The following is an account of the Norwich Rotary Club’s “Rotary Farm Day”, held at Ludlow Farm on July 26th, 1922. This account appeared in the following day’s edition of the Norwich Bulletin.
Rotary Farm Day, the day when all business of local Rotarians ceases and they give themselves over to the enjoyment of a day among the North Stonington hills as the guests of Rotarian William H. Oat. at Ludlow Farm, took the place of the regular Wednesday noonday luncheon. About 75 Rotarians and guests were present, among whom was Congressman Richard P. Freeman, who was the guest of honor. The Rotarians came early and stayed late, enjoying every minute of the day that was made to order for such an outing.
At 12.30 o’clock the Rotarians and guests sat down to beautifully decorated tables under the trees on the lawn and were served a delicious chowder prepared by Bert Loomis. Salads, sandwiches. lemonade and watermelon comprised the rest of the delicious menu. After the dinner several matters of business were transacted among which was the establishment of a fund to be known as the William H. Oat fund in honor of the host of the day. This fund is to be used in connection with the Boys’ Work movement established by the club. It was announced by Secretary Joseph V. Weymouth that Norwich’s part in the fall conclave would be to provide the stunts and amusements for the visitors.
The club will act as a committee in this matter and will go to work immediately on getting up a whirlwind of a programme for the entertainment of visiting Rotarians.
Secretary Joseph N, Weymouth, who attended the meeting for the first time since his recent illness was joyfully welcomed back to the Rotary fold. Secretary Weymouth made a short speech in which he expressed his appreciation of the kindnesses shown him by the club during his illness. Charles J. Twist who has also been on the sick list, attended the meeting and expressed his appreciation of the kindnesses of the club while he was confined to his home.
Congressman Freeman Speaks
Congressman Richard P. Freeman served in the US Congress from 1915 to 1933.
Congressman Freeman was called upon for a few brief remarks and responded with a straight out and out talk regarding affairs as he has found them in the nation’s capitol.
He said he was glad of the opportunity of meeting such a representative body of his constituents. Duties at Congress prevent a member from getting out among the people very often. In his talk he referred to the Volstead act. the 18th Amendment, the labor situation, the bonus and the tariff bill.
In speaking of the prohibition act. he said that he opposed it in the first place, but after the amendment had been passed when action came on the Volstead act, he, together with many others finally voted to uphold the Constitution of the United States. He said he did not believe the time was right for absolute prohibition, but believed that congress should have been given the power to regulate the manufacture, sale, and prohibition If necessary.
Regarding the labor situation, he said he earnestly hoped a settlement would be soon reached. He said that he believed that labor should have the right to strike if they wanted to, but that labor should not prevent those who wished front working. He also said some legislation should be made to prevent a strike that would cripple the nation.
Regarding the bonus bill. Congressman Freeman said that be had opposed It because he believed that the disabled veterans should he taken care of and should be educated as it was their right to demand. If the bonus bill goes through it means that the nation would be saddled with a debt of five billion dollars or so with the Victory loan and other obligations comlng due in a year or so.
It will be the service man himself who will help pay the debt In a few years after he has made good and over 59 percent of the boys will and are making good.
Regarding the tariff bill, the speaker said that the public should be patient for the problem Is one that requires much thought and consideration. It is matter that cannot be dismissed with a hit or miss legislation.
Following the talk by the congressman he was extended a hearty vote of appreciation for’ his sincere talk. The club also extended a vote of appreciation to the host and then President Park adjourned the meeting and the members adjourned to the enjoyment of the afternoon with various lawn games and baseball. Croquet drew a large number and impromptu foursomes were picked for stern competition, and much real roque talent was displayed.
The baseball game between two picked teams developed no little amusement, sore arms and shins. Bert Gager proved to be the star performer closely followed by Otto Ernst. In the road race between Bert Gager and Joe Worth the latter outdistanced his more portly opponent. In the motor trouble contest Lucius Briggs was declared the winner by a large margin.
As the evening approached the guests gradually departed for their homes after one of the best outings in the history of the local club.
