that we are enjoying at present is much appreciated by
the farmers, who are anxious to get fall plowing done, etcetera. Turnip
pulling is now in order. The crop is a
very good one this year. The
tenant on Mr. Lennie’s place, Mr. Laur, has begun plowing. Reverend
Mr. Belt held a cottage service at the residence of Mr. Robert Porter on
Friday evening, which was well attended.
Mr. Belt expects to hold these services regularly through the
winter. His lectures are much
appreciated by those who attend. Mr.
and Mrs. William McWilliams, of Eramosa, and Mrs. Laird Sr., of Guelph,
visited at Mr. Parker’s and at other friends last week. Basket-making
seems to be rather brisk at present.
The terms are “strictly in advance” it appears, and with a great many
farmers they are so far in advance that they have begun to despair of ever
viewing their purchases, but it may be that if they wait patiently a while
longer, they may have their desire, but even a farmer’s patience has a limit. It
will give general satisfaction in this section to know that our popular
teacher, Miss Blyth, has been re-engaged for the coming year in the |
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Strachan’s Corners November 3rd 1897. Mr.
Michael Lynch is very ill with rheumatism and is suffering very much
pain. We hope for a speedy recovery. The
inspector, Mr. Craig, paid his half-yearly visit to the school here. Why do the trustees and parents not visit
the school? Hallowe’en
pranks were not very many. Boys are
too busy at turnips. Mr.
and Mrs. Nathan Thompson, and some members of the family, from Owen Sound,
visited friends in the neighbourhood, last week. Mrs.
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Strachan’s Corners November 17th 1897. Looks
as though winter is here, and some loads of turnips are yet to be housed. Some
of the bachelors are thinking seriously of matrimony. A wedding takes place in a few days. The contracting parties are very popular
and have the best wishes of a very large circle of friends. Still, there are more to follow! Mr.
Lynch remains in about the same condition.
He is unconscious at times. The
many friends of Mr. and Mrs. Doyle and their family sympathize with them in
their sore bereavement. We
regret to hear of the serious illness of Mr. A. Paddock, who was threshing in
this neighbourhood last week. We
hear a great deal about hunting in Muskoka at present, but we seldom see any
game. A kind friend, more fortunate
than many hunters, has treated a number in this neighbourhood to venison,
which is a rare treat indeed. The
hunters say they had a good time although they had often to walk many miles
in a day, and seldom shoot anything.
Tired? Yes!! But hunting is a rare sport, you know. The party season is here again. We hear of a number of enjoyable gatherings, and the young people are happy. |
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from the |
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The News from Strachan’s Corners December 15th 1897. Farmers have been busily engaged in finishing up late plowing for the last week, so that winter is scarcely here _____. There is every evidence that the Liberals are convinced that good times have arrived, when they are preparing for an expensive banquet. Tickets are only fifty cents and the very best viands, etc., etc., will be set before you. Why, there is also some talk of celebrating the anniversary of King ___ accession by a banquet. Surely, the money spent could be applied to some better purpose than providing those with dainties that they do not need. A word to the wise is sufficient. It is rather disquieting to think that in order to do honour to some ___ person there must be an elaborate feast prepared, when there must by necessity be an enormous waste and extravagance. Mr. Walter Laird has been engaged
by the Those who attended the Fat Stock Show from this neighbourhood were well pleased. |
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Strachan’s Corners January 4th 1898. The
joyous holiday season is past and everyone has settled down to the usual routine
of daily duties once more with renewed resolve for the new year. Miss
Blyth and Mr. Hanlon were bright and early at work on Monday morning. Miss
Emma Parker resumes teaching in New Mr.
Walter Laird is wielding the rod in Killean. Mr.
C. Lennie, of Syracuse, N.Y., is visiting his parents. Miss
Kate Stewart spent some happy days with her cousins here. Reverend
Mr. Belt expects to hold a cottage service at the residence of Mr. Thomas
Parker on Thursday evening. Last
Thursday, an old time raffle was held at the residence of Mr. Lynde. No doubt a happy time was spent by the
successful ones who were there, fun and turkey galore, etcetera. The
revival services lately conducted in Kirkland’s Chapel by the pastor,
assisted by Mr. J. Austin have been productive of much good to some of the
young people who have earnestly resolve to live a Christian life. Mr.
Samuel Jackson resumes farming this year, assisted by his son William. Excellent
sleighing and very cold weather. |
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Strachan’s Corners April 6th 1898. Fine
March weather. Pupils
and teachers are looking forward to the Easter vacation. Mr.
Will Barclay has obtained a situation at the O.A.C. and Mr. David Barclay has
engaged for the summer with Mr. Carter, And
are we really to pass through the horrors of another election? And have not the Conservatives an admirable
cats-paw? Tramps
seem to infest the neighbourhood. The
gold fever has not affected all the idle men in the country. Fall
wheat is looking admirably well this spring.
There was a much larger acreage than usual sown last fall. The
tramps abroad: Several mornings during
the past week the Protestant Separate Schoolhouse, Puslinch, has borne evidence
of being inhabited by tramps during the night. On Tuesday morning they evidently had
overslept, as when the door was unlocked in the morning, three able-bodied
tramps were discovered comfortably sleeping, with a good fire on, and all the
wood left for the morning fire burnt.
One was short and wore an overcoat and was fair complexioned, the
second was tall and dark, and the third was a comparatively young man of
about twenty. They made good their
escape, and will likely not appear in the neighbourhood again. |
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The News from Strachan’s Corners April 20th 1898 “In this world of toil and trouble, If you would your pleasure double, Lend a hand. There’s a bliss beyond all other, Found in helping up another, Lo, to every needy brother, Lend a hand.” It was a great shock to our usually quiet neighbourhood to hear of John Porter’s narrow and miraculous escape from ____ (unreadable section)… and much sympathy is felt for the family, and more especially at this time, when he had bought his farm, which is in a rather bad state, being very much in need of plowing. He is improving as well as could be expected under the circumstances, but will not be out for some time. Farmers are expecting to be pretty well through seeding this week, although the cold east storm of Tuesday retarded their movements some. People who are in the habit of crossing Wells’ bridge, were expecting something substantial in the way of a bridge when travel was forbidden in that direction last week, but the crazy patchwork affair called a bridge is still there, but some morning it may not be there. Mrs. Derby and Master John, of
Mosboro, visited at Miss McIntosh’s last week. Miss Rose Rudell visited friends here. Dr. Laird, of Southampton, paid a short
visit to his home. Miss Flowers, of
New Hamburg, was the guest of Miss Parker.
Miss Alice Porter, of Brantford, spent Sunday with her parents. Miss Gretta Cane is at home at
present. Miss Grace McPherson spent
the vacation at home. Miss Blythe
visited in The farmers enjoyed the Hunt Club supper and social chat very much, and are grateful to the members for their kindness. Perhaps, the compliment may be returned some day. The Guelph Mercury |
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The News from Strachan’s Corners May 5th 1898. We did not suppose that the mighty Rockwood scribe noticed the feeble efforts of amateurs, but we feel flattered that he followed the example. We must forgive his funny remarks and “poetic flight”, as apparently he has had great provocation with wailing kids et cetera, and we dare not presume to be foemen worthy of his steel (pen). Quite the event of the season was a party given by Mr. and Mrs. Crawley to a number of their friends last week. It goes without saying that a happy time was spent by all till away on in the morn, with such a gracious hostess. “It passes all understanding that men, either in city or country, will maintain the yelping cur nuisance, and all without a word of rebuke. The man who kills such a dog takes the law into his own hands, but he has the active sympathy of every man who believes that the highways belong to the people for their peaceful use, unmolested by the attacks of curs that frighten horses, and consequently threaten property and life.” ─ from “The Globe”. Reverend Father O’Loane administered the Holy Sacrament, the Lord’s Supper, to Mr. and Mrs. Fitzpatrick, on Tuesday morning. An enthusiastic young volunteer of this neighbourhood was hastily preparing his old musket for war, and in his endeavour to dislodge the old charge, almost killed himself and comrade. At last reports they are doing well. |
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Strachan’s Corners May 17th 1898. There
appears to be nothing new under the sun this week. The same yearly digging, delving, and
cultivating of the earth, and the same old custom of spring cleaning are
zealously, very much so, attended to as usual and doubtless will be while the
earth lasts. The
sick: Mrs. Spruhan, who has been ill,
is progressing favourably. Mrs. Crane
is much weaker this week but is able to be around. Mr. Stewart, who was suffering from
paralysis, is recovering. Mr. Thomas
Parker, who has been ill with appendicitis, is able to be around again. The
woods are gay with the most beautiful flowers this spring, and many ladies
and gentlemen daily are seen culling the sweet scented blossoms. Numbers
of young people, per bicycle, visit the country these days. Some of the roads are suitable for
wheeling, but others are almost covered with large and small stones, which
are rather troublesome. Statute
labour recreation will soon be along. We
see enthusiastic fishers starting out, but they usually drag themselves home
unburdened by the many speckled beauties of the river. A
most delightful game of baseball, played by some of the young ladies of the
neighbourhood, was witnessed on Monday evening by admiring travellers. The usual merriment prevailed and all had a
good time, and aching limbs in the morning. |
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Strachan’s Corners June 7th 1898 Very dry weather in this region at present. We longingly watched the clouds pass by us on Monday evening. Rain would be very welcome now. Wheat is out in head and promises well. Clover is everywhere very good, but is drying up for want of rain. Puslinch and Paisley Block played baseball on Tuesday evening in Mr. Phalen’s field, and as all the world would expect, the Puslinch Hustlers won the day, the score 6 to 4. There was a large crowd to witness the game. A number were present from the city. The Guelph Mercury |
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Strachan’s Corners June 30th 1898. Very
hot, then cool and wet weather. Mr.
and Mrs. Frank Mollison have best wishes for future happiness from the whole neighbourhood. Reverend
Mr. Glassford held a service at the residence of Mr. James Laird on Monday
evening. About thirty assembled and
appreciated his thoughtful lecture very much. Miss
Amos is teaching in the Haying
has begun. The crop promises to be
very large in this vicinity. A
rag and bone collector was through the country the other day. There is a big dog or constable waiting to
attend to his case the next time he appears. |
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Strachan’s Corners July 19th 1898. A
fine shower of rain fell on Tuesday and was very welcome as the dust was very
disagreeable in this vicinity, but the farmers were glad to get all their hay
in without a spell of wet weather.
Wheat about all cut and the prospects are cheering. As
all the world knows, binding twine is away up in price, consequently some
people endeavour to obtain it as cheaply as possible and take a stroll around
their neighbours’ grain fields to appropriate balls that are left with the
binder. The thief, a mean sneak thief
he is too, is pretty well known, and to save trouble it would be as well for
him, and it would be taken kindly by the farmers, if he would, before next
Monday, return the twine, as apparently Sunday night is his night out. One
evening, a week or so ago, the people of the neighbourhood were treated to
some delightful music. We know not who
the fair singer was, but we should like her to know that it was very much
enjoyed after a day of hard work. The
memory of that sweet song shall ever linger in the minds of many who heard
it. The
Misses McPherson wheeled to Galt on Saturday. Miss
Parker, of Toronto, visited her brother, Mr. T. Parker, last week. Miss
J. Armstrong, city, visited friends here. Miss
Nellie Hamilton is visiting Miss Laird. Mrs.
Lennie, accompanied by Miss Lillie Snow, of Syracuse, visited in Flamboro. Miss
Lynch is recovering from her illness. Raspberry
pickers from the city will find it to their interest to keep away from the
country at present as farmers are in a rather rebellious mood these days. “Jealousy
is acknowledging the superiority of someone else.” “ “Difficulty,
adversity, and suffering are not all toil, but often the best source of
strength. Some men only require a
great difficulty set in their way to exhibit the force of their character,
and the difficulty once conquered becomes one of the greatest incentives to
their progress.” We
regret that the heads of the Mercury are stepping out, but wish them many
years of happiness and rest after the years of toil that they have seen. |
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Strachan’s Corners August 9th 1898. Threshings
are now the aggravation of the farmer.
The Laur, Broeckel, and Paddock whistle startles the tired men in the
very early morn, and the small boy longs for the school day as eagerly as he
wished for vacation. The harvest is
about over, and an unusually busy one it was too. The yield of grain promises well, with the
exception of oats and peas, which have suffered from frost. Sheep-worrying
dogs have been rampant lately. Owners
of dogs had better see that their pets are not a nuisance to their
neighbours, but “Oh no, it would be impossible that our dog would kill sheep. He is not even cross”. Miss
Stewart, of Crieff, is spending a week with friends here. Mr.
and Mrs. Ainsworth of the city spent a few days with Miss Laird. Mr.
and Mrs. Law, of Ancaster, visited their niece, Mrs. Mollison. The
country schools open next week. It is
thought that our schools might as well have the same length of vacation as
city schools. Very few attend for the
first two weeks after vacation. Puslinch
people earnestly wish for the new editors of the “leading paper” long life
and continued success. Mr.
Walter Laird, accompanied by his friend, Mr. Young, is on a wheeling tour to
Hespeler and other places. |
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Strachan’s Corners August 18th 1898. Schools
opened on Monday with a fair attendance.
It is thought that the vacation passed much more quickly than usual. It
has been suggested numbers of times that farmers ought to have their names
printed on their gates for the benefit of travellers. In a township surveyed as Puslinch is, it
would be very welcome. So far as we
know, the only one who has done so is Mr. Hector McCaig, of Puslinch. He has a beautiful white gate, and “he who
runs may read” and know who owns such a fine place. What
have you to say about the plebiscite? As
Between
the showers, the grain is nearly all harvested. A
fierce storm passed over here on Tuesday morning, levelling trees and fences
but leaving no very serious damage in its track. Mrs.
Brazil, of Brantford, spent Sunday with her parents. Miss
Barclay, of Rhode Island, is home for a visit. Miss
Lynch’s friends will be glad to know that she is progressing favourably. |
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Strachan’s Corners August 22nd 1898. Mr.
S. Jackson, who was injured by a colt, is recovering. Mr.
James Crane Sr. is not very well at present. Mr.
Harry Snyder had his hand hurt by a fork last week. A
number of farmers in this neighbourhood complain of their cattle having sore
eyes, and they suffer very much. Is
there no remedy for this trouble? Is
there any law as to the width of the road or street either in country or
city? It certainly is a narrow way that
travellers have on An
absentminded man walked off with a pair of chickens belonging to Mrs. Foster
on the market on Saturday. He was
nearly as mean as the customer who says, “I’ll take this pair”, and doesn’t
come back to claim them, thereby causing the vendor to lose the sale of
wares. Of course, the Chief was not
near, weighing butter, at that time, nor anywhere in sight were the police. A
young man in the locality who owns a very fine horse and buggy is neither
going to sell his horse or have it stolen, as it is said that he has his name
neatly clipped on it, which is a very good idea. It
is thought that if some of the city’s enterprising merchants set up a branch
store on the corner here, it would be a good move, and be a great convenience
to farmers in the very busy season, and soon we might have a post office
also. There is a fine looking building
empty here, which would make an excellent store and dwelling house. Mrs.
Law, of Hamilton, is visiting her daughter, Mrs. Mollison. Miss
Alice Porter, of Brantford, is spending a week with her parents. |
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Strachan’s Corners September 27th 1898. Miss
Blyth, who has successfully taught in the Protestant Separate School for
nearly two years has decided to take a term at the Normal College, Hamilton,
which opens on the 1st of October. She
has gained a large number of friends while here, who will wish her every
success for the future. Miss Emma
Parker succeeds Miss Blyth. There
is not apparently a great amount of interest displayed in this neighbourhood
in regard to the plebiscite. Pamphlets
are freely circulated by the anti-prohibitionists, containing the views of
eminent divines on the question. We
may quote one as an example and people may judge for themselves as to whom he
serves. Reverend W. S. Rainsford, New
York, formerly of Toronto, says, “I cannot deny the poor man his beer and
pipe while I lunch at my club with my bishop.” Evidently, prohibition hath no charms for
these eminent divines. Messrs.
George and Richard Laird have built a silo and are experimenting with cured
corn fodder. Adam
Brockel is doing excellent work with his ensilage cutter in this
neighbourhood. Our
worthy reeve will be after delinquent statute labourers if they don’t look
out. It is near election time again so
perhaps they will escape. Aberfoyle
show, October 5th, next Wednesday, you know. “Books
are a guide to youth and an entertainment for old age. They support us under solitude and keep us
from being a burden to ourselves. They
help us to forget the crossness of men and things, compose our cares and our
passions, and lay our disappointments asleep.”----Jeremy Collier |
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Strachan’s Corners October 6th 1898. Oh!
What hot weather! Is the complaint on all sides. Wells and cisterns are dry and this is
October. The
cabbage worm has attacked the turnip tops, and wherever a field of roots is
passed one sees myriad yellow butterflies in the air. Dandelions
are blooming as in spring. Some
more of our Puslinch young people are weary of single blessedness. Mr. Burns and Miss McNulty were married on
Monday morning. Their many friends
wish for them a very long and happy life.
Others are stricken slightly with the fever but may recover. It is scarcely probable that they
will. I am sure that no one wants them
to anyway. Dressmakers
are busy. I should like to give a
description of some beautiful robes now in process of construction but these
don’t happen to be “Society notes” so I shall not weary my patient readers. Judging
by the number who voted against prohibition here, we are not ready for it
yet. When
are people going to learn how to mark their ballots? It is remarkable how often some people have
to be told and then don’t know. Potato
digging is now the fashion, consequently the young idea is taking the air
previous to having a holiday at the Aberfoyle show on Wednesday. Apple
barrels are being bought out of town by the dozen at present. Prices for fall apples range from 75˘ to
$1.00 per barrel. Mr. John Howitt, Mr.
Crawley, and Mr. McGill have very choice fruit. |
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Strachan’s Corners October 11th 1898. Mr.
Lynch, who was injured by a runaway accident last week, is improving. His friends will be pleased to see him around
soon again. A
select company is at present inhabiting the corner house. Basket making is understood to be their
occupation. The
dreary fall rain fell in large quantities on Tuesday. “The melancholy days have come.” Miss
Alicia Wallace, who spent a holiday with friends here, returned home on
Monday. Mrs.
Davis Porter and two children, of Egremont, spent last week visiting her
parents, Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Jackson, and other friends. The
“red coats” and followers allowed us a brief glimpse of their happiness on
Friday last. It is a matter of wonder
to country people what the object is in having chained hounds in the
train. Verily, they present a very
handsome appearance and their coming varies the monotony of country life and
is a bright spot in the memory. |
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Strachan’s Corners October 18th 1898. Apple
picking is vigorously attended to at present, and apple butter is the
favourite delicacy. Mr.
Donald McPherson has been suffering severely from an acute attack of la grippe
but is able to be around again. Mr.
and Mrs. Lynch are improving. Great
interest is manifested in this vicinity in Mr. John Porter’s case, which
comes off this week. We all hope that
he will be successful beyond his expectations. Mr.
and Mrs. Belt spent the day in this neighbourhood on Wednesday last. Mr. Belt has many interesting tales to
relate concerning his trip to the old land.
He gives a lecture in Mr.
and Mrs. Lennie leave this week for Syracuse, N.Y., to attend the marriage of
their son, Cameron, and Miss Gertrude Boyd of that place. Word
has been received from Mr. and Mrs. Sorby, from |
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Strachan’s Corners November 1st 1898. Between
apple picking and turnip pulling there is scarcely time for anything else to
happen. While the fine weather lasts
the roots must be housed. The
small boy and the funny young man had their night out on Monday night,
Hallowe’en. Judging from the results
of their violent exertions, they had not worked very hard through the day,
but then they claim to have had lots of fun, and it only comes once a year. Mr.
John Barclay is rapidly recovering from his accident. The
teachers are very lonely these days owing to the help of the pupils being
necessary in the fields. Master
Richie Hewitt, who has been ill, is regaining his strength. Teachers and pupils have been sorry to miss
him from school lately. Gentlemanly
insurance agents and others are doing the country at present. Naturally, the farmer is a most hospitable
creature, but really, at this busy season, he resents the intrusion of this
talkative traveller. |
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Strachan’s Corners November 8th 1898. The
continued fine weather has been much appreciated after the dismal wet weather
of October. Farmers are well on with
work and quite prepared for winter. Richard
Hewitt, Jr., met with an accident that might have proved more serious. He was out hunting when the gun exploded
and injured him severely in the face.
We sincerely hope that his eyesight may not suffer. Firearms appear to be never safe, and are
at all times liable to go off. Hewitt
is doing well at Mr.
Harry Foster’s young daughter, who was severely burned a few weeks ago, is
getting along nicely. A
most comical sight was witnessed the other day when a farmer of this
vicinity, with a pig in his wagon, enclosed in a crate, was driving rapidly
towards By
the way, farmers who have from forty to one hundred pigs are looking blue,
also those who sold their barley too soon. |
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Strachan’s Corners November 15th 1898. What
a long winter we have in prospect. The
storm found some rather unprepared, who are hoping for a few more fine days
to finish roots, etcetera. The
Millman apple-packers were doing Puslinch last week and this. Apples scarcely pay for the trouble of
picking. A
prominent hotel-keeper and a farmer had a deal in wheat last week. The price was away up, and we are pleased
to say the farmer came out best. If we
quoted price per bushel paid, the honest buyers on the market might suffer
from a faintness or paralysis. |
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The News from Strachan’s Corners November 28th 1898. The
roads are now in excellent condition with the exception of a treacherous hole
or two, which cause an occasional breakdown these frosty mornings. Surely, when a man undertakes the duties of
pathmaster he ought to see that the beat under his oversight is at least
safe. We
are making a good beginning at the Corner, for there is a store now, and some
day perhaps Hespeler and Guelph may be connected by an electric railway,
since Hamilton and Guelph are so slow in the matter, and then we may have a
daily mail, which would be a great convenience. Miss
Howitt and Miss Evans have been collecting for the Bible Society in this
vicinity. This is a grand work, and
when we read of the success of the work, it is quite encouraging. Thanksgiving
Day was observed in the usual way.
Some faithful few attended church.
Others ate their turkey or goose and went hunting. Hares were captured in large numbers, so
some hunters report. The
sound of the raffle is in the air at the present. Pleasant little parties also break the
monotony these long evenings. Some
farmers are having their cattle dehorned by veterinarian Howie this week, a
sensible proceeding. |
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The News from Strachan’s Corners December 7th 1898. The
all-important subjects this week are the severe storm of Sunday night and the
Fat Stock Show. It is earnestly hoped
that no one had to brave the elements on such a wild night. Such a severe storm so early in the season
is unusual. The
show being held in Mr.
John Meyers has been suffering severely from the effects of poison ivy but is
able to be around again. It is
marvellous the effect that this vine has on some people and it is a rather
difficult matter to distinguish it when the leaves are dead. Mr.
Samuel Jackson intends working his farm himself next year. It
is reported that Mr. Pinder has bought one of Mr. Doyle’s farms. |
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The News from Strachan’s Corners December 19th 1898. Anyone
who has been pining for a good old-fashioned winter is likely to have his
wish gratified if the first couple of weeks are any indication. It is difficult for the “Corner” to get to
the Mercury in time, owing to the snow blockade. The roads are very bad. Travelling for a few days was through Mr.
Barclay’s fields but that gentleman put up the fence again, which was a very
wise act considering the road was through his fall wheat, and it would be
wise for all farmers to follow his example and force the pathmasters to keep
the road open. Often, a very little
shovelling will keep the road clear.
Pitch-holes are a nice diversion at present also. Reverend
Mr. Belt held a cottage service at the residence of Mr. Thomas Parker on
Thursday evening. There were about
thirty present. Mr. Belt hopes to give
an entertainment in the Protestant Separate school on Tuesday January
3rd. Between seventy and eighty fine
views of his travels in Miss
Scanlon, the popular teacher in the Brock Road school, gives an entertainment
on Thursday night. We know this lady’s
ability, consequently all who attend may expect a treat. Large
quantities of turnips are being shipped from this vicinity, 9˘ is the price
paid. Mr.
Neil Laur has trapped several fine, grey weasels lately. This little animal, so full of cuteness and
so dangerous among fowls, is very hard to trap. Several
weddings are talked of. We wish the
young people much happiness. The
many friends of John Eustace sympathize with him in his bereavement. The funeral was very largely attended on
Sunday. I
should esteem it a great favour if those living in the vicinity of Strachan’s
Corners would occasionally send a little news. Sometimes you may have a friend from a
distance visiting you or anything else that you consider suitable. There are many people who would be glad to
hear of friends through the correspondence from this part. Any communications left at the school will
be attended to and received with thanks. Mr.
J. Hanlon has been re-engaged for No. 3 for the coming year. He is a very successful teacher. Miss Parker has also been re-engaged for
the Protestant Separate. Schools are
well attended at present, but during the stormy weather very few dared to
venture. |
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It came upon the midnight
clear, That glorious song of old, From angels bending near
the earth To touch their harps of
gold. “Peace on earth, good-will
to men, From Heaven’s all gracious
King.” The world in solemn
stillness lay To hear the angels sing. |
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Wishing
the Mercury and its numerous readers a Merry Christmas and most Happy New
Year. |
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The News from Strachan’s Corners December 27th 1898. Dinners,
high teas, and most delightful parties are now the order of the day, till
there is almost a surfeit, but it is the festive season, and everyone is
happy, or ought to be. When we
consider how many blessings have been poured upon us during the year, now at
its close, we have abundant reason for thankfulness. An
extended notice of Miss Scanlon’s school entertainment has probably been read
by Mercury readers, so that I need not dwell on its excellence. The
first meeting of the Literary Society to be held in the Brock Road
schoolhouse is called for Friday, the 6th of January, directly after 4
o’clock, and all who are interested are invited to be present from
surrounding sections. Try and be
there. Miss
Mary Moran is home visiting her parents at present. Mr.
“Teddy” Kinsella is home from Brandon, Manitoba, for a short visit. Mr.
P. Moran’s bereaved family have the kind sympathy of many friends in their
sorrow at this season. Miss
Maggie Laird of Guelph is holidaying with Miss McPherson, “City
and Country in Mr. J. D. McWilliams, Brantford, is visiting friends here at present. |
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from the |
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Strachan’s Corners May 17th 1900. The
man with the hoe and the woman with the broom are running each other pretty hard,
while the girl with the bike and the boy with the cigar are striking up an
acquaintance. Fine
moonlight for wheeling, but too many stones on the road. Mr.
and Mrs. Lennie expect to leave for It
was with much sorrow that the many friends of Mr. and Mrs. James Anderson, formerly
of this section, learned of the death of their beloved daughter, Miss
Grace. They have the sincere sympathy
of all in their great trial. |
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Strachan’s Corners October 29th 1901. The
beautiful fall weather is most enjoyable and heartily welcome to the farmers
who are rushing the usual fall work. Mrs.
Brazil and Master Ivan, of Brantford, have returned home after spending a
week with friends here. We
cannot but admire the zeal of our Catholic neighbours in attending the church
services for the past two weeks. Would
that many more would follow the example of those nine hundred who took the
pledge on Sunday night for one year to abstain from drink. Reverend
Dr. Wardrope, who is always a most welcome visitor, held a service at the
residence of Mr. James Laird on Monday evening. There were over twenty present. The reverend gentleman based his address on
the 14th chapter of the Gospel of St. John and those who know Dr. Wardrope
will understand with what fervour and love the last thoughts of our Saviour
would be spoken of to reverent listeners.
The doctor expects to hold another service in about two weeks at the
residence of Mr. George Laird, to which all are invited. The
superb moonlight tempts many ramblers, and happy evenings are spent among
friends. Mr.
Con Collins is making rapid progress with the foundation of his new barn. Those
who are fortunate enough to possess turkeys this year are glad the prices are
so good. |
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Strachan’s Corners July 24th 1906. Lots
of wet weather hindered the haying greatly but, at last, it is about finished
and the wheat and barley harvest are keeping the farmers very busy. Miss
Sadie McPherson and Miss Nellie Laidley were successful at the recent
entrance examination. Miss
McGunnigle, the energetic teacher in No. 3, having resigned, it will be
necessary to engage a new teacher for the reopening of school. Miss McGunnigle has taught for a number of
years and has proved a faithful and thorough teacher and her pupils have made
rapid progress. Her pupils loved her
for her cheery disposition. Dr.
Laird, of Mrs.
McTague, of Cleveland, and Miss Jackson, of Toronto, are visiting at the
hospitable home of Mr. and Mrs. Crawley. Owing
to the severe storm and rain on Sunday evening quite a number of visitors
were compelled to seek shelter for over night. |
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Strachan’s Corners September 11th 1906. We
regret to learn that one of our very nicest young men, Mr. James Barclay,
went out west on Tuesday. We can only hope
that he may like Dr.
Laird, of Southampton, visited home friends last week. Mrs.
Fox and children, of New Hamburg, are visiting at the old home. Mr.
Mollison, of London, England, is visiting his brother, Mr. F. Mollison. Farm
work is not progressing very rapidly during this extremely hot spell. Pasture is all but completely dried up. Miss
Florence Crawley is enjoying a holiday with friends in |
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The News from Strachan’s Corners November 6th 1906. Mr.
James Barclay has returned from the West after spending some time with his
brothers, west of Calgary, who are prospering. Although he did not experience any serious results
from the collision at Mr.
E. Howitt, who is almost recovered from his recent illness, has moved into
the city. Mr.
and Mrs. Wm. Moran have sincere sympathy from a wide circle of friends in the
sore bereavement that they have sustained in the death of their son Charles,
who succumbed to typhoid fever in Mrs.
Wilkinson, of Toronto, has been the guest of Miss Porter for a few days. Mrs. Wilkinson sees many changes in the
neighbourhood since she was a resident here. Mrs.
C. J. Laird, of Southampton, is spending a few weeks with the Misses Laird. Mr.
and Mrs. Neil Black attended the presentation to our Reeve and Mrs Cockburn,
and spent a very pleasant evening. Roots
are being rapidly garnered for the winter during this fine weather. Mr.
Edward Dynes, who is an expert in moving buildings, has completed his work at
Mr. McWilliams’, and returned to Mr.
Craig, P.S.I., (Public School Inspector) was in the neighbourhood. |
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from the |
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The News from Strachan’s Corners January 28th 1907. The
second meeting of the Downey’s Literary Society was held on Monday evening,
with a good attendance, owing to the good sleighing and magnificent
moonlight, not to speak of the entertainment provided, which was all that
could be desired. Several members from
the Aberfoyle Society were present and lent valuable assistance. The chair was taken by the President,
George McGill, who conducted the meeting in a most agreeable manner. Miss Forrest made a nice little speech and
brought up several important business matters. The debate, which was on the “National
Resources of |
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The News from Strachan’s Corners September 3rd 1907. The rain on Sunday evening, though not very heavy in this section, was very welcome to the parched ground. A building was struck by lightning on Mr. McGarr’s farm, but little damage was done. Mrs. Kinsella, at present, is very ill, but many friends hope that she will be restored to health very soon. Mrs. Lynch Senior has gone to Buffalo to be with her sister, who is ill. The building of the new school is progressing rapidly, as a large force of men is at work. A large number from this vicinity
visited the great Miss Sadie McPherson is attending
the Collegiate Institute in Fall wheat seeding is of great importance at present. Miss Laird is visiting her aunt, Mrs. Armstrong, of Fergus. |
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The News from Strachan’s Corners January 28th 1908. Old
Boreas raged again on Sunday, consequently the roads, which were becoming passable,
are now in a sad state, and upsets and such difficulties are very numerous. Mr.
and Mrs. John Hanlon, Brock Road, were at home on Friday night to a large
number of young people, and a most enjoyable time was spent until the wee
small hours of Saturday. Their
beautiful home is an ideal spot for happy gatherings, and no pains were
spared to make the occasion all that could be desired. Miss
McGill and Miss Laird are visiting at Ponsonby. |
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The News from Strachan’s Corners May 27th 1908. Monday was favoured by ideal weather for a holiday and was enjoyed by a large number of visitors from the city. The country is looking beautiful now, after the numerous showers of rain followed by a few days of warm weather. Farmers have been so busy with spring work that they scarcely had time to become excited over political matters. The Socialists intend holding a meeting in the school house on Friday evening. Miss Forrest is preparing six pupils for entrance this year. The school was not closed on Thursday and Friday for convention. Coming events cast their shadows before and June promises to be a most interesting month for some of our young people this year. At present, there is a great calm and everyone is attending to business most vigorously. The great poultry house that has been erected near Guelph has set farmers wondering if it is wise to compete with such a large concern, and some are concluding to go out of that line of business, which will likely not prove as profitable as formerly. Botanists are intent on securing specimens that are now growing in great profusion in the woods. |
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Strachan’s Corners October 28th 1908. Now
that elections are over and things have turned out just as we expected, we
may talk of something else. The
many friends and neighbours of Mr. Barclay will be pleased to know that he is
progressing very favourably at the hospital under the care of Dr. Orton. Mr.
and Mrs. William Moran have much sympathy in the death of their son, Robert,
who has been out west for some time.
He leaves a widow. Their
daughter, Miss Gertie, is very ill in Mr.
Monkhouse is very busy finishing up threshing in this neighbourhood. Mr.
and Mrs. George Laird returned last week from their western trip. They visited many interesting spots in
their travels and enjoyed the change very much. Mrs.
McCoombs, of Toronto, is spending the week with her parents, Mr. and Mrs.
George McGill. Mr.
Fred McWilliams, of Eramosa, and sister visited relatives here on Sunday. Whatever
few turnips are worth taking up are being attended to this week. Cider
and apple butter are everywhere. |
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Strachan’s Corners August 2nd 1909. Again,
the harvest is almost over for another season, and generally speaking, there
is a bountiful supply of all kinds of farm produce. Mr.
George McGill is at present managing the farm of the late, lamented Mr. Evan
Gilchrist. Congratulations
to Sergeant John Wilkinson on the crowning event of his life, which
transpired last Wednesday. He will
reside in Morriston, where his many friends hope that he may long live a
happy life with his bride. A
large number from this section attended the funeral of Mr. John Eustace on
Friday last. The
school grounds are nearing completion and we hope that they may soon present
an attractive appearance. Civic
holiday excursions were taken advantage of by a number here. |
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Strachan’s Corners November 23rd 1909. The
sleet storm of Monday has done considerable damage through the country. Mr.
Stephen Laidley has rented his farm and is moving to a farm near the city. Mr.
D. Parker and Mr. Matt McGarr have returned from the west. We are all well pleased to see them back. Miss
Maude McGill has returned from Would
you like rural mail delivery? Ask for
it, if so. The
telephone also can be had for the asking.
We cannot stay the march of progress. Mr.
and Mrs. Mollison attended the funeral of Mrs. Mollison’s grandmother, Mrs.
Burnell of Winterbourne, on Monday. |
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Strachan’s Corners December 28th 1909. A
very happy New year to all of the very numerous Mercury readers, and may 1910
bring blessings innumerable. Farmers
are very thankful for the excellent sleighing that we have had for some weeks
and are taking advantage of it to a large extent. The
hydro-electric line is making good progress towards completion owing to the
fine weather that we have been blessed with. Mr.
McGarr is somewhat better this week and improving under Dr. Orton’s care. Christmas
Day, which has been looked forward to for so long with eager delight by so
many, has passed again. The day was
spent in the usual manner in welcoming loved ones to the home and enjoying
the bounty of good old Santa Claus, who never fails in his annual visit. Many
in this vicinity, who were acquainted with the late lamented Mr. William
Dyson, extend their sympathy to the bereaved parents. Nomination
in Puslinch was quite interesting, as usual, and a large number attended the
meeting on Monday. It is expected that
there will be quite a contest for the honour of the reeve’s chair as both
aspirants are very popular men. Wednesday,
the school meeting promises to be as entertaining as ever. People seem to have a license to “say
things” on that day which are scarcely polite, to say the least of it. Severe
colds and the old enemy, la grippe, afflict some of us very sorely. The
Christmas vacation seems very short this year and pupils and teachers sigh
for a few days more. Send
in your subscription to the Mercury soon. |
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The News from Strachan’s Corners March 12th 1910. Mrs.
Williams, of Guelph, visited her aunt, Mrs. Cockburn, on Saturday, ere taking
her departure for the West this week, where Mr. Williams intends settling on
a beautiful farm in the Mr.
Frank Steffler, framer, intends starting operations on Mr. A. Porter’s barn, which
is to be remodelled in quite a modern fashion. Mr.
Richard Laird is also enlarging his barn this season, with Mr. Akins as
framer. All
things considered, the attendance at the Literary meeting on Monday night was
good. In the absence of the President,
Mr. Crawley, Mr. Charles McGill filled the chair very acceptably, and Miss
Pigott ably assisted as secretary. A
committee was appointed to arrange for a closing concert. The Misses Roberts, Parker, |
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from the |
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The News from Strachan’s Corners May 10th 1910. We
were all deeply grieved on Saturday on the news of the death of our beloved
King. It is hard to realize that
nothing could be done to save even a King. Mr.
Crawley has returned from the West. We
are glad that some of our young men are willing to remain in... |
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Strachan’s Corners May 24th 1910. The
prevailing high winds on.... (missing text)… Porter is a deplorable one, much
of the timber being injured in the fall.
He will rebuild at once on a new site. Mr.
James Porter is progressing favourably under Dr. Robert’s care. Mr.
John Mulrooney and Miss Irene Phalen surprised the community completely. They have the best wishes of very many
friends for future happiness. They are
at present visiting in Collingwood. A
large number from this section attended a pleasant party given by Mr. and
Mrs. Bohn at their home in Puslinch, second concession. We
have looked in vain for the comet. The
hydro-electric wires are being elevated on the seventh concession. Dr.
Walter Laird, of Southampton, visited relatives in Puslinch over the holiday. Mrs.
Allingham, of Barrie, visited friends in |
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Strachan’s Corners June 28th 1910. The
excessive heat of last week has left most of us in a wilted state. Monday’s little shower of rain did a lot of
good. Mr.
Richard Laird’s barn was raised on Friday most successfully under the skilful
management of Mr. William Aikens, framer.
Willing helpers were present in large numbers, from city and country,
and enjoyed a most delightful afternoon and evening. A
number from this section attended the funeral of Mrs. Mr.
Frank Steffler is progressing with Mr. A. Porter’s barn. Sleepers were laid on Monday afternoon. Mrs.
Archie Black of Corwhin is spending a week with relatives here. Mrs.
Thomas Fasken and little daughter, who have been spending a few weeks with
Miss Laird, have returned home. The
devoted missionary to lepers of |
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Strachan’s Corners July 12th 1910. The
bountiful showers we are having this week are a boon to the parched ground
and the whole country is looking so much better. The crops are in excellent condition and
promises are good for a large harvest. Mr.
Robert Crawley, of Mr.
F. Steffler expects to raise the frame of Mr. A. Porter’s barn on Friday. Picnics
to Some
smart farmers have finished haying, which is a fair crop in this vicinity. Wheat
and barley harvests are just about ready. Visitors
in countless numbers are in the country at present. Miss
Maud McGill and Miss Jennie Mulroney are meeting with much success canvassing
for Ladies’ Day, which is the 20th of this month. A good time is assured. The
“man at the hoe” is the student of a few days ago. Miss
Sadie McPherson, John Phalen and |
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Strachan’s Corners August 9th 1910. Should
the weather prove favourable, the bulk of the harvest will be over this week,
and the sound of the thresher is again calling the weary men in the early
morn. In this section the crops are very
satisfactory. The
electric storm last Wednesday night was one of the worst ever experienced in
this vicinity, and great sympathy is expressed for Mr. George Crane, who
unfortunately had his barn and its contents completely destroyed. In such a severe storm, men should be up
and fully dressed in case of fire, for some time is always lost in preparing
to face the elements when a fire call is sounded. A barn is not like any other building when
struck by lightning, as the whole place is blazing in five minutes, so that a
fire engine would be useless even if one were available. On
Monday next the rural schools reopen and it is a problem to the country
teacher as to the reason the city teacher, who works no harder, should
languish a t ease for another three weeks.
It is a gross injustice and whoever claims to have authority... Congratulations
to pupils who have been successful at the last exams. Visitors
by the score are in the country at present. Up
to date, we do not hear of many who are eager to go out west for the
harvest. |
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Strachan’s Corners September 6th 1910. A
number from this section are enjoying a change of scenery by attending the
great Exhibit in Monday’s
rain interfered sadly with the pleasure anticipated for Labour Day, as it
was, a number witnessed the procession and sports in Threshings
are numerous, three different shrieks calling the farmer to duty. The
popular teacher, Miss Piggot, has been offered an increase of salary
elsewhere, but the trustees have wisely decided to have her remain. Good teachers are difficult to obtain at
present so it is better to keep them when we have them. The
Eucharistic Congress in The
country is looking green and beautiful after so many fine showers. Second crops of clover are confidently
expected. |
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Strachan’s Corners October 18th 1910. Such
wonderfully fine weather is a boon to the farmer who is now storing away his
winter supply of roots. Apples are a
very poor crop and generally of an inferior quality. Farmers
all over the country are receiving circulars of strange wording, hard to be
understood, from one, Briggs, who speaks most familiarly with his “satanic
majesty and satellites”. Perhaps we
shall know more of him later on. Miss
Tina McPherson is improving very nicely, and a great many friends hope to see
her around again soon. The
school received its usual visit from the inspector last week. He found the school under Miss Pigott’s
rule in good order. Threshings
were so numerous in this vicinity last week that there were not enough men to
attend them all at once. Mrs.
Black is visiting Simcoe this week. Drives
and parties are much in fashion during these glorious moonlight nights. |
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Strachan’s Corners November 16th 1910. The
bright days this week are a treat after the dreary, wet days of last week, the
melancholy days, the saddest of the year. Those
afflicted with that dread disease diphtheria are recovering and quarantine
will soon be over. Horticultural
show in Toronto and Women’s Institute Convention will be an attraction this
week. Mr.
Frank Mollison lost a very valuable horse with lock-jaw last week. Now
that the roots are all in, the threshings are being finished up for the
year. Mr. Anthony Robinson threshed
for Mr. Neil Black on Monday and Tuesday and the turnout of grain is most
satisfactory. |
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Strachan’s Corners November 22nd 1910. Mr.
and Mrs. George McGill regret to learn of the very serious illness of their
son, William, of Wheaton, Mrs.
Neil Black spent a few days last week with The
farmers have nearly completed the fine new barn of Mr. Richard Laird. Mr.
Andy Porter is enjoying the comfort of his new barn, which was very neatly
finished by Mr. Steffler. Congratulations
from many friends to Mr. Frank Steffler and Miss G. Moran on their marriage. There
are no new cases of fever or diphtheria in the section and we hope that the
scare is over. |
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Strachan’s Corners December 6th 1910. Beautiful
winter weather as usual for the Winter Fair and roads are in excellent
condition. Mrs.
McGill arrived home from Illinois, accompanied by her daughter-in-law, Mrs.
William McGill. The family has the
sincere sympathy from hosts of friends in their great sorrow. Miss
Sault and Mr. Dr.
and Mrs. Laird, of Southampton, visited home friends here over Sunday. Mr.
Barclay has returned from a pleasant trip to the old country. The
monthly meeting of the Puslinch branch of the Women’s Institute was held in
the Foresters’ Hall in Aberfoyle on Thursday afternoon, where an excellent
report of the convention was given by the delegate, Mrs. George Lewis, in her
usual able manner. Next meeting will
be held at the home of Mrs. McWilliams on Thursday evening, January 12th. |
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Strachan’s Corners August 29th 1911. Mrs.
Earon, of Buffalo, and Miss McKillop spent a day last week with Mrs.
Cockburn. Dr.
and Mrs. Laird, of Southampton, and Mr. and Mrs. Bowman, who have been on a motoring
trip, visited Miss Laird and other friends on Monday. Mr.
Neil Black sold a team of fine horses to a |
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Strachan’s Corners September 12th 1911. A large
number from this vicinity spent a pleasant and profitable time at Mr.
John Phelan is teaching school near Miss
Sadie McPherson is attending the model school in Miss
Beatrice Leslie and Master Harold Black are attending the Collegiate
Institute. Miss
Kate Hanlon, of Arkell, succeeds Miss Piggot as teacher in No. 3 school. Political
meetings are not nearly so well attended as they should be. There was a small audience out to greet
Messrs. Kelly-Evans on Friday night.
Mr. Samuel Slater presided in an able manner. Even the best local Conservatives thought
that there was too much_____ talk. Mr.
Anthony Robinson is very busy threshing.
The yield is beyond what was expected. Mr.
Donald McPherson is visiting the Great West. |
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Strachan’s Corners October 31st 1911. In
accepting the nomination for the Liberal party, Liberals here feel that Mr.
McIntosh has conferred an honour upon the party. They regard him as a honourable Christian
gentleman who will do all in his power for the good of the country. Thanksgiving
has passed again with the usual holiday visitors. Some attended the sports in Mrs.
And Miss Barclay and Mr. Gilbert Barclay have returned from a pleasant trip
to the west, visiting relatives. The
root crop is safely housed again and the farmer will now devote his time to
cultivating the soil in an effort to destroy the various kinds of weeds that
infest the country. Mr.
William Cockburn and family, of Toronto, spent the holiday at Mr. Black’s. Mr.
Charles Crawley has returned from the west to resume his duties as
auctioneer. Miss
Ida May McPherson enjoyed a pleasant visit with friends at Mosboro last week. Hallowe’en
was not observed to any great extent by the mischievous youth. |
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The News from Strachan’s Corners November 20th 1911. It
is really too bad that the political candidates do not receive a better
hearing. Mr. Scholfield and party
addressed a very small audience on Monday night. Mr.
John Phalen is at home recovering from an attack of illness. The
Puslinch Social Club promises to give the young people in this vicinity a
pleasant time for the winter. Miss
Jessie Barclay enjoyed a pleasant visit to the city for a week. There
is fairly good sleighing at present. |
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Strachan’s Corners January 13th 1912. Mr.
John Phalen is teaching in No. 3 this year, Miss Hanlon having resigned and
accepted an excellent position in A
large number from this vicinity attended the funeral of Mrs. Michael Walsh
last week whose death was most deeply lamented. The bereaved ones have the sincere sympathy
of hosts of friends who loved the departed one for her many estimable
qualities. Mr.
George Laird attended the funeral of Mrs. Quarrie in Fergus last Thursday and
coming home had a very difficult journey owing to the fierce storm raging and
intense cold. The
roads are again passable though nothing to boast of. If the council could see the advisability
of wire fences in some localities, it would be of great benefit to the
traveller. The
cartage company with the wood teams kept the roads open, though with serious
difficulty at times. Miss
McBeth, of Aberfoyle, is visiting Mrs. Neil Black this week. Mr.
Arnold McWilliams returned to A
number from this section attended Mr. Archie Black’s sale at Corwhin on
Monday. Mr. Black intends leaving for
the west very shortly. |
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Strachan’s Corners February 12th 1912. The
away below zero weather is felt most keenly and we are almost tired of the continued
cold. We
have to thank the cartage company for keeping the roads in such good
condition all winter with their numerous teams hauling wood from the second
concession to the city, though often they have encountered bad spots in the
road, which were overcome with difficulty. Inspector
Craig visited our school last week.
The attendance is not as large as could be wished, owing to the severe
cold. It seems a pity to visit a
school during inclement weather. Mrs.
Fasken and Mrs. Broadfoot, of Nichol, spent a few days last week with Miss
Laird. Mr.
and Mrs. Ewing of Wiarton visited Mr. and Mrs. McWilliams last week. The
farmers of this vicinity attend sales as a recreation, where they stand
around and discuss, oh, various topics, and catch cold. Feed is so scarce that they scarcely dare
venture to add to their stock. Next
week promises to be an interesting one when the hardware men and stove
dealers hold a grand display and convention in the winter fair building. This is something new in Parties
everywhere keep the young people from feeling the winter long and tedious. |
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Strachan’s Corners March 12th 1912. Cold
winter still retains his icy grip, but it is hoped that spring will be here
before very long. The
Misses Ida and Daisy Bingham, of Mr.
Roy Allingham, of the Standard Bank of Penetanguishene, visited at Mr.
McWilliams’ for a few days. Mr.
Charles Crawley has a number of sales in the vicinity for this month. The
Messrs. Spruhan are selling out on Tuesday. Puslinch
farmers did very well at the Spring Seed Fair held in Turnips
have been sold last week by Puslinch farmers at 33˘ per bushel, which is
considered a very good price. The
inspector of the Humane Society, Mr. Tovell, visited Puslinch last week on
business. There
is so much traffic on the roads that they are rather in bad shape for
comfort, owing to sleighs sliding to the side. |
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Strachan’s Corners March 18th 1912. The
weather is still a topic of wonder and certainly last Friday’s storm was a
record breaker. Not very many farmers ventured
to market on Saturday morning from this section. Those who did realized good prices and had
no light weight butter or potatoes either.
According to the papers of late, the farmer requires watching as well
as other dealers. Auction
sales every day make a pleasant outing for the winter. Mr.
Laidley has returned to live in this section. Mr.
Handbridge moves to Mrs. Hewitt’s house. Miss
Alice Lester, of Nassagaweya, visited at Mr. Joseph Lester’s and other
friends, last week. Miss
Jennie Amos, of Aberfoyle, is visiting her aunt, Mrs. William Cockburn. Mr.
and Mrs. Thomas Phelan have gone to their home in Cherokee, |
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Strachan’s Corners March 25th 1912. Mr.
Sorby’s sale was the great attraction of the season last Tuesday and every
farmer made it a point to be there. It
is with great regret that the neighbours bid farewell to Mr. Sorby who has
done so much to introduce a good class of horses into the county, and has
been so very generous in every good cause brought to his notice. All who knew him wish for himself and his
family many years of happiness. Those
living on the seventh concession have to thank Mr. Slater for his energy in
having rural mail for the farmers. The
roads are dreadful. Feed
is not so scarce as anticipated and some fine cattle were sent off last week. We
are longing for warm weather. Mr.
and Mrs. McPherson and Miss Ida attended the marriage of Miss McPherson, York
Road, to Mr. Arkell on Wednesday last. Miss
Ida Parker is in New Hamburg visiting her sister, Mrs. Fox. Now
that the scourge mumps is over, there is not very much sickness in the
vicinity. |
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Strachan’s Corners April 22nd 1912. Farm
work has begun in earnest this week. A
number of farmers attended the horse show last week. We
regret very much to learn of the serious illness of Mr. James McGarr, who is
at present in A
number of farms have changed hands this spring in this vicinity. Mr. Jotham, of Guelph, now lives on Mr.
Spruhan’s farm. Mr. Conlan, of Guelph,
now occupies Mr. W. Moran’s farm. Dr.
Galbraith has taken possession of Mr. Cassin’s farm. Mr.
Husson, the hustling agent for the Bell Telephone Company has been very
successful in Puslinch. Each farmer
must have the telephone because his neighbour has subscribed and he cannot
afford to be behind the times. It is
thought that the price might be somewhat reduced when so many have consented
to follow the fashion. Now watch the
taxes grow. |
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Strachan’s Corners May 13th 1912. It
is just possible that winter is with us yet, as Monday brought us some cold
snow storms. A large
number from this vicinity attended the funeral of Mr. James McGarr whose
death occurred on Wednesday last at Mr.
The
small boy is looking forward to a day on the river on the 24th, fishing and
swimming. Miss
Florence Crawley has gone for a much needed rest to Grand Rapids, Dr.
and Mrs. Laird, of Southampton, returned home on Saturday after spending the
week with home friends. |
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Strachan’s Corners July 9th 1912. After
some weeks of very dry weather, a nice rain fell on Monday evening, which did
much good. Friday evening’s rain did
not reach us here but we very much regret the loss sustained by Mr. J.
McPherson, of Crieff, in having his barn destroyed by lightning. Haying
is now progressing rapidly, which article is good and abundant this year. We,
who live so very far from the post office wonder how we managed without the
daily mail, and we believe that we have the most obliging mail carrier that
we could possibly have in Mr. Humphreys. The
usual meeting of the Puslinch branch of the Women’s Institutes was held on
the first Thursday of the month at the home of the president, Mrs. George
Lewis, where a most interesting talk was given by Miss McKenzie on her trip
to the coast and her visit to the different fish canneries. She exhibited samples of nets, floats, and
many other curios, collected. The next
meeting will be in the charge of Miss Laird, Mrs. Hammersley, and Mrs.
Pinder, and will be held at the home of Miss Laird on the first of August, a
Thursday. All interested in this work
are welcome. The topic is “books and
reading” and the roll call is to be answered with quotations from Canadian
authors. |
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Strachan’s Corners August 5th 1912. The
cold July weather has been most unusual and the accompanying rains, a great
hindrance. Wheat and barley are
cut. Threshing is next on the
programme. Mr.
and Mrs. Law, of Winnipeg, visited at Mr. Mollison’s for a few days. Mr.
and Mrs. Neil Black visited friends in Mr.
Thomas Jackson is very ill with pneumonia, but under the care of Dr. H. O.
Howitt, we earnestly hope that he may be restored to health. Between
twenty-five and thirty ladies attended the institute meeting held at Miss Laird’s
on Thursday. Mr.
Earl Allingham, of Barrie, visited friends before leaving with his parents
for Civic
Congratulations
to Miss Irene Doyle who has successfully passed her normal entrance with
honours. Mrs.
Kinsella is recovering from the accident she met with in Toronto, while
visiting her daughter. She is
wonderfully smart and bright foe her age. Mrs.
Fox, of New Hamburg, is visiting her parents. Mr.
David Porter, of Mount Forest, is visiting over the holiday. |
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The News from Strachan’s Corners August 19th 1912. Mr.
M. P. Doyle’s friends will regret to know that he is very ill at the
residence of his son. A general break-up
of the system is the trouble. Mr.
Thomas Jackson is convalescent after his severe illness. Miss
Jane Barclay is at present visiting her parents. Now
that we have daily mail, it is in order for enterprising agents to come along
soliciting subscriptions for reading matter.
The Mail and Empire agent canvassed this section on Thursday. It
will be no news to our readers that we have daily rain, among other blessings
too numerous to mention. The
oat harvest promises to be very late. |
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The News from Strachan’s Corners September 24th 1912. |
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“It ain’t no use to grumble and complain, It’s just as cheap and easy to rejoice, When God sorts out the weather and sends rain, Why, rain’s my choice.” J. Whitcomb Riley |
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Mr.
E. Crawley Jr. raised an addition to his barn on Tuesday. Mr. William Aikens was the framer. Inspector
of Schools, J. J. Craig, paid his usual visit to the school here on
Wednesday. Puslinch
Show, at Aberfoyle, on Tuesday October 1st, promises to be good, as usual. Silo
filling will be hurried owing to the continued wet weather. The corn is in splendid condition. We
fear that the potatoes are doomed, or drowned, as some are already badly tainted. |
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from the |
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The News from Strachan’s Corners December 29th 1912. Municipal
matters seem to be very quiet in Puslinch this year, and we have heard no serious
complaint about our present council, consequently we do not expect any
election. The
annual school meeting was a pleasant affair and Mr. Joseph Brickle was
elected trustee for the coming year. No
hopes are entertained for the recovery of Miss Margaret Porter who has been
ill in the General Hospital for some time.
The sympathy of all in the vicinity is extended to the brothers, James
and Andrew, at home. |
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from the Guelph
Mercury newspaper |
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Strachan’s Corners January 3rd 1913. After
a long, tedious illness in the Miss
Irene Doyle succeeds Mr. Arnold McWilliams as teacher in No. 3,
Puslinch. Mr. McWilliams left for a
school in Collingwood on Friday. Miss
Sadie McPherson who spent Christmas vacation with her parents returned to We are having our January thaw. Miss
Vera Anderson, of Grimsby, and Miss Barton, Brock Road, paid New Year calls
in the section. Scarlet
fever cases are reported to be of a mild type. Mr.
Alex McWilliams, of High River, visited relatives in this vicinity. |
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Strachan’s Corners January 21st 1913. Death
has again come to a home in our midst, when Mrs. Kinsella was called away,
owing to an attack of pneumonia. The
end was sudden, very few neighbours being aware of her illness. Mrs. Kinsella was one of the early pioneers
who through many trials built up a comfortable home, and it was ever a most
hospitable home for her children, friend or neighbour. She will be very much missed by a very
large circle of friends, who were sincerely shocked and grieved to hear of
her death, as she had been wonderfully active, considering her age. Mr.
and Mrs. Gill of Toronto, Miss Dora Gibbs and Mr. O. Gibbs of Toronto,
attended the funeral of Mrs. Kinsella on Friday. The
fierce and sudden blizzard on Saturday caught many on their way home from the
city. We
are pleased to see good sleighing again, and moonlight. Chicken
pox is prevalent in this section, but of a mild type. La
grippe has prostrated quite a few and some are seriously ill, but we hope
that they may soon regain health. It
is believed that this has become an infectious disease and that quarantine is
the only remedy. |
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Strachan’s Corners February 18th 1913. We
welcome the change to milder weather.
The clouds of dust were a constant annoyance to the housekeeper, as it
sifted through the smallest crevices. Mrs.
Mollison was hastily called to Hamilton last week owing to the death of her
mother, Mrs. Law. The death of a
mother leaves a wound that never heals and Mrs. Mollison has the sincere sympathy
of many friends in her bereavement. There
is a great deal of sickness in this section. Mr.
Sandy Fleming is visiting in this neighbourhood. He keeps as bright as ever and is a very
jovial companion. Mr.
Alex McWilliams, of High River, visited friends here on Saturday. |
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Strachan’s Corners March 3rd 1913. The
winter has actually set in now, with lots of snow and cold weather. We
envy the fortunate ones who are in Mr.
George Laird, president of the Mutual Fire Insurance Company of Puslinch, was
in Toronto last week, attending the Underwriters’ Convention. The
Puslinch Seed Fair was a nice change for the farmers on Saturday. Messrs.
Barclay and Parker were fortunate prizewinners. They are both excellent young farmers. The
inspector paid his usual visit to the school and found all satisfactory under
Miss Doyle’s tuition. Numerous
wood teams keep the roads open to the city. Auction
sales are most attractive, as usual, and are well attended. Prices for good stock soar. Many
who have been spending the winter with friends are making preparations for
the west again. The fever is
infectious and others are persuaded. The
bonus for good roads does not exactly meet with approval, and Mr. Grant’s
letter was read and approved. If the
roads were good in the city limits, we have no fault to find with country
roads. |
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Strachan’s Corners April 1st 1913. The
weather, as usual, has been an all-important subject for the last week, and
proved most unpleasant for those teachers and students who were anticipating
good weather for their Easter holidays. Every
farmer in the district suffered more or less damage to property. Fences and silos especially were tossed
about with the fierce hurricane that prevailed on Good Friday. Carpenters are in great demand, but where
are they, probably at government jobs. The
G.C.I. students from this section are whirling off again through slush and
mud, eager to obtain an education and a high standing in their class. Miss
Sadie McPherson spent Easter week at the parental home. Mr.
Arnold McWilliams returned to Collingwood on Saturday. He also attended the Teachers’ Convention
in Auction
sales are still an attraction for the farmers. Some fine horses have been brought into
this section of late. Some
of the young people are enjoying a few social gatherings before spring work
begins. Telephone
men are busy everyday making repairs after the storm. Rural telephones are now a necessity,
apparently. What can be done to
telephone eavesdroppers? What use is a
telephone if all the country knows your affairs? |
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Strachan’s Corners April 15th 1913. We
are about sure that spring is with us now, and a welcome change it is too. Roads
are in a terrible condition, especially near the city, and the oldest
resident has never seen so much water in the fields. The
ladies of this vicinity are not receiving at present owing to a very
contagious fever, which is raging, the usual spring cleaning. The results are not usually fatal; neither
do those who are affected receive much sympathy from those of the male
persuasion. Mr.
George McGill sold a splendid driver to a gentleman from the city, at a fancy
figure. Sawing
bees are hurried over in order to rush the spring work, and the farmer is a
very busy man these days. The common
cry is lack of help. There is also
much repairing necessary, owing to the storm. Mrs.
Neil Black’s very many friends will be pleased to know that she is improving
rapidly after her illness. The
early farmer is planting his potatoes this fine weather. The
dogs were all carefully assessed last week.
Mr. McNaughton has about finished his work for this year. The
wheat looks very favourable at present. Very
few trees are tapped this year. |
|
Strachan’s Corners May 6th 1913. There
seems to be nothing new under the sun for the last few months. Same old story of seeding time and house
cleaning occupy the minds of all. We
have never had more pleasant weather for spring work and it has been taken
advantage of thoroughly. Mr.
Neil Black has sold part of his farm to Mr. Graham, who has taken possession. The
profusion of wildflowers in the woods and the beautiful weather tempted many
out to the country on Sunday. Very
many who knew and loved the Reverend Dr. Dix in this vicinity regret that he
has decided to leave If
any of the mailboxes are destroyed in any way by cattle or other animals
pasturing on the roadside, it is very probable that the owner of the
mischievous one will be held responsible. The
telephone is a long while in coming to subscribers on the seventh concession
but when it does and with mail delivery and parcel post for farmers, also a
grocery wagon along each week, there will be no necessity for the farmer to
visit the city. |
|
The News from Strachan’s Corners June 10th 1913. The
very heavy frosts of late have done considerable damage in this
vicinity. Fruit trees of all kinds have
suffered. Pasture is greatly retarded,
early potatoes blackened, also all kinds of vegetables. The
rain on Friday night was most welcome, as everything was parched and wilting. The
monthly meeting of the Puslinch branch of the Women’s Institute was held at
the home of the Misses Gilchrist on Thursday last. There was a large gathering of members and
friends who always enjoy the meetings held at the home of these popular
ladies, who do all in their power to give everyone a good time, in the good
old-fashioned way, with a right hearty welcome. A
son arrived to bless the home of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Mollison. Mr. and Mrs. James Phalen are also to be
congratulated on the arrival of a son.
On Saturday night, a little boy arrived at Lilac Cottage, the home of
Mr. and Mrs. Murray. Statute
labour is being attended to at present.
The grader has been on its annual tour, leaving a tiny mark of its
progress on the highway. A
large number of cattle were bought by Mr. White, the popular buyer, last
week, for shipment. The
farmer can now take things easy till haying time. |
|
The News from Strachan’s Corners June 23rd 1913. June,
the beautiful, has passed so quickly that we scarcely realized that she was
here. Statute
labour is about completed for another year, and there has been some splendid
work done too. If the stones could be
raked off the highways occasionally, driving would be a pleasure. The
pupils from No. 3, who were trying their entrance, do not complain of
difficult papers, and we hope that all may be very successful. Teachers and pupils are giving a sigh of
relief this week, the last. Mr.
Metcalf is having an old-fashioned barn raising today to which all of the
neighbours are invited. The
excellent rain on Friday last has done a vast amount of good to the country
and all nature is smiling. |
|
Strachan’s Corners July 8th 1913. Frost
on Sunday night, after the intense heat, was a very severe change. Farmers do not apprehend any very serious
results. Dominion
Day passed off very quietly. Quite a
number enjoyed the Mosboro Horse Show in the afternoon, where Mr. Slater was
a prize winner from this section. Mr.
Neil Black was one of the judges at the Mosboro Horse Show. Miss
Sadie McPherson is spending her vacation at the parental home. Mr.
Arnold McWilliams returned from Collingwood on Wednesday accompanied by his
friend, Mr. James Jardine, who was taking the judging course at the O.A.C.
for a day or two. |
|
Strachan’s Corners August 5th 1913. Everything
is so wondrously quiet this week that we scarcely know what is wrong. Miss
Margaret McGill is spending her holidays at the parental home. Mrs.
William Cockburn and family, of Toronto, spent last week at the home of Mr.
and Mrs. Neil Black. Mr.
J. Wilson, principal of Erin Public School, was a visitor during “Old Home
Week”. Mr.
Arnold McWilliams is visiting friends in Elora and Erin. Roots
are suffering from want of rain. |
|
Strachan’s Corners August 13th 1913. The
rain on Saturday and Sunday morning has been a boon to the country and we are
very thankful for its timely arrival. Threshing
has become general and the yield is quite satisfactory. Mr.
and Mrs. George Laird are holidaying in Muskoka, the guests of Mr. and Mrs.
D. Sorby. Miss
Lillie Snow, of Buffalo, is a bright and welcome visitor at present. Many
friends will regret to learn of the serious illness of Mrs. Higgins, of Mr.
Charles Elmslie, of Windsor, visited relatives in this section last week. Miss
Finnegan, of Cleveland, visited Miss Laird one day last week. Mrs.
Fox of New Miss
Mollison is at present visiting her uncle, Mr. Frank Mollison. The
Misses Margaret and Alice Mollison and Master Harry are enjoying the
centennial celebration in Dr.
Walter Laird of It
is with most sincere regret that we learn of the death of Miss Nina Harrison,
of A
number of farmers are completely through with harvest and are preparing for
fall wheat sowing. |
|
Strachan’s Corners August 26th 1913. The
summer is past and the harvest ended. Mr.
Maltby is very busy threshing in this vicinity this week. Mr.
John McPherson and Mr. Fred Parker are off to the great west for a trip. A
number from this section attended the barn raising at Mr. John Laird’s, Mr.
Arnold McWilliams attended the great show in Chief
Hardie of the fire department of The
delightful rain on Friday was, as usual, a great boon to the country. School
again next week is perhaps a welcome change for all. |
|
Strachan’s Corners September 2nd 1913. Schools
are all opened again for another term of four months. Miss
Ella Hanlon has been engaged in No. 2 (Brock Road) School, Mr. Phelan in Guelph,
Miss McPherson in Grand Valley, and Mr. Arnold McWilliams in Collingwood. Messrs. Doyle and Harold Black, Misses Beatrice
Leslie and Mary McWilliams return to the Collegiate with many others. We have everything to be thankful for that the
weather has been ideal for all kinds of work on the farm. Reverend Charles McWilliams, of Montana, visited
relatives here last week. |
|
Strachan’s Corners October 8th 1913. A
very large number from this part of the Roots
are being rapidly housed during the fine weather and are proving
satisfactory, but plowing is a labour owing to the lack of rain. Miss
Halliday, of the United States, visited old friends in this vicinity on
Monday. The
The
fall wheat fields are looking refreshingly green, and the woods are beautiful
in assorted colours. Mrs.
Neil Black attended the A
number from here attended Galt show on Friday and report a fine time. Mr.
and Mrs. Robert Marshall, of Corwhin, and Mrs. Noble, of Alberta, visited
relatives here last week. |
|
Strachan’s Corners October 27th 1913. The
rain of last week was very welcome, as is also the fine weather of this
week. Wells, cisterns, and creeks were
very low. Turnip
shipping has begun in this section, at fourteen cents per bushel. The
inspector has paid his usual visit to the school and found all progressive. Miss
Doyle attended the teacher’s convention in Guelph last week, which was very
instructive. Mr.
A. Porter is seriously ill at present.
He has very many friends who regret to hear of his illness and who
would wish to see him returned to health. Threshers
are on their last round in this vicinity and the whistle calls too early
these dark mornings for the average farmer. Apple
butter and sweet cider are relished by the majority at present. La
grippe is rampant. |
|
The News from Strachan’s Corners November 5th 1913. Subscribe
for the Daily Mercury, which is only two dollars to rural subscribers, and
they get the worth of their money. Hallowe’en
passed over very quietly, though the usual hoodlum style of placing obstacles
on the highway was indulged in. Mr.
Robert Porter, of Minnedosa, is at present visiting his brothers, James and
Andrew. Mr.
Maltby, thresher, is on his last round in this vicinity. A
great many residents of Puslinch deplore the sad accident that befell Mr.
Kilgour last week. He was very well
known and highly respected as a teacher of wonderful ability. It is sincerely hoped that he may restored
to health. Winter
seems to be very near sometimes, but the farmer would wish more time to
complete fall work that was hindered by wet weather. |
|
|
|
The News from Strachan’s Corners November 11th 1913. It
is to be hoped that some one will give the exact date of the year when the
winter began in October, and roots and apples were destroyed. For years back, it has been quite customary
for heated arguments to ensue over the date, at every threshing or other gathering,
without fail. The
storm of Sunday and Monday was very severe in this part of the country,
reminding us that it is dreary November. Many
will regret the death of Mr. A. Porter, which took place on Saturday, after a
very short illness, from liver trouble.
The friends have sincere sympathy. |
|
The News from Strachan’s Corners November 18th 1913. Though
the rain was very heavy on Thursday, a number of sympathizing friends
assemble to pay their last tribute of respect to Mrs. Higgins, whose death
occurred on Thursday at the residence of her brother, Mr. E. Kinsella, after
some weeks of suffering. A
very interesting address was delivered by Reverend C. H. Buckland, on “Church
A
letter has been received from a Toronto gentleman who informs all concerned
that the early winter in dispute began October 18th 1869, with a heavy
snowfall and frost remained until April 1970.
Farmers lost heavily when roots and apples could not be housed. Mrs.
McPhee, of Egremont, who attended the funeral of Mr. A. Porter, on Tuesday,
returned to her home on Thursday. Mrs.
William McWilliams, of Eramosa, returned to her home on Tuesday after
attending Mr. Porter’s funeral. Miss
Parker and Miss Laird were on Monday collecting for the Bible Society, which
is a most worthy object. It
is said that poultry thieves are endeavouring to relieve the farmer’s wife of
the responsibility of culling her flock.
So far, they have not been very successful. |
|
Strachan’s Corners January 7th 1914. Holiday
visitors, who were numerous, have left us, and the world goes on as it did
before. The
beautiful weather and splendid roads so far this season have been very much
enjoyed. The
municipal elections on Monday were rather exciting. Mr. Metcalf is one lonely councillor for
this part of the township, but by another year we hope that there may be more
representatives from this section. Mr.
Meek, who has purchased the Porter farm, is busy getting settled, and we
welcome him, hoping that he may never regret the change he has made. He comes highly esteemed as a good
neighbour. Reverend
C. H. Buckland holds his usual cottage service this week on Friday night at
the home of Mr. Samuel Slater. The
young people have been enjoying excellent parties during the vacation, almost
every evening being taken up with merry-making. The
school meeting was well attended and Mr. Michael Lynch was elected trustee. Miss
Doyle resumed teaching on Tuesday, with the usual attendance. |
|
Strachan’s Corners February 3rd 1914. Splendid
wheeling and sleighing is a combination seldom seen in February. Merry-making and moonlight nights are
another combination of interest. La
grippe has its victims, as usual. The
bear could see his shadow on the first, hence our winter is not over yet. Saturday’s
storms kept a great many country people at home. Rural mail makes it possible to have at
least a few Saturdays at home, as sometimes the weekly mail was an inducement
to drive to the city. |
|
Strachan’s Corners March 10th 1914. Long
March is with us again and a very wild, blustering entrance it has made
too. The high winds chill and seem to
bring on the old enemy, la grippe, to a great many residents in this
vicinity, but we hope for warm weather and a restoration to health of those
afflicted, very soon. Our
best farmers attended the Fat Stock sale on Wednesday and spent a profitable
afternoon either buying or selling. Numerous
young people attended the box social in Aberfoyle on Friday night and enjoyed
themselves very much. Mr. Charles
Crawley, our very popular auctioneer, received high bids for the tempting
boxes on display. Sleighing
and wheeling are both popular and farmers never did so much teaming of saw
logs, wood, and turnips as this winter.
No drifts or deep snow to worry about. The
man of the house is very busy with his summer wood, amidst many other cares. |
|
Strachan’s Corners March 18th 1914. Sympathy
is extended to Mr. and Mrs. Meek in the loss of their son, James Stanley, who
was laid away in that quiet resting place, Howitt’s Memorial Cemetery, on
Friday last. The Reverend Mr. Barker
officiated at the house and grave, and spoke words of comfort to the
bereaved. Mr.
D. McNaughton, township assessor, is attending to his duties in this
vicinity, this week. About
forty assembled to hear the able address by Reverend C. H. Buckland at the
cottage service on Friday night. The next
service will be at the home of Mr. George Laird, on Friday April 3rd. Those
who are fortunate enough to have maple trees are feeling in their bones that
it is time to be hustling the sap buckets and all other necessary articles to
the camp in the woods. Congratulations
to our Puslinch farmers who made such a good display of clean seed on
Saturday. Inspector
Craig visited the school this week. |
|
Strachan’s Corners April 7th 1914. Spring
delayed its coming and many who have been suffering from la grippe are weary
for the warm weather. Wood
bees are a daily occurrence and the weather most favourable. A
number from this vicinity attended the funeral of Mr. Smith, in Aberfoyle, on
Tuesday. The
cottage service at the home of Mr. George Laird on Friday night was largely
attended. The next will be held at Mr.
Robert Armstrong’s on Friday May 1st. Roads
are in a very bad condition with mud. The
coming Horse Show is a pleasure in store for the farmer before he begins the
arduous labour of seeding. We
regret to hear that Mrs. Michael Lynch Sr. is ill and her many friends hope
that she may soon be restored to her health again. Syrup
making is not indulged in extensively as the year is not at all favourable. |
|
Strachan’s Corners April 27th 1914. The
country is a busy place at present and seeding is being rushed, when
possible. A
number of delegates from this vicinity attended the Liberal convention on
Saturday and it is not certain that they were very much enthused as yet. A
large number of sympathising neighbours attended the funeral of the late Mrs.
McNulty on Monday morning, showing the esteem in which she was held by all
who knew her. Mrs.
James Moran also was one who was dearly loved by a large circle of friends,
and sympathy is extended to the bereaved ones. The
very heavy rain on Saturday interfered with seeding, but some farmers are
about through. Fall
wheat in some cases is a failure, apparently.
Other fields will be safe should the weather now be favourable. La
grippe is still on the move. |
|
Strachan’s Corners May 18th 1914. Summer
weather, long wished for, is with us again. Delegates
to the Liberal convention on Saturday are looking forward to interesting work
for the cause. Highways
which once boasted of corduroy are troubled with the old logs appearing on
the surface and making travelling very unpleasant. The
busy housewife has finished the usual spring house cleaning when relics and
otherwise have been moved, cleaned, and dusted again. The
inevitable rag-man is making his rounds but the agent, once so numerous, does
not put in an appearance. Farmers are
too busy to waste time with these gentlemen of the road. The
sick are making rapid recovery, we are pleased to say. Some
splendid cattle are being brought up in this vicinity, and good prices rule,
but the despised rooter has gone down considerably in the estimation of the
buyer. Our
very popular mail carrier, Mr. Humphreys, does not complain of being
overburdened by parcel post. Some
of our young men are interested in the baseball opening. The
fishing fever is again affecting the mind of the youth, who promises himself
a treat on the first holiday from farm work, on the river bank. |
|
Strachan’s Corners June 23rd 1914. A
deep gloom was cast over the entire neighbourhood on Friday when the news
reached us that Miss Jessie Barclay had passed away. She was most dearly loved by all who knew
her, for her very bright and cheerful disposition, and she was always willing
to do what she could to make this world a pleasant abiding place. She will be most sorely missed by a very
large circle of friends and deepest sympathy is extended to the bereaved
ones. Her funeral, which was private
by her own expressed wish, took place on Saturday. The
severe frost on Friday night has done considerable damage to potatoes, corn,
and other tender growing things. Mr.
Carter had a good meeting in Mr.
Lennie Black, who was seriously injured in a runaway accident, is now
improving nicely and we all hope to soon see him around in his usual health. Mrs.
Frank Mollison attended the marriage of her brother, Mr. Howard Law and Miss
Armstrong, at Hamilton, last week. Statute
labour is now in progress. We have
some good roads in this vicinity, and some very poor ones. Mr.
Arnold McWilliams and Captain Ransier, from Collingwood, were on the
excursion to the O.A.C. on Friday. |
|
Strachan’s Corners August 4th 1914. The
army worm has found his way to this section, causing the farmers some anxiety. Between all kinds of weeds and vermin, of
many names, the life of the farmer is one continual battle, never ended,
never done. Miss
Maude McGill, Miss Irene Doyle, and Mr. Leo Doyle enjoyed a very pleasant
trip to Miss
Doyle has resigned as teacher in this section with the intention of attending
the Normal school. She has been a most
successful teacher and the best wishes of all go with her in her studies. A
number from this vicinity attended the garden party held at the home of mr.
Hohenadel last Thursday and enjoyed a pleasant evening. The
threshing machine is on its rounds again and the harvest is almost over. After
the excessive heat, the heavy rain on Sunday was more than welcome, as the
pasture was completely done between heat and the numerous grasshoppers. One
of the most successful garden parties ever held in Puslinch was held at the
home of Mr. John Hohenadel on Thursday July 30th, under the auspices of the
Puslinch branch of the Women’s Institute.
There were over five hundred present who enjoyed a game of baseball
between Arkell and Aberfoyle, Arkell winning.
A rabbit race caused much fun, Mr. Sid Maltby being the lucky one in
this race. The fish pond was very well
patronized as were also the ice cream and candy booths. The supper was a marvel of excellence and
was enjoyed by all present, after which a lengthy program of songs and
recitations enlivened the proceedings.
Mrs. T. G. McMaster kindly presided.
The little Laurie boys, from |
|
The News from Strachan’s Corners August 11th 1914. We
had been suffering from intense heat until Monday when a welcome shower
cooled the air. The
very many friends of Mrs. Joseph Lester sympathize with the bereaved husband
and family, who mourn the loss of a deeply devoted wife and mother, leaving a
wound that cannot be healed. Her death
came with a shock, as very many were not aware that she had been seriously
ill. The funeral was largely attended
on Friday by sorrowing friends. Mr.
Barclay is somewhat improving since going to the Mr.
William Barclay is home for a visit.
He went west some years ago and met with success. Mr.
Patrick McGarr, who went west years ago is visiting home friends. Reverend
C. W. McWilliams, of Montana, visited relatives in this vicinity, last week. The
vacation is flying by so very quickly that pupils can scarcely realize there
are but a few more weeks for fun and play. |
|
Strachan’s Corners September 15th 1914. Daily,
the war is the all-absorbing topic and keen interest is taken in all kinds of
rumours and news, reliable and otherwise.
The old rifle and shotgun are being hunted up and made ready for
action. Threshing
and corn-cutting, fall wheat sowing and fall plowing, keep the farmers busy
from daylight to night. He can
scarcely find time to think about the multitude of good (?) advice he
receives free from the city man as to what he should raise on his farm, and
how he should dispose of his fruit and vegetables, now going to waste, but he
keeps on sawing wood. A
large number from this vicinity attended the Mrs.
Wallace, of Egremont, visited relatives here last week, on her way from Mr.
and Mrs. John Blair, of Aberfoyle, visited Mrs. Cockburn, who is convalescent
after a severe illness. Reverend
George Little was a visitor in this section on Monday. After
so much rainfall the country is looking beautiful again. The maples are changing from green to all
the shades in yellow and red. The
usual preparations are being made for Puslinch Fall Show, which is bound to
be better than ever. |
|
The News from Strachan’s Corners October 5th 1914. The
cold snap on Friday night, with frost, has been the cause of some anxiety,
and a stimulus to rush the fall work, of which there is a large amount, to keep
the farmers busy for many days, between threshings, silo-filling, roots, and
many other items too numerous to mention, not to speak of shows and auction
sales, which have to be patronized, Aberfoyle, more especially on the 6th of
October. Mrs.
Black was a most successful exhibitor at Fergus and Acton shows on Wednesday
and Thursday. It
is difficult to understand why the young men of this section, more especially
the bachelors, allow some of our very nicest young ladies to be stolen away
by strangers, but we would advise them to go out and do likewise. Mr.
and Mrs. De Scherbinin, who have been spending some months in Cuba, were
weekend visitors at Mr. George Laird’s.
They left last week for Beech
nuts are attractive to the city boy right now; the crop is plentiful. Mr.
and Mrs. George McGill announced the engagement of their daughter, Margaret,
to Mr. John Sullivan, the marriage to take place on October 6th. The young couple has a host of friends who
wish them every happiness and success. Miss
Laird and Mrs. McWilliams have been appointed to collect in aid of the
Children’s Shelter in this section.
Miss Moffat and Miss Metcalf are very successful collectors in the
vicinity of the The
funeral of Mrs. Heath on last Thursday was very largely attended by
sympathizing friends as she was a resident of Puslinch for many years and
made many true friends. |
|
Strachan’s Corners October 13th 1914. Thanksgiving
was quite a quiet day. Some few went
to see the sham battle and in imagination viewed the horrors now in progress
east of us with heavy hearts. The
collectors for the children’s shelter, Miss Moffat, Miss Metcalf, Miss Laird,
and Mrs. McWilliams were well received wherever they called and were
surprised at the many really kind people who reside in this vicinity, and
wish to thank those who so kindly contributed. One man, who depends on his day’s pay for
the support of a family, said that he would divide his last bag of potatoes,
if necessary. This is a good world at
heart. Mr.
McGunnigle, of Toronto, is visiting his sister, Mrs. Phelan. Miss
Black, of Aberfoyle, is a substitute for Miss Bolger during her illness,
which we hope will not be of long duration. Rockton
show on Wednesday and Freelton on Friday will be the last on the program this
year. The
patriotic concert on Friday night, held at the |
|
Strachan’s Corners December 22nd 1914. Wishing
every reader a very merry Christmas. The
cold weather and fierce storms this week are not quite as pleasant as we
could wish for Christmas week but we always live in hope for something
better. The
school children are enjoying a vacation with visions of Santa Claus, even
though their hearts are saddened by the thought of the little Belgian
children suffering cold and hunger and loss of dear parents and comfortable
homes. Mrs.
Hohenadel expects to collect in this section for the Belgian fund some day
this week. The need is very great and
the members of the Women’s Institute hope that the response will be
generous. No one is compelled to give,
as the calls have been many this year, but every little helps. Miss
Irene Doyle, who is attending Normal School, is home for vacation. Master
Joseph Phalen, who was injured on his way to school by a motorcycle, is
improving, but will likely spend Christmas in the hospital, but we hope that
he may soon be able to return to his home friends. Miss
S. M. McPherson is spending vacation with her parents. There
is very little sickness in this vicinity, even la grippe has not ventured
forth this year, and there is no one but wishes a continuation of the same
blessing. Some
very nice parties are anticipated for Christmas week, and happy reunions,
though sadness prevails each day by news of loss of lives, and the bitter
hatred of men who know not what they do. |
|
Strachan’s Corners January 6th 1915. It
is hoped that all the readers of the Mercury had a very happy New Year and
that the same may continue throughout the year. Subscribe to the daily Mercury. Only two dollars to all rural subscribers
and know all that goes on in your own town.
Encourage home industries. Saturday’s
storm was most alarming but Sunday saw many good people attend church from
the country in spite of bad roads. On
Monday, teachers and pupils returned to work, rather pleased to be back again
after the dissipation of Christmas week.
Parties were in order and many happy hours spent. Mrs.
Mollison and children spent the New Year with her father, in Mr.
Arnold McWilliams returned to Miss
Bolger has returned to number three after a good vacation. Miss
Irene Doyle, who is attending Normal School, spent the vacation with her
parents. Mrs.
William Cockburn and family, of Toronto, spent a few days with Mr. and Mrs.
Neil Black. Mr.
and Mrs. Fox and family, of New Hamburg, spent Christmas with Mr. and Mrs.
Parker. The
annual school meeting, on Wednesday, was attended by the usual number, and
Mr. Alfred Crane was elected trustee. Our
council, having given good satisfaction last year, was returned by
acclamation, thus saving election expenses. A
large number attended Mr. Conlon’s sale and good prices were realized. The
patrons of the Guelph Creamery in this vicinity are pleased to hear that Mr.
John Borthwick, the popular driver, has taken himself a wife, a young lady
well and most favourably known to a very large circle of friends, Miss Fry,
youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Fry, College Road. May they have a long and happy life
together. Numerous
horses from this township were offered for sale on Saturday for military
purposes. Fair prices were realized in
some cases. Very
much sympathy is expressed for Mr. Kennedy, our mail carrier, who has
encountered very severe storms and bad roads since accepting the position,
but he gets around in time with the daily war news. |
|
Strachan’s Corners February 9th 1915. Since
the storm of last week travelling has been somewhat slow. Roads wind through fields to avoid deep
snow, but we hope that the worst of winter is over. It
has been demonstrated in the past week that we can do without the telephone
but it was very dismal all the same. There
is considerable sickness in the country at present, and we are all wishing
for mild weather. The
farmer is hustling to get his wood for next year in order and everyone is
busy all day long. Those who have hay
and wheat do not need to invest in a gold mine. Our
mail carrier has only missed one day this winter, which is a good
record. Mr. Kennedy is very brave and
makes it possible to do his duty. We
hear of several new houses being prepared for this winter, and coming events
cast their shadows before, as several of our young and handsome bachelors are
deciding to make a happy change and indeed we hope that they will be very
happy. The
attendance at school was very small last week owing to the terrific east
storm. The
prayer meeting at Mr. Clarke’s was well attended considering the roads. |
|
Strachan’s Corners March 15th 1915. After
a long winter our sleighing is disappearing very rapidly and we are enjoying
the beautiful spring sunshine. An
epidemic of influenza, accompanied by severe sore throat, has been in many
homes lately. Messrs.
D. and A. McLean, lately from Ospringe, have settled on their farm, purchased
from Mr. Graham, who is attending to go out west. The
seed fair on Saturday was an attraction to the farmer but the prcies were not
so attractive to those who wished to invest in seed grain. All
the men of the vicinity are intending to have an outing on Wednesday as Miss
Gilchrist is holding a large auction sale on that day. Mr.
and Mrs. Neil Black visited friends in Acton and Limehouse last week. Mr.
and Miss. Pinkney are visiting at Mr. Meek’s, having come down from Belfountain
for the Pinkney-Revell wedding. |
|
Strachan’s Corners April 6th 1915. Spring
delayeth her coming much to the regret of many who are afflicted with that
one trial, la grippe. Miss
Bolger is spending the vacation at her home in Arthur. We
are pleased to see in the school report for March the names of those who have
not missed one day. The pupils are
Michael and Melva Lynch, Hugh and Margaret Murray. Others have been ill or their names also
would have been on that honour list.
We hope that many more will endeavour to attend regularly for April as
it is very encouraging for the teacher and a benefit to the pupils. Those
who have the despised turnip in quantities are reaping a harvest at thirty
cents per bushel, but most of them have been fed during the winter. The
usual visitors are with us for Easter.
Some have taken advantage of cheap rates to visit distant friends for
a day or so. Eggs
and butter have changed in price extensively.
Eggs, at twenty cents, do not make any profit for the poultry man and
he is now engaged in getting the hatching hens at work. The
wood sawing for the season is accomplished satisfactorily. The
assessor, Mr. McNaughton, is on his rounds and finds some of the roads in
very poor condition. Mr.
Cantwell’s sale was well attended and good prices were realized. Mr.
Crawley has conducted a number of sales successfully and won a name for
himself as an auctioneer. Master
Lennie Black is visiting relatives in Corwhin. Mr.
McLean, who was very ill, is convalescing. Farmers
sympathize with Mr. Ed. Baker in the loss of his valuable ducks and feel
indignant that certain people are at liberty to destroy in the name of sport,
domestic foul, with impunity. The
attendance at church on Easter Sunday from this section was very large. |
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Strachan’s Corners April 13th 1915. The
Easter vacation with the fine spring-like weather was enjoyed by a large
number of visitors to the country. Mr.
O’Donaghue has moved to the farm vacated by Mr. Conlon. Mr. Wilson, of Niagara, has purchased Mr.
Cantwell’s farm. Mr. Hauck has moved
to the farm vacated by Mr. Gotham. We
are sure that all of the new arrivals will find most excellent neighbours in
this section, and we hope that they will live happily ever after. Teacher
and pupils are back again for another term. Mr.
and Mrs. McComb and Miss Audrey have returned to their home in Miss
Irene Doyle spent the vacation with her parents. Mr.
W. A. McWilliams returned to his school in Spring
work has begun and the country people will have mountains of work to overcome
in the next two months. |
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Strachan’s Corners May 4th 1915. Seeding
for this spring has been completed and the cool weather was much appreciated. Mr.
Donald McPherson’s sale was very largely attended on Tuesday and the fine
stock realized a good figure. Mr.
McPherson is an excellent farmer and retires to enjoy a well-earned
rest. We are ever sorry to lose our
neighbours but we wish Mr. and Mrs. McPherson many years of happiness in
their new home. Mr.
George McGill Sr. is very sorely afflicted with rheumatism at present but all
of his numerous friends hope that he may soon regain his usual health. Mrs.
Cockburn is seriously ill at present and is suffering very much from
weakness. Work
has begun on Mr. Mollison’s new home. Mr.
Matt McGarr’s house is progressing favourably. |
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Strachan’s Corners June 22nd 1915. The
statute labour season is with us again and there is really some excellent
work being done this year and the good work done by the council is
appreciated. Garden
parties and picnics are having a cool reception but are well patronized
nevertheless. Miss
Bolger, of Elora, spent a few days with her sister, who teaches in S. S. No.
3. Miss
Helen Bolger has been re-engaged as teacher, much to the satisfaction of all
who are interested in school matters. Mr.
James Hewer, accompanied by his daughter, Mrs. Rose, from the west, visited
at Mr. Neil Black’s. Gentlemen
of leisure, and apparently boundless means, motor from the city to view the
landscape o’er, and are pleased to report that they never saw finer crops of
hay in Puslinch than those seen this year.
Their views must have been assisted by powerful magnifying glasses in
some sections. Clover is looking well
in some parts but on the whole the crop is not satisfactory. Considerable
work has been done in building and farm improvement generally. June
is a month of comparative leisure in the country and neighbours can afford to
meet and enjoy a discussion on the topics of the day, or endeavour to find a
bright side to the awful war in progress. Farmers’
institutes would surely be a great boon and bring neighbours closer together
socially. Life is not intended to be
all work but something nobler and higher. Some
old friends were invited to Mr. Robert Marshall’s of Corwhin to celebrate the
80th birthday of Mr. James Porter on Tuesday. |
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Strachan’s Corners July 5th 1915. We
are all very thankful for the beautiful showers of last week, which have
given a new lease of life to all growing things. The
busiest man at present is the man with the hoe. Mr.
Robert Armstrong is raising his new barn on Tuesday this week and neighbours
are very glad to assemble, and render every possible assistance. Reverend
C. H. Buckland will give an address at the home of Mr. McWilliams on Friday
evening at 8:30, having for his subject “Man’s inhumanity to man makes
countless thousands mourn”. A good
attendance is hoped for and everyone is very welcome. July
1st was very quietly spent. We shall
celebrate after the war. Mrs.
Tamblyn visited with her cousin, Mrs. George Laird, previous to her departure
for Seaward Alaska, where she expects to remain for a couple of years with
her daughter, Mrs. DeSherbinin. The
journey to Crops
are looking quite encouraging again. Mr.
McGill is rapidly recovering his strength after his illness. |
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Strachan’s Corners July 11th 1915. Between
thirty and forty people assembled to hear the able address by Reverend C. H.
Buckland on Friday evening on the subject “Man’s inhumanity to man”, inspired
by the awful conflict now raging. The
barn raising on Tuesday last at Mr. Robert Armstrong’s was a wonderful social
gathering, enjoyed by many people from far and near and heartily welcomed by
the popular host and hostess who provided all possible for entertainment. Masters
Darcy, Reginald, and Beverly Fox of |
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Strachan’s Corners August 3rd 1915. Monday
was so very fine that a great amount of wheat was put under cover, but
Tuesday’s all day rain has done considerable damage. Oats are lying flat and some fields of hay
are beyond help. A
large number from this vicinity enjoyed the pleasures of Ladies’ Day, which
passed off most pleasantly. Mrs.
Binkley and Mrs. John Wilkinson, of Morriston, were in this section
collecting for the Red Cross work.
Fourteen dollars was the result and there were a number of homes they
had not time to visit. Doubtless,
there are many who would like to work for the Red Cross, making shirts or
knitting socks for the soldiers. By applying
to any of the workers, supplies may be had.
There are many who would gladly give work, when they could not give
money. Civic
holiday was scarcely remembered in the country owing to the call of the
harvest. |
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Strachan’s Corners September 6th 1915. Miss
Bolger reopened school on Wednesday, with good attendance, after a long
vacation. Miss
Irene Doyle returned to Goderich to resume teaching. Mr.
Arnold McWilliams left for Miss
Beatrice Lester and Master Clarence Lester, Mr. James Doyle, Miss Josephine
and Miss Marie Doyle, Mr. Harold Black, Mr. Roy Smith and Master James Smith,
and Miss Mary McWilliams resume their daily drives to school on Tuesday for
another term of study. All
eyes are turned towards Threshing
is general, but threshers report very damp grain and difficult work. Mrs.
Meek and Miss Margaret enjoyed a pleasant visit with friends in |
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Strachan’s Corners September 14th 1915. We
enjoyed several days of fine weather last week and very much fall wheat
sowing was accomplished, with a few days threshing thrown in. Yes indeed, the farmer is a busy man,
although the limelight just now is thrown on him and advice by the yard is
given him as to how he should double, yes treble, the yield and also send his
sons to the front. Let those corner
loungers do a little more work in the fields and the difficulty will be
settled. Mr.
and Mrs. George Laird and Miss Emslie spent a couple o f days in Mr.
and Mrs. Neil Black visited Mrs. William Cockburn in The
death of Mr. Archie McMillan was deeply regretted by many in this section who
knew him as an excellent framer. His
young wife has the sympathy of all. The
tragic death of Mr. Beaty, late of Janesfield, in Mr.
Robert Law of Hamilton, who was visiting his daughter, Mrs. Frank Mollison,
received a long-distance message on Sunday informing him of the death of his
sister, Miss Law of The
Puslinch branch of the Women’s Institute intend holding a concert in the town
hall in Aberfoyle on Thursday evening, September 23rd, in aid of the Red
Cross work. Excellent talent has been
procured. The
electrical display on Sunday evening was something awe-inspiring and
grand. One could not but feel what... |
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Strachan’s Corners October 6th 1915. Mr.
James Barclay has set an excellent example to his gentlemen friends by taking
to himself a helpmate for life. Miss
King of Large
numbers attended the Aberfoyle show on Tuesday even though the weather was
most unfavourable. Inspector
Craig paid his usual fall visit to the school a week ago. It
is regretted that Mr. Leadley met with such a serious loss on Monday, having
his barn, with contents, destroyed by fire. Farmers
are wondering if matters in regard to silo-filling could not be arranged in
such a way that there would be not so many outfits operating at the same
time, almost within speaking distance, especially when help is so very
difficult to obtain. Travelling
at night by country people is becoming so dangerous owing to autos without
lights being allowed to run at large.
No less than three different vehicles from this section have had
narrow escapes while returning home on Sunday night. Mr. Samuel Slater, accompanied by Mrs.
Slater and children, on returning from Preston, were thrown out and their
carriage badly wrecked by some unscrupulous person who did not have proper
lights. Fortunately, all escaped serious
injury, but will not soon forget their experience. How much longer are the highways to be
appropriated by those who know not how to manage cars? No farmer would be allowed to drive a horse
if he did not understand horses thoroughly and were not able to avoid running
into travellers who have the same right to the road as he. |
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Strachan’s Corners November 23rd 1915. We
are having a taste of winter at present and the careful farmer is hustling
his stock to winter quarters after a splendid fall with plenty of grazing. Winter
fair, in a few days, will be a pleasant change. Threshing
is about completed in this vicinity, to the relief of all concerned. It
has been deplored by very many people that the farmers now fail in the
old-fashioned hospitality once so dear to our grandparents, but it has been
demonstrated by Mr. and Mrs. Walter Buchanan that they, at least, can open
their home and generously entertain their very numerous friends in a manner
which leaves nothing to be desired.
Some three hundred friends accepted their kind invitation to the
house-warming of one of the most beautiful homes as could well be imagined
and to say that all present spent an enjoyable evening but mildly expresses
their pleasure. Many friends sincerely
hope that Mr. and Mrs. Buchanan may long live to enjoy their new residence. Mr.
and Mrs. James Barclay and Miss Barclay were at home on Thursday afternoon
and evening to their many friends, who welcomed the opportunity to meet the
bride and wish them length of days and very much happiness. |
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The News from Strachan’s Corners March 1st 1916. March
is most lamblike today after a few days of severe cold. Sleighing is excellent and most
appreciated. After
some time of illness, Mr. Harry Crane died at the homestead on Thursday last
and was buried on Saturday in the La
grippe has some victims who long for the spring days to come again. |
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