The Bismarck tribune. [volume] (Bismarck, N.D.) 1916-current, 1925-03-24

To-day we are here as delegates
to the fourteenth annual convention
Of the North Dakota Farmers Grain
Dealers Association. We are here
for definite purpose. To review
work done in the past, speak of
achievements accomplished, look into
the future, and gather inspiration for
the problems just ahead.
1--WE are gathered here in the city
of Bismarck, but few miles from
the city of Mandan, formerly the
home of man, who in 1911 was per-
haps instrumental and responsible
for the founding of this organiza-
tion. 1t is only fitting that on this
l4th anniversary, we pause and pay
tribute to this man. Well known to
the old members but perhaps a
stranger to those who have joined
our ranks in the last years. Samuel
w. Unkenholz was born in Brooklyn,
N. Y, educated in the public schools
of that city. In 1883 he moved to
Mandan with his parents. Home
steaded near that city. In 1908 help
ed organize the Mandan Farmers
Elevator Company and was it's secre-
tary until his death. He at once saw
the need for state organization
among the grain dealers and in 1911
with the help of some others organ
lied the North Dakota Farmers Deal
ers Association. From its beginning
he was secretary and held this posi-
tion until shortly before his death,
which occurred in 1917. A man of
high ideals; a man who could forsee
the great possibilities Of such an or
ganization as ours. We lost a great
leader, and l hope that at this meet
ing resolution may be passed re-
cognizing the great service he gave
to this organization and to the state
of North Dakota.
"One year ago when we met in
Fargo we were confronted with a diff
ferent situation than We are facing
today. Europe then was gradually
drifting toward economic chaos. With
more men under arms than at any
time save during the World War, it
seemed there was little hope of
averting complete disaster. At the
same time in this country there was
unrest and discomfort. Radicalism
was gaining ground and unsound po-
litical theorists had large follow
ing. In this state we were in the
midst of great depression. Thou
sands of farmers were facing bank
ruptcy and ruin. Our elevators had
just passed through trying times,
period that left many wrecks of well
established business enterprises. The
hope for better things on the part of
the grain man was almost DESTROYED
by threatened legislation. Politi-
clans had seized on the plight of the
farmer and were announcing propos-
ed measures which would have been
co NJ IN hns <o~ 1T-
as far as our business would have
been concerned.
To-day we see a great change, a
change for the better. Europe,
through the acceptance Of an Amer
lean plan, is fast recovering from its
depression and stabilizing its econo-
mic system. To this country and es-
pecially to the wheat grower this
change means market for the pro-
| duct of our farms at profitable
prices. The farmer benefits direct
~. but all lines of business feel the
stimulus.
"Today there is tendency on the
part Of the American people to get
down to work, and to cultivate ha-
bits of thrift and sobriety. There is
increasing evidence that the Ameri-
can farmer is becoming slow to fol-
low the leadership of radical min
| oritv.
"The past year saw the introduc-
tion of unecomomic and socialistic
legislation. proposed by selfseeking
politicians and supported by i'm
practical theorists. Legislation that
would have destroyed the open mar
ket we today enjoy. Through the eff
forts of the grain trade and through
the cooperation Of leaders in agri-
culture, this legislation has been
disposed Of to the satisfaction Of the
great majority Of farmers, who to-
day recognize the great service rem
dered by the grain trade in winning
this battle. The farmer today 10
reaping the benefit from the defeat
of such legislation.
Recently there adjourned in this
state legislature. Of whose record
the state can hardly be proud. II
seemed to me more Of . trading
place than law making body. IN
this purely agricultural STATE, IL
should not be necessary for our er-
ganization TO- maintain at coneidar-
able expense : lesialstive eosaaaittss,
! (Ceasiaasd q - shrss