The Minnesota Association
Since the organization of the Northwestern Clay Workers’ Association last summer, growth has not been as rapid as might be hoped, but those who are working in behalf of the organization are by no means discouraged and are planning an active campaign that will result in increasing membership and building up a strong association. The next meeting will be the annual meeting and will be held in Minneapolis, Wednesday, Feb. 10. It is probable that the name will be changed to the Northwestern Clay Association, and that steps will be taken to begin an energetic campaign throughout the state in behalf of the clay interests. Mr. George W. Higgins, of Minneapolis, is president of the association, and Rufus P. Morton, Brickton, Minn., is secretary.
Source:
Brick and Clay Record
Volume XXX, Number 1, January 1909
Kenfield-Leach Company, Chicago, IL
Page 31
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Minnesota Men Alive
Notwithstanding the comparatively small number of clayworking enterprises in the state of Minnesota, the brick men of that state are showing evidence of their activity in the progress which they are making with their new association, which was organized last summer.
The annual meeting of the Minnesota Clay Association was held in Minneapolis on Lincoln’s Birthday, at the Builders’ Exchange, and it is pleasant to note that there was a larger attendance than at previous meetings, about 35 being present from all parts of the state. The main effort of the association thus far has been in the cause of publicity, and an energetic campaign will be conducted for that purpose during the coming year.
The principal topic was the publicity course, which was in the hands of a committee directed to take up and push the work. Some steps have been worked out, but it remains to be completed, and one of the details still to be accomplished is the matter of raising funds with which to handle the propaganda.
The agitation for publicity brought out some criticism as to the value of concrete, especially in a severe climate such as Minnesota’s.
The sense of the meeting was for a change of the present method of assessment for dues, which are now based upon the approximate production of the yards, at $1.00 per million brick produced. It is proposed to increase this assessment materially.
The general aspect for business was regarded as exceptionally good, as compared with last year. There is much less stock on hand, and it is anticipated that prices will likely show a stronger tendency soon.
The matter of producing brick at the Minneapolis city workhouse, which has been done for a year past, aroused considerable argument and discussion, especially as it is now proposed to increase the production and use the brick in the construction of city schools, if it can be done. The matter was left to a committee.
George W. Higgins, Minneapolis, Minn., was reelected president, and R. P. Morton, Brickton, Minn., was again presented with the secretaryship.
The next meeting will be held in Minneapolis, April 14th.
Source:
Brick and Clay Record
Volume XXX, Number 2, February 1909
Kenfield-Leach Company, Chicago, IL
Page 141