By Ruth L. Snyder -

Have you wondered if your actions make any difference? Thirteen years ago Edgar Corbiere of Mallaig, Alberta, thought it would be fun to spend a weekend making hay like people did in the 1930’s. He also wanted to make a difference in the lives of fellow community members who were undergoing cancer treatments. Corbiere shared his vision with others. Together they were able to put on an old-fashioned haying event, which raised enough money to help twelve cancer victims.

Like ripples in a pond, Corbiere’s actions have continued to spread and multiply. Fifty volunteers work throughout the year to organize the two-day event. Many others step forward to help run Haying in the 30’s. Corbiere says, “We are all volunteers. We ask nothing in return. Our goal is to help less fortunate with finance. We will not cure no one but rather aid at a difficult time.” Today thousands of people attend the annual event, which is held on the August long weekend.

Over the years the featured demonstrations have grown to include haying, grain harvesting (with a binder to cut and a threshing machine to separate the straw from the grain), plowing with disc harrows, sawing lumber, making wooden shingles, splitting wood, boring a well, shoeing horses, and shearing sheep. Children enjoy face painting, a petting zoo and pony rides as well. Live entertainment takes place continually throughout the weekend.

In 2001, the County of St. Paul agreed to lease an eighty-acre parcel of land to the society for as long as they want to use it. Many buildings have been added to the site including a general store, blacksmith shop, creamery, church and trapper’s cabin. A concession/performance area has also been constructed along with a camp kitchen area. On August 4th, over 1,700 people were served a beef-on-a-bun supper.

There is no charge for admission, camping or food. Corbiere explains, “We do not sell anything. You cannot buy anything. We have nothing to sell. All is on a straight donation basis. There is a Donation Center, and all we ask is your support towards a worthy cause.”

The community and those who attend have responded in kind, making it possible for the society to help over 2,000 individuals who are fighting cancer. This year funds were raised to aid an additional 200 individuals. And it all started with one man’s vision!

For more information visit, www.hayinginthe30s.org .

Ruth L. Snyder lives with her husband and five young children on a quarter section north of Glendon, Alberta. Ruth reviews biographies, historical, contemporary fiction and  non-fiction books for Maranatha News. Contact Ruth at sun.beam3@yahoo.com

(Feature photo by: FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

Article photo by: Ruth L. Snyder