Berwick Register,
December 30, 1925
Christmas At The County Home
The big event of the year to the inmates of the Kings County Home took place on the afternoon of Christmas Day, when Christmas cheer was distributed. A huge Christmas tree heavily laden with gifts stood in the middle of the assembly room, but this could not accommodate one-half of the good things provided. Tables groaned with the weight of candy, goodies and tobacco; clothes lines sagged with the abundances of stockings, aprons, etc. At each end of the room in the big open fireplaces sat Santa Claus, pockets bulging with dolls and other gifts. Hanging on the mantle shelves were the bulging stockings donated by the Women’s Institute of Waterville for the children. This, together with the beautiful decorations made the room present a splendid sight, and those who had the privilege of viewing it will never forget it. Mr. and Mrs. J. S. Slauenwhite, the caretakers, are untiring in their efforts to make the Christmas season one of joy and happiness to the large number of unfortunates under their care.
A splendid Christmas dinner was served consisting of roast beef, vegetables, pudding and pie, etc., a feast indeed, enjoyed to the "full." At three o’clock the assembly room doors were opened and the long-looked-for time had come; eyes wide open and mouth agape, the joy and astonishment of the inmates was visible; the excitement was intense and everyone seemed to be talking at once, anticipating the good things they were to receive. To see it was a real lesson in joy-giving.
Rev. G. R. T. Ayling, of Waterville, spoke a few words and offered prayer and then the gifts were distributed. Aprons, stocking, dust caps, pin cushions, trinket boxes, handkerchiefs, soap, etc. or the women. Socks, ties, handkerchiefs, pipes, mittens, a bunch of tobacco with a cigar atop, etc., for the men. Then the children received toys galore, so varied that they are beyond description, but each one to the smallest, filling their little hearts with happiness. Then came the passing of cookies, and candy, oranges and other fruits. Each one of the eighty-one (81) inmates received their share of the good things. To hear the simple words of thanks and here and there notice the falling tear spoke of the gratitude in their hearts of those who know no other home.
The gifts for the event were contributed by the citizens of the surrounding communities, Waterville, Cambridge, Berwick, Kentville, Billtown, Sheffield Mills, Aylesford, Morristown, and other places. The Women’s Institutes of Berwick and Waterville made contributions. Sheriff Porter, of Kentville, journeyed out on Christmas morning and brought with him a quantity of good cheer, as did also Councillor Alex. Durno of Cambridge. The overseers also should be mentioned for their kindly gifts and co-operation. The caretakers, Mr. and Mrs. J. S. Slauenwhite, were the recipients of several gifts.
Christmas is over once more at the County Home, but it will be remembered for many a day, and the next Christmas eagerly anticipated by this large family.
December 30, 1925
The Mayor Extends Season’s Compliments
Berwick, depending as it does on the apple crop from the surrounding district, is feeling the effects of the poor crop and depressed market. However, the merchants report a good Christmas trade and hope for better things in 1926.
The Evaporator, under the capable management of C. S. Grimm & Co., has done a wonderful work in disposing of a large quantity of second-class stuff and incidentally paying out a considerable amount in wages.
Kings Memorial Hospital has had a busy year, never more so than during the holiday season. About fifteen patients are being cared for there, and service seems to be the watchword of the Hospital staff. Possibly The Register does not realize the importance of the Hospital as a financial asset to the community. As a matter of fact it does a larger business than the Town of Berwick. The total receipts for the last financial year were $10,833.18 and expenditures on maintenance were $9,199,94 with an additional $1,500 paid on capital account.
Berwick has a valuable asset in The Register, that perhaps is not fully appreciated. In the opinion of the writer The Register is the best small town weekly in the province, and should be supported by all of our citizens.
Allow me, Mr. Editor, to take this opportunity on behalf of the Mayor and Town Council to extend to all our towns-people the compliments of the season and best wishes for a happy and prosperous 1926.
S. C. Parker,
Berwick, N.S., Dec. 30, 1925.