The Ties That Bind: 100 Years of Memories, 1887-1987

/
Foreward
it is in keeping with the teaching of the Holy Bible that we should honor the hundreth anniversary of the congregations
which combined to give us the Alexander United Church. The Book of Leviticus tells us that every fifth year members of the
ancient tribes gathered in order that they could be reminded of the glories of their heritage. As far as we could learn our
church heritage is recorded in this volume.
All church members are indebted to the history committee for their collective efforts. Without stint they applied
themselves to their research. They studied the minutes, interviewed many of our senior members, even corresponded with
members of the congregation who have since moved away.
Committee members are unanimous in their praise of the co-operation they found in their search for material.
Individuals in the congregation were endlessly patient in supplying information , in confirming names and dates, in filling in
the gaps in the myriad of undertakings in which a church becomes involved in the space of a hundred years. This book could
not have been completed without either the committee members who were so determined, or congregation which was so
responsive.
We lament the possibility that there may be elements missing from this record. If this occurs, it does so because. in a
busy century. it is only natural that some events should go unrecorded.
If it is true that history is the record of human progress, then this slender volume is the record of one congrega tion, in
one community, in on century. We can only pray that it will serve those who follow us by telling them how we conducted our
affairs in our house of worship.
Members of the Anniversary committee include:
lsabelle Bissett
Rev. Brian Copeland
Jean Dane
Madge Gamley
Bea Goulsbra
Margaret lzzard
Joyce MacKay
Georgina McEvoy
Pat McManes (Secretary)
Hugh McManes
Belly Rabe
Frank Rabe (Chairman)
Olive Speers
Margaret Yeomans
Churches
The town of Alexander (named after John Alexander
McDonald. Prime Minister of Canada 1878- 1891) came
into being about 1881. from an earlier start made 1 112 miles
east. where Poultenay Siding had been located. A C.P.R.
Station. water tank and section house, and a store had been
completed at this point. Will Hoopera was the first C.P.R.
agent. later moving the station just north of the tracks near the
center of the village. The original station burned in 1928
when the burning Pool Elevator set it on fire. Rev. Wetherly,
an Anglican Minister, operated the store and was Post
Master at Poultenay.
The. first church services were held in the home of G. M.
Yeomans. conducted by Mr. Thomas Lawson of Brandon.
Some of the Pioneers associated with the early services were,
McEwens. Gustins. Griersons. Griggs, Kerrs, Watts,
Aitchesons. Yeomans. Howatts, Leitches, McKays. Speers,
Hoopers and W a lkers. The first school was situated south of
the Railway. It was built by Jas. McEwen Sr. in 1885. The
first teacher was Miss Way. a sister of ~rs. Wm. Broatch.
The name Broatch was long associated with the religious life
of the community. Miss Janie E. Walker was the first child
born in Alexander. She was organist for many years in the
Presbyterian and the United Churches. She was also
Postmistress- succeeding her father, J.F. Walker · a Pioneer
Postmaster. Mr. Walker also operated a small store in part of
what is the present Post Office. he having bought the store
from the first store-keeper, a Mr. Goodison.
The first Reeve was Sam Hannah, the present Reeve
1987 is Clarence K. Williamson.
Major Andrew McBride. veteran of the Riel Rebellion
operated the first Telephone Central. at that time Ion~
distance only. The telephone office was in a frame buildin~
also used as a store and residence on the N. W. corner of
Dumbarton Street and Second Avenue. This buildina was
la ter removed and a cementblock building erected by~D.A.
Mcllquham in 1906. This housed a hardware store. a drug
store and a bank, and still later a large general store. The
building was damaged from a fire in 1958. and was finally
torn down in 1961.
The Methodist Church was the first place of worship in
Alexander. It was built by James McEwen. a pioneer. in
1886.
This Church is now the Masonic Hall, and of interest is
the fact. it was not built on stone or cement foundation but on
blocks of wood 2 feet by 2 feet placed at regular interva ls.
When the members of the Masonic Lodge remodelled the
structure around 1962, some of those blocks were in splendid
condition after nearly 75 years. They were replaced by a
cement foundation.
For many years Methodist Sunday School was at 2:00
p.m. followed by Church a t 3:00 p.m. Presbyterian Sunday
School was at 11:00 a. m. a nd church at 7:00 p.m. Many
attended a t least three services a day.
The early ministers had many long cold drives in winter
with horse and cutter travelling to Griswold. Kemnay or
Roseland. They were happy when they were invited into a
farmer's place enroute to have a meal and feed for their horses.
The former Presbyterian Church, now the
United Church was built in 1887. The
builder is unknown. An Annex with a spire
was added in 1908. built by Mr. J ames
Blair.
Church Union was being discussed
throughout the country, but before it was
passed elsewhere. Alexander Methodists
and Presbyterians agreed to unite. In 1919
an Official Board Meeting to discuss Union
had to be cancelled due to the Flu Epidemic.
During this time over I 00 patients were ill in
the Alexander School - which had been
turned into a hospita l. Dr. Frank Purdie Sr.
and his wile. a nurse from Griswold spent full
time doctoring a nd nursing the sick.
The first organization meeting was held
November 19, 1919. The first chairman
was Rev. Dickson. Reverend Hyslop
Dickson began his ministry in 1918, later
serving the Uniting Congregations until
1921. Dr. Dickson and his wile gave
unstintingly of themselves during the Flu
period.
.
During his ministry the church board
joined with the community in welcoming the
returned soldiers from the World W a r of
1914-1918.
The first session of the United
Church of Alexander consisted of Thos.
Young. A.H. Speers. H.E. Jackson. Ed.
Grierson. a nd J ames Drummond. Clerk
was Oliver Dunn.
The first Stewards were J . A.
McGee. C.S. Touchburn, T.M.
Drummond , J.C. Lundy, Neil McEwen,
Thos. McGee. M.O. McKay , L.W.
Skinner and D.A. Yeomans.
The first na mes submitted for
membersh ip were Misses Grace
Wiggens, Annie Critchley, May Mc Kay,
Jean Jackson, Joan Jackson, Evelyn
Clark, Helena Gauld , Edith Gauld,
Beatrice Bowman, Janie Hill ,
Mr.
Warren Bowman and Mr. G. Oliver
Dunn.
lt was agreed to hold communion
three times a year. For several years the
minister and a Session member visited the
homes of Church members who were
unable to attend church. and held
communion with them .
The church, a t first was the main
part with a porch and the doors right in the
middle with wooden steps down to the street level. A Iter
Union B.W. Aitcheson tendered $2.557.00 to put a full sized
basement under the church. The heating syste m was
improved as well to the tota l cost of $3,000.00. The W.A.
paid most of the cost a t the rate of a bout $300.00 per year.
final payment in 1935. at which time Mrs. Tray Blair
(President) and Mrs. Thos. Lundy burned the note at the
Congregatio na l Meeting. It is worth n.oting the finan cing was
First Presbyterian Church - 1887
Presbyterian Church, Alexander. Manitoba 1908
done during the depression years.
A history of the Uniting Congregations was written m
1925 by Miss Walker a nd Miss Aitcheson. but it has been
lost.
In 1936 a motion was passed to install electric it v. but
fin ances were low a t the time so it was dropped. Lat~r that
year the Alexander Sports Committee took care of the cost of
installing the lighting.
The 50th Anniversary was held October 8. 1939 while
Rev. G.A. Dyker was the minister. T he following is a reprint
of a ne wspaper clipping regardin g the 50th Annive rsa ry;
" Th e Fiftieth Anniversary of th e opening of th e form e r
Presbyte rian churc h. th e building now used by th e United
C hurc h. was he ld Sunday , Octobe r 8. 1939 at 11:00 a.m.
and 7:00p.m. (2 years later than it shou ld ha ve been ). Rev.
G.A. Dyher conduc ted the Services and Dr. Doyle o f
Bran don was th e gues t speaker. The Juni or C hoir with K e ith
Blair as organist. provided th e music in th e morning and Mr s.
S.l. Sp eers as organ ist for th e evenin !/."
At the Annual Meeting in 1955 it was agreed to ha ve
part of the church steeple removed on account of the uppe r
section deteriorating. This work was done by volunt eers and
over seen by Norman Fisher, a local carpenter. In 1959 th e
interior of the basement was greatly improved, when the walls
were finish ed with Oak Grain hard board. a nd new tile
installed on the ceilin g. This work was a lso done by Norma n
Fisher. It ceased to be called the basement. and now spok e n
of a s the 'lower auditorium'. The followin g year new main
entrance doors were added , and the whole church received a
new pai nt job.
United Church wi th new base m ent 1925-26
Alexander United Church
Alexander, Manitoba
1987
Minister:
Intern Minister:
Official Board:
Chairperson:
Vice Chairperson:
Past Chairperson:
Secretary:
Treasurer:
Business Administration
Committee:
Christian Education Committee:
Outreach Committee:
Pastoral Care Committee
Property Committee:
Worship Committee:
Board of Trustees:
Presbytery Delegate:
U.C.W. President:
Mission and Service Secretary: .
Nominating Committee:
Organists:
Caretaker:
Rev. Brian W. Copeland
Mrs. Rose Ward
Frank Rabe
Margaret Speers
Margaret Yeomans
Florence Wotton
Olive Speers
Olive Speers
Ralph Carvey
Vi James , Margaret Yeomans,
Carol McManes
Bev Carvey
lsabelle Bissett, Margaret Skinner
Me! MacKay , Gordon Gau ld,
Dan Speers
Jean Dane , Joyce MacKay.
Margaret lzzard , Betty Rabe
Olive Speers. Albert McEvoy
Don McKay
Doris Rabe
Judy Watt
Pat McManes . Betty Rabe .
Margaret Speers
Joyce MacKay. Georgina McEvoy
Marla Ponscak
Through thf' ypars thf' timf' of church Services h<tVt'
\·cmed. At on<' time services were held twice a dav. Sunday
School at 11:00 a.m. and Church service at 7:00 p.m. I~
19SH 11 was decided to hold a morning church service only
and 1t has continued intermittently since.
Over the years women's groups have given generously
of the1r time and talents to promote the functioning of the
church. History was made in 1962 when Mrs. W.A. Gamley
'' c1s mducted as the first lady to act as a member of the
SessiOn.
Also m 1962 the church celebrated its 75th
Anniversary. This took the form of a Church Service at
11:00 a. m .. June 17th having Rev. Carlyle Parker, a former
mm1sler. giving the Sermon. Speakers were set up in the
auditorium for the capacity congregation. A Smorgasbord
dmner followed the service on the church lawn, where visitors
and Alexander people remenisced for the afternoon. The
guest book showed over 300 names had been signed that
dav.
In the fall of 1965 it was agreed to install two oil heating
furnaces, one to heat the main body of the church, and one to
heat the auditorium. These were installed by Cornell Bros.
Heating and Plumbing of Brandon, and are still in use.
After the furnaces were installed, volunteers agreed to
put down plywood on the church floor and cover it with tile.
The men also placed the pews in place, which were a gift from
Rrockies Funeral Home.
In 1968 a student minister, Jack White, was in charge
for one year and lived in the Manse. In 1969 Gary
Montgomery served as lay supply for 6 months and also lived
in the Manse.
It became difficult to support a full time minister, and
after several meetings with committees from Trinity United,
and Alexander. arrangements were made where the minister
from Trinity United could serve both congregations. It was
dgreed in 1972 Alexander contribute 20% of the total cost of
Trinity budget, and to be made in ten equal payments. This
agreement has varied somewhat since the first arrangement.
Alexander covers their own cost of supplies; clerk/typist and
matters are reviewed each year. The first service for the
above was conducted with Rev. Art Lucy as minister. Rev.
Dave Wilson was appointed in 1975 as a pari lime assistant
al Trinity, also coming lo Alexander.
·
for by the Sunday School. An eled ric organ was installed in
I9S7 and more about this later.
In 1980 the Church was reshingled with interlocking
shingles by T urton Shingling Co., Brandon a t a cost of
$2800. They also set up a new Selkirk chimney for $1200.
The same year new eavestroughs were added. costing $490.
New carpet was laid in the aisles, pulpit and entrance of the
church costing $674.
At different times new chairs were purchased for the
auditorium, new tables were made · some I 0 ft. ones and
some 8 ft. ones, by volunteers under the guidance of Mr. All
Gamley. In the spring of 1986 four more tables, made by Ken
James . to make up for the four which are missing. The
material for these tables was piad for by the U.C.W. who also
did the finishing of them.
The Church's exterior was painted during ihe summer of
1982 by the Professional Painters through the Brandon
University at a cost of $24 7 4. The interior was papered in
1983 by Rick Taggert for $1887. The U.C.W. paid$ 1000.
towards this. The same year ceiling fans were installed in the
church proper.
In the summer of 1984 a special Walk-a-than was held
May 5, proceeds amounting to $2323. and going to church
improvements. A cement cistern was installed with water
being piped into the kitchen area. A double sink, taps, hot
water tank and pressure system were set up by Don Skinner ·
then in 1986 completion of water works with flush toilet and
hot and cold running water at a cost of $2237.
During Rev. G.A. Colpitis ministry, his daughter
(Patricia) was at the well to pump a pail of water, while
standing on the platform the board gave away and she fell into
the well. Enough water for her to drown but she hung on to
sort of a la nding and was decidedly uncomfortable. It was
serious enough for a period of time as she could not make
anyone hear her cries fa help. Eventually someone came a nd
rallied her parents and the townspeople who removed her
from the well. After a few anxious days she recovered.
Another time the minister Rev. Robinson was assisting a
volunteer group to shingle part of the roof of the manse. when
he fell backwards off the roof. He fell on a fair-sized stone
injuring his back very badly. He was in a heavy cast for
several months and unable to carry on any duties. During
these months of convalescing the church services we;e
conducted by Rev. Bill from Griswold, the W.M.S. a nd the
It was agreed in 1976 la change the structure of the
Session.
board from Session and Stewards to executive and
Through the years to help finances Fowl Suppers were
committees, thus involving more people in the work of the
held in the fall. Recently walk-a-thons have taken place.
church. The following year the new structure was working
Auction sales on the lawn with All Poole and Gene Parks
and is continuing quite satisfactorily.
giving freely of their lime and talents . The results of all
For a number of years White Gift Services were held, the
ventures have been most gratifying.
money going to Home Missions and the Children's Aid. Later
Bible studies have been held periodically under the
it was moved that we sponsor a needy child in some country
Minister's leadership. Special Events took place with special
with the White Gift money. This is still continued and at
music and special speakers · Rev. Jack McLaughlan. Mr.
present we are helping to support a boy in Brazil.
Roberl Bend and Judge Rodney Mykle.
During the years many improvements have been made
During the years the people of the church have had ups
in the Church. Kitchen cupboards were built in the kitchen by
and downs, sometimes wondering if the finances will meet the
Mr. Wm. Gamley. In later years several shelves and more
demands, but the records show they have always managed
cupboards were added by Mr. All Gamley, who also did
very well a t the end of the yea ·s.
repair work where needed.
The three church Pulpit Chairs were recovered with red
luch;e nol thu friend until thm1 stondt'sl in his (Jiace .
plush by Laverne Roman, with Thanks for this to Mr. A.D.
-Rohhi Hil/d
Blair. An Oak table was made for the front of the church, paid
Page 5
An Honor Roll hangs in the church, bearing the names
of those who served our country in World War/1914 to
1918, and World War 11 1939- 1945.
Roll of Honor - W orId War l
Alexander Presbyterian Church
Ill
_i
..,
~· - -
,.-
..
~....:.
United Church 1982
Methodist Ministers
Student-Thomas Lawson
Rev. John Peters
Student-R. Avison
Rev. G.K. Adams
Rev. A.W. Ross
Rev. W.W. Colpitis
Rev. J.C. Walker
Rev. J.C. Walker
Rev. T. Lawson
No Name
Rev. Wm. Somerville
Rev. Robson
Rev. H.A . Ireland
Rev. Sing
Rev. W.B. Ambrose
Rev. W.E. Egan
Rev. J.W. Ridd
1881
1883
1883-86
1886-88
1888-92
1892-93
1893
1893
about 1896
1899-1902
1902-05
1905-08
1908-11
1911
1911-14
1914-17
1917-19
Troy Blair
Ace\ Hennessy
Wesley Green (Killed in
Robert Rabe
William Chapman
Cordon Haig
Harry Sibbald
Lewis Sibbald
Alexander Gerrard
Dr. John H. Conklin
Donald Fee
John Fee
Percy Fen wick
Andrew McBride
Arthur Sidda\1
AI an Y eomans
Waiter Church
Edward F eatherstone
Frank E. Fenwick
Dr. A.C. Armstrong
Byron W. Broatch
Henry Speers
George Y eomans
Cecil Young (Killed in Action)
John Grieve Kellett
Corris R. Chapman
(Killed in Action)
John Robinson
N.P. Williams
Charles Cooper (Killed in
Thomas Humphrey
Action)
Emil Williamson
Elmer Williamson
B.W. Aitcheson
Clive Haig
(Prisoner of War)
Oswald McKay
William J. Drummond
Alien Ogilvie
James Clark
Clarence Richardson
Presbyterian Ministers
Rev. Hadnott
Rev. J.H. Cameron
Dr. James Robertson
Rev. George Lockhart
Rev. C. McDairmid
Rev. J ohn Calder
Rev. Wm. Fee
Rev. George Lockhart
Rev. H ys lop Dickson
1881
1881
1891
1891-95
1895-98
1898-1902
1902-06
1907-17
1918-2 1
Ministers Since Union 1 919
Rev. Hyslop Dickson
Rev. J.F. Ca\dwe\1
Rev. H. T. Reynolds
Rev. W.A. McKim Young
Rev. J. Carlyle Parker
Rev. G.A. Dyker
Rev. G.A. Colpitts
Rev. S. H. Brown
Rev. A. R. Robinson
Rev. W.R. Donogh
Rev. Carol Roberts
Student . Jack White
Student-Gary Montgomery
Rev. Murray Lake
Rev. Art l.ucy
Rev . D. Wilson (Ass'!)
Rev. \an Harvey
Rf:'v. Rrian Copeland
1919-21
1921-25
1925-30
1930-34
1934-38
1938-43
194 3-48
1948-50
1950-54
1954-62
1962-67
\967 -68
July-Dec., 1968
1969-70
1970-77
1975-77
1977-83
1983-87
Ill
•I"
•'
United Church 19R3
Pa!..!('6
Action)
For King and Country
Members of
Alexander United Church
and Community - with
Canadian Fighting Forces
World War 11
A .A. Anderson
Mike Beil
James Bell
Ke~th D. Blair
Harrv Blair
Regi~ald S. Bray •
Wm Broadbenl
C. Butterfield
F red Chiesche •
Ernest Curtis
Winston Curtis
Millar Drummond
Allan Dyker •
Cordon R. Dyker
Hedley R. Dyker
Lance Fields
Wellington Fields
John Frieson
Lloyd Camley
Arthur Haig
Ernest Harkness
George Harkness
Harold Harkness
Lorne Harkness
Wm Harkness
Jack Hill
Leland Humphreys
Roberl M. Johnslon
James A. Kerr
George Kroeker
Corneluis Kroeker
Harold Locke
D.E. Lodwick
Roy Logan
Clarence Lovegrove
Cordon Lowe
Frank Lundy
Neil McKinnon
Charles Madder
Frank Madder
Cecil Magee
Douglas Magee
Jack Manson
James Manson
Alberl Maskell
John Mosiuk
Frank McManes
Kenneth Mosson
Jack Parks
William Rabe
William Roberls
David Ross
Joseph Schmidt
Ceorge Smith
Thomas Smith
Willard L. V arney
Stanley Weallens
James Williams
Emil Williamson
Elmer Williamson
"' . Died m A cllve Service
Joseph Wright
David Yeomans
Alfred Wm Camley
Colin Lewis
Earl White
Leslie McKinnon
John A. Ryans
Alton Williamson
Cordon Piper
Albert Quadrelli
Robert J. Roberts
Jack Magee
LAC Alien Pomeroy
LAC Andrew Pomeroy
T. W ebb
Oliver Lovegrove
Lilian Blair
Alita Cheasley
Ceorgella Cheasley
Alice Haig
Dorothy Custin
Margarel Peal
Bella Ross
Jean Ross
Phyllis A. Ayres
lsabel Habok
Lorrine Gustin
lrene Habok
Barbara W alsh
Marjorie Jackson
William W a Ish
Myron Magee
1919 - First Session Members:
Oliver Dunn (clerk)
M.O. McKay
Rev. Frederick Letts D.D.
A.D. Blair
Neil McEwen
L. W. Skinner
R.C. Bissett
M.A. Donogh
Mrs. W.A. Camley
Mr. Herb MacKay
Mrs. Margarel Yeomans 197 4
lssac Skinner
C has. Durranl
J.C. Lundy
Thos. Curlis
Alex Rabe
Oswald McKay
M.J. McManes
W.A. Rabe
F.C. McManes
Lloyd Camley
Secretaries of Alexander Church
C.S. T ouchburn
John McFadyen
L.W. Skinner
Rev. F. Letts
Alberl Rabe
Don Rabe
J.M. Prowse
D.A. Yeomans
W.A. Walker
Alberl Rabe
Roy Blair
Bill Owens
Melvin McManes
Mrs. Karen McKay
Jim Klywak
Mrs. Florence Wotton
Rehcwe tou•ard ever_t/ one
Mrs. Florence Wotton
Mrs. lrene Owens
(JS
if receil,ing a greot guest.
-Confucius
Thank God for Little Things
Thonh you. (;od. for little things
that often come our U'auThe thinRs U'e tahe fo r !franted
hut do n't m ention tchen we (>rauThe unexpected courte!'.tJ,
the thouf!hluf. hindly deed A hand reached Ot.lf to hef(> us
in the time of sudden needOh. mahe us more awmc. dear God.
of fittfe dnifu waccs
That come to us tt 1 ith "sweet surprise"
from netlcr-dreamed-of places.
Blessed be the Lord,
who daily loadeth us with benefits
Psalms 6R: 19
Do it that tl(''!l moment.'
Don't fwt if off · don't U'nit
There's no use in doin~ (I hindness
If
uou do it a day ton fate!
Pege 7
1S YounL? People Joined Church /9RS
Hod.• Rou ·: D(Jnt 'in ChewdetJ. Ron Rohe. Ron Comll'l/. l?ond!/ Speer~.
Re!! Speer~. Sn1// Wolf. Middle Note: Rod McKm1. Cnwleo Cheo~lcr1 .
.~herri Sp"e'"· Front Rou ·: f?o/,/Jiclomes./ .. (Jnd / .. Stwcr". \\'aiHic!l::md.
De/) Rnhe. Rlwrl(/a Ri,~e/1
Rev. B. Cope/and
Ministers
Rev. Hyslop Dickson 1918-21
Rev. Dickson was the Presbyterian minister when the
Methodists and Presbyterian churches in Alexander united to
form the Union church and remained as minsiter of the Union
L'ongrt>gation. During the Flu epidemic Mr Dickson, who did
not catch the Flu, was able to give great assistance to others.
At harvest time Mr. Dickson could be found out in the fields
helping local farmers. The Dicksons went to Portage from
Alexander. later moving to Vancouver, B.C.
Rev. J.F. Caldwell 1921-25
Rev. Caldwell's ministry concluded the Union Church
part of our history as the United Church came into being the
year he left. Mr Caldwell is remembered for his quiet and
ellective ministry. Mrs Caldwell helped organize the first
C.G.I.T. group in 1922. While in Alexander, tragedy struck
the Caldwelllamily, their infant daughter Anna died. Some of
the C.G.I.T. girls acted as pall bearers and Anna is buried in
the Yeomans' family plot in Alexander cemetary.
Rev. J. Carlyle Parker 1934-38
Rev and Mrs Parker, having no children of their own,
opened both their hearts and their home to the children and
young people of the community. Mrs Parker was a C.G.I.T.
leader. Mr Parker had a lively gaup of Trail Rangers which
included boys from the Anglican church. At Brandon fair
time the Parkers filled their car with children and treated them
to a day at the fair. One year Mr Parker taught Grade XII
English in his home. At harvest time Mr. Parker enjoyed
helping out on local farms. Rev Parker served churches in
Lyleton, Cartwright, Alexander, Sperling, Flin Flan, Roblin.
Shoal, Rapid City, and Central (Brandon). Rev Parker retired
in Brandon where he died.
Rev. H.T. Reynolds 1925-30
Rev. Reynolds came to Alexander from Rapid City
becoming our first United Church minister. Mr Reynolds
spent many hours visiting in the community and working very
hard Ior this congregation. The second church orchestra was
conducted by Mr Reynolds. Mr Austin Blair has in his
possession a book written by Rev Reynolds entitled "The
Unquenchable Flax".
Rev. G.A. Dyker
1938-43
Rev. Dyker is rememRev. W.A. McKim Young
1930-34
Rev. McKim Young is
remembered as a line man and
for his love of sports and his
imposing height (6'4"). Rev.
Young enjoyed curling and could
be found in the summer time
playing soft ball or acting as
umpire for the ball games.
bered as a very popular minister in
Alexander. The 50th
anniversary of
Alexander United
Church was held in
1939 (2 years late. we
do not know why) with
Mr. Dyker taking the
service and Dr. Doyle
of Brandon as guest
speaker. Mrs. Dyker
organ for
taught a Sunday School Class and was a C.G.I.T. leader.
The Dykers moved to Holland from Alexander, retirin" to
Winnipeg in 194S. where one year later Mr. Dyker di~d.
Page 9
Rev. W.R. Donogh 1954-62
Rev. Donogh
Rev. G.A. Colpitis 1943-48
Rev. Colpitis. was very interested
in the people of the community.
both as the minister of our church
and as the Brandon Sun
correspondent for the village and
district. This interest in people
· Is a
coupled with a good sense of humour
very good visitor. One Anglican family remembers the
comfort Mr. Colpitis visits brought following their
bereavement. Mrs. Colpitis was a C.G.I.T. lead~r. The
C olpitls left Alexander for a congregation in Carberry and
here Mr. Colpitis eventually retired. In 1953 he again
resumed his writing for the Brandon Sun till ill health forced
his retirement from writing. Mr. Colpitis died in I 965 at the
age of 85.
came
to
us
from
Hartney. For Mr.
Oonogh it must have
seemed a bit like
coming home as he was
born .and raised not
many miles away in the
Griswold area. Mrs.
Donogh rendered
faithful service as
Church Choir leader, -""'-----'
Junior Choir leader and organist in t Sunday
r
Donogh organized a Cub Pack. Mr Donogh's love of history
and sense of humour are well remembered. The Donoghs
retired to Brandon in 1962 where Mr. Donogh was assistant
minister at St. Pauls. Mr. Donogh died in 1968 and Mrs.
Donogh one year later.
Rev. S.H. Brown 1948-50
11
Rev. Brown IS
remembered for his
popular Sunday School
class of young people.
Mrs.
Brown
C.G.I.T.
was
a
leader.
a
Rev. Carol B. Roberts 1962-67
Rev. Carol Roberts
was ordained in 1958
and was appointed to
the Lauder charge.
Since she has served
charges at Alexander.
Oak Lake. Brookdale
(later a part of the
Messenger leader and
played the organ for
Sunday School. The
Browns enjoyed the
social life of the
community
such
as
Neepawa Area Larger
curling, dances and
evenings of bridge. Mr.
Brown moved to
Parish). Pierson.
Strathclair and this
summer is moving to
K~nton from Alexander. retiring to Ham iota where they still
reside during the summer with wintes spent in the south.
Miami. The three point
charge here kept Mrs.
Roberts very busy.
Visiting was a priority
Rev. A.R. Robinson 1950-54
Mr Robinson was very interested in the community as a
whole, starting the Community Carol services which continue
to this day. Rev. Robinson is credited with bringing Roseland
back into the pastoral charge with Alexander and Kemnay.
Mrs Robinson, continuing the practise of other ministers
wives of being involved with midweek groups, was a
Messenger leader.
and her
car put on many miles accomplishing this. Mrs.
Roberts also found time to be a Messenger leader and her
husband Herb founded a Tyro group for boys.
Mrs. Roberts accomplished a first for Alexander. our
minister had a baby. (the Roberts fourth) a sweet little girl
named Marcia. Despite the demands of motherhood Mrs.
Roberts maintained the very full schedule of all lull time
ministers. Mrs. Roberts has written a book about her years in
the ministry entitled "Mrs. Minister".
Jack White 1967-68 (student)
Jack White is remembered as a good speaker and a
good story teller. After leaving Alexander Jack White
became an ordained minister. serving at Neepawa for many
yeors and is currently at a church in Thunder Bay. Ontario.
Gary Montgomery. student July - December 1968
Car\''~ sta\' ,,jth us was not long. One item that comes to
m md of .l m lim-e in Alexander 1s thi~: the U.C. W. decided to
lwlp out thts badwlor student minsiter by organiLing a huge
pdlllt \ shm, t'r. Tlw ladtt>s were thanked fromlhc pul1;11. anci a
ran• rcne\\' was given a jcu of carrot marmalade. I he second
Sunda1 Gary asked the person who had contributed the
c t~rrnt m<~rmali1dt• if they could please give him the receipe as
ht· h.:~ cl many requests for it. The receipe was forthcoming and
lhl' tlmd Sunday everyone had an opportunity to copy it
d(HHl.
I still have mine!
Rev. Murray Lake 1969-70
Rev. Murray Lake served
at Alexander in the interum
betv.·een our student ministers
and jommg forces with Trinity.
Mr. Lake was hired by the
Sundav for the service but
mcmagt~d m time after church to
giv(' us advice and guidance. A
,,'1,.,rJ..
Rev. A. R. Lucy 1970-77
'" j,.., ..,.,
1970 Rev Art Lu<y. • \~\ 1
who h<~d tome to\.~
Tnmty
the
prev10us
f!'l :1
~
September. began what
has become our long _,."""'
and happy association
with Trinity United
Church. H""'don. Mr. Lucy was keenly interested in the
youth of the congregation starting a Young Peopl es Group
and under his guidance the "Adopt a Child" program was
begun. Mr. Lucy did a lot of counselling with Alcholics
Anonymous and was very active in the courts of the church.
While Mr. Lucy was with us the Church Board was
restructured and working smoothly when he left to go to a
church in Nanaimo. B.C. He is returning to Alexander on
June 28 to be guest spea!<er for our I OOth Anniversary
celebrations. Presently Mr. Lucy is at Collingwood United
Church in Vancouver, B.C.
number of young people joined the church that year, having
taken confirmation classes from Mr. Lake in his home in
Brandon. Mr. Lake still lives in Brandon.
Rev. Brian Copeland 1983-87
Rev. D. S. Wilson 1975-78
Rev D.S. Wilson was assistant minister at Trinity. While
we at Alexander did not see a lot of Dave Wilson, his
children's stories during the service delighted children and
adults alike. He was our guest speaker at our 99th
Rev. Brian Copeland ca me to
Trinity Alexander from
LaRange. Saskatchewan. Brian
has been expecia lly good at
anmversary service.
communi cating with all ages and
non e better than the children.
Children of all ages will long
remember his wonderful children
stories. Brian has brought much
comfort to those suffering from
illness or bereavement with his
thoughtful and kindly visits. The
com;,ittees of the Church Board
have found Brian very heipful.
especially the Christian Education committee where his help
resulted in a renewed Sunday School. This fall Brian is
leaving to return to University for further training. lt has been
a tradition in our chu rch that we have a aatherina and a
special cake for anyone leaving. Brian has alwa~'S w~ndered
if he will gel a cake when he leaves. Well. co me August. 1987
Brian will get his cake!
Ji. ... ,4
w
,
-'~'\
Rev. I.J. Harvey (1977-83)
In June ofl977 Rev. !an Harvey was ca lled to Trinity
Alexander from St Catherines, Ontario. Mr Harvey regularly
v1sited the sick and shut-ins and was a great comfort to the
bereaved. A profound belief in World Development and
Relief prompted Mr Harvey to have a "Mission Moment" as
part of each Sunday's service. Mr Harvey's love of theology
and discussion made Bible studies with him a real learn ing
experience. Sadly, Mr Harvey did not have lon g to enjoy his
retirement in 1983. as following a short illness he died in
1985.
~.
Pagt· 11
~
<
Women's Groups
Standing Left to Right: Mrs. Joe Magee, Mrs. A. Nichol, Mrs. Albert Rabe, Mrs. Oswald McKay, Mrs.
Percy fenwick, Mrs. Dick Dunn, Mrs. frank Stanley , Mrs. Carruthers, Mrs. All Magee, Mrs. Tom Curtis,
Mrs. Leslie Skinner, Mrs. Will Morris with Little One. Mr. Will Morris, Mrs. Will Jackson. Mrs. Tom Smith.
and Mrs. Alan Yeomans with fred.
Seated Left to Right: Mrs. H.T. Reynolds with baby, Mrs. Acey McEvoy with Albert and unknown.
It is not known when the women's groups for the
Methodist and Presbyterian Churches began. it seems likely
they began when each church had a buildling to look after.
The earliest record book we have is the Presbyterian Ladies
Aid minute book of 1913, although it is evident from the
minutes the Ladies Aid had been in existence for some time.
Nothing is known of the Methodist Women until Union in
1919. This leaves a possible I 0 to 30 years of the womens
early work in our church unaccounted for. from 1919 to the
present the records are almost complete.
The Presbyterian minute books (1913-18) are delightful
reading, a little short on material for a history (names, dates,
a nnual meetings) but full of warm, wonderfully human stories
which ma de the women come alive on the pages. for
example: "August 6, 191 3- The vote for Vice-President was
a tie between Mrs. W . la ckson and Mrs. McLeod (4-4). The
President, Mrs. Speers, was ca lled on to cast the vote
breaking ballot which she did in favour of Mrs. lackson as
Mrs. M c Leod would not lend her frying pan."
In 1919 when the Presbyterian a nd Methodist Churches
formed the Union Church the two Womens' Auxiliaries
united to become "The Womens Union Auxiliary of the
United C hurch of Alexander". The purpose of theW A as it
was commonly called was sta ted in Article I of the
Constitution as follows. "The object of this Society shall be to
a id the church work by advancing its material, social. spiritual
and missionary interests". Article 8 provides the format of the
meetings, "The first part of each meeting is to be devotional.
the business part next to be followed by a Missionary and
de votional part".
Page
Six years later when church union occurred on a national
scale the Womens Missionary Society was established . The
W.M.S. gave a focus to the missionary efforts of the W A.
While in theory they were two separate organizations the
meetings were joint a ffairs with the WMS having the first part
with the devotional. the business (W A ) last of a ll. The
minutes were all recorded as one meeting. Most women had
memberships in both WMS and W A although it was not a
requirement. Visiting missionaries came to speak from time to
time. When a speaker was not available a local member
would often give a paper on some aspect of mission work. The
Mid-week youth groups were a n important part of the work of
WMS . Material for the youth groups came from National
Office a nd the local WMS found the leaders. The groups
consisted of. Baby Band- preschool children, Mission Band,
children age 6-11 years. The CG IT re-affiliated with the
WMS each year and for local purposes was nurtured by the
WMS in the same manner as Baby Band and Mission Ba nd.
Boxes of used clothing, quilts and Christmas gifts were
packed and sent to Mission C hu rches in the north . A monthlv
magazine "The Missionary Monthly" came to all member~.
The local WMS was assessed an allocation which if not
reached through monthly offerings was made up from the
WA funds. The W .M.S. had their own secretary. treasurer
who was the contact person for the national W.M.S. and a lso
collected membership fees and kept a record of members.
This structure lasted until 1962 when the United Church
Women came into being. The United Church Women
(U.C.W.) is an amalgamation of the former W.A. and
vy.M .S. In 19fi 1 Alexander women met with the women
t2
Le ft to Right
Front Row: unlmown . Ev Parks. lsahe lle Bissett. Ceor~ie She /t on. Evo Cheavins. Jea n l achson. unlmoum. F.dith Poo fe.
lola MacKay
2nd Row: Emily Hensley, Mr. Smith, Mrs. Robinson, Reba McMan es, Mrs. Pi/lin g, Mrs. Robe. Ne/lie Hill. May Grie rson.
Bertha Hill, Mrs. Locl?e, unlmown
3rd Row: Mrs. Mc£wen, unknown, unlmown, Grace Goading, unknown, Mrs. Amos, unknow n, Mrs. Roy Clarh
4th Row (upper right corner):
5th Row: Mrs McKay, Mrs. A. Yeomans, 2 unknown, Mrs. la cb on
A. W.M.S. Rally at St. Davids (Oah Lahe ) 1950's
includinR the followin R ladies from Alexander
from Kt~mnay and Roseland to lt•arn about the
rPorgani.tation. The transition seems to have gone smoothly
enouQh and in Januarv of 1962 the U.C.W. held the first
mt~etinQ.
This
struclur~
remains todav.
Perhaps the U.C. W. did not emphasize mission as much as
the W.M.S. had done but Mission boxes were still packed and
Mission and Service allocation remained a yearly
commitlmenl. The local aspects did not change much.
Ti1e 25th anniversary of U.C.W~ was celebrated in the
U.C.W. youth group work continued until the restructuring
spring of 1987 with a service followed by a tea for the local
( 1976) of the Official Board of the Church brought it under
the Church Boards wing.
women and women from the surrounding districts.
Methodist Ladies Aid
Presbyterian Ladies Aid
1919
The Womens Union Auxiliary of the United Church of Alexander
1925
Womens Auxiliary and Womens Missionary Society
1962
United Church Women
h
First President of the U.C. W. - Mrs (A/an) Frances Yeomans
Pouring tea - Mrs. (W.) Flora Thompson
F ram the early days to the present the womens group
was subdivided into sma ller working units called Circles. The
purpose of the Circles was social and money making. Usually
the Circles met once a month and all Circle members were
encouraged to attend the general meetings as well. In 1926
there were six Circles, today there is one.
Over the years the women have had many ingenious
ways of making money. There were and are very few of these
projects that did not involve a lot of work but the fun and
fellowship helped make up for the hard work. One of the
biggest money makers was the Fowl Supper which was for
many years an annual event. The minutes do not record the
number of people served but judging from this 1949 menu it
was hundreds: 140 chichens: 140 pies: 40 pots of potatoes:
56 dozen buns: 40 jellies: 56 salads: 12 lhs. butter: 12 qts.
cream; 8 lbs. sugar; Bibs. tea; 16/bs. coffee. Proceeds af this
supper were $495.45 .
When Mcllquham's Hall was m ex isten ce
(Mcl lquham's Hall was the second story of a large store
which was located where the Municipal Office now stands)
the suppers were held there, later in the church basement.
Extra stoves had to be brought in along with dishes and of
course the food. In 1933 the supper admission price was 50~
for adults, 25~ for 6-12 years with the doorkeeper to use his
discretion in regard to large families. Tea and coffee were
made in large copper boilers, the water for this and doing
dishes was carried in by the pailful from a nearby well. If any
food was left over a meal was served the following day at
noon.
Serving meals and lunches at the rink during Bonspiels
was another way of making money. 1953 price list for the
rink was: Dinners and Suppers. 75q: Sandtl'iches. IS<": Tea
or Coffee. JOq: Pie. JOq: Pie and Ice Cream .IS<". Serving
full course meals in the small space at the rink was no
mea~
feat 1
Teas and Socials (Strawberry Socials on the lawn for
example) were held quite frequently through the years. In the
;\/.t;;o Pourin(f tea
1960's a cookbook was produced. Lunch was served at
many local auction sales and one vear the U.C.W. had an
auction sale of tht.>ir own. Talent ~1onev. birthdav mone\'.
travt.>lling teas. travelling aprons. Mite ho~es. doniltions. du~·s
and off(·rings c:1ll helped the causP.
Much of the Pastoral Carp of our church has lwPn dmw
hv lhP women. Flowers are sent to thost• in hospit ;JI. The
Pt~ct· 11
ddt>rh .md shut-in:-;
the1r .hlrthd<~y:o; ami
ilrt'
n ·nwml>t'rt'd bv c<Jrd:-; <md \·isit s on
Chnstma:-; Chee-r. l.ap roht:>:o; and
with
:-;hpJwr:-; ha\'t' ht>t'n kmt fo r nursing hnnws in Brandon.
Through tlw !'t'<lrs quilts lw ve been madt:• by the ladies of the
church for \'<trious M1ssion prowcts. Tht' W estman Wome ns
Shelt t>r rt' ct'lvt>d m tm~· household items and cash donations in
recent ! 't'<lrs .
In
th e
early
'SO's
the
women
organized
an
Inlerdenominalional Community Carol Service on Christmas
Sunday in the Communit y I-I all. These have always been well
allended. afford ing the opportunity la exchange C hristmas
greetin[(S with neighbours and those home for the ho lidays.
This unique tradition continues today.
The World Day of Prayer, the first Friday in M arc h ,
continues to be observed by holding a joint service for women
of a ll faiths.
The U.C.W. conducts an a nnual canvass of the
community for the Canadian National Institute of the Blind.
The women of the Church have a lways worked hard la
maintain the church building a nd the manse before it was
sold . Listed below are a few examples of what the women
have been able la do.
-Paid for a furnace in 1914.
-I 915 had the small stained glass windows installed.
-For many years paid off the "note" (money borrowed) of the
c hurch board.
-Manse. paid for maintenance and minor repairs, bought
furniture and pa id the telephone bill.
-Bought the present Hammond organ
-1926 helped put in the basement. The W .A. paid a large
part of this at $300.00 pe r year. the de bt being discharged in
1935.
Old Fashioned Social Tea Circa 1928
Front Rm c: Mrs. J.H. Hensley, Mrs. Les/ie Shinne r, Mrs . J. Blair
with Alhert McF.c>oy. Mrs. Wm. Doufi/as. Mrs. 1. Morden. Mrs. L.
Bray. Mrs. Troy Blair, Mrs. 1. lelfrey.
2nd Ro~t•: Mrs. 0. McKay. Mrs . C. Lundy. Mrs. Pahe
3rd Rote: Mrs. loe Magee. Mrs. All Magee. Unlmown
Top Rote: Mrs. Hugh Lundy, Mrs. F.hhorn
-Paid $963.53 toward the re novation of the basement walls
and ceiling in 1960.
-Hired and paid for the caretaker. organists. lawnmowers.
a nd back in the early years the organ pumper.
-Bought chairs . tables and all kitchen equipment.
A typical example of working with churc h board appears in
the minutes of the W.A. Marc h 30. 1950: Th e matter of the
sliding d oors was brought up. Th e m en had Mr. Fisher looh
at the doors and he reported that new tra chs and flang es were
needed and that he would have to tahe off some plaster to
remove old traci?S. The m en had do ne nothing more as they
were broke. but if the ladies would pay the bill they would see
the work was done. Mrs. Curt is moved that we get Mr. Fisher
to fix the doors and Mrs. Cowan seconded the motion.
Carried."
The women of Alexander C hurc h have. through all the
years. worked mightily for the ir churc h a nd for the wider work
of the church in the world. W e owe them much.
Make This Your Daily Prayer
Rless m e. heat1enh1 Father.
Same Soc icd: Mrs. Connie Bray. Mrs. Oinah Kerr, Mrs. Florrye
l ellrey
for[!illl' m !J errinf_! u•ays
Grant me strenf!lh to sewe Tl1ee.
(mt fmr(mse in mu daus ...
C iPe me understandin!!
enou f!h to. m a he me hind
So I may _itu/f!e all peo(>le
u•ith my heart and not mu mind..
And teach me In he (">atient
in e rJery thin f! I do.
Content to trust Your tcisdom
and follntl' after You ..
And he l(> me u•hen I falt er
ond hear me tc hen I (>ray
And recl'it'l! me in Thy KinJ_!dom
to du'e ff u•it/1 TIH.'e ,<;nme day.
Page 15
Back Row Left to Right: Mrs. Sam Spiers, Mrs. Dan Roberts, Mrs. J.F. Walker, Mrs. Geo. How at, Miss Em m a Dunn, Mrs.
Joe Haig, Mrs. Alan Yeomans, Mrs. L. Bray, Mrs. Wm. Douglas, Mrs. Hugh Jackson with Caldwell Baby, Mrs. Dave
Mcllquham. Mrs. lsaac Skinner, Mrs. V. Shore, Miss E. Birtles, Mrs. Pake, Mrs. Will Jckson, Miss May McKay, Mrs.
Fred Dunn (Sr.)
2nd Row: Mrs. Bray's Aunt, Mrs. John Lovegrove, Mrs. J. Blair, Mrs. Fred Smith, Mrs. Addie Speers, Mrs. Tom Morris,
Mrs. Tom Smith. Mrs. Jim Speers (Sr.) Mrs. Charlie McEvoy, Mrs. B. Johnston, Mrs. Smith?
Front Row: Mrs. Frank Richards, lda Jackson, Unknown, Mrs. Gus Yeomans, Mrs. J.S. Caldwell, Mrs. A. Nichol, Mrs.
John Hill. Mrs. Morton McKay.
Secretary Treasurers
3 Little Ones: Eleanor, Reggie and Harry Bray
1913-30 A.M. Hill
Kati e Boyes
Mrs. Fred Smith
Presidents
1913-14 Mrs Speers
1916-19 Mrs Fred Smith
1919-23 Mrs Hugh Jackson
1924-27 Mrs Fred Smith
Mrs Sam Spiers
1930-32 Mrs H. Jackson
1933-36 Mrs Tray Blair
1937-39 Mrs W.A. Walker
1940-44 Mrs James McManes
1945-4 7 Mrs Albert Rabe
1948
Mrs Edith Blair
1949
Mrs Lorne Kerr
1950-54 Mrs Alan Yeomans
1955-56 Mrs H. Gooding
1957-58 Mrs F. Buchanan
1959
Mrs H. MacKay
1960-61 Mrs F. Buchanan
1962-65 Mrs Alan Yeomans
1966-67 Mrs Marj McManes
1968
Mrs R. Bissett
1969-70 Mrs Joyce MacKay
1971-72 (dual) Madge Gamley, Margaret Yeomans
1973
(dual) Shirley Rodgers, Ethel Speers
197 4
(dual) Mrs Ethel Speers, Mrs Alan Yeomans
1975-76 Mrs Alan Yeomans
1977
Violet James
1978-80 Margaret Speers
1 981
Shirley Rodgers
Mrs. Morris
Miss E. Atchison
Mrs Kerr
M. Jackson
Eva L Spiers
Mrs W.A. Walker
Mrs Neil McEwen
Mrs Edna Lundy
Mrs Edith Gamley
Mrs Evelyn Parks
Mrs Albert Rabe
Mrs F.C. McManes
1930-31
1932-47
1948
1949
1950
1951-52
1953-56
Secretarys
1957-58 Olive Speers
1959-61 Mrs. Edith Blair
1962
Mrs. Edith Blair and Mrs R. Bissett
1963-64 Jean Maslaniec
I 965-66 Doris Rabe
1967-68 Jean Maslaniec
I 969
1970-71
1972-7:3
1974-76
1977
197BMrs
1979-B7
Marqaret Speers
Mrs Alan Yeomans
Mrs R. Bissett
Doris Rabe
Margaret Speers
Al;m Yeomans
Georgina McEvov
Treasurers
19S7-S9 Mrs F.C. McManes
1982-83 Karen McKay
1984
Bea Goulsbra
1985-87 Doris Rabe
1960-BO Olive Sp<'crs
19H } .f{~
Marl.!art'l Y t'Oilli-lllS
19B4 -B 7 SlliTI;·v H1ssl'lt
P<~ !..!t' 16
Youth Groups
Tuxis Boy Square
Boy Scouts
The first T uxis Group was formed in 19 24. A
Committee of Victor Morden. Mr. Joliffe and Mr. Peter
Drummond were elected to get a "T uxis Boy Square" started.
Everett Lundy. Bert MacFarlane, Tom Drummond, Art
Jackson and Oliver Dunn were among those who belon ged in
this [(roup. They met in the Lecture Room of the Church for
their meet in gs and Mr. Joliffe was the T uxis Leader. The
boys were I 5 years old and up. One member recalls the group
makin[( a ri nk on the slough which was enclosed with a 6 foot
wall a ll MOund a nd a shack for putting on yo ur skates. Mr.
H arold Locke was the Caretaker a nd was paid for his duties.
Boy Scouts is an organization tha t leaches boys to be
good citizens and to do their duty to God, their countr y, a nd to
~ th er people. and trains them to become leaders. Their motto
"Be Prepared" and lea rnin g by doin g is the method used to
teach them.
The Boy Scout movement was founded a nd started by
Sir Robert Baden-Powell in England.
The first group in the community was form ed in the mid
forti es a nd was called "Rovers" · a group without a
Scoutleader . their contact person was in Winnipeg. Troop
Leader Newton Yeomans was a Lone Seoul and led the
group.
J ack H a ig, H arold Yeomans, Fra nk Rabe, Dixon
More, Murray Blair , Bill Owens , Jack Roberts , David Speers
and Herb Mask ell , were some of the boys known to be in this
group, having no records the information is all from memory.
Trail Rangers
Mr. Peter Drummond and Mr. Austin Blair were in
charge of the Trail Ran gers. They were the younger group of
boys who held their meetings in the littl e room upstairs.
In 1925. H erb McLeod was Chief Ranger with Cordon
Mcllquham as Secretary and Ernes! Curtis was Treasurer.
Ivan Gardner, Jim Grierson , Arthur Dunn , Tom Morris and
Doug Drummond were some of the members of that group .
Tha t same year, the group put on a play to raise money and
$ 15.00 was donated to the Vita Mission Hospital , Manitoba
through the Sunday School.
The group camped at Kirkha ms' Bridge and had 2
visitors from U.S.A. with them the one year. Herb Trout and
Maurice Williams who were visiting Mr. & Mrs. Leslie
Skinn er, and ha d a ttended some of the meetings , were invited
to go with them.
There are no further records on this group.
Their camping trips look them to Cheasleys farm down
by th e Ri ver. The boys can remember pulling their equipment
a nd supplies by little wagons on one trip.
In November 1955 a group was organized wit h a Parent
Committee ma de up of interested parents who superv ised the
general needs of the Scouts · their duty was to gel Seoul
Leaders, help raise funds, help in preparations for cam pouts
and transportation, and other special events. They acted as
an intermediary between the group a nd the sponsoring body,
who was the Composite Lodge. The Committee was elected
and appointed a nnually.
Mr. Norlhcutt, Boy Seoul Commissioner. was present at
the meeting a nd Mr. John Ada mack was elected Scoutmaster
with Mr. Murray Blair a nd Mr. Alien Bad gley as assis tant
Scout leaders.
The Tyros
Mr. Herbert Roberls and Mr. AI Livingston organized
"The Tyros" in the I 960' s. Two outings were reported, one
in Mr. Don Ra be's ravine and one in Mr. Fred Yeoman's
fi eld. When winter came and hockey season started the
attendan ce decreased and finally disbanded. Brian MacKay,
Gerald Speers , Greg Rabe, Jeff McManes, Brian Gamely.
Bob Rabe, Ray mond Bauldic, Rodney Cassan and Bev
Humphreys were in the group at the lime.
Cuh & Seoul Float · Centennial 19 70
Page 17
John de J ong. Wilfred McKay. Louis Bauldi c. a nd Bill
Dunn were trained to be troop leaders - others in this group
were Myron Dunn. Arnold Dunn . Don Williamson, Gerald
Buchanan. Peter Bauldic , Gary Parks. F erg Watt. F red
Buchanan. Dennis Bauldic and Jim Bissett.
A Boy Scout Jamboree which is held in a different
country every four years was held in England in 1957.
Throu gh the efforts of the troops raising money (made name
Plaques and sold them) , and with finaicial assistance from the
sponsoring body and other organizations of the community,
John de Jong was sent to the Jamboree- an unforgettable two
weeks.
Through the scouting years the boys had tests of skill
and knowledge in order to earn their badges for the different
classes - tenderfoot, 2nd class. I st class, and Eagle. Th ey
have a n outdoor activity programme whereby they lea rn
nature study. camping. fire building , pitchin g tents , first a id.
handicrafts. swimming. signalling. tyin g different knots , life
saving. emergencies. and this is what they are tested on
periodically through the years.
Their campin g trips included Kirkhams Bridge a nd Oak
Lake.
In 1963 Mr. Ray Madill was elected Scoutmaster and
led the scouts until June 1968. Myron Dunn and Gary Parks
were assistant scoutmasters. Ray was installed in May 1963
by Rev Lorne Smith from Brandon. Rev Smith also dedicated
the troop fl ag.
During Ray's time with the Scouts weekend trips were
made to Stoney Creek near Minnedosa - learning their fir e
building. pitching tents, etc.
Cam pouts were a lso made to the Peace Gardens to the
Scout Jamborees. m eeting other Boy Scouts, and taking part
in the different events.
Camping trips were made to Cranberry Portage in
northern Man itoba a nd inland 50 miles to Elbow Lake. The
trip was made by trucks to Cranberry and by rented boats
loaded with guides, leaders, scouts, volunteers and supplies to
Elbow Lake. The one expedition lasted 5 days, camping in
the bush beside a trapper's cabin. Lots of fishing was done
and the boys had to take turns makin g the meals and doin g
other chores. There were 22 people on this trip.
Fat her and Son Banquets were held on occasion which the
boys really looked forward to. The Parent Committee
suppli ed the food and did the catering. There was usually a
special speaker a nd entertainm ent a t these events.
Money was raised by washing cars. bottle dri ves,
hauling ashes. rakin g law ns , painting municipa l signs. One
year the boys made and sold bird houses.
Boys who had their scout trainin g in this period were;
Ron C ha ubaut y, Gene Parks. Doug Roman , Jim Mc Ma nes,
Jim Pomeroy, Harold Humphreys, John McMan es, Bill
Humphreys, Ed Conley, Barney Maslaniec, Bob James
Wayne Murray, Len James, Dennis Bauldic, Glen McMan~s.
P~ter Nieuwland, J ack W a tt , John Arthur, Rod Cassan.
Wayne Currie, Brian Gamley. Brian Mac Kay, Bob Rabe.
Greg Rabe. Jaye McManes. Reg Bray, Jeff McManes.
David Murray. Gerald Speers, Leslie Giles, Ally Anderson,
Rick MacKay. Brian Seddo n, Bev Humphreys and Neil
Mork.
Myron Dunn and then Dave Hughes were Scou tm asters
with more outdoor activities and campi ng at Kirkham' s
Bridge . They were leaders of Barry Rabe. Bruce Goulsbra
Bra d Mac Kay, Mack Yeomans, Leon, Bernie and Trevo;
Williams. Brent Dane, Cecil Conley, Dennis Drummond.
Doug Bolton, a nd Barry Seddon.
Money was raised for this group by sellin g li ght bulbs.
a nd cans of peanuts and they a lso had Father and Son Teas.
In 1972 Murray Owens a nd Cordo n Legge made an
a tt empt to reorganize a group but it was soon disbanded a nd
there has not been a Scout Group since.
The last group was Greg Owens, Lawrence Chambers.
Blai ne Mulli gan. Michael Legge, Tom Williams, Glen a nd
Kenda ll Shields, Grant McManes. Jim Aitkens. Gary
MacKay. Terry Conley, Vince and Stephen Drummond.
T odd Turner and Lloyd Esau.
The sum of $322.00 was turned over to the Church in
I 984 from the Scouts account a nd at present is in the
Rennovation Fund account until it is decided what should be
done with it.
Cubs
The Cub Group is a preliminary training for Scouts.
Members range in age from 7 to 11 years. Mrs. John Birtles
was a Cubleader from 1939 - 1945. and was a very
dedicated leader. The group was helped financially through
the church and the meetings were held at her home. This was
the first Cub Group to be organized. The first meeting was
held April 20th · ten recruits turned up and were initiated into
the mysteries of Cub Law. Promise and Salute.
At the second meeting 4 recruits brought their money for
uniforms. One boy had brought three dozen small silk flags
which his mother had given him and told him to "Get out early
and keep the price low". That was how he made his uniform
money.
At a later date another lad was awarded with a specia l
nam e "Shada" (meaning Perseverance). because he had
m ade $2.20 by selling red. white and blue emblems. made by
himself out of wool. and put this money toward a Cub outfit.
As each new member joined they had an initi ation
ceremony for him.
The main part of their meetings were outside activities so
the fellows went on many hikes to different places. taking their
food with them and hunted for hidden treasures (a buried
bone). usually had a campfire where they sat around it and
htld. i\ :o;.mg :o;.ong and ht•ctrd a campfire story. of course this was
aftpr tht.>\ played games cmd ball. They also prndict•d tying
knots. cmd did sonw high JU111pmg nnd long jumping which
the~· Wt'rt' ie1tcr tt>stt>d for m order to earn thf'ir badges. hats.
de. Othl'r thmgs the~' were tested on was swimming. planting
gcndl'nS. runnmg and walkmg. They went to Oak Lake to
swim and one ~·ear Mrs. Birtles made arrangements for them
to go to Brandon to the "Y" to take swim lessons.
Th,, hovs sm·ed labels from Libbv Products in order to
!.!PI tht:>ir cui; hats. scarves. ties etc. They raised money by
r;.tkmg lawns, collecting scrap iron (through the war years).
They put on a concert in aid of the Red Cross raising the sum
of $9.25. "lt was a huge success not only financially but also
morally - the boys ne~ded uniforms. badges etc. but did not
ht>sitate in declaring proceeds to go to the Red Cross". An
hour before the concert was to take place one of the boys took
Sick - the rest of the pack went right on with the show filling in
wherever necessary.
They wrote letters to the boys Overseas. who had gone
from the community to fight for our Country.
One of their projects was learning to do "French
Knitting" and weaving squares out of yarn which was made
into a blanket.
The Group went to Rallies at Souris with Mr. Lightfoot
of the Souris Group in charge. Neighboring towns were in
attendance. The cubs enjoyed these very much and after one
such meeting Mr. Lightfoot and 2 Souris Cubs visited our
boys and had a fine meeting. He talked about Scouting.
Mr. Rill Hume was Cubma.sler for a short period of time
after Mrs. Birtles gave it up · unfortunately there are no
records of this group. only a few names of boys that went to
the meetings. Dennis and Ronnie Drummond, Harold Dunn.
Rollie MacKay. Cordon Speers. Calvin Fisher, Clark and
V ern on Dunn. Glen Jewel, Dale, Doug and Frank Butterfield.
Reverend Wallace Donogh was very involved with the
boys during his ministry here from 1954-62. He was
Cubmaster and Don Cale was his assistant Cubmaster and
Cordon Hodgson helped in this period of time also.
Gene Parks. Ferg Watt, Harold and Bill Humphreys,
Jim Pomeroy. John and Jim McManes, Len and Bob James,
Jim Harrod. Fred Buchanan, Dennis Bauldic. Brian
MacKay. Len and Bob James, Jim Harrod, Fred Buchanan,
Brian Gamley, Rod Cassan, Bob Rabe. Reg Bray, bonald
McManes, Greg Rabe, Gerald Speers, J eff McManes, were
some of the cubs at that time.
In 1963 Don Cale was elected Cubmaster and Errol
Currie assistant Cubmaster, and on May 9th , of that year
Rev. Lorne Smith and assistants from Brandon installed Don
as "Akela" and Errol as "Baloo". Mr. Vaughn Madden
and Jack Haig assisted for a short period of time and Mr.
Tom Anderson was Cubmaster, followed by Len James and
H arold Humphreys in 1968. Mrs. Cheryl Hughes became
Cubleader in 1969 and was with the group till the fall of 1970
when it was disbanded.
The last groups of boys who were cubs were; Brent
Dane, Jaye McManes, Jeff McManes, David Murray, Brad
Harkness, Brian Seddon, Dennis Drummond, Bryan Dyck ,
Carl McKinnon, Rick MacKay. Trevor Williams, Brad
MacKay. Bernard Williams, Bruce Goulsbra. Barry Rabe,
Mark Yeomans, Cecil Conley, Lean Williams, Michael
Shields, Brad Kirkpatrick, Colin Kirkpatrick, Stephen
Drummond. Don Bussey, Vince Drummond, Barry Seddon
and Brad Wallace.
Father and Son Banquets were the Special events of the
organization. The Parent Committee and mothers were
responsible for providing the food.
( uil' (\.· .'wnc/011 SI' hoof memlwrs tool.- flurl in o Memorial Serl'i(·e lwfd
onnuolfr1
wul '/Jomored
hr1
fODF..
We sincerely thank our leaders a nd assistants who took
time out of their busy schedule to help the young boys to learn
to respect a nd care for other people a nd live up to their
religious beliefs.
My Church and I
The Pack went on several camp ou.ts. their favourite spot
was on Mr. Tom Cheasley's farm down by the Assiniboine
River . Miss lda Parks accompanied Mrs. Birtles on one of
these trips. when they stayed for four or five days. They really
enjoyed these trips. they a ll remember the "electrical storms"
with the strong winds and if their tents didn't blow down they'd
take cover in the Leader's tents. probably from fright as well
as being soaked through to the skin.
The boys who remember these good old days are: Bill
Birtles. Newton Yeomans. Herb Maskell, Jim Butterfield.
Murray Blair. Jack Haig, Melville MacKay, Dixon More,
Ted Atcheson. David Speers, Jack Roberts. Bill Owens ,
Harold Yeomans. Clifton Jones, Douglas Walker. Alien
Richardson, Murray Drummond, F red Yeomans. Bob
Owens and Frank Williamson joined later.
lwn fwrt of the Church. one amonQ mont/.
/Jo// om One.
.
.
I need the Church for the det'elotnnen/ of IIH• buriecl life tcitl1in mt::
the Clwrch in /urn need~ me.
The Cluncl, rnnu fw lwnwn in it~ orgoni:otion. hut it;~ dit'ine in it~
{mr(1os e. That fwr(wse i~ to Jwint me to Cod.
Portici(>alinQ in the (>riPilef.!e~ of the Church. I ~hall af~o ~hore in it<>
resfmnsihilitie~. tol~inQ it ll(l(m m~1self to cnrru m~1 f(lir ~hore of t/1 ~·
luad. not f.!nl(/f.!indH llllt ioufullu.
Tu the extent tlwt I (nil in mu res(>onsihility. the Church fctil~: to the
t'tlenl thnt I succeed. the Ch 11rch succeed.<>.
I .•dud/ he /ounl in mu (1 1/t'nc/ann..>. Qenerous in fl1!1 .!lifts. hind in fll l /
cri/ici ..;;m.<>. creoliPe in nl./1 Slt f.!f.!t!Siions. fcH iirlf.! in nl.lf (tt/ifuck~. .
I ~lwlf t!it·e to tlw Church m!J interest.<> . mu enthusiasm. mt1 det'otion
--mo~l of olf. Myself.'
.
Petge 19
-Harold \V. Rollf>fl
Cradle Roll
Mrs. Will Jackson was leader of the Cradle Roll with an
enrollment of 41 in 1928 with no further information than
this.
Today names of newborn babes are listed on a scroll
which hangs in our Church. These children have been
remembered with a card on their birthdays till the age of three
and then at a ceremony at Sunday School on Mothers Day,
they go through a little "Gate" and enter into the Beginners
Class while the Choir sing "Open The Gate For The Dear
Little Feet". There are no cards sent today but the children
still go through the gate.
Leaders who have looked after this are: Mrs. W.
Jackson. Mrs. Hugh Jackson. Mrs. McMillan, Mrs. A.
Leitch. Mrs. E. Hawley. Mrs. F. Letts. Mrs. lsabelle Bissett,
Mrs. Madge Gamley. Mrs. Jean Dane. Mrs. F.H. McManes,
Mrs. Carol MacKay. Mrs. Joyce MacKay. Mrs. Gail Jam es
and Mrs. Judy Watt.
1
0
-4
0/ire Srwers hole/in~ {!ale for Crndle Roll children: Jc~,~on MocKo!-J. Kqle
·\fw·Kcll/. onc/ Am/rete M c Mcme.~.
Baby Band
The Baby Band was sponsored by the W.M.S. in 1925.
There is no record of this group . Mrs. Donogh and Mrs.
Isa belle Bissett were in charge of the Baby Band in 1958 with
a membership of 33. Mrs. Jean Dane took over from them in
1960. They met once a year with the Mothers and their wee
ones, for afternoon tea. It was a way of interesting the
mothers in the work of the Church.
Prayer
/ d1•
no/ os/: /o tl ' t~fl~
'\Jm lwur
I
Wl L'f! S I/
fHtiiJ for -./rem.,f/11
smoo th
fwlhs
/one/.
oncf fortitucft•
Sunshine Mission Band
The Sunshine Mission Band was a group of chi ldren
from 5 - 11 years of age. This group worked through the
Womens Missionary Society (W.M.S.) receiving their study
books and materials from them. The earliest report available
of a Mission Band Group was in 1918 when Mrs Hislop
Dickson organized the Mission Band in September of that
year with 30 boys and girls present and the following were
elected Officers for 191 9:
Miss Lizzie Evans (Speers)
President:
Everett Lundy
I st Vice President
Edith Gauld (Poole)
2nd Vice President
Helena Gauld (McDougall)
Secretary
Lilyan Blair
Treasurer
Convenor Sunshine
Committee
Elsie Mcllquham (Denbow)
Only one meeting was held in 1918 on account of the flu
epedemic. Their meetings consisted of mission study a nd
storytime with crafts and fun.
Leaders of the Mission Band from 1939 were:
Mrs Bertha Blair
Mrs F rances Y eomans
Mrs H.S. Brown
Mrs. May Grierson
Mrs lsabelle Bissett
Mrs Ethel Speers
Mrs Troy Blair
Mrs Violet Fisher
Mrs Ethel Cale
Mrs A.R. Robinson
Mrs Olive Speers
Mrs Pat McManes
Mrs Jane Roberts
Madge Hill (Gamley)
Mrs Lizzie Speers
Mrs Edith Buchanan
Mrs Flora Thompson
In 1962 when the Womens Missionary Society changed to
United Church Women. the Mission Band was changed to
The Messengers with the following leaders:
Mrs Marj Livingston
Mrs Margaret Yeomans
Mrs Muriel Anderson
Mrs lrene Owens
Mrs Linda Mulligan
Mrs Lois Cassan
Mrs Shirley Bissett
Mrs Heather James
Mrs Gail Amos
Mrs Jean Dane
Mrs Joyce MacKay
Mrs Vi James
Mrs Betty Rabe
Mrs Karen McKay
Rev Carol Roberts
Mrs Margaret Speers
Mrs Marlene Appell
Mrs Gaii .James
Mrs Margaret Holleman
Mrs Jean Sutherland
Mrs Carol MacKay
Mrs Bea Goulsbra
Mrs Helen Ruth McKay
Mrs Dorothy Wallace
Mrs Georgina McEvoy
Mrs Judy Crampain
Mrs Marion Rourke
Mrs Gladys Cheasley
Mrs Margaret lzzard
Mrs Norma Parks
Mrs Sharon Howard
Mrs Colleen Chambers
The Messenger Group has members from the age of 6 to
8 years. Their Motto and Prayer must be memorized in order
to receive a hutton. The Messenger Hymn is sun~ at every
meeting also.
C~afts
and games are part of the meeting. They have
fu dimh the rocl,• s/reu ·n roGd.
( ;rr1' nw sll<"h co11rcr~e I can snrle
r/w !Jmc/t>.s/ fWCths n/on('
made scrapbooks and donated them to the Souris Hospital
and Childrens' Ward in the Brandon General Hospital.
!\rHI
homebakin!( and give a donation (periodically) to the Sundav
:-ichool for the foster child. An!.(el Pert'/ from Bra1il.
/mn:-.fnrm erNIJ
/nlu n sll'fl(li111! s/ont'.
"''"nh/in1! h/nc/,•
They
have
raised
money
hy selling Calendar:-;.
Th,., h,\\-~ donat ~d 12 lwmn books to the Church ami
\nth th,• C.G. I.T. IHIV<' dnnat~d a Baptismal Dish.
The Group 1:' :-;tdl vpry ctctivP today.
\\'t> thdnk tlw loyal lt>aders for doing their pnrt in
lt'dchm!..! tlw htth.• orws to love one another.
A heartfelt tha nk you goes out to the Leaders who first
organized the Explorer Group a nd the present day Leaders
a lo ng with the followi ng Leaders who have given of their time
and talents in teaching the childre n to be "Doers of the word
and not hearers only".
Mrs Karen McKay
Mrs Marion Speers
M rs Florence Esau
Mrs M argaret Y eoma ns
Mrs Sandra Coleman
Mrs Ray Turner
Mrs Nadie Chessman
Mrs Gail J a m es
Mrs Shirley Rodgers
Mrs Linda Mulligan
Mrs Carol Chambers
Mrs Jea n Berry
Mrs Marion Rourke
Mrs Linda Pete rs
Mrs Lois Trotte r
Mrs H elen Ruth McKay
Mrs Verna Derksen
Mrs Georgina M c Evoy
Mrs Barb Sha rp
C.G.I.T.
Mission Band- 1941
First Rotl': Loella Dunn. Maq:taret Amos. A lice Wat t
2nd ROle: Morion Aitclu~u·on. Marie Anderson . l ean Amos.
Shirley Fisher, Dawn Barnes. June Butterfiefd. Frances
'vVilliam:wn. l.ynn Roberts
.)re/ Rou•: leon /)yher. Harriet 0U'ens. June Robe
l .eaclt>r: Mrs. Rertha B/air
The Explorers
Leaders from 1922 to the p:esent day :
Mrs J.S. Caldwell
Mrs D .A . Yeomans
Mrs Joliffe
Mrs Trov Blair
Miss Helena Gauld (McDougall)
Miss Vicky Speers (Dyer)
Miss Edith Gauld (Poole)
Mrs Anne Parker
Miss Jessie Curtis (Green)
Mrs G.A. Dyker
Mrs A. Anderson
Mrs G.A. Colpitis
Mrs W.G. Hume
Mrs L.W. Skinner
Miss Madge Hill (Gamley)
Miss Mary Seamer
Miss lsabelle Gamley (Heron) Miss May Nevin
Miss Dorothy Strath
Miss Phyllis Leadbeater (Bell)
Mrs H.S. Brown
Miss Evelyn Marlowe
Miss Joyce Delbridge (MacKay)Miss Agnes Drummond (H?nsen)
Mrs Edith Buchan-an
Mrs S McEvoy
Mrs Wm. Cowan
Mrs Alan Yeomans
Miss Ma rlene Amy
Mrs AI Livingston
Miss Georgina Pearson (McEvoy)
Mrs Marion Badgley
Miss Donna Parks (Young)
Miss Merle Dane (Drummond)
Mrs Blodwen McManes
Mrs Carol MacKay
Mrs Doris Rabe
Mrs June Seddon
Miss Marilyn Dunn (Kohut)
Miss Betty Scora (O'Coffee)
Mrs Joan Madill
Miss Brenda Gamley (Pull)
Miss Joan Ha rrod (Atkins)
Mrs Missie Drummond
Miss Coleen MacKay (Bryson) Miss Mable Williamson(Humphreys
Mrs Pat McManes
Mrs Jean Dane
Mrs Dorothy Wallace
Mrs Vi J ames
The first Explorers Group was organized in October.
1963. This Group is for girls ages 9 to 11 and is the group
between Messengers a nd C.G.I.T. There were 8 regular
members in this group and were real eager to lea rn the
Explorers Hymn. Prayer. Motto and Purpose with Mrs. Pat
McManes and Mrs. Joyce Speers as Counsellors.
The first Chief Explorer was June Dunn, the Keeper o f
the Treasure was Joanne McManes and the Keeper of the
Mrs Lois Cassan
Mrs Dianne Madden
Log was Cheryl MacKay.
Mrs Carol Aitkens
Miss Penny Lowe (M organ)
Red stars are given out to the first members who have
Miss Barbara Mills
Mrs Gail Amos
learned the Purpose. Motto and Prayer and blue stars for
Mrs Jo Anne Lisa
Mrs M arion Ro urke
different projects (decided upon by the Counsellors).
Miss Ann Jensen
Miss Rosalie Lisa
They have Missionary studies a t their meetings Mrs Marg Speers
Miss Loretta James
learning of other countries and they a lso work at cra fts,
Mrs Norma Parks
Mrs Marion Speers
making placemats. funny faces, magnet creatures, dough art,
C.G. I.T. was organized in 1922 with Mrs Caldwell a nd
decorations and bun baskets, table centres, C hristmas
Mrs D.A. Yeomans ~s leaders.
wreaths. plaques, basket weaving, liquid embroidery. To
Each year is spe nt in three m a in areas - Worship.
raise money these crafts a long with homebaking are sold a t
Mission S tudy and Crafts. Over the years the Groups have
Teas. they have a lso sold Church Calendars in the past.
taken different courses such as - babysitting. home nursing.
A donation is made periodically to the Church's foster
child. Angel Perez. Mitts have been sent to the
fi rst aid. sewin g and cooking along with fun-times . with
underpri vileged children of Manitoba.
camping. skating and toboggan parties and sleigh rides.
One of their projects through the years has been to have
To begin with leaders planned the worship but as time
a Secret Pal - a Senior Lady and through the year they a re
went on the girls were made responsible for the worship
enterta ined by the girls at a tea or banquet.
service.
The average enrollment has been 12 and tod ay the
Fnith is /o heliet'e u'lw t l l'l' do not see. Clnd the rett'(lrd of this fnit/1 is
present leaders are Mrs. Colleen Chambers and Mrs. Agnes
lo sec 11'1wt U't' heliet't'.
Moir.
MANITOBA
1-'age :! 1
f_!;GISLATIVE LIBRARY
C.G. I.T. 1947-48
Back Row: Miss Dorothy Strath (L), Frances Williamson.
Florence Shingfield. Betty Thompson, June Butterfield. Pat
Thompson, Jean Dunn, Jean Amos , Shirley Fisher , Lynn Roberts.
Alvina Rabe, Laura Baker, Florence Dunn. Miss Phylli s
Leadbetter (L)
Front Row: Pat Baker, Rose Dyer, Margaret Amos , MarRaret
Williamson, Eloine Speers, Margaret Pollock. Beth Haig. Ma vis
Schmidt. Jean Shinglield, Doreen McKay , Florence Hill
at
Nelli e lackson. £the/ Curtis, Alma Could. Eva Ainsworth,
Miss Edith Could (L.), Evelyn Ebbern, May Mosson
Seated: Bertha Mc/lquham. Elsie Hanwell
1cnic
Money raising projects have been slave da ys. bottl e
drives, bake sales and teas. A cookbook was also compil ed
and sold one year. As a project for the 1920's group, money
was raised to send Cheer Boxes to the needy ones in th e
district every Christmas - containing stockings. night clothes.
warm underwear, mitts, scarfs , toys , candy , fruit and nuts .
For several weeks before Christmas they met to sew and knit
once a week for these parcels. All through the year the sick
were remembered with flowers and fruit.
In 1925 money was raised to send Edith Mosson
(Williamson) , Edith Gauld (Poole), lla Skinner (Harrison)
and lda Jackson (Coates) from the group to a W awa nesa
r~
~Camp for one week along with members from the Brandon
Area. Evelyn Clark (Dunn) and Elsie Humphreys
(Carnahan) were two other girls who were there and have
~
~r-·:·
since lived here and at Kemnay. Money was raised and
.... .~.. .•, , ,,..,
!
donated to the Vita Mission Hospital and today a donation is
given periodically to the Sunday School for our a dopted
Faster Child in Brazil.
During the war the town was canvassed for mor. ey for
postage to send parcels to local boys Overseas.
In 1967 , money was raised by the group to pay for half.
the cost of 45 choir gowns. June Seddon. leader at that tim e
was responsible for the drive a nd with ladies from the
community helped m a ke the gowns.
Volunteer projects have been , repairing hymn books.
housecleaning the Church (one group remembered havi ng to
nquet 1936
scrub the lecture room floor twice as it hadn't met with leaders
Back Row: Laura Curtis, Amy Camley , He/en Hill, losi e
a pprov a l). Over the years they have ha d "Secret Pals"
Manson. Betty Humphr e ys
remembering them throu gh the year with cards on Special
3 rd R ow: Dorothy Hai g, £//en Shinglield. Phyl/is Camley,
Occassions and confessing their identity at a n event to end the
Mar gare t Pea t, Miss Edith Could (L.)
2nd Row: Mrs. Parhe r (L. ) Auonna Nichol. Cladys
season.
They have a ttended ra llies a nd been invit ed by other
Aith eso n. Cordie and Mar gare t Russe /1, l sa be l Yeomans
C.G.I.T. Groups for sleep-avers, ma king new fri ends.
Front Row: Dorothy Amos. R e ta Rahe. Vi Davies. Madfle
Hill
.
In April 1965 . the group with their leaders were in vi ted
chev rons. In order to receive a chevron each member had to
to a sleep-over a t Westminister United Church in Winnipe~to
a ttend Church a nd Sunday School regularly a nd each year a t
celebrate th e 50th Anniversary of the C.G. I.T. All went in by
a specia l service with the W.M .S. they received these if they
bus.
were eli gible. Later on the groups were responsible for buying
Uniforms in the first years consisted of middies and
bloomers and then came the navy skirts. In recent times, the
pattern of the middies changed with the addition of darts for a
better fit and the material used is perma press fabric for which
it is easier kept. Our present leaders undertook the making of
I I middies for girls and leaders for practicality.
In 1925 when the Ladies Group was changed to
Womens Missionary Society, the C.G.I.T. was affiliated with
them. The W.M.S. helped financially with thef~supp!ies and
,tf;''@4;:)'
,.. 1:':\
...:...
..
their own chevrons.
Lanya rds a nd C.G .I.T. pins are presented to a ll Seniors.
Page LL
C.G.I.T. 1967
/lac/; Row: 13rendo Gomley. Mrs. June Seddon (/..). Ellen
./cmh'"· Borh Com/t>H. Lois Conley. Gail Lou'e
hnnt f?ou ·: Morilyn Dunn. Pat McMcmes. loan Harrod. Mrs.
loon Modi /I(/ .. 1. M a he/ Wil/iamson. Coleen MacKay. Dean
Andt>rson
C.G.I.T. 1960
Bach Rott•: Audrey Orr. un/mown. Miss Georgina Pearson
(L. ). Oorothy Williamson. Marion Humphreys. unlmown.
un/mmrn. Mrs. Y eomans (L.)
2nd RmL': Paula Chiesche. Karen Bissett. Lois Buchanan.
Sharon Parb. Oarlene Preston
Bottom Rott': Dorothy Buchanen. Cheryl Pomeroy. Sy/via
Orr. Marie Delong. Sandra MacKay
1981 Vesper and
Bach Row: Kim McKay. Shel/y Appe/1. Tammy Green.
Roseanne Berry
Front Row: Mrs. Ooris Rahe (L). loan ne Peters. Deh Rahe.
Cindy Appe/1. Miss Loretta lames (L.)
MacKay. Percy Lundy. Mrs. Ebbern. was one who played
the organ during this period and possibly Mrs. Mabel Spiers.
wear the shorter gowns .
Karen MacKay. Pat McManes. Chery/ Chauhauty. Fra~ces
This spring the present group with their leaders
Margaret Speers. Marion Speers and Norma Parks were
invit ed to Rosedale United Church. Winnipeg. for a Rally and
Campin!l Trip to Pelican Lake 1940
Mrs. A. Anderson & Miss Margaret Kerr (Leaders)
The Church
Heolifu/ is the lor!fc church.
\\ 'itl1 stotef l/ arch and sll>epfe:
{\'e if.!hlwrll/ . is the :;moll church.
\\ 'i tll £!roup.~ of friend/11 {Jeof>lt!:
Hen'renl is
the old church.
\\ 'i th t ' t'n/urie .~ n( !.!race:
/\ne/ o u·noden church or a stone church
Con hold on oltllr {lloce.
;\nd tdH'ther it IH· o rich clwrch
Or o flOor clwrch Onl/lt'here.
Tm/11 it;, n (!recti chrm·h
If Cud
j..; u·orshif>(wcf there .
Sleep-over. meeting new friends and faces.
Through the years some of the girls have had the
opportunity of going to Camp Brerton. the Manitoba Official
C.G.I.T. Camp. This summer these girls - Jean Shingfield
(Briggs). Pat Thompson (McManes). Doreen McKay
(Pattison) . June Butterfield (Seddon). Mable Roman
(Martin). Georgie Dyer (Roman), Beth MacKay (Cale) a nd
June I::Saker (IV!cl\.mnon) are all mvited to attend the
celebrations of the 50th Anniversary of the Camp.
The two Hi.Lites of the group are the Mother a nd
Daughter Banquet held each spring - entertaining their
mothers and guests with toasts and songs and the Annual
Candle Lighting Vesper Service held just before Christmas.
The C.G.I.T. introduced in the late teens has been
carried on without a break and through the dedicated and
talented leaders have contributed much toward the Spiritua l
and Cultural growth of our teenage girls.
._.,il!-("t-' 2:~
Young Peoples Society
During the 20's and 30's this was an enthusiastic group.
Socials were the big thing that drew the crowds and at times
there would be as many as 50 members.
In 1927, the Group put on a play "Passion Play" and
donated the money to the Basement Fund of the Church.
They had lively debates and some great sing songs.
Toboggan and Skating Parties were popular for
entertainment with lunch served afterwards. They decided al
one meeting to have a social paper which they called "Ready
for Anylhin!'(". Three members were chosen al each meeting
to be responsible for editing the paper.
In 1936, they had a supper and variety concert but as
time went on the numbers decreased and interest was low.
Efforts were made through the years lo re~organize but there
was never the enthu siasm that there was earlier, and with loo
many other activities to take up their lime, there has been no
such group for some years.
Young People's Sunday School Class 1938
Back Row: Don Rabe. Emie Critchley. Melvin McManes
3rd Row: He/en Hill. Maude Camley. Mrs. & Rev. J.C. Parher
2nd Row: Frances Peat. Dorothy K e lly. Mar!J Ciesbrecht. Vema LundtJ. AmtJ Cam/ey. F:dna Carleu
Front Row: Loreen Gustin. Marf:!aret Kerr. Erel.lJn Rahe. )essie Cruti.s. Geor.s:;tina Box. F.dna Box
Teach Us to Live
' Cod of lot1e-Fnrf!it1e! Forrzir•e!
Teoch us hou' to Truly Live,
Ash tJ.S nol our race or creed.
}l!sf tahe us in our hour of need.
And let us /mou' You love us. too.
And tlwt tee ore A Part Of You ...
And somedoy mau man realize
Thot all the eor th. the seos and shies
He/nnf! to Cod. u 11W made us all.
The rich. the poor. the great. the smo/1.
And in thl' Father's Holy Siaht
No mnn is udfou'. hfach or u•hite.
And Peace On Earth cnnnol he found
Until rcc Meet On Common Ground
;\ nd l'l'l'rL/ mnn lwcomes n Brother
Wlw u·o;shi(>s Cod nnd /m1es ench other.
A Prayer
l .ord mnl~e me £1 clwmw/ of Th~J f>eace.
Tlwt tdwre there is hntred I ma11 hrin~ /m'e.
Thnt tchcrc tf1crc is u•ronf.! I m£1~/ hrin~ the
s(lirit of for1!it 1erwss.
Thnt u·hcre there is discord I mau hrin~ harmon!JThat rdwre then_' is error I mn~t hrin!.! twth.
Tlwt rdwre tlwre is dmrht I mn _t/ hrin .f! faith.
Tlwl u •lwre tlwre is des(>air I nw_tJ hrin _!! ho(>e.
Thnt u ·hcre tht>rl' ore s/wdotcs I llW!J hrin!.! Thu /iJ.!hl.
Tlwt rdwrc there is sw/ness I mnu hrin!.! iou.
l.ord f.!rnnl t/wl I mO!t ... ceh rather to comfort them
to /w comforll'cf:
To underslnnd tlwn to lw understood:
To loPe than to he l01 •ccl:
For it is hu J.!ir•ini! tlwt one recciPl'S:
ft is h11 sclf-fnrf.!cltini! tlwt one finds:
lt is IHJ forf!ir•inJ.! tlwt one is forf.!it•en:
it is IHt cltlitH! tlwt oflt' nr!"nb.'ns In l'lenw/ life .
Beloved, let us love one another:
for love is of God;
and eVery one that loveth is bor-n of God,
and lmoweth God.
1 lolm 1:7
Music In The Church
Arthur
Hu11h
H~·rl5 l t'y
Flora Yo·oOlarls
Ar t chi~on
Clivt• Hail!
Jt">iSie
Leitf1 h
Aus tin Blair
Rt>v. Gf'o. Lockhart Agnel\ Fenwic k
Tnm Orunm1ond
Ma\ Critchlev
Mrs. Gt"o. Lockhart
C .. orc_it> Lockhart
Edna Foreman
Alexander Presbyterian Church
Sunday School Orchestra 1908-1917
Mr s. Ceo rRe L ockh a rt - Leader
Orchestras
An orchestra in 1907 was organized a nd led by Mrs
G eorge Lockhart. the Minister's wife, who at that time was
the Presbyterian Minister. From 1907 to 191 7. Mrs
Lockhart gave outstanding service in the Sunday School,
with the orchestra she trained and conducted. She played
both the organ and violin and gave lessons. The orc hestra
was very popular in their time. After the Lock ha rts left it was
continued under the leadership of Miss J.E. W a lker. Mr Wm.
W a lker. Mr. A. D. Blair, Mrs Cochrane, Mrs Wm. J ackson
and Miss Aitcheson who endeavored to keep it going.
The members of this orchestra were: Lily Critchley
(McManes). Hugh Aitcheson, Maude Boyes, Arthur
Hensley, Flora Yeomans (Conklin), Clive H a ig, Jessie Leitch
(Fenwick). Austin Blair, Jane Boyes (Doig). Tom
Drummond (Sr), Georgie Lockhart (Gammie). J ames Blair
(Sr), Mrs George Lockhart. Rev. George Lockhart. Agnes
(Fenwick) Drummond, Byron Broatch, May Critchley
(Ogilvie), Edna Forma n , Paul Lockhart, Eva Spiers (Orth),
Monica Lockha rt (Cowan), Acel H ennesy, Wm. W a lker,
Oswald McKay. George Howat. Laura Broatch, Edward
W a lker, Albert Rabe. Eva McQueen, Roy Cla rk , J essie
Sibbald, Miss Connell, Helen Morris, Alan Yeoma ns and
Mary How at. A Photo of this orchestra ha ngs in our Church
today.
From 1925 to 1930, under the leadership of Rev. H.T.
Reynolds, a second orchestra was organized. Mr. Reynolds
was a piano player, he conducted the orchestra a t Sunday
School services · some of the members of this orchestra
played for the first time on Easter Sunday in 1926 a t which
236 were in the congregation to hear them a nd 240 were out
on Mothers' Day 1926, breaking the record of a ttendance.
After Rev. and Mrs Reynolds and their fa mily left the
community, the orchestra continued until the early thirties.
Members of this orchestra (which has been left to the
memory of older ones) were: Mary Howat, Ernest Critchley.
Philip Wong, G eorge Speers, Cordon Gauld, Frank Lundy.
Stan W ealla ns, Austin Bla ir, Albert Shingfield. Herb
M acKay, Percy Lundy. Mrs Ebbern, was one who plaved the
organ during this period a nd possibly Mabel Spiers . .
Organs and Organists
From the time the first Churches were built in 1886 and
1887 there is no record as to what instrument was used for
music until 1908 when a new Aeolian Vocalian Organ was
purchased at the cost of $800.00. Through the efforts of Mrs
L.G. McLeod, a loya l pioneer of the district · Mr. Andrew
Carnegie, Capitalist of New York, made a grant of $400.00
towards the cost of the organ. This organ had to be hand
pumped · Paul Lockhart, George Mc Leod and Bert
MacFarlane, were three young boys who have been
remembered doing this at that time for a weekly fee paid by
the la dies.
Through the years another organ had to be purchased
when the Aeolian was becoming worn out. This second organ
was a smaller instrument costing only $75.00 but it filled the
breach until in 1957 a Hammond Electric Qrgan was
purchased and installed which has been a distinct asset
because of its versatility. This organ was paid for by the
W.A ., the cost being $1 ,660.00 which ha d been started five
years previously in an organ fund. One donation for the organ
fund came from the Anglican Church in Oak Lake. All of
these organs, I may mention , were purchased through the
efforts of the Ladies Organizations. The first one was bought
by the Ladies Aid, the second one by the W .A. a nd Mr.
Carnagie, a nd the one tha t is stal -being used today was
purchased by the Womens Missionary Society a nd is
maintained by the U.C. W.
When the last organ was bought a letter was found
sta ting tha t the organ be bought in Memory of the Pioneers of
the District. At the time of the purchase Eatons Store in
Brandon donated the plaque which denotes their "In
Memoriam".
A piano was purchased in I 983 a nd with this and the
organ we are often favoured with a musical duet by our
faithful and untiring organists Mrs Georgina McEvoy a nd
Mrs J oyce MacKay.
Other organists and assistants who have given of their
time so willingly through the years are: Miss J.E. W a lker,
Miss Vera Morden (Dunn), Mr All Champ, Miss Wilson
(Mrs L.T. Blair), Miss Harriet Owens (Honeycutt) , Mrs
W.R. Donogh , Mrs Kathleen Durston, Miss Alma Lundy
(Hensley), Miss Margaret Williamson {Conley), Miss Viol~t
Logan (Fisher), Mrs Mary McLeneghen, Mrs Mabel Spiers,
Mr Keith Bla ir, Mrs Edith Blair, Mrs Alan Yeoma ns, Mrs
A .A . Anderson, Miss Lola MacKay (Serebrin), Mrs Ebbern,
Mrs J. Gemmill, Mrs Carole Dunn, Miss Phyllis Ayres, Mrs
G.A. Dyker, Mrs H.S. Brown, Mrs Marion Campbell.
Choir Leaders were: Miss J.E. Walker, Mrs Neil
McEwen, Mr All Champ, Mr R. Hea lly, Mr F. Richards, Mr
Butler, Mrs Mabel Spiers, Mrs L.T. Blair, Mrs J.J. Jeffrey,
Mr Harry Sibbald, Mrs E. Cochrane, Mrs W.R. Donogh,
Mrs K. Durston, Mrs Carol MacKay, Mrs Joyce MacKay,
Mrs J ean Dane.
W e pay tribute to a ll the dedicated organists, leaders of
song a nd faithful choir members who have given of their time
willingly to a dd beauty of song to the Church Services.
The ~rcatest need
in the u•orld toda11 i~ /m't' ..
Mnre lol'e for each other
ond more lol't' for God ahm•e.'
Crcnf is the Pmcer
of Mi!.!hl and Mind
fmt Onlt1 / .ol't'
Cnn Mf;l,•t• liS Kind ..
And On/u l . ol't'
corn(>ll'lelu fill
cw1
Tlwllenr lsofMen
11'itl1 Pt'tJcc ond Cnodu·il/.1
The Choirs
The choir helped make the church in the early days and
our church was very fortunate in having one through the
years until the church a nd Sunday School became one.
Both Junior a nd Senior Choirs were very active with
over 30 members of both male and female.
In the 20's there was no problem getting the fellows out
to practice at night as the story goes, it was an excuse to get
out and to be able to go walking with the lady friends after.
That was where some of the fellows met their mates.
Many Choir Concerts were put on by the Senior Choir
with Miss Walker as leader. A concert following the Fowl
Supper was an annual affair for some years with dedicated
leaders Mr. All Champ, Mrs. Mabel Spiers a nd Mrs. Mary
McLeneghen.
Cantatas were sung under the leadership of Mr. Butler
who would come out from Brandon by train on choir practise
night. to do his duty as lea der. As one member told us each
ch.oir member had to bring .15 ~ each practise night to help
pay for his train ticket.
Since 1971 after the Church and Sunday School
combined their service into one and because of so many other
activities on in the community, there has not been a regular
choir. junior or senior.
Today under the leadership of Mrs Jean Dane, the
Senior Choir provide music on Special Sundays and
occasions throughout the year with the men joining in with
them periodically.
The Junior Choir has been inactive for a few years but
through the efforts of Mrs Carol McManes there is a push on
right now trying to encourage the young ones to take it up
again. There's nothing like music and singing to add to the
serv1ce.
Black and White were the gowns worn for many years
till in 1967 Royal Blue and White gowns were made by ladies
in the community for the Junior Choir and today the Seniors
wear the shorter gowns.
The Carol Service with the Anglican and Mennonite
members and the Youth Groups along with the Choir
providing music for the program has been a community event
for some years.
Mens Cho ir
Bach Row: Gerald Speers. GreR Rabe. Ken
lames. John McManes. Gene Parhs. Me/
MacKay. loyce MacKay (Organ ist). Rollie
MacKay
Front Row: Franh Rabe. Andy Pomeroy. Hu gh
Mc Manes. Bill Rabe. Don McKay, Don
Me Manes
Junior Choir
Bac/1 Row: Barb Gam/ey. Wayne Murray. MadRe Gamley. Ellen
lames. Rrenda Gamley. Eloine Durston. Gail Lowe. John
McManes. Mable Williamson
4th Row: Kathleen Ours ton (Organist). Bob Rabe. Brian MacKay. •
Gerald Speers. Brian Camfey. Unlmou·n. Unlmou'n
3rd Row: Coleen McKay. Dean Anderson. lanice McManes.
Kmen MacKay.
Pot McManes.
Cheryl Chauhauty. Frances
Sounders. Marilyn Dunn
2nd Rote: Ed Conley. Ally Anderson. Bobby Arthur. Jeff
McManes. Rich MacKay. Dat~id Murray. Dianna McManes.
Heather Seddon. Linda Con/ey
Front Rott•: Bev Humphreys. }aye McMancs. Shelly McManes.
Bonnie Parhs. Linda Shinner. Dehbie Dane
A u·orlrl u·i tlwot a Sah/,otll I(OIIId he lib· n man
liht• a srunnwr u·itholll flou't•rs. and fib•
t!mdt>n. it is the ioyow; dm1 of the !!'hole
-ll<'tlrtl \1\'ord Heedwr
.
Cl
11 ·itlullll n .-:mile.
lwm(•stt.>wl tl'itlwot c1
it'('£'/,•.
•
w
Q
Ladies Choir £aster Sunday 1987
Bach Rote: MarR Speers. Pat McManes. Olive Speers.
Front Row: loyce MacKay. Doris Rahe. Bea Goulshra. lean
M~~~m~
~~
OrRanist: GeorRina Mc£t•otJ
Intern Rose Ward
Rev. 13rian Cope/and
Sunday School
Sunday School Class Party 1929
Sundoy School Class
•
"-
.
Amy Camley, Betty Humphreys. Wilma McFadden. MarRaret
Peat. unlmown. Helen Hill. Laura Curtis. £mma Cheasler1.
A/ice Lundy, /.i/yon Orummond. He/en Orummond. Evelyn Hill.
Verna l.undy. Elsie Mc//quham
unlmoum. unlmown. Esther Hudyma. lrene LcweRrotlf!
/la Shinner (Teacher)
.
Reverend Hislop Dickson who was Minister of the
Presbyterian Church at the time was elected Chairman and
Mr. C lifford Lundy the Secretary for the meetin n.
Officers elected:
~
Mr Ed Grierson
Superintendent
teens.
Mr Hugh .lackson
Asst. Superintendent
Victory Bonds to the value of $100.00 were purchased
Miss Clara Critchley
Secretarv
as a Memorial to the boys of the Sunday School who made
Mr Raymond Dunn
Asst. S~cretarv
the supreme sacrifice in the war. An Honor Roll was placed in
Treasurer
.
Mr Wm. Walker
the church honoring those who served in World War I and 11.
Mr Albert Shingfield
Librarian
On November 19. 1919 a meetinq was held at the
Miss Freda Smith
Asst. Librarian
Union Church to organize the Methodist and Presbyterian
Miss .1.1-:. Walker
Organist
Sunday Schools of Alexander into a Union School. In 1925
Miss Alma l.undv
Asst. Org-anist
Union was changed to United.
Pagl' LR
From the time the Methodist and Presbyterian Churches
were built in the 1880's, Sunday School played a large part in
the Churches. Miss J.E. Walker was the organist at the
Presbyterian as well as Leader of the orchestra in the late
At tlw !'<tlllf' nu•~:ling Mr. Oltvt~r Dunn Sr. wi th Rev.
nlckson Wf'rf' elected to a.rra nge th e cm.:arding of the Robert
Rtukt>s chplomas and se<1ls (Robert Raikes was responsible for
begmnmg Sunda)' School in England 111 I 7RO) This tradition
carrlt'd on through the years here unti l 1971 when it was
cl1sccmllnut'd.
In order to receive a diploma the pupil had to a tt end
Suncla,· School 48 Sundays out of 52 in the year and country
children ltvin!( more than two miles from town had to a ttend at
led;! -1-1 Sundays out of the year. Also the pupils in the
Pnmary Class had to he able to repeat the 23rd Psalm. and
the Juniors and Seniors the Ten Commandm ents. but this was
cha n!(ed to a scripture passage and a hymn. selected by the
leacher. a nd eventually this too was dropped.
In 1927. it was dec ided to give a silver pin for the 8 th
year perfect attendance. and then ribbons after that. and in
1932 the !(old pin for 12 years perfect attendance was given.
In 1928. Miss Annie Aitcheson received a 20th year ribbon
and Emily Hensley received one la ter on. Mr. Oliver Dunn
presented these awards for 40 years until he retired.
In 1925 on Easter Sunday 3 jewels were presented for
good attendance. A gold jewel was given to Emily Hensley
for 15 years and a sil ver jewel was presented to Jim Criers on
and Arthur Dunn for 9 years.
In 194 7 it was decided that Bibles be given to those
receiving their 7th year seal. Murray and Bob Owens were
the first to receive these.
In 1973 Bibles were given to members of the Blossom
Class (9- 11 year olds) and today with the chan ges in Sunday
Sc hool they have been given out to the 8 vear olds.
Sunday School Class Party
Mrs. Marflaret lzzard. l ac i Parks. Cat hy Amos, Mrs. Ooris
Rabe. Laurie Speers. Rick Coleman. l odi Bissett. lennifer
M cf.t•oy. Linda Speers
The Sunday School has raised money by the sale of used
books a nd toys, Pizza and Hot Dog Sale, homebaking and
cookie sales in order to purchase these Bibles.
Ma ny pieces of scripture were memorized through
Sunday School a nd for sometime a Banner on a stand was
placed in the a isle beside the class who had the biggest
attenda nce for that day.
Special Sundays throughout th e yea rs ha ve been
memorable ones with the orchestras a nd choirs , with th eir
special music, a nd the children with their recitations. pageants
a nd readings, a nd there was always a guest spea ker o~ these
occas1ons.
\
Potriotic Pa~eant 19 25
Patriotic Sunday was held on the Sunday before
Dominion Day - Cana di an Flag pins were ha nded out a nd
there was a lways a specia l program.
Easter Sunday Service was remembered for its live
ca naries in cages hanging from the ceilm g lamp standards.
Later years an Easter Mural was hung across the north wall of
the church. Little yellow fluffy chicks a nd white rabbits were
given out to the chi ld ren.
On Mothers Day a homemade carnation was given to
each Mother attendin g the serv ice.
Rally Day was held in the fall and Christmas Sunday
with its Christmas hymns the Sunday before Christmas. At
one recent memorable Christmas service a pageant was
presented called the Birth of Christ with a real live Donkey
ca rrying Mary a nd led by Joseph and a real live bab y as
Jesus (1982).
For ma ny yea rs the Christmas Tree Concert was held in
Mcllquham 's H a ll with a visit from Santa who amidst shouts
of glee and young ones crying, from fright. stayed long
enough to distribute bags of candy to the young ones. The
admission for this co ncert was .25c- 14 years and over to
defray expenses. The Anglicans always helped at these
concerts. For a time the concerts were held in the church and
then back to the Community Hall until the day school took
over, and today a concert is held in the school auditorium.
The Christian Education Committee have a party every
year for the kindergarten children and pre-schoolers with their
Moms, with Santa pa ying th em a visit.
In the 2 0' s money was raised ($60.00) and sent
annually to support a cot in a Hospital in Nissic. India. Then it
was decided to send the birthday box money to Vita Mission
Hospita l in Manitoba. Later it was sent to th e Childrens Aid
a nd in recent years this money along with dona tions from the
Youth Groups are sent to our Foster Child. Angel Perez from
Brazil is our current fost er child .
.
Boys Parliam ent , which was in conjunction with the
T uxis Boy Square, took place every year in Winnipeg and
delegates were sent through the Sunday School. Cordon
Gauld had the privil ege of goin g in 1928. other boys who
were elected to go were Fred Yeom a ns. Jack Roberts.
Newton Yeomans. Mel Mac Kay and Clark Dunn. There
were no other nam es recorded in th e Minutes who wer e sent
as delegates, but one was sent eac h year for some time.
Almost from the tim e the churches were built a library
was k ept with a n appoint ed libra ri a n and assistant in char!..!e.
New books were bought periodically a nd there was a lot of
Pa ge 29
Island. We went by train , bus and truck or cars loaded down
with picnickers and food off to enjoy an afternoon of fun and
laughter together. There was something to do for everyone·
swimming, ball, races, games or just visiting. In recent years
the Sunday School Classes have had their own little picnics at
the park or school grounds.
At the present time and since 1970 when the Church
and Sunday School combined there has been no
Superintendent. The Christian Education Committee has
heen responsible for getting teachers and youth group
leaders. This committee of Mrs Margaret Yeomans, Mrs Vi
.l a mes, Mrs Gail .lames and Mrs Carol McManes have
worked hard trying to revive Sunday School. They visited
each home with children in the Community and invited the
family to bring their children to a Special Sunday School
Session. They have devoted a lot of their time with the help of
the teachers during these sessions, to keep the children's
interest. At the end of each session they have a closing
program and ceremony , at which time the children receive
certificates.
A picture of Christ was purchased in 1955 to hang over
the organ and a table was specially made by a cabinet maker
in Brandon for in front of the altar. This was made in 195 7.
Anyone having a birthday was remembered with the
congregation singing "Happy Birthday" while they dropped
their money in the "Little Church Bank". The younger ones
received "Birthday Pins". Today it is collected downstairs
during Sunday School Classes. This money goes toward our
support for the Faster Child.
The record attendance for our church reached 264 some
years ago and has not changed since then.
Space does not permit the mention of all the teachers.
officers and helpers who have worked so faithfully in the
Sunday School through the years. The dedication of each one
has played an important role in molding the lives of the young
reading done with all ages. Katie Jackson was the last
appointed librarian and in 1951 it was decided to send our
books to other libraries. An ad was put in the Observer and
they were finally sent to outlying Mission Centres.
In 1927 Mr. E. Grierson was presented with an easy
chair and Mr. 0. Dunn Sr. with a gold watch for their services
before and after union as Superintendents. In 1946 these
same two gentlemen were both presented with a fram ed
address in appreciation for their long and faithful services.
Mr. Grierson had been associated with Sunday School for 53
years with time spent as a teacher as well as superintendent
a nd Mr. Dunn was superintendent a nd assistant for over 50
years. He was 89 and Mr. Grierson 77 at that time. Mr. Dunn
had been appointed Honorary Life Superintendent in 1944.
Miss Katie Boyes was presented with a gold watch and a
copy of Hurlbuts Story of the Bible when she resigned in 194 7
after being a Sunday School Teacher for nearly 30 years.
Mr. A.D. Blair received a Plaque in recognition of his
many years as Superintendent and Sunday School Teacher
on November 18, 1962 when he moved to Brandon.
Mrs. A. Leitch Class Party
£1liot Jachson. Doug Magee, Frank McMones, Charlie Smi tlt.
R eRgie Bray, Keith Blair, }im Kerr, Norman Reynolds, Winston
Curt is
At Back: Kelly Leitch, Mille r Drummond
Superintendents of Sunday School were: Methodist ·
Mr. Jas. McEwen Sr. , Mr. Ed Grierson and Mr. Oliver Dunn
Sr. Presbyterian. Mr. A lex T. Speers, Mr. Wm. Dickson and
Mr. Hugh J ackson. After Union· Mr. E. Grierson, Mr. Hugh
Jackson, Mr. 0. Dunn Sr. , Mr. Austin Blair, Mr. Milton
Donogh and the Ministers Rev. Reynolds, Rev. Young, Rev.
Parker and Rev. Dyker.
Sunday School although essentially religious in nature
had its social side as well· memorable times to the young and
old were the annual Sunday School Picnics held at Souris,
Oak Lake , Kirkhams Bridge, Exhibition Grounds.
F.xperimental Farm and down by the Riverside on Dunns'
··•
Front Row: Doreen Richardson. Frances Amos. Jt>ml Mnn:wn.
Isa be lle Camley
2nd Raw: Olit•~ Dunn. Flora Y eomans. l.ola MacK 0 ,1. Mortlw
Dunn. l .oreen Rnthu•ell. B eotrice Amos
.
.1rd Rou•: Doroth11 Pcot. lcssie Curtis IT. ! Edith Smitl1
Page :lO
Four of our oldest Senior Citizens who have been very
our Sunday Sc hool and Chu rc h through the years
.>dl\' t' tn
.md no'' living in Brandon are still very interested in the life of
tlw Church. They do lik e to attend our events whenever
oo~~1ble.
Mr. Oswa ld McKay (96). Mr. Austin Blair (94). Mrs .
Roherts (93) are in Fairview Senior C itizens Home. Mr.
Hl;ur <1nd Mrs. Roberts are still ac tive and lik e to take part in
adl\·ities there. Mr. McKay is in Personal Care. Mrs. Frances
Y t'omans (88) is in a suite and is still able to ca re for herself.
Slw <~!tends T rinitv Un ited Church a nd is a member of their
l i. C.W. She enjoys reading. Mrs. Robe rts still likes to knit
<~nd Mr. Blair still rid es his bicycle.
During their years at Sunday School they were a ll
Sundm• Schoo l Teachers a nd the two Ladies a nd Mr. Blair
wpre i;wolved in you th gro ups. It is dedi cated people lik e
tht'se who have seen our Church prosper.
.id lW
Beginners C lass 1950
Bach Row: Sharon Parhs. Luetta Green, O li ve Dunn ( T. ). Gary
Parks , Barry Green
Kn ee /in[.!: Darle ne Pres ton
Sitting in Front: Marion Humphr e ys, Fre ddi e Buchanan. lim
Bis sett. Kar e n Bisse tt. Chery/ Pom e roy. Loi s Buchanan. D oro thy
Buchanan
~
~
Front Row: Haro ld Humphreys . Ge ne Parks. lim
McMan es . Glen M cManes. Wayn e Murray
Christmas Pa gea nt 1982
Mary . Dehorah Robe
Rahy Jes us · Ken nedy Baby
}oseph w ith Donkey · Scott Mc Kay
S heperds . Ran Rabe, Ken McEvoy
Scott l ames and lacqui e Cheas ley facing
camera and lool?i ng at baby.
Teachers and Officers 194 7
StandinR: Mr A. Blair. Mr s S. Dunn, Mr s Wm .
Gam ley. Mr E. Grierson. Mr 0. Dunn (Sr) R ev and
Mrs G.A. Co /pitt s. Mr s N. Fishe r. Mr s E. Cheasley
Knee /in~: Mrs L. K err, Mrs T Speers Mr Don Rabe.
Miss Harriet Owens. Mrs Wm . Hum e
Sittin~: Mrs 0. Dunn Or). Miss K. E. Boyes
Back Row: Pete r Ni euwland. Bill Humphreys. lim
Harrod. Len lam es. Neil Morh. John McMan es
Mrs May Grierson ( T )
"Remember When"
Remember when a basement was being constructed
under the Church in 1925 and Sunday School classes were
held in Mcllquhams Hall (and also the Church Service).
Remember when Fowl Suppers were held m
Mcllquhams Hall - climbing all those stairs - Mrs.
Mcllquham. Mrs Andrew McManes, Mrs Hugh Jackson,
Mrs Douglas. Mrs Fred Dunn Sur. were some of the ladies
who worked in the kitchen while the younger ones . May
McKay. Jean Drummond. Elsie Mcllquham. J essie
Mcllquham to name a few , did the serving.
Remember the Red Curtain that hung over the doorway
on the north wall of the main part of the Church leading to a
little porch and outside, and one of the Gents in the choir used
to come through that door late, and sneak into his seat in the
choir loft - quite regularly on a Sunday night.
Remember when the Ladies of the Auxiliary had to
houseclean the manse before a new Minister moved in.
Remember the night when Mr. Austin Blair had a class
party at this house and everyone ran over to the station to
watch the "Silk Train" go through.
Remember when a train came out from Brandon to
Alexander and picked up picnickers and then backed up to
Kemnay and took the spur line to Souris for a Sunday School
picnic.
Remember when some good picnics were held down a t the
River. a nd a t Kirkhams Bridge when the picnickers went in
the back of a truck.
Remember the Choir Concerts put on after the Fowl
Suppers in the Church and at other times.
Remember the ainners served in the Church Basement
the day after the Fowl Supper for the school kids and whoever
else wanted to go for .25~.
Remember when Elocution Contests were held in the
main part of the Church.
Remember the year the C.G.I.T. girls decided to go into
the "Y" to swim for their wind-up party and were disappointed
to find out there had to be an adult for each girl in order for
them to be allowed to swim.
Remember when Mrs Kathleen Durston had from 37 <!0 boys _and girls in the Sunday School Choir.
Remember when at C.G.I.T. Camp, rising early in the
morning to go out to see the "Sun Rise", and an early morning
dip before breakfast.
Remember one evening, an hour before a special
banquet was to take place in the basement of the Church, and
the old cook stove poured out smoke from every crack and
crevice. filling the place full of smoke. What a riot getting the
air cleared out before the guests arrived.
Remember when Mrs. Tom Drummond Sr. and Mrs.
Will Jackson sang together a nd a lso Mrs Drummond and her
daughter Helen (Mrs Bill McKay).
Remember when 3 gentlemen from the AlexanderKemnay charge drove to Dauphin andmoved a "student
minister" and his family to the manse, and lo and behold.
when someone tried to get in touch with him two or three days
later, they discovered that they had picked up and left and
was never heard from again.
Remember when two Christmas trees were purchased in
1928. a smaller one was bought for the smaller children.
Remember how the big "roll down curtain" which hung
from the ceiling in Mac's Hall and extended across the length
of the stage fascinated everyone. A boy was responsible for
raising and lowering the curtain by a rope during the
Christmas Concerts.
Profit and Loss
On File
I counted dollars tchile Cod counted crosses:
I counted Qa in s tvhi/e He coun ted losses.'
I counted my worth hy the thin~s ~a ined in store.
Hut He sized me up hy the scars that I hnre:
If on unhnd u •ord appear:-.
If
File thL' thinR Oll'O.IJ.
I n)('eted honors and souf!hl for degrees:
If some cleL'er little hit
I le tt'efll a ." He cmmted the hours on m!J lmees.
And I nerer lmeu' till one dou hy a !!rove
Of a shorfJ ond pointed tcil.
CnrryinJ! a slim! ll'ilh it File the thin a cru•a .tJ.
l-Ime t'ain ore the thinf!s that u_·e spend life to saPe.
1 did not tJel /mow untif lim u•ent ahove
That rich~st is ht> who is rich in Cod's hwe!
If ." ome /1il of !!ossip c ome .
File tlw thin!! nu'O.IJ.
Scondalousi!J spicu crwnh.
Fil(' till' thin!! c/lcay.
If SIISflicion comes to IJOII
That your nei!!hl1or is;1't true
Let me tell !JOII tdwt to do-Fill! the thin!! (III'CIH.
There's not much ('lractica/ Clnistianii!J in the man tdw liPes
lwtter terms u•ith onf!els and sera('h:->. than 1cith his children.
sen•on/s ond nei!!hhors.
-1/enqJ Word Reeclwr
on
Tlw mo." l im{Jor/anl thml!!llt I t!l'er hod
rr ·us
File tlw thinR au·ay.
some nm•eftu it }et>rs.
Do this for n little
tlwl of mu indi,li<lual
TIH'II
rl'sf>onsi/)i/ill/ to Cod.
-/Jonid Wehstcr
Pcu..rt· 32
!.,'o nul
11 •hife.
ond hum tl1e filt' .
Bequests, Memoriums and Gifts
- Three <tained gbss windows were installed after the First World War in memory of George Yeomans and Cecil Arthur
Young by the O.A. Yeomans and T. Young families.
-Bequea ths have been made to the Unit ed Church by:
Mr. Hiram Cheasley
Mr. & Mrs. Neil McEwen
Mrs. Fred Cheasley
Mr. Raymond Dunn
Mr. & Mrs. Frank C. McManes
Mr. W a it Ogilvie
Mrs. Oswald McKay
Mr. Donald Rabe
- A plaque was present ed to the church from Mr. & Mrs. Gilholm. England. in memory of their daughter and son-in-law, Mr.
and Mrs. Frank Lundy. who lost their lives in an accident near Alexander shortly after returning from the Second World
War.
-A Comm union tabl e was presented to the church by Mr. a nd Mrs. Leslie Skinner in m emory of Mr. Skinner's parents , Mr.
& Mrs. lsaac Skinner.
· Mr. Troy Blair had wooden panellin g made for the front of the choir loft in memory of his wife Alison.
- The money left by Mr. and Mrs. Frank C. McManes was used to purchase the piano for the sanctuary.
- Collection plates were purchased with part of the money from Mr. Wait Ogilvie.
- A new pulpit made .of wood matching that of the choir loft panellin g was presented by Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Rabe.
- A number of Red Hymn Books were presented to the church by the Messenger Group and also by several individuals in
memonum.
- Red velvet pulpit drape hanging from the lectern and table runner were presented to the church in memory of Russell
Bisseit by the Bisseit family.
-A silver Baptismal bowl was presented May 1977 by the C.G.I.T. , Messengers and Explorers Group.
-A wooden cross. of matching wood , with indirect lighting was installed by Mr. & Mrs. Frank Rabe and family in memory of
Mr. a nd Mrs. Alex Rabe in March 1984.
Several plaq ues were made to acknowledge these gifts, and dedica tion services were held on various occasions by the
ministe rs.
- An Electronic Key Board Piano has been placed in the Auditorium by Mrs. Alan Yeomans and family in memory of her
daughter Is abel Kelleit.
it 's dedication will be on the 100th Anniversary, Sunday. June 28, 1987.
-Monetary Gift , May 1987 , by Mrs. Evelyn A. Dunn (Stanley W.) and Family in memory of the Dunn Family and Mr. and
Mrs. Neil McEwen.
-Along with the above Gift, the Congregation has purchased a Public Address Sound System as an Anniversary Project- to
be dedicated in Memory of our Pioneers - June 28. 1987.
We would like to pay tribute to the many faithful ones
who through all the years have given of their tim e and talents
to the work of the Lord . We plan to move forward under the
leadership of the new minister, Gregory Grace, enriched by
our heritage d the past with faith in our hearts for the future.
Do we need a church in our town to-day
A special spot to fiO and pray?
"Oh yea". said one. I chanced to mee t
" I'd fiO to church with willing feet.
But my life's fast pace is hard to keep
And Sunday morning's my chance to sleep
I know when I'm old and grey
I'll have more time to go and pray.
So keep the church as best you can
I'll want it when I'm an old man."
Another said - "My children go to church school
In the fall you know .
They are in the program at special times
They always say their lines that rhyme.
They don't often go the rest of the year
But we are glad a church is near." =Another man said. "When I go to God
Ere you [ay my body beneath the sod
My friends will go to the church to see
My coffin and to sing a hymn for me,
So keep on working - oh faithful few.
K ee p it in repair or build anew
Though I can't help, I'd like to /mow
The church is there-·
When I've time to go".
Pege 14
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