Peasley: President Lincoln was great friend to farmers, ranchers
While headlining the traditional brunch at Harvard Milk Days on June 6, WGN farm director Orion Samuelson noted the 200th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth and dramatized Lincoln’s contribution to the farming community with a litany of Lincoln-inspired accomplishments.
In 1862, with President Lincoln’s encouragement, the Homestead Act was passed. During its 123 years of existence, the Federal government distributed 270 million acres in 160-acre parcels in 30 states. On May 15, 1862, Lincoln created the U.S. Department of Agriculture, calling it “the people’s department.” In July 1862, he signed the Pacific Railway Act, establishing groundwork for the first trans-continental railroad.
On July 2, 1862, Lincoln signed the Morrill Act establishing the land-grant college system. I’m familiar with the University of Illinois’ major contribution to agricultural research and advice.
Samuelson concluded, “President Lincoln was the best friend to farmers and ranchers ever to occupy the White House.” I certainly agree with the impact and significance of so many of those accomplishments during Lincoln’s presidency, and I thank Orion for giving me the data supporting this assertion.
• • •
The McHenry County Fair Association is gearing up to observe the 60th anniversary of the McHenry County Fair. Almost all the 60 women who served as Miss McHenry County have been located, and many will attend a reception Aug. 5 hosted by Dean Foods. Pleased with last year’s tribute to veterans, augmented with a parade of old tractors, Greg Warren, fair board member, said a similar tribute was planned Aug. 6.
“Almost all those in our tractor parade last year plan to return,” he said.
Meanwhile, I am in the midst of collecting my photos of all 60 Miss McHenry County Queens and putting together a colorful brochure to add to the celebration of this 60th year of the McHenry County Fair.
A look at history shows the county fair began in 1853 and continued yearly until 1924. During the first few years the fair moved around the county to different communities.
What has not changed is help given the fair by many 4-H leaders who work tirelessly. Equally important are those who serve as fair directors and volunteers who serve virtually year-round.
• • •
Seven young women are contestants in a Miss Woodstock Pageant at 7 p.m. Friday at the Waverly House. First prize is a $2,000 educational scholarship; second prize is a $1,000 savings bond; and four others prizes being presented.
Contestants are Brittany Oclon, Courtney Chaffins, Jaid Ritter, Lisa Kucharski, Lydia Chavez, Morgan Dzakowic and Sarah McGregor. The Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring the winner in the 60th Miss McHenry County Pageant.
• Don Peasley has been editor, columnist and historian in McHenry County since October 1947. He can be reached at 815-338-1533.
