The annual meeting of the Wellington County Historical Society was well attended, a clear indictor that saving heritage is gaining momentum, officials say.
The June 11 meeting met the society’s mandates of stimulating public interest in county history, and bringing people together who have researched and written about Wellington County.
The AGM is always “Journal” night. The Wellington County History is an annual publication, which was initiated in 1987 with founding editor Stephen Thorning. Each issue contains multiple stories of life over the years in Wellington County. The launching of each new annual Journal takes place at the AGM. This year’s book is No. 31 and back copies of many issues are still available for purchase.
President Ron Hattle outlined various events from the past year.
Greetings were extended by representatives from many sister heritage and historical societies.
Reports were given on financial status by Treasurer Kathy Bouma; memberships by coordinator Evelyn Robson; and publications by secretary Helen Aitkin.
The topic for the annual writing contest was “My First Summer Job.” This was the 75th anniversary of the essay contest which was started by Jean Hutchinson in 1943. Director Willa Wick presented certificates and cash awards to the winners.
Contest winners
In the adult class first prize was captured by Ian Easterbrook of Fergus; second went to Silvana Sangiuliano of Belwood; third place was Evelyn Robson of Belwood; and honourable mention was awarded to Julie Goudie of RR2, Fergus.
In the student division first place went to Lily Van Huisseling of Fergus, while second and third place winners were brothers Jonah and Joshua Doupe of Belwood.
Annemarie McDonald, area voting delegate for the Women’s Institute, conducted the installation of officers. The new county historical society executive consists of: president Ron Hattle; secretary Helen Aitkin; treasurer Kathy Bouma; membership director Evelyn Robson; Women’s Institute representatives Cynthia Rabstein and Willa Wick; and directors Ian Easterbrook, Nikki Logan and David James.
Keynote speaker for the evening was Dave Adsett who described the 50-year progression of the Wellington Advertiser. The hard, detailed work and long hours the Adsett family put into the business 50 years ago is an eye-opening example of dedication, when contrasted with the relatively quick and easy process facilitated by modern technology.
“That they lasted in the face of adversity was a surprise to competitors who eventually folded before them. The Adsetts are proud that they have been able to maintain their way of doing things by circulating a free Newspaper, and certainly the whole of Wellington appreciates their efforts,” society officals state.
Advertiser founder Bill Adsett also spoke briefly, and both father and son were applauded.
