HomeMy WebLinkAboutThe Goderich Signal-Star, 1983-05-18, Page 91Land of freedom..
From page 54
realizing the dangerous situation, promoted emigration
from the homeland to bright prosperous frontiers. Films
and travelogues, brochures, English lessons, even sub-
sidized travelling expenses prompted thousands of Dutch
families to bravely set forth to promising Commonwealth
nations.
Many of the new Canadians were sponsored by local
farmers and businesses who employed the immigrants for
a year's term. The old Canada Packers poultry plant in
Clinton was a major employer.
The girls made 65 cents an hour, the men 75 cents. There
was no provision for overtime and many extra hours were
worked in December, preparing chickens for Christmas.
One Cluistmas Eve, during a blinding snowstorm, it
looked as though Pieter Westerhout wouldn't make it
home from the Canada Packers plant. However he
managed to get a ride part way to his Hullett Township
home, then walked the rest of the way, carrying a bag of
groceries and presents on his back.
The Greidanus family worked hard at the Canada
Packers plant, daughter Mrs. Gary Haak recalled that
after working one year, the family of 13 saved enough
money to make their dream Sitality: They purchased a
farm.
Today the Dutch -Canadians are well respected neigh-
bors and friends. Their determination and hard work is
clearly evident in their successful farms, businesses and
communityefforts.
For the immigrants of the 1940s and 1950s, Holland is
still a very special place to visit, but as Anne Kroesen of
Clinton proudly exclaimed, "Home is Canada."
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