Formation of an Agricultural Society

The Settlers on Salt Spring Island have formed themselves into an agricultural society, and intend to do all in their power to advance the interests of farming in that locality. This is a movement which we hope to see imitated in other portions of the colony. There is no interest here so important as that of agriculture, and the probabilities are that if like societies are formed throughout the Island, and farming engaged in energetically and systematically, we shall be enabled in a short time to export instead of importing nearly every article of daily consumption.

Salt Spring Island, May 1, 1860

Editor British Colonist.- In accordance with a public notice, a meeting was convened at the residence of Mr. Begg, on the 1st instant; for the purpose of organizing and establishing an agricultural society to be styled- "The Salt Spring Island Agricultural Association."

At the hour appointed a number of the settlers assembled, and having discussed the propriety of of such a proceeding, also the benefit likely to result therefrom, came to the unanimous conclusion of supporting and forwarding it to their utmost ability. A constitution was drafted and adopted. The following persons were elected directors for the ensuing year.

Jonathan Elliot,
J. Begg,
J. Linaker,
J. Francis,
J. Booth.

John T. Ussher Sec. pro-em.

Source: "Formation of an Agricultural Society," Weekly British Colonist, May 12, 1860

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