John C. Bill Bennett

(1901 - 1982)

New Brunswick

"Bill" Bennett, a native of Chatham, N.B., is one of Eastern Canada's outstanding agriculturists. The one significant accomplishment that will stand out in the minds of many is that he provided the leadership in establishing the Artificial Insemination for cattle in the Province which resulted in dramatic improvements in the production and type of dairy cattle.

His role as a livestock extension worker was outstanding. Administration of livestock improvement policies, the development of livestock organizations, improved standards and facilities of N. B. fairs and exhibitions. He served on the executives of the N. B. Livestock Council, N. B. Livestock Breeders Co-operative and the N.B. Central A.I. Breeding Co-op Ltd. He was always willing and able to provide the necessary leadership during the periods when it was needed the most.

His ability to develop sound business ventures is demonstrated best in the building of the Provincial Livestock Exhibition into one of the biggest and best shows in Eastern Canada. His outstanding leadership encouraged the development of the modern facilities for both housing and showing of livestock, the new draft horse facility is named the "J.C. Bennett Horse Barn".

J. C. Bennett was an outstanding advocate for improved livestock and husbandry practices and a real friend of the livestock fraternity in the Maritimes.

Over the years Bill gave generously of his time and energy in promoting not only provincial livestock events but others such as the Maritime Winter Fair and the Maritime Beef Cattle Show and Sale. He was in keen demand as a speaker for livestock gatherings and as a competent judge for livestock shows. In 1963 he judged Hereford cattle at the Royal Winter Fair in Toronto, a real tribute to a Maritimer who had devoted his lifetime to livestock improvements.

Bill was a member of the Agricultural Institute of Canada and Society of Animal Production over the years. He was a founding member of the N. B. Institute of Agrologists and became the first President in 1960 and is an Honorary Member.