Eric Clinton Robinson

Prince Edward Island

Eric. C. Robinson was born and raised on the family farm in Augustine Cove, Prince Edward Island, which he purchased from his father in 1942. Eric was educated in the local school system. Together with his wife, Edith, they raised two sons, John and Alan who carried on the family farm. Eric's love for agriculture can be seen today in his family, his community, and the company that bears his name, Eric C. Robinson Inc.

The qualities that Eric Robinson personified are clearly evident in Eric C. Robinson Inc., which buys and sells PEI potatoes to domestic, U.S. and export markets. The company maintains two active farming operations which grow some 2500 acres of potatoes, forage and barley in the eastern part of Prince County, Prince Edward Island.

Eric Robinson has been a driving force in expanding the potato industry on PEI through new products, new methods, and new markets. His faith in fellow farmers was exhibited through his practice of extending credit to growers year after year.

Eric travelled extensively throughout North America and Europe. His visits led to the introduction of new equipment and varieties that resulted in the complete mechanization of PEI's potato industry. As a dealer for companies such as Thomas, Haines, Better Built, and John Deere, he sold and serviced potato handling equipment to local farmers. He was one of the first to use a bulk harvester on PEI. He was, also one of the first to import and grow the (Netted Gem) Russet Burbank variety which now is the most commonly grown variety on PEI.

Eric Robinson gave many hours to volunteer organizations, including the original PEI Potato Marketing Board, member of PEI Potato Producers' Association, active Church member and Deacon, Trustee of Prince County Hospital, School Trustee and numerous other local teams and organizations.

Nominated by the PEI Women's Institutes, Eric C. Robinson is a most deserving candidate for induction into the Atlantic Agricultural Hall of Fame.