History Alberta Farmers' Association

rice sheppard (1861–1947)

in 1905 alberta , saskatchewan became provinces. alberta branch of tgga became alberta farmers association (afa) under leadership of rice sheppard (1861–1947) of strathcona area. farmers had moved alberta united states had formed alberta chapter of american society of equity, locals in spruce grove, namao, beaumont, stony plain , poplar lake. around 1905 changed name of organization canadian society of equity (cse).

this period of rapid growth in alberta. population rose 73,000 in 1901 374,000 in 1911. there 60,559 farms. new farmers in debt equipment , supplies. farming risky, low rainfall, short growing period , uncertain prices. government, short of money, not provide assistance new farmers expected in bad periods, afa , cse seen source of strength , safety. main ideological difference cse wanted maintain equity , or economic equality, members refusing sell below price. afa did not accept radical approach of co-operative action. afa was, however, comfortable asking government assistance in grain storage , marketing.

james speakman, later became president of united farmers of alberta, president of innisfail branch of afa during period when competing members cse. strong supporter of union. in september 1908 afa , cse formed joint committee draft constitution combined organization. last convention of afa , first convention of ufa held @ mechanic s hall, edmonton on january 13–15. afa delegates ratified merger on 14 january 1909, , cse joined them next day. 2 groups extended hand of fellowship , combined operations. new united farmers of alberta not aligned political party or politician. goal further interests of producers of grain , livestock , obtain profitable prices of products of farm , orchard through cooperative effort.

before merger afa s official organ homestead, , cse published great west.

afterwards, @ urging of edward alexander partridge of saskatchewan , thomas crerar of manitoba, these papers absorbed grain growers guide, served saskatchewan , manitoba.