"These organizations are preserving our agricultural heritage"
Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell
(D-Theresa) announced financial support for three organizations that promote
agriculture and heritage in the North Country. She secured $5,000 each for the
Stone Mills Agricultural Museum and the St. Lawrence Power and Equipment
Museum, and $10,000 for the Hammond Fair Association.
“These organizations are
preserving our agricultural heritage, and passing on knowledge to the next
generation and those seeking to understand more about farming and rural life,”
said Assemblywoman Russell. “Having a
sound grasp of historical advancements in farming methods and a view into the
lives of our forefathers provides invaluable insight that can help put our
modern lives in perspective. As our
society continues to become more specialized and removed from food production,
it is crucial that these organizations continue to preserve our farming
traditions.”
Each organization contributes
uniquely to preserving and supporting our agriculture heritage and the strong
place it continues to be in the North Country Economy. The Hammond Fair is substantially devoted to
developing the skills of, and highlighting children and their role in
agriculture. The many livestock shows
are more than competitions, they are learning opportunities, and result in
strengthened bonds with families and friends, and their community. The fair is
involved in preparing the farmers of tomorrow.
Stone Mills showcases rural life and early farming practices, while
supporting traditional crafts and arts.
They provide events that bring the community together, ones that are
relevant to the tastes of today but in ways and with a feel that that harken
back to days gone by. The St. Lawrence
Power and Equipment Museum displays a powerful collection of items that
chronicles the evolution of farming in the region. It celebrates distinct periods in time and
the diversity of the agricultural production.
Holding events that coincide with the seasons, the demonstration of
horse power and mechanical power is always a feature.
The Stone Mill Agricultural
Museum is making restorations to buildings and the funds will help offset
associated costs with that project. The
St. Lawrence Power and Equipment Museum has recently relocated and renovated a
schoolhouse from Jefferson County. The
Hammond Fair celebrated its 75th Anniversary and is making facility
and ground improvements to position them well for another 75 years. “All of these organizations have
infrastructural needs and I want to help them be sustainable far into the
future,” said Assemblywoman Russell.
The Assemblywoman toured the
Hammond Fair and the Stone Mills Agricultural Museum this past weekend.
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