Each week, the Gazette looks back on stories from the past. Here is what happened this week, by year…
1928
– Local MPP Horace Colliver was paid a large compliment by his governing party as he was asked to second the annual throne speech in the Ontario legislature. Colliver had the distinction of being the first candidate from Prince Edward County acclaimed to sit at Queen’s Park.
– The adoption of a 13-month calendar was discussed by the League of Nations. Each month would have 28 days and an even distribution of working days. The new month, Sol, would be inserted between June and July.
– Judge Evan McLean granted an adjournment until March 2 in the R.H. Raynor trial, which involved some 21 car deals Bondsmen put up bail of $75,000.
1948
-Cattle breeders in the county and across the region voiced support for the creation of artificial insemination units where members would pay for a centrally located bull. There would be a $25 membership fee and a $5 fee per breeding.
-The Picton United Church showed off the result of $12,000 in renovations. The work included a refurbished hall in the church basement with kitchen facilities, a new roof, the repair of leaded windows, and new lighting and plumbing fixtures. Auditorium improvements were planned.
– Lt.-Col D.C. Cameron, a former commander of the Hastings and Prince Edward Regiment received a new post in Ottawa as Canada’s acting director of infantry.
1978
– While many schools in the area were experiencing declining enrolment, St. Gregory’s was moving in the opposite direction as it had 33 more students. Principal Ron DeLeskie said more Catholic families had moved to the area. An addition of a gymnasium and a new music program also helped attract students.
– Ameliasburgh council approved the creation of a replica grist mill near the township. Deputy-reeve Paul Boyd donated a building that could be used for materials in the project. Canada Manpower would supply workers to build the mill.
– Pinecrest principal Dan Rainey bought Wellington’s historic Tara Hall and planned to restore the 140-year-old mansion.
1998
– The Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Auxiliary was moving forward with a recommendation to seek incorporation. It was suggestion by incorporating the organization could ensure its autonomy and continue serving the hospital.
– Ontario commercial fisheries entered into an agreement with the province that would see the Ministry of Natural Resources’ royalties on commercially caught fish increase from two per cent to 3.8 per cent over two years. As part of the deal the fishermen would have receive input into fisheries management activities.
– School board amalgamation allowed county youth a chance to join the Hastings and Prince Edward Children’s Chorus.