G. ARTHUR BRETHEN  (1877-1968)

G. A. Brethen was an outstanding example of a rural leader who took an active leadership role in many groups and organizations.

As a prominent farmer and former Member of Parliament his views carried a lot of weight. In 1939 at the inaugural meeting of the Peterborough County Chamber (later Federation) of Agriculture he spoke in support of the new organization. The minutes quote him as saying “politicians should be told what farmers want.”

A native of Norwood, he started the Hillcrest herd of Holstein-Friesians in 1904. The herd later produced the first Canadian cow to yield more than 29,000 pounds of milk in one year. Many Hillcrest bred cattle were exported to countries around the world.

When the United Farmers of Ontario were organized in 1914 he served as its vice president. Later as the candidate of the National Progressive Party he was elected as Member of Parliament for 1921-1925.  In 1929 when the Peterborough County Holstein Club was formed he was elected president.

G. A. Brethen proudly supported the Norwood Fair for many years and the main Coliseum at the fair is named in his honour to mark his forty years of support.  He was inducted into the Ontario Agricultural Hall of Fame in 1985.

He was an enthusiastic supporter of calf clubs, renamed 4-H in 1952, and many young people owe their start to him. Active in his community, G. Arthur Brethen faithfully served his church for many years as well other boards and community activities.

Nominated by John and Suzanne McMillan, 2015