The Rural Voice, 1999-09, Page 36DEEP ROOTS
The Beckers, host family for
the 7999 International Plowing Match,
go back 130 years on the land where the
match will be held
By Janice Becker
32 THE RURAL VOICE
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With she millennium
approaching and the last
International Plowing
Match of the 20th century set to run
September 21-25 in Huron County, it
seems appropriate that the final hosts
of the century should be a family
with roots planted firmly in the past.
The Becker family of RRI,
Dashwood have been farming the
acreage along Concession 13 of Hay
Twp. for more than 130 years.
It all began when John W. Becker
moved from Waterloo County to Hay
Twp. in 1865, having purchased 50
acres from the Canada Company.
That land cost him $673.
Earl Becker, the host of Huron
Shines in '99 and the unofficial
mayor of tent city, was the fourth
generation on that homestead and
now lives just down the concession
from his ancestral home.
"Most of the Beckers in this area
are related to John W.," he says.
In speaking with Becker, it is very
apparent the pride he has in his
family's long history in the
community and the contribution they
have made.
And that opportunity to contribute
will be carried on by Becker and his
son Michael, as they prepare to be
the host farm for the IPM.
Owners of almost 900 acres, the
Beckers also lease much of the land
to be used for the match.
Though just 1,200 to 1,500 acres
are utilized in the planned layout,
2,700 acres have been optioned in
case expansion is required.
a Michael and Earl Becker find
hosting the match a challenge a
thrill and an opportunity for their
community.