From the Advocate – 100 years ago (1914)
The Patriotic Assembly in the Town Hall on Thursday evening last, given by the young Ladies of Erin, was a big success, and is conceded by all who took part in it, as being one of the best social events ever held here. There was a large number present, including many from the neighbouring towns and cities. The music by Markle’s Orchestra, Elora, was of the best variety. The hall was prettily decorated with flags and bunting, showing the patriotism of the young ladies. A choice lunch was served. The nice sum of $56 was cleared, which was presented to the Belgian Relief Fund.
From the Advocate – 45 years ago (1969)
Starting January 1, 1970, sex education will be a compulsory course in all schools under the Wellington Board of Education. The school board was informed that a family life program in Guelph last year was well received by teachers, parents and students. Regular teachers will handle the course unless they feel they cannot properly teach it, in which case another teacher, a doctor or a Health Unit staff person will do it. The plan covers kindergarten through Grade 12. Parents will have the right to withdraw their child from any family life class.
New parking signs have been erected in the Village of Erin, after a bylaw that came into effect last week. During the winter months, parking on the streets of the village is prohibited between 1 am and 7 am.
The As We Were column recalled an article 50 years earlier, in The Advocate of 1919. J.M. Dods & Co. of Alton had leased the large brick building owned by C.E. McMillan in Erin. In 1969 it was the site of a Laundromat and tuck shop. They also leased C.H. Walkers wagon manufacturing shop, which later became the site of the public school. At these Erin locations they would manufacture finished cotton products, employing 50 people.
From the Advocate – 35 years ago (1979)
A delegation to Village Council has complained about noise from the new Graham Fiberglass factory. Stanley Park resident Yolanda Reimann said residents of that area and Erin Heights are upset about a continual high-pitched noise and its possible health effects, and 31 residents have signed a letter to the company. The Ministry of the Environment will be taking measurements. Graham’s Marketing Manager Roy Ralph said the firm wants to be a good neighbour and has hired a consultant to advise them. Council member Evelyn O’Sullivan said she has been complaining to the company since August without success.
Wellington County Council plans to spend $1.6 million to rehabilitate and restore the 1843 court house on Woolwich Street in Guelph. With a new addition, the complex will provide a headquarters for administration of county business. Architect Carlos Ventin said it is “probably the most historic building in this part of Ontario.”
From the Advocate – 25 years ago (1989)
After using Tanker #2 for more than 20 years, Hillsburgh Fire Chief Wayne McIsaac has purchased a new tanker truck. Erin Township Council considered several tenders, and agreed to a purchase of $92,000. The truck will be manufactured by Dependable Emergency Vehicles of Brampton, with a 240-horse diesel engine and a 1,600-litre aluminum tank.
The AIDS committee of Guelph and Wellington opened its new information office in Guelph last week, and welcomed an announcement from local MP Perrin Beatty, Minister of National Health and Welfare, that they would receive a grant of $150,000. The centre will help small rural communities to provide accurate AIDS information, considered essential in defeating the disease.
