IMMIGRATION AND LAND SSTTLEMENT OF DUTCH FARMERS IN CANADA: 2946-1950 ”zest: for {he beam of M. S: MICMGAN STATE COLLEGE W. Robes“? Redelmeier 1950 m gm, q? .‘II.“~.“" . ' . 3 T tit-- 5; i ;‘ ‘JH', gut ; t 3““: ’13. t" -w .; a ~. mt . m g" 3.3:? u. t F; gm} « 3 NH” Lt Hr t... 331 BACK OF BOOK .‘36' a}... f This is to certifg that the thesis entitled "Immigration and Land Settlement of Dutch Farmers in Canada, l9h6-19SO." presented by W. Robert Redelmeier has been accepted towards fulfilltnent of the requirements for 1.1.8. degree in Aggicultural Economics WWW ) Majlnl professor Datefiw é/ / yS-O 1,;- mm: H.- ‘bf : 4:8” up .’A ‘mf‘ i‘ _ #1.. «14991 ‘15).“ My Ag‘f‘ifi‘ . " -‘ r I ‘,‘ -, -_ —. '. s _ 4“ .' J2 "f" _- ' - ‘ [I “I! , A I. . . I Q . . 4 . ...- " . . ,3}, .fl}! ‘~“".\-,«9‘ '_ x We M” -4 "I” W5 . W ‘- I a. 7t"! g- 1; - , -, I" p in? \ .11, .55". 1. v ‘I' .-;-._t.’$" - ."' ‘ ‘4‘}. _F¥;:\‘}\(x*::\fl" .; "afiz "t. M' «f t . I .' . Q. ' ‘1‘ l - . 4Whgtéi~ .. . (rt. _ ‘ fly! 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'1”?‘i‘,‘€fi.f§I ' $1.16]: s_;5t-;..“~.ttg&* _ , : .'-.'-. :t'. ‘ ’f'fu‘.*~:qg-" ~-. ‘ . 1":‘.|‘y-_". “! \I V. 'V‘ . d x. . . .1 ’ t \ ',.I ' ai"a’§§?£:«§9s..% :9 Y “is 3:2"? ‘5’? ' "1‘33 ":O r .121 if, . $ . r ‘ '- 'II-l ». ”Ag-H.» . - - I. -. r- _ "4-. ... ‘ ‘.‘““.-:fi . I .Wf'a-fl’f , J .\ "51"..T‘5.‘ O . t, A... 5. . r J'- I r” . I'A' 3‘ ‘z 39." ‘1‘ .I ' ‘ 38, or! ' .‘ - “ __ F l‘ 0' IMMIGRATION AND LAND SETTLEMENT OF DUTCH FARMERS IN CANADA: 1946-1950 By W. ROBERT REDELMEIER A THESIS Submitted to the School of Graduate Studies of Michigan State College of Agriculture and Applied Science in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of MASTER OF SCIENCE Department of Agricultural Economics 1950 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS The author wishes to acknowledge the invaluable help received from many individuals during the course of this study. It is a pleasant duty to thank people who gave freely of their assistance and advice. In the Depart- ments of Immigration, also in the Colonization and Agriculture Departments of Canadian National and Canadian Pacific Railways, at Ottawa, Montreal, and Toronto, many persons were of great help. To these, and many others, thanks must be expressed collectively. At Macdonald College, various professors were con- sulted during the planning of this study. Members of the Netherlands Consulate and chambers of commerce at Montreal also offered helpful comments. To Michigan State College, the writer owes a very special debt of gratitude. Professor Raleigh Barlowe of the Department of Agricultural Economics kindly read much of the early drafts and offered numerous construc- tive suggestions. During the formative stages of this work, encouraging remarks came also from Professor J. A. Beegle of the Department of Sociology, as well as from many members of the faculty and graduate staff in Agricultural Economics. 244558 The author realizes that only through their coopera— tion has it been possible to prepare this thesis. With- out assistance, comments, and constructive criticism, this work would never have materialized. IMMIGRATION AND LAND SETTLEMENT OF DUTCH FARMERS IN CANADA: 1946-1950 By w. Robert Redelmeier AN ABSTRACT Submitted to the School of Graduate Studies of Michigan State College of Agriculture and Applied Science in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of MASTER OF SCIENCE Department of Agricultural Economics Year 1950 Approved //7E§:;:6LE%LK’ /2$444$urc/I w. Robert Redelmeier Abstract of Thesis IMMIGRATION AND LAND SETTLEMENT OF DUTCH FARMERS IN CANADA: 1946-1950 Through agreement between Dutch and Canadian au— thorities, plans for the "Netherlands—Canada Farm Settlement Scheme" were started in 1946. From that year until March 31, 1950, over 18,000 Dutch farmers came to Canada under its auspices. This plan fitted into the general pattern of Canadian Immigration Policy, as the entry of farmers is looked upon with favor. The study describes briefly the history of Canadian immigration movements, and analyzes qualitatively some problems connected with policy. The major objective of this study is: to describe and evaluate postwar entry of Dutch farmers; their arrival and placement; and ob- stacles and problems to be faced during the intermediate period. Ultimate progress experienced from farmworker to farmowner is also analyzed. Upon arrival, each Dutch immigrant has been assigned to work for a Canadian farmer-sponsor. Under the agree— ment, this type employment is provided for one year. After the completion of this first year, many immigrants rent or buy farms. w. Robert Redelmeier During his first months in Canada, the immigrant usually encountered a number of obstacles. Significant among these are the problems of: (1) Differences in farming between Holland and Canada; (2) language diffi- culty; (3) effects of capital restrictions; (4) contrasts in community life; (5) emergency situations; and (6) the changes in status experienced by the immigrants during their transitional period. Most of the Dutch immigrants have settled in southern Ontario and northern Alberta. A fair number have dispersed in other parts of Canada's main farming regions. Place- ment with sponsors facilitated eventual settlement in these areas. The Dutch farmers who have come to Canada since 1946 have experienced a period of high prices. This general prosperity of Canadian agriculture has helped to under- write the success of most of the settlers who have started to farm for themselves. In addition, they have benefitted from the availability of numerous farms at comparatively low prices. This situation has been caused in part by the migration of Canadians from rural to urban areas during the postwar period. Consideration of the long run success or failure of the plan for settling Dutch immigrants on Canadian farms involves more than merely looking at the progress the immigrants are making under present conditions. The w. Robert Redelmeier future economic success of the program will be effected to a considerable extent by farm prices and conditions within agriculture; the productivity and accessibility of new farmlands, and increasing market demands. More- over, the ability of settlers to adjust to Canadian farming conditions also will have great impact on this immigration movement. The entry of Netherlanders is only one phase within the framework of postwar Canadian immigration; yet the arrival of each potential "new citizen" will strengthen the domestic demand of Canada‘s consumer goods and services. Every immigrant who engages himself, either as employer or employee, in productive work, will add to Canada's national income. To provide a balance between the factors of supply and demand for Canada's farm products, there should be a corresponding entry of nonfarm immigrants with each farmer who enters Canada - in search of a new home and a new career. I. II. III. IV. V. TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION 0 O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O CANADIAN IMMIGRATION MOVEMENTS . . . . . . . Early History of Land Settlement: 1492‘18670000000000one... The Intermediate Period: 1867-19A5 . Three Significant Postwar Immigration Movements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . AN ANALYSIS OF POSTNAR IMMIGRATION POLICY . . Present Immigration Policy . . . . . . . . Policy Problems - Internal . . . . . . . . Policy Problems - External . . . . . . . . PHASES LEADING FROM DEPARTURE TO PLACEMENT 0F DUTCH FARMERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . Reasons For Their Departure . . . . . . . . Various Stages Leading to Placement of a thh Farmer O O O O O O O O O O O O 0 O The Dutch Immigrants - Breakdown by Number of Entries, as well as Characteristics of Occupation and Destination . . . . . . . PROBLEMS AND ADJUSTMENTS TO BE FACED BY DUTCH FARMERS AFTER ARRIVAL o . . . . .V. . Difference Between Holland's and Canada's Farms 0 O O O O O O O O O O O O O O I O O The Question of Language and Communication. Factors Due to Difference in Dutch Agri- cultural Communities . . . . . . . . . . Restrictions Imposed by Capital Rationing . Page 20 20 21 27 32 32 36 41 48 49 55 58 60 Emergency Situations Suddenly Arising . . 63 Factors Due to Changes in Status of Imm18rant O O O O O O 0 O O 0 O O O O 0 66 VI. PICTORIAL DESCRIPTION OF DUTCH FARMERS IN EASTERN CANADA 0 o o o o o o o o o o o o 70 VII. LAND AVAILABILITY, IMMIGRANT SETTLEMENT, AND LONG-RANGE CONSIDERATIONS . . . . . . 99 Lands Available . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100 Details Regarding Immigrant Settlement. . 107 Long’Range COhSiderationS o o o o o o o o 113 APPENDIX A. Breakdown of Displaced Persons who Arrived in Canada up to February 28, 1950 O O O O O ‘0 O O O O O 0 O O O O 122 APPENDIX B. Progress Reports on Dutch Immigrant Cases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124 APPENDIX CO map or Canada 0 o o o o o o o o o o 129 BIBIJIOGRAPIIY 0 o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 130 CHART TABLE TABLE TABLE TABLE TABLE TABLE TABLE TABLE TABLE TABLE CHART TABLE I. II. III. IV. VI. VII. VIII. IX. X. II. XI. LIST OF CHARTS AND TABLES Total Immigrant Arrivals Into Canada, 1867-1947 Total Arrivals - Per Occupation Total Arrivals - Per Destination . Dutch Immigrants - Per Occupation Intended Destination of Dutch Immigrants . . Occupational Subdivision of Dutch Farmers Holland's Farm Population Holland's Farmholdings - Grouped According to Size Use of Fertilizers - Prewar Applications per 2.5 Acres Arrable Land . Ownership and Tenancy in Holland Ownership and Tenancy in Central Canada . Main Types of Farming in Canada Annual and Monthly Index Numbers, 1939-1950 0 O O Page 17 18 42 43 44 50 51 52 67 68 105 115 Chapter I INTRODUCTION During the postwar era, Canada has been working in close cooperation with Netherlands authorities. The immigration and settlement of Dutch farmers has been encouraged. In 1946, the foundations were laid on the Netherlands-Canada Farm Settlement Plan. The follow— ing year, agricultural immigrants started to arrive under its auspices. At the end of March, 1950, over 18,000 farmers and their families had arrived from Holland, by means of this settlement plan. They came, together with 7,000 other Hollanders who made up the total of 25,000 Dutch immigrants to Canada from 1946 to 1950. Many left valuable properties and positions behind them, in order to start new homes and new careers in Canada. After describing briefly the history of Canadian Immigration Movements, and analyzing qualitatively some problems connected with policy, the major objective of this study is: to describe and evaluate the postwar entry of Dutch farmers; their arrival and placement; obstacles and problems to be faced; and their ultimate progress from farmworker to farmowner. Short-run fac- tors as well as long—term considerations are included. 2. Evaluation of the Dutch immigration movement in- volves much more than merely saying that it is good or bad, or that its operation has met with success or failure. In the final analysis, the significance of this movement will be determined by progress of indi- vidual participants. This to be measured only after observations have been made under varying economic conditions.- Canada's agriculture, during the period 1946-1950, has enjoyed one of its periods of greatest prosperity. This has greatly influenced short-run conditions, and has cast a favorable light on the Dutch immigration and farm settlement program. The long-range success of Dutch farmers will depend on economic conditions rela- tive not only to the production of needed farm products, but also to their distribution on domestic as well as export markets. This in turn will be vitally affected by the numbers and calibre of future immigrants planning to make Canada their new homeland. The topic of international immigration benefits from examination by a wide range of scientists. Besides agricultural economics, the political sciences, sociology, and the natural sciences would find many features worthy of study within the framework of immigration and land settlement. It is hoped that this thesis will stimulate further interest and subsequent research in this field. Chapter II CANADIAN IMMIGRATION MOVEMENTS Postwar Dutch immigration, albeit of great impor- tance, does not stand alone. It may be well to examine briefly the background and history of past settlements, as well as those of a more contemporary nature. With this in mind, this chapter is divided into sections. The first one deals with the Early History of Canadian Immigration until Confederation. The next section concerns highlights in population movements from 1867 to 1945. The third section brings this up to date by analyzing briefly the three significant postwar move- ments and general characteristics of postwar immigra- tion. Early History of Land Settlement: 1492-1867 After the discovery of North America by Columbus, and Canada by John Cabot, settlements made at first very slow progress. The earliest large-scale expedi- tions were of a military nature; objectives were the gold and copper purportedly to be found in Saguenay. The expeditions ended in failure, and this helped to postpone subsequent exploration and eventual settle— ment. The first attempt at Canadian Colonization was 1 in 1598. His project, started by Marquis de la Roche to establish outposts in the Maritimes, was aimed at monopolizing all fish and fur trade, and this venture ended in failure. Among the "colonists" selected were mostly a group of beggars, and internal frictions led to the downfall of this first colony. Subsequent attempts to form colonies - by Frenchmen such as Poutrincourt, De Monts, and de Biencourt, as well as the Scotsman, William Alexander, achieved very limited success. In 1608, Champlain gained more favorable results. He established, at this date, the first permanent set- tlement - comprising 28 persons - who established their first colony at Quebec City. Subsequent progress was slow during the seventeenth century. The white population of Canada consisted chiefly of trappers, hunters, coureurs de bois, and soldiers. None of these groups were keen to encourage the immigration of settlers into "New France." They feared that an influx of farmers would limit their own privileges. One writer stated, "Neither climate, accessible natural resources, nor official policy was 1D. C. Harvey, The Colonization of Canada, page 16 a 17. Publishers: Clarke-Irwin CO., Efd., Toronto. 1936. such as to stimulate interest in New France as a land of permanent abode."2 Due to this, Canada's total white population by 1701 numbered only 17,000.3 British Immigration started to enter Canada after the fall of Quebec in 1763. Few of the first immigrants were farmers. A large number were retired soldiers and traders, who gave some impetus to the commercial life of the colony.4 The first large scale settlement movement started with the exodus of United Empire Loyalists from the 13 colonies, after the American War of Independence. Of these, about 10,000 went to New Brunswick, 8,000 to Nova Scotia, and about 12,000 to Upper Canada. After the constitution act of 1791, a further influx of British immigrants followed. The statistics report that during 1827-1832 over 170,000 immigrants arrived for settlement in Canada.5 From this time to 1867, settlement to Canada gained in magnitude. There was much political and economic unrest in the United Kingdom 2H. L. Keenleyside: Canada's Immigration Polic . Reprint 19KB. from the International JournaI, Summer, 3Canada. Dominion Bureau of Statistics. Canada Yearbook l9A8-1948. Chapter on 'Immigration and Emigration.' 4L. M. Gouin: "French-Canadian‘Views on Immigration." A speech abstract which is presented Ifi c as er ni- versity's "Population Growth and Immigration into Canada" Published in 1949. Through a secondary source, Mr. Gouin describes some of the first immigrants as being ". . most cruel, ignorant . . . fanatics . . ." 5Chart I. Total Immigrant arrivals into Canada, 1867-19A7. :8. .mmoz. can >m 22.5.52. 45.2. 0 .r ZEDO z<_D(Z_.rown_®0ma flou con _E~u< FZHmm< Adfioa HH mumsa 190 largest number of employment opportunities. These areas, although to be found throughout parts of the Dominion, predominate in Ontario and Quebec. As the Canadian Regulation favored the entry of farmers and workers "whose skills were needed by industry," especially in lumbering and mining, so a relatively small entry in professional categories, such as doctors, law- yers, etc., is evident. Those who did arrive in these classes came mostly from Great Britain, whose immigrants had to meet no occupational restrictions, and had rela- tively few barriers to cross, as compared to immigrants from most other areas. Tables I and II measure respectively the occu- pation and destination of the immigrants. If sufficient data were available, it would be very interesting to examine the degrees of migration which have occurred within Canada, after the immigrants had arrived. The mobility within occupations would merit further investi- gation, especially when comparing the "farming" and non-farming categories. agreement, administered by the Department of Labor, whereby the immigrant would work during his first year in the employ of an assigned sponsor. Chapter III AN ANALYSIS OF POSTWAR IMMIGRATION POLICY Before an attempt is made to evaluate the Dutch Farm Settlement Movement, consideration must be given to the prevailing immigration policy. Also, since the Dutch Farm Movement represents but one phase of immigration, brief attention should be directed to some problems of policy. These may be of an internal, or external nature. Present Immigration Policy Canada's postwar immigration policy can be sum- marized in the words of MacKenzie King: The policy of the government is to foster the growth of the population by the encouragement of immigration. The government will seek by legislation, regulation, and vigorous administration, to ensure the careful selection and permanent settlement of such numbers of immigrants as can advantageously be absorbed in our national economy. Under the revised regulations, effective July 1, 1950, the following six categories are now admissible without reference to the Minister of Immigration: 1. Relatives sponsored by residents of Canada in cases where satisfactory settlement conditions are established, such conditions to include good prospects of employment for persons other than dependent relatives. 1W. L. MacKenzie King, "Canada's Immigration Policy," A speech to the House of Commons, May 1, 1947. 21. 2. Persons applying for admission to Canada for the purpose of marriage, provided that the prospective husband is able to support his intended wife. 3. Agriculturists who have sufficient means to farm in Canada. 4. Immigrants individually nominated by Canadian employers - who establish that their services are required; provided that the number of immigrants nominated by an employer in any one group application does not exceed 25. 5. Domestics and Nurses' Aides. 6. Immigrants recommended by ghe Settlement Service of the Immigration Branch. As was previously the case, immigrants from the United Kingdom, France, and the United States of Amer- ica remain freely admissible, subject only to "compliance with civil and medical requirements, and being self- supporting until able to find employment.3 Policy Problems - Internal Among current problems of immigration policy, within the boundaries of the Dominion, there are three factors 4 which warrant major recognition. These include groups opposed to a vigorous immigration policy; a lack of 2P. C. 2856 of the Immigration Act. This is reported in detail in the Montreal Daily Star, Friday, June 30, 1950, page 23, column 4. 3Montreal Star, ibid. 4The existence of numerous problems of minor significance is not to be ignored. To avoid including much extraneous material, only three major policy problems will be dis- cussed in this section. 22. knowledge about Canada's capacity to absorb immigrants; and a slow rate of assimilation experienced with some past migrants. Groups opposed to vigorous immigration. Included here could be most labor groups,5 many French-Canadian citizens, and some other natives who do not believe that Canada needs many immigrants. These groups, with power and sometimes eloquent pleas, found many adherents during the depression 1930's, and still have a reason- ably large following. Citing many half-truths and misleading statements, they tend to appeal more to one's emotions than to any scientific reasoning. When they state, “Newly arrived foreigners usurp the jobs held by deserving Canadians, and create unem— ployment," they neglect to add that as each immigrant 6 and thus stim- arrives, he increases the total demand, ulates the "demand" for Canadian manufactured products. This may create new employment, and more than offset any Canadians' fear of unemployment. When they state, "Newly arrived immigrants require valuable housing space, even as native Canadians are 5See Logan, H. A., "Organized Labor and Immigration Pol- icy," and Gouin, L. M., "French Canadian Views on Immi- gration." Both these abstracts reprinted in McMaster University‘s "Population Growth and Immigration Into Canada, 1949." Both these articles indicate that a negative attitude towards vigorous immigration still exists among some quarters. 6For products ranging from food, clothing, and shelter to those of smaller significance. 23. forced to remain in slum areas," they neglect to add that, by building new houses, or improving existing facilities, Canadian industry receives further stimulus. As each immigrant has a sponsor, the problem of meeting "rent payments" would not be serious. The problem of slumdwellers is due to poverty, misfortune, illness, neglect, ignorance, or a combination of these factors, and it should be treated quite apart from the whole topic of immigration. This is provided that entering immigrants are not contributing directly to the slum- dweller population.7 Opposition to immigration often uses racial or re- ligious prejudice as its main weapon. Since this fea- ture depends on the individual interpretation of social values, it may be outside the field of objective analysis. Intolerance should be recognized as being a major factor, both in discouraging initial entry of the immigrant, as well as hampering his progress in adjustment after arrival. Lack of knowledge about Canada's capacity to absorb immigrants. Without an insight into Canada's resources, and their potential, it is difficult to judge how many 7By careful selection and sound sponsorship, very few among present-day immigrants are faced with poverty or ill health. Interviews with immigration personnel indicate that slumdwelling and delinquency occur but rarely among the postwar immigrants. 24. people, and in what occupations,8 should be annually admitted. Keeping in mind that Canada's resources are not of a static nature, but consisting of a fund, a flow, and biologic activity,9 a number of factors are evident. Before examining Canada's aggragate capacity, examination of its components would be required. This would include an inventory of natural resources, both in the populous areas, as well as in outlying districts which have as yet felt little impact from civilization. The absorptive capacity of an area may be in- fluenced by the prevailing attitude of its inhabitants towards the influx of immigrants. Apart from institu- tional factors, an analysis of "absorptive capacity" of a territory planning to take in some farmer-immigrants would include a determination of outlook forecasts. Assuming the existence of a business cycle, is there 10 enough of an upswing evident so that increased labor and output is justified? 8As the immigrant may change occupation after arrival, this criterion is of limited value as an "absolute yardstick." 9A. C. Bunce, 'The Economics of Soil Conservation.‘ This reference stresses that the resources, being more than static, consist of fund, flow, as well as biological activity, and are dynamic in nature. 10An "upswing" in agriculture could result from an in- creased demand for farm products. This could in turn be effected by entry of non-farm immigrants. 25. If this be favorable, then the individual farmer- immigrant should be defined, as to his capability, permanency of being a farm worker, or eventual farm owner. Besides his age, health, character, marital 11 it should be made status, and educational background, clear whether he is a dairyman, poultry farmer, bee- keeper, or engaged in other form of agriculture. Employment opportunities, as well as prospects for eventual settlement should be investigated.12 Again, emphasis should be placed on the dynamic nature of "absorptive capacity," as well as the diverse factors to be known, before it may be determined for any one area, within Canada. Statements such as "An estimate avers the absorptive capacity of Canada to be "13 159,000 per year, or "Net immigration might be in- creased to a level approaching 138,000 persons per "14 annum may, by their very nature, be openly of very limited value. 11The factor of "religious affiliation" is purposely omitted from this list. This factor should be of minor importance in determining an immigrant's future ability as a settler. Settlement opportunities could be determined by col- lecting total farms for sale, rented, or abandoned, or otherwise available for improvement, and subtracting from this aggregate total the lands which are unfit for farming. 13B. B. Robinson, "Immigration," The Economic Background, page 9, the McMaster Report of 1949, op. cit. 14C. H. Fortin and H. C. Thompson, "Agricultural and Industrial Progress in Canada," page 3. Edition of summer, 1946. 12 26. Some past migrants were slow to assimilate. The slow rate of assimilation experienced by some past mi- grants_is another current problem affecting the immigra- tion policy.15 The language difficulty experienced, concentrated settlements in urban group-neighborhoods, such as the "Chinatown," "Little Poland," etc., and the lack of acceptance of many immigrants from the Orient and from other states in the past, has caused some major concern. As it is the aim of policy to admit immi- grants who integrate themselves rapidly 1nto the Canadian 16 community, a secondary problem arises here, namely, how may the most suitable immigrants be integrated into Canadian citizenship as painlessly as possible? Although free language lessons are available in many sections, and many organizations such as churches, Y. M. C. A., Y. W. C. A., Citizenship Branch of Immigration Depart- ment, and others, cooperate in this matter, the major part of this problem remains for each immigrant to solve individually. l51t has been one aim of policy to encourage the settle- ment of immigrants in dispersed areas. This is aimed at accelerating the process of assimilation. 16See "Integration of Immigrants," a mimeographed article distributed by the Department of Citizenship and Im- migration, Ottawa, 1950. 270 Policy Problems - External Problems of policy involving factors outside the boundaries of Canada include: The selection of promis- ing individuals; the distribution of accurate information about Canada to the prospective immigrants; and the de- creasing of delays in the departure of the applicant who has been granted his entry visa. Selection of promising individuals. Selection of promising individuals is a difficult task because it is problematical whether any criteria could be established whereby a prospective immigrant could be judged for "complete fitness" in a matter of a few hours. As some questionnaires neglect any items pertaining to the immi- grant's ambition and personality, while stressing with much emphasis details of history and nationality, the degree of promise which the immigrant shows is often rather obscure until after arrival. Distributing of information about Canada. Giving informative material to prospective immigrants would be of much help. The knowledge of accurate facts on Can- adian agriculture would help to dispell some of the dangerous illusionfiwhich many immigrants have upon arrival.17 17Some illusions as to Canada's opportunities have led to initial disappointments among immigrants who had been ill-informed before departure. 28. Pamphlets about Canada, showing not only its geo- graphical boundaries and the splendor of Niagara Falls, but also some actual farming conditions in various areas, would be a great help. There are still many fallacies about Canada prevalent in Holland. For example, one Rotterdam Journal recently wrote, "Dutch farmer bought land on Wolfe Island for only five dollars per acre; the soil was perfect . ."18 Such a statement, and the subsequent columns, which neglected analysis of any possible problems of "life on Wolfe Island" would tend to mislead the Dutch farmer. From this and many similar articles he could hardly learn that agricultural migration to Canada, as a rule, re- mains a task of much challenge to the individual. It has great compensations, but only if the connected prob- lems are met with exceptional resourcefulness. Decreasing delay of immigrant's departure. The delay of departure is one problem.which has been mitigated through imprOVed shipping facilities since 1945.19 Delays, sometimes resulted in a farmer-immigrant approved in the spring and destined to arrive on his sponsor's farm in time for haying, not coming forth to Canada until autumn. 18From :De Maasbode° of Rotterdam, Holland. Friday, June 30, 1950. Translation from the Dutch. 19At first after the end of world war II, all trans- atlantic ships were used to transport returning per- sonnel from the Armed Forces, and their dependents, including many "war brides." 290 Another factor for decrease in delays is by an improve— ment in administration, both overseas as well as in Canada. The expansion of immigration personnel with the formation of Canadian Department of Citizenship and Immigration20 in 1950 also had a favorable effect. If Canada desires further European immigrants, it is important that delays of transport and entry be still further reduced, for there exists competition. Other regions, notably Brazil, South Africa, and Australia are anxious to receive immigrants. Inducements such as transportation rebates, settlement loans available on arrival, and lack of currency restrictions are promised to Dutch settlers wishing to emigrate to Brazil and Australia respectively.21 Moreover, the language pre- sents no problem for Dutch settlers planning to go to South Africa. The stream of immigrants from Holland to Canada may be diverted to these other territories unless Canada's immigration policy maintains vigor and enthusiasm. In summation, policy problems both of an internal, as well as of an external nature, should be regarded in 20Formerly the "Immigration Branch," together with the "Lands and Development Branch," the "Mines, Forests, and Scientific Service Branch" and the "Indian Affairs Branch" had all been under the jurisdiction of the Department of Mines and Resources. 21Interviewwith personnel of Brazilian Chamber of Com- merce in Montreal; also discussion with members of the Australian High Commissioner's office at Ottawa. 30. the light of scientific reasoning. Some dogmatic state- ments have pictured immigration as a danger, aggravating any ills within the economy. Others regard immigration as an unqualified panacea, curing all the nation's ills.22 Through organized inquiry and logic, it is evident that the impact of immigration is far more great than providing a mere addition to a country's inhabitants. If suitable immigrants enter, when they are needed by the receiving country, much benefit may result. The growth of the United States during the last century shows ample proof of this.23 Since Canada's potentialities and present resources are of a somewhat different nature, and modified further by climatic and geographic factors, it would be wise to examine them on an individual basis. Canada's immigration policy, and solution of its problems, may help appreciably in determining the ulti- mate destiny of the North American Continent. It is evident that Canadian immigration experienced a great increase in magnitude during the postwar period. As many of the immigrants are in non-agricultural occupations, they may add to Canada's domestic demand for farm products. This may have considerable impact on 22Among the "ills" most often listed are delinquency, unemployment, disunity, and the factors of "recession and depression" within business cycle framework. 23W. Robert Redelmeier, "An Historical Outline of Immi- gration into the Great Lakes States," unpublished manuscript. agriculture, as well as any related industries which are affected by the degree of prosperity found on Canada's farmlands. 31. Chapter Iv PHASES LEADING FROM DEPARTURE TO PLACEMENT OF DUTCH FARMERS During the past four years, over 18,000 Dutch farmers have left their homes to start life anew on Canadian farms. After examining some reasons for their decision to depart for Canada, the various stages leading to their placement will be discussed. Concluding this section will be a breakdown, by number, occupation, and intended destination, of total Netherlands arrivals during the postwar period, and importance of successful placements. Reasons for Their Departure When questioned1 most Dutch immigrants answered simply that they left Holland with the hope of "finding a brighter future in Canada." Besides the fear for the welfare of Europe, caused by "war-anxiety"2 there are many more tangible factors which cause Dutch farmers to regard Canada as a land of great promise for them. 1During the summer months of 1949 and 1950 the author asked many immigrants, "Why did you decide to come to Canada?" Footnote 18, Chapter II, "Emigration visas sought by two million Hollanders," stresses this factor greatly. 2 33- The costliness of all farmland in Holland, and the scarcity of its supply is a feature inherent in Dutch agriculture. Although some wartime floodings, espe- cially in the Province of Zeeland, helped to aggravate this, the shortage of arable land, it has been evident throughout the history of The Netherlands. Including stable and implements, to buy an 80-acre farm in the Province of Groningen, it would cost 100,000, or the equivalent of about $32,000.3 This farm would be situated in one of Holland's least densely populated areas; in other areas, especially the Provinces of Noord-Holland, Utrecht, Zuid-Holland, and Zeeland, the price of equivalent farms, if for sale, may be upwards of $60,000.)4L - As farmlands are costly, they are also scarce. When a farmowner plans to sell or rent his land, there may be upwards of 60 bidders anxious to take possession of the property. Hence, at least 59 applicants will be disap- pointed, and many of them may have to wait years at length before having the chance to buy land in Holland at a price they can afford. Costliness of operation of farmland in Holland is increased by the high rate of taxation. Although the 3Detailed interview with former landowner in Groningen, who has now found a new career in Canada. “Ibid. 34. real estate, or property tax, may only amount to per hectare,5 in many areas, especially near the coast, there is a "waterschaps" tax, for the drainage upkeep, which varies from 20 to 100 guilders per hectare. Due to his high fixed costs, the Dutch farm operator must have great returns to justify his continued opera- tion, and to prevent deficits from accumulating, and this may make farming in Holland a hazardous venture for the marginal producer. Overpopulation, as found in Holland, as well as in Belgium, is evident also within their farming industry. A large supply of farm labor often contains many single youths of ages 25 to 35. These men often come from a farm background, and are anxious to get married and start out on their own farms. For many, this is impos- sible due to lack of farmlands available. Among this group would be some of the most enthusiastic supporters of the Netherlands—Canada Settlement Plan. This scheme offers them an opportunity to help attain their ambition of farm ownership, since the greater availability of land in Canada has been (stressed and) publicized for many years.6 5A hectare is the equivalent of approximately 2.5 acres. 6As far back as 1903, railway colonization agencies had recruiting offices in Continental Europe. They greatly helped to publicize the future of North America. 35- Besides these factors related to Holland's agricul- tural economy, some immigrants' decision for departure is based on reasons of adventure and speculation. In any population group, even if the majority is staid and conservative, there may be found some who are looking for new experiences and challenges. To them, Canada seems like a golden opportunity. Moreover, if some youths of military service age wish to spend their fol- lowing years in a totally different and less regimented atmosphere, they may decide to marry their schoolday sweethearts, spend their honeymoons on the Atlantic, and become participants in the Canada-Netherlands Farm Set- tlement Scheme.7 Some other Hollanders may decide to emigrate simply as a means of avoiding friction with neighbors, personal difficulties, or a host of intangible factors never to be revealed by interview.8 In summation, the majority of Dutch farmers who have chosen to emigrate, were induced to make this de- cision on account of factors relative to the agricultural economy in Holland. This is a favorable indication; if the majority emigrated because of their restlesness, 7At present, very few of the Dutch immigrants would be arriving because of this factor. 8When questioned about personal affairs, many immigrants were reluctant to reveal intimate details of personal problems which they had experienced before departure, hence it was impossible to examine this phase in detail. 36. shiftlessness, or even less happy incentives, the calibre of Canada's new farmers from Holland would be far less promising than it is today. Most immigrants interviewed showed very sound motivations, thus revealing an inherent soundness of character. Various Stages Leading to Placement of a Dutch Farmer A Dutch farmer (with bona fide farm experience) who wants to come to Canada under this plan applies to the Netherlands Emigration Foundation (a governmental bureau at the Hague), which is called the Stichting Landver- huizigg. If his application is approved, then it is placed, together with other applications, on a large list, containing hundreds of immigrants' names. From this list prospective immigrants are checked by the Immigration Inspecting Officers, as to health, farm experience, and general "character." The medical examination includes also a chest x-ray (since this is required by Canadian authorities). By an interview, the age, farm experience, and general qualifications of the immigrant are thus determined, as is also the size of his family, his religion, and general data. This in- formation is tabulated on what is known as an information sheet. These information sheets are sent to Ottawa, to the office of the Agricultural Attache of the Netherlands 37. Embassy, and from there, they go to the Settlement Service of the Immigration Department of Canada. Examples of the data on these information sheets follow: Dutch Immigrants - Mixed Farming, Mainly Dairyg 14419 - Berg, Johannes, Aged 21. CATHOLIC. Single. Proposed immigrant has over 6 years experience in mixed farming. He has good experience in cattle husbandry, good milker, good horse driver, in the Dutch way, fair cheese maker, fair tractor driver, fruit grower, and has fair experience in handling implements. He is a very good type of immigrant. The Dutch authorities furnish very good information regarding this man's character. Passed medical examination. Sailing July 19, 1949. 14485 - Smits, Henricus Hubertus, Aged 31. CATHOLIC. Single. Proposed immigrant would like to be placed in the neighborhood of "A" Form 14573, forwarded to you by same mail. Proposed immigrant has over 10 years' experience in mixed farming. He is a good milker, horse driver in the Dutch way, has fair experience in handling implements and good experience in cattle husbandry. He is operating his own small mixed farm in the Netherlands. The Dutch authorities furnish very good information regarding this man's character. Passed medical inspection, sailing on July 19, 1949. 2669-5246 - Eems, Rinze van, Aged 34, Wife Aged 32. PROTESTANT. Family Of 6. Three sons aged 7, 3, and 1. One daughter aged 5. Proposed immigrant has over 15 years' experience in mixed farming, mainly dairy. He is a very good milker, horse driver, cattle breeder, poultry farmer, and sugarbeet grower. He has poor experience in handling implements. His wife is willing to help with farm work and in housekeeping as much as possible. The Dutch authorities furnish very good information regarding this man's character. Passed medical in- spection. Sailing July 19, 1949. 9From these lists, all family names have been changed, so as to preserve the anonymity of each immigrant listed. 38. 11198 - Delft, Franciscus van, Aged 48, Wife Aged 45. CATHOLIC. Family of 14. Six sons of 17, 12, 11, 10, 8, 7. Six daughters of 19, 18, 16, 15, 3, 1. The husband and father has over 30 years' experience in mixed farming. He is a very good milker, horse driver, a good cattle breeder, poultry keeper, and fruit grower (apples and pears). He knows how to handle implements. His two eldest daughters and his eldest son are willing to help with the farm work and have already done so in the Nether- lands. Information from the Dutch authorities as to the character of this family: very good. 14573 - Veendyk, Gerardus Mathias, Aged 23, Wife Aged 22. CATHOLIC. Couple. Proposed immigrant has over 10 years' experience in mixed farming. He has good experience in cattle husbandry, good cattle breeder and good milker. He can be considered as an all-around mixed farmer. The Dutch authorities furnish very good information re- garding this man's character. Passed medical exam- ‘ination. Sailing July 19, 1949. 12157 - Bosch, Jan, Aged 43, Wife Aged 45. PROTESTANT. Couple. Proposed immigrant has over 20 years' experience in mixed farming and market gardening. He is not a milker and has fair experience in cattle husbandry. He is a very good sugarbeet grower and potato grower, good horse driver and has good experience in handling implements. He is a fair tractor driver. He speaks some English. I suggest having this man placed in graincrops growing or market gardening. The Dutch authorities furnish very good information regarding this man's character. Passed medical inapection. Sailing July 19, 1949. 12369 - Heensma, Karel A. (van), Aged 23. CATHOLIC. Single. Has over 4 years' experience in market gardening. Was originally a leater worker, but has been working in market gardening exclusively since 1944. He is a poor milker. Is a good horse driver and a good market gardener. Also has good experience in greenhouse farm- ing (grapes, tomatoes, cucumbers, etc.). Information from Dutch authorities as to character, very good. Has passed medical inspection. Sailing July 19. 39. 12617 - Pluym, Pieter, Aged 50, Wife Aged 46. PROTESTANT. Family of 8. Four sons aged 24, 20, l7, 14. Two daughters aged 15 and 8. Has over 23 years' experience in dairy farming. Is operating his own small farm in the Netherlands, but wants to emigrate. Due to size of family could not make a living on this farm and ran an 011 store on the side. He is a very good milker and has good experience in cattle husbandry. He is a good butter and cheese maker. He is not a cattle breeder. Has good experience in market gardening, and poultry keeping. His oldest son was working as a blacksmith, but has fair experience in cattle husbandry and is a fair milker. Third son was working on a shipbuilding yard, and has fair experience in dairy farming; he is a fair milker. Information as to character of this family from Dutch authorities, very good. They are very indus— trious people, and due to size of farm, the children had to find work elsewhere. 1293-557 — Gerrits, van den, Wilhelmus, Aged 38, Wife Aged 35. CATHOLIC. Family of 6. One daughter aged 3. Three sons aged 5, 2, 1. Proposed immigrant has over 20 years' experience in mixed farming. He was first employed on his father's farm and during the last 5 years he was operating his own small farm in the Netherlands. He is a good milker, horse driver, poultry keeper and has good experience in cattle husbandry. His wife is also a good milker. The Dutch authorities furnish very good information regarding this man's character. Passed medical examination. Departure, 9th, steamer. Farmer-sponsors for these immigrations are found by the various offices of the Settlement Service across Canada, and by Immigration Officers. These farmer-spon- sors agree to hire the immigrant, supply him.with suitable accommodations, pay him the specified minimum wages at least, and agree to keep him for a one year period. The minimum specified wages include: (1) For single man, $45 per month plus room and board; (2) For married couple, $75 per month plus adequate housing, fuel, milk, vegetables, 40. and potatoes. The farmer-sponsor is obliged to accept at face value any information on these sheets; since this is the only information available to the farmer- sponsor, it is important that the data of description is factual and reliable. Arrangements are then complete for the immigrants' arrival. Of the 18,000 Dutch farmers coming to Canada from 1946 to March 31, 1950, about 14,000 came out via boat. These ships landed at Halifax or Quebec City. There the immigrant, guided by immigration officers, clergy, and railroad officials, was placed enroute to his farmer-sponsor, who would provide him with employ- ment during the following 12 months. About 4,000 immi- grants arrived by air; of those, over 3,000 came out via the "Ontario Airlift" in 1948, while others came via the Royal Dutch Airlines to Dornal Airport at a subse- quent date. Similar to the "boat-arrivals," these "air-immigrants" would then be aided in their journey to their first Canadian homes. If the immigrant had any immediate problems re- quiring solution during his transitional period, he 10 could call on the church agencies, as well as on the 10Among the church-sponsored organizations, there are Inter Allia, the international Y. M. C. A. and Y. W. C. A., the Catholic Immigrant Aid Society, the Canadian Mennonite Board of Colonization, the German Baptist Society, the Canadian Lutheran World Relief, and others. 41. Settlement Service of the Immigration Department. These agencies were instrumental in helping the immigrant in his first period of adjustment to Canadian life. The Dutch Immigrants - Breakdown by Number of Entries, as well as Characteristics of Occupation and Destination Among the Dutch Immigrants, out of a total of 24,964 who arrived, there were 18,206 men, women, and children in the farming class. Table III gives a more detailed breakdown of the occupation of all Netherlands immigrants. The number of immigrant arrivals to Ontario in 1948-1949 received major impetus through a cooperation with the air migration and "Ontario Airlift" which was outlined in section 3 of Chapter II. The dispersement of the Dutch farmers throughout the major farming areas of Canada11 is not by accident. The Canadian Immigration Department wants to avoid con- centrated group settlements or "colonies" of immigrants being placed in one locality.l2 Hence, the immigrants are encouraged to farm in scattered areas, diSpersed units. This measure is aimed at helping to speed up the integration of each immigrant unit into its Canadian community. Apart from a few areas in Southern Ontario and Northern Alberta, at "Hollandia" and "Neerlandia," 11See Chapter VII for a map of Canada's major farming areas. 12Interviews with immigration personnel, July and August, 1950 O TABLE III DUTCH IMMIGRANTS - PER OCCUPATION 42. I Occupation 1946 1947 1948 1949 1950 Farmers Men 3 10 983 2,700 2,560 Women 1 3 629 1,763 1,415 Children 3 3 1,280 3,447 3,226 Unskilled and Semi-skilled Workers Men 1 5 51 57 35 Women - l 74 243 148 Children - 91 199 149 Skilled Workers Men 1 9 56 110 68 Women 1 2 50 77 50 Children - - 31 54 63 Trading and Clerking Personnel Men 8 13 26 50 24 Women 3 7 36 67 28 Children 2 12 22 52 10 Mining Class Workers Men 1 7 6 Women - - 1 1 3 Children - - 4 Female Domestics Over Eighteen 1 97 275 180 Under Eighteen — 6 23 13 Other Classes Men 2 14 20 59 51 Women 12 2,003* 6 4 411 232 Children 8 282 156 271 107 * Indicates mostly the large number of Dutch war brides, . who married Canadian soldiers during and after the war, and joined their husbands in Canada after demobiliza- tion (author's note). 43o :mm.:m HGROE OthO mnm.m m was mmm.a are «me nmm.s cam am ma mma omma mmm.m m mma.a . amm.a mam mmm.a saa.a mmm mm am mma mama som.a a mom so: ema amm oma.m oma a no mm mama mom.m . mam mmm mmm mma mmm mmm m mm :ma mama em - m m a m ma aa a a A mama masses .a.3.z .o.m .ssae .xnsm .ss: .sso .oso .a.m.ml.m.z .maz snow 9.2;ch mega mo ZOHHRZHBmMQ Gaga” >H BEE 42+. there is little evidence that Dutch farmers are now settling together in groups of appreciable size. To merely describe the Dutch immigrants as being "farmers" is inadequate. Although the majority are mixed farmers, there is a considerable number of them skilled in specialized phases of agriculture. TABLE V OCCUPATIONAL SUBDIVISIONS 0F DUTCH FARMERSl3 Classification Number Percentage Poultry Keepers 3 2% Fruit Growers gg Dairymen 19 13% Mixed Farmers 77 53% Market Gardeners 20 l%% Graincrops Growers 14 10% Floriculturists and 9 6% Horticulturists Totals 145 100% 13This occupational subdivision of 145 Dutch immigrants It was obtained by selecting at random 145 files of Dutch farmer-immigrants at Ot- is approximate in nature. tawa Immigration Headquarters. With COOperation from immigration personnel, the 145 farmers were then grouped according to the type of farming which they were engaged in in Holland and which they hoped to follow also in Canada. 45. This grouping may have been influenced by the ability to locate sponsors for the various occupational subdivi- sions. Considering ease of placement, the mixed farmers were especially encouraged to come out, since it was much easier to find sponsors for their work, than it was to locate large numbers of market gardeners and floricul- turist-sponsors. The graincrops growers would be placed chiefly in the Prairies, while some of the poultrykeepers and market gardeners would be in the vicinity of large centres of Montreal, Toronto, and also in the "fruit belt" of the Niagara peninsula of Ontario, and in the Simcoe, Kent, and Essex county area, of Ontario. The importance of finding suitable sponsors for all categories is of manifold facets. Examining some of these items, we find that during the first months and years which the Dutchman spends in Canada, he has much to learn about his new homeland. A number of the Dutchmen from the southern part of Holland (where the farms are of relatively very small size - about 15 acres or so) often have to learn how to handle machinery and mechanized equipment. There'are also other factors, listed in detail on the following chapter, which make it necessary to regard the immigrant not as a "superhuman," but rather as one immigrant who is capable, and yet needs guidance as well as understanding, during the first per- iod of integration especially. 1‘6. That these immigrants are by nature generally "law abiding, industrious, ingenious and cooperative" is due partly to the process of screening before departure, whereby a number of potential misfits and delinquents would be culled out. Just as Canada will have much to offer these immi- grants, it is hoped that this relationship will be mutually advantageous. In the three succeeding chap- ters, some specific relations within this will be exam- ined and analyzed. It may be difficult to measure quantitatively the contribution which the immigrants are making, at this stage of development of the settlement scheme. As the following chapters would be in the nature of a pre- liminary report, so it may not be until the grand- children of the present immigrants are interviewed, that the magnitude of success of this settlement movement may be actually determined. However, it should be stressed that the importance of the success of the first placements and settlements may have far-reaching effects: 1. If the immigrant is successful during the first year after departure from Europe, it will help him get a good start towards starting out on a permanent career in Canada. 47. 2. This success will be viewed as an encouraging sign by some observers who at present are some- what skeptical about the outcome of a large- scale immigration movement to Canada. 3. If the success be widespread, then further immigrants would be encouraged to come out, and the impact of settlement would increase as it would grow in magnitude. However, were the first thousands of immigrant arrivals to meet with a large number of disappointments and hardships, leading to ultimate or immediate failure, then further immigration movements may be slowed down, and there may be a more cautious (i.e., negative) immi- gration policy formulated designed to "keep out foreign- ers." Chapter V PROBLEMS AND ADJUSTMENTS TO BE FACED BY DUTCH FARMERS AFTER ARRIVAL Each of the 18,206 Dutch farmers who arrived re- cently in Canada was faced with problems which required prompt solution. Agricultural life was much different in Canada than their previous experiences in Holland indicated. Hence the immigrant had to make adjustments in order to integrate himself into his new environment. Among these factors, there are six which seem to be outstanding in significance. These include: 1. 2. 4. 5. The difference between Holland and Canada's farms. The question of language and communication (includes also degree of willingness to learn). Factors due to difference in community life in Holland (brief discussion also of role of school and church). The restrictions imposed by capital rationing (in widest definition, including TWS' concept)., Emergency situations which arise suddenly. Help in sickness, accident, etc., which immigrants get, also from sponsor and assisting organiza- tions. 49. 6. This sequence leads to change of status of immigrant, often when in Holland, he was em- ployer and farmowner,l while in Canada, for one year at least, his role was that of a farm laborer, therefore the need for adjustments; also for the immigrant's wife. The immigrant individual's success during his first year in Canada may well depend on the speed of his adjustments to these varied conditions. This chapter will outline some details connected with each of these factors which could tend to give rise to problem situa- tions. Difference between Holland's and Canada's farms. Much of the difference between a Holland and a Canadian farm is due to the difference in population densities. Holland has 272 inhabitants per square kilometre,2 as compared with about 1 per square kilometre in Canada. Tables VI and VII indicate quantitatively that a very large number of farmworkers are found in Holland — considering availability of farmlands. As indicated, this large farm population has re- sulted in many landholdings Of very small size, and both l0r farm tenant. . .as much of Holland's land was owned by landlords and operated by tenants. Table IX indicates the percentage of ownership and tenancy in Holland, while Table X gives corresponding figures for Central Canada. 2"Dutch Agricultural Facts,“ 1948, Published at the Hague, by the Netherlands Ministry of Foods, Fisheries, and Agriculture. TABLE VI HOLLAND'S FARM POPULATION3 50. W 1938 1947 Classification Number Area Number Area of of 8 of of People Land People Land Landbouwersu 201,497 2,145.1 208,982 2,190.3 Tuinders5 32,173 61.3 38,982 80.8 Landarbeiders6 31,682 15.7 34,051 18.6 Overigen7 105,167 100.4 93,775 102.9 Totals 370,519 2:322-5 375,790 2:392-5 3Centraal Bureau voor de Statistiek. Published at Utrecht, Holland, in 1949. uFarmers . 5Market Gardeners. 6Farmworkers. 7Remainder. 8 Figures quoted in 1,000ths of hectares. "Statistisch Zakboek" TABLE VII 51. HOLLAND'S FARMHOLDINGS — GROUPED ACCORDING TO SIZE Number of Number of Size Farm Holdings Horticultural in (over 1 hectare) Holdings Hectares 1938 1947 1938 1947 0.01 to 1 12,916 14,733 1 to 5 66,158 65,610 17,321 21,372 5 to 10 50,503 55,907 1,527 2,189 10 to 20 46,488 47,787 300 489 20 to 50 26,105 26,066 102 172 50 to 100 2,109 2,101 5 25 100 a over 150 133 2 2 Totals 191,513 197,604 32,173 38,982 these factors combine to produce a very high amount of labor; intensive crops being grown on Dutch farms. All available land in Holland is farmed very intensively, which is quite a contrast to some farm management prac- tices in the Dominion. Compared to Canada's farms, land replaces labor as the scarce item of production. Hence land receives the greatest amount of inputs, and land-saving devices, which include not only the reclamation of large tracts of flooded sealands, but also the large inputs of fertili- zers, productive man—work units, and labor—intensive crops. 52. TABLE VIII USE OF FERTILIZERS PREWAR APPLICATIONS PER 2.5 ACRES ARABLE LAND9 Area N P205 K20 World Average 3.110 5.0 3.2 The Netherlands 63.3 102.8 100.6 Belgium-Luxemburg 44.3 70.0 53.8 Germany 29.5 29.1 49.0 Denmark 15.2 25.2 12.1 United Kingdom 9.8 34.9 14.6 France 7.5 17.1 12.7 United States 2.4 4.9 2.6 Canada 0.6 1.4 1.0 U. S. S. R. 0.6 1.7 0.7 This intensity also includes the employment of a very large Netherlands labor force within its agriculture and horticulture industries. As seen by chart of number of people in agriculture, in 1947 also, there were 375,790 who were occupying 2,392,600 hectares of land, which leaves somewhere about 7 hectares per farm worker (17.5 acres). Thus, as the average size of landholding is less than 20 9Source: Page 23, "Dutch Agricultural Facts," Primary source of this data was from the July, cit. 946‘“ Journal of the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations. 10 Numbers given are in kilogrammes per hectare of land. 53- acres per farmer, there is a constant pressure to use more inputs and increase yields. Both the intensity of labor used, as well as the very height of fertilizer inputs give evidence of this. For the Dutch farmer who has been accustomed to very intensive methods of cultivation, the different conditions - of saving labor and often using land rather lavishly - require adjustments in farm management techniques. In addition, there are specialized tasks and techniques which are carried on somewhat differently in Canada than in Holland. Some of these include: With Plowing - In Holland, with the topsoil being'BTten of‘a depth of 8 to 10 inches, then the furrows are plowed correspondingly deeper. In some Dutch areas, topsoil even goes down to 15 inches in depth on the area of Hoard-Holland (see map in Appendix). In Holland, the plowing is done three times yearly. However, in Canada, this is not feasible, due to the much lighter nature of Canadian soils, the fact that also the depth of topsoil is usually less than 5 inches, and hence the too-deep plowing would result in erosion losses. With harnessing horses. The whole technique is different in Holland?¢ompletely from the way it is done in Canada. No horse collar is used on the Netherlands teams. Furthermore, many dutch farmers, on their small acreages, only have one horse, hence upon arrival in Canada, they have to learn the first things about handling a team as well as harnessing it. With using machinery. Many of the Dutch immi- grants have had”litt1e experience with handling tractors, milking machines, combines, etc., before departure, since in Holland many of their small farms did have little mechanization, especially those found in the Brabant-Limburg area of Southern Holland. (The "Dutch Agricultural Facts" booklet mentions that some of the farms there are slowly becoming more mechanized now.) Hence, still the Dutch immigrants, upon arrival, often have to learn 54. the skill of using tractors, milking machines, and other equipment. With using female labor. Many of the Dutch farmers, eSpeciallyIIn areas such as Overijssel, Gelderland, Brabant, and Limburg, the farmer's wife often did considerable work in the fields. (The Dutchman's wife actually worked as hard as her husband, according to author's own observation, as well as reports from sponsor.) Although on many French-Canadian farms this can also be seen, the farmer in English-speaking areas prefers to have his wife remain at home; and hence when Dutch farmer- immigrants are hired by their English sponsor, the immigrant's labor alone is required, and that of his wife is not appreciated. (Often, however, the immigrant's wife has some outlet for her "idle time," such as gardening, learning English, etc., so that rarely does there arise a "problem situation" on account of this factor.) Generally, with the less intensive farming prac- tices, many more weeds are to be seen on Canadian farms, as there are in the Holland farms. Now sometimes, the Dutch immigrant, also when seeing much machinery left outside all winter in Canada, seems to come to premature conclusion that the "Canadian farmers are inferior in skills and care" to those of Holland. This observation, heard several times by the author when interviewing the Netherlands immigrants, nevertheless reflects an attitude, based on an often erroneous comparison of farm tech- niques between two totally different areas. Although the immigrant should indeed recognize the difference in farm techniques between Holland and Canada (and also be proud of the fine points of Dutch agriculture) he should nevertheless "reserve his Judgment," since a deprecation and criticizing of farm techniques of Canada, 55- on the part of the immigrant, will rarely increase his own welfare, nor the amount of all-important goodwill of the rest of the community. In summation, most of the difference in farming techniques between Canada and the Netherlands are of a minor nature. As long as the immigrant is adaptable and willing to learn new methods, problem situations rarely arise from this factor. Moreover, if a consider- ate sponsor explains some of the Canadian ways of farm- ing to his new employee in a tactful and patient manner the short-run adjustments can be facilitated. To bring this about, the subsequent factor of language and com- munication also needs to be considered. The question of language and communication. Before being fluent in the English (or French - in Quebec) lan- 8guage', the immigrant experiences much difficulty in understanding the orders of his sponsor. Farmer-sponsors often too, lose much time having to explain things in minute detail with the "sign-language," so that this is a chief difficulty and obstacle to be overcome by the immigrant. Now the immigrant's wife being in the house, and- unable to talk to her neighbors before learning English, in the meantime does feel lonely, and often gets home- sick. This single factor of homesickness has led to more Dutchmen returning to Holland (actual numbers about 56. 120 in all) than any other item or problem. It is there- fore imperative that the whole immigrant family learn the natives' tongue as quickly as possible. Some have taken lessons in this before their departure from Hol— land, but a few have arrived on Canada's shores with- out even being equipped with a dictionary (family in picture had none). Moreover, when learning a language, other factors too, should be considered: 1. The amount of education in Holland which the immigrantIhad, befbre’his departure. Needless to say, it would be far more difficult for an immigrant who never knew grammar in his native tongue, to learn that of another language, than would be the same task for a graduate of a Dutch high school. Now, the education of Dutch farmers was often limited to public schools, and a bit of "extra learning" by enrolling in one of the "short courses" given at the Dutch Agricultural Schools. Among the Dutch immi- grants who arrived, many know more about these technical-agricultural subjects than they do about grammar, and hence they find it much easier to learn the Canadian farming techniques than they do to learn the language. 2. The opportunities for learning language depend a great deal on the individual immigrant: and the degree to which he applies himself in this study. As for formal instructions once arrived in Canada, the evenings are often the only time available, and hence it takes considerable willpower for the immigrant, after a hard day's work on the fields and in barn to sit down and study language books in the evenings. Some districts where many Dutch are settled do provide some instruction in the rural schoolhouses (in the evenings) but there again, it depends on the immigrant's amount of skill and enthusiasm, as to the length of time it will take him to become fluent in English. 3. The necessities of learning language speedil are mostimportant,for the rapid integration 0 the immigrant into the community. Apart from 57. understanding orders in all walks of life, the immigrant will only feel to be "less of a for- eigner" as soon as he learns the tongue (and the habits - see section 4) of the Canadian natives. For the sake of parental "discipline" it is also important for the wife of the immigrant to learn English (or French) speedily. Now, the children of school age usually have the best opportunity to learn quickly, and are often fluent in English within a year of arrival; now, if their mother speaks only Dutch, and has not yet become fluent in the native tongue, then there is a tendency for her offspring to lose some of their filial respect, and in ex- treme cases, this could lead to considerable change in family structure. Another reason for this becoming fluent is to prevent anyone using the phrase "unable to speak English“ tagged on to an unfortunate immi- grant. Such a phrase would give a prospective employer a chance to pay the immigrant much less than current wages, with some rationaliza- tion, and would tend to make the immigrant feel lost, unhappy, and quite frustrated. All in all, most of the immigrants visited by the author have been making good progress in learning the language, and most of them, in a period of less than 18 months, have become reasonably fluent; in general, the younger immigrants seem to make the most rapid progress in learning. Especially during the first months of placement, the question of communication embodies not only the "mechanical” language difficulty; indeed, to communicate (both during, and after working hours) is of prime im- portance, and this item alone can well be the determining factor in the initial success (or failure) which the immigrant experiences. 58. Problems arise when: 1. The immigrant understood the orders, but (due to stubbornness or conceit, or good judgment and wisdom - depending on one's valuation on the specific case at hand) does things his own way, disregarding the advice or commands of his sponsor. 2. The sponsor regards the immigrant worker as "an inferior creature," and conveys his orders in a corresponding surley, impatient, or otherwise unreasonable manner. During the first few months of arrival, many immigrants are exceptionally sensitive, and are hence very quick to take offense at any "incon- siderate treatment." Although these problems may be partly of a psycho- logical nature, and hence somewhat of a digression, they should be recognized. These two factors alone have led to much friction and trouble between immigrant and farmer-sponsor, relatively more than all the other factors listed in this section. Factors due to difference in Dutch agricultural communities. Besides a greater stress of family life in Holland, the role of two institutions, namely the church and school, is regarded in a different light than seems to prevail in North America. Schools: In Holland, generally where characterized, as contrast to Canada (and the United States) in that the teachers were regarded with much more respect by the pupils, and that modes of instruction (in the primary schools) were more intensive, with Algebra and French (no English) being taught onward from about grade 6 equivalent. Actually, in Holland's schools, sports and recreation was not stressed nearly as much as in Canadian (or United States) schools, and hence more time did remain to be spent in these studies. 59- Churches: In rural Holland the churches are attended By Both Protestants and Catholics. The immi- grants usually are very devout church-goers. When some of these devout immigrants arrive in Canada, they will not remain with a sponsor unless they are able to attend church at least once every Sunday. The faithful often believe that one of the greatest virtues is the main- tenance of large families. This directly affects population trends in rural areas - as well as a possible differential birthrate between different groups and sections of the country. Moreover, in Holland, the role of religion is not confined to Sundays, but also manifests itself in poli- tics (where the major parties have a definite religious affiliation) as well as in labor organizations, of which in Holland, both the Netherlands Christian Union of Agricultural Workers, and the Netherlands Roman Catholic Union of Agricultural Workers "St. Deus Dedit" are very powerful. Priests and ministers of the chief denominations usually are present to welcome immigrants upon their arrival, in Canada. This helps to keep Dutch immigrants from losing their former religious affilia- tions. Furthermore, the Dutch agricultural communities are very close together; many of the agricultural workers in Holland lived in villages and rode out in the mornings by bicycle to their farms, and worked there the day, to return to their villages at nightfall. Also those who live on farms (due to small size of farms) are very closely together, so that there is little opportunity for isolated feelings, or other loneliness, 60. to take place. This forms quite a contrast with most parts of rural Canada, where there are no "agricultural villages," where most of the farms are very much Spread out, and where many indeed are isolated, and "snowed in" in the wintertime. The great dispersion of Canadian farms, as compared to the concentration of all of Hol- land's into a very small area, therefore has a great effect on the role of the agricultural community life. Now, the existence in Canada of the "Farm Forum Clubs," and the "Women's Institute," as well as church organiza- tions, help to make the rural Hollander feel less iso- lated, it is true, but these organizations benefit the immigrant not before the latter has learned the language, so that this item here again, shows to be of great im- portance. Restrictions imposed by capital rcationing. The agricultural immigrant may, upon departure, take $100 per person of adult, and $50 per child, as well as some furniture, and "settlers effects."ll Now this capital rationing, when using the definition of T. Schultz, in his book, Problems within Agriculture, can also apply to any general scarcity of funds within the agricultural firm. 11It should be recognized that a small percentage of immigrant arrivals manage to conceal funds in unique hiding places. There seems to be no widespread smug- gling of Dollars since most of the immigrants are honest and hence not adept at such nefarious practices. 61. Specifically, this would then be: 1. 2. Scarcity due to initial restriction as to funds taken in. Scarcity due to definite limits on the earning power of the immigrant, employer during his first year as a farm worker. Now the effects of both these factors would be: 1. 2. In the short run, to restrict all the expendi- tures of the immigrant. This then to make "thriftyness" not only a very useful habit, but also a necessity. In the long run, to prolongate the time until he is able to rent or buy his own farm. (If the immigrant were immediately paid say $70 per month per single man, and $120 for a married couple, for example, this immigrant would have much more opportunity to save the monies for a down payment on a suitable farm - within a period of 2 years. Actually, it is surprising to note the amount some of these frugal immi- grants are able to save.) The factor of "capital restrictions" also has induced a number of prospective immigrants from Holland to migrate to Australia, South Africa, and Brazil,1 instead of going to Canada. This is because, when going to Brazil, the immigrant is allowed to take all his funds with him, while when going to Australia, he has 80% of his pas- sage money refunded, also being able to take more cash with him; while when going to South Africa he has, in addition to more cash, the opportunity to speak "Afrekaans" upon arrival, a language not unlike his native Dutch. 0n the other hand, the limited resources by the immigrant also have some favorable and brighter aspects: 12Because the Netherlands National Bank is very short on dollars, the immigrants can take only limited currency to Canada. To Brazil and other areas outside the dol- lar area, the currency restrictions are of a less stringent nature. 62. 1. By making it necessary for the immigrant to be a farm worker for at least one year, before contemplating the rent or purchase of a farm, the immigrant therefore becomes more intimately acquainted with Canadian farming conditions, farm prices, etc., then he would were he to purchase a farm immediately upon arrival in Canada. This also prevents thus unscrupulous practices, where in former times, innocent and ignorant immigrants were sold $10,000 farms, when the actual value of the farms was not in excess of $3,000.13 2. By starting under some conditions of frugality and hardship, the immigrant learns to be patient and persevering. Since nearly all of the im- mdgrants are "100% farmers - never to leave the land," therefore they have a greater incentive to "make good," than have those immigrants who are only temporary farmers," and whose ultimate goal is to migrate to the urban centres, after having served their "one year's apprenticeship on the farm," as 148 the case with considerable number of D.P.'s. 3. When the Dutch immigrants do become success- fully established on their own farms, then they often retain their caution and thrift, hence are not given to the lavish spending of some of their neighbors. Thus they provide a conserva- tive element in the rural population, which many people claim is one of the greatest needs in Canada today. Therefore, we can see that the currency restric- tions, and the general "capital rationing" do provide problems, but also some compensations. Generally, if the 13From reports received about immigrants who have been swindled into unwise farm purchases immediately upon arrival in Canada. 14At the time of writing, reports from immigration per- sonnel and other interested parties indicate that very few of the Dutch farmers have left the rural environ- ment; this is a contrast to the number of "farmer" D.P.'s. Of this group, a large number migrated to cities as soon as their initial apprenticeship was finished. 63. individual immigrant is thrifty and enterprising, he will be able to overcome these obstacles without there arising any crisis situation at all. The exceptional (by Canadian standards) thirft and frugality of many of the Dutch immigrants is of great advantage, since many of the native farm-workers would be unable to "make ends meet" at a monthly income of $75, especially when the food bills add up and clothing bills augment with the growing children who are as one farmer's wife mentioned, "constantly in need of new store-clothes," and therefore tax heavily the farmer's income-budget. Emergency situations suddenly arising. These emergency situation, which might include sudden ill- ness, or accident, involving the immigrant (or sponsor) are happily few in number; when they do occur, however, they do present a very serious "problem case."15 For example, a few weeks after sponsor X in Quebec got his immigrant farmer, with wife and family, and immigrant was just getting nicely started, the latter decided to go boating. The little rowboat capsized in the middle of the St. Lawrence River, the immigrant as a consequence drowned. Now the sponsor, who was very 15With high prices and general prosperity in Canadian agriculture, there have been very few instances of suicide or major delinquency reported about Dutch immigrants. This was ascertained during summer of 1950 by interview with law enforcement officers and immigration personnel. 64. generous, paid for the return passage of the wife and child back to Holland, and hence the "case was closed," as far as this "prospective settlement" was concerned. This above-mentioned case was exceptional, and "out of the ordinary,“ as are all of these "emergency situations." Another case showing where a Canadian sponsor treated the emergency problem with much wisdom and con- sideration was when: In April, 1949, Immigrant X, together with wife and children, arrived at the farm of Dr. Y, in fine health. But after a little while, the immigrant's wife showed symptoms of illness, and upon examina- tion it turned out to be that she was suffering from diabetes. Now the sponsor, an outstanding doctor in one of Canada's largest cities, took this Mrs. X personally several times to Montreal and gave her the insulin treatments (at no chage to the immigrant) until the situation was remedied. Apart from these two examples, there have been other cases where upon arising of illness or accident, the immigrant received far less consideration from his sponsor. Often, too, the sponsor himself was a man "of very limited means" and hence unable to give the immigrant much financial aid in such a crisis. One other thing evident that while in Holland the agricultural immigrant can protect himself for about 34¢ weekly, by obtaining a "hospital and surgery insurance" coverage - at present there is no such scheme available in Canada. Individual industries and firms do have the Blue Cross, and equivalents, but for the general immi- grant, as long as he does have some money and a job, 65. any major illnesses and other emergencies are up to the immigrant individually to solve. If the immigrant is placed with a generous sponsor and emergency arises, things often work out all right. But if the sponsor is not of this calibre, then often large hospital bills would become a great burden to the immigrant's very limited financial resources. Also, matters of "childbirth," which cannot be considered as an emergency, also would be provided for under "hos- pitalization," under the existing socialized medicine scheme in the Netherlands.16 Now, the author would recommend strongly that such a hospitalization scheme would be well in order so that the immigrant, during his first months (and afterwards, too) could be protected against these enormous expenses induced by accidents, hospitalization, etc. It is the opinion of the author that this would be fairer also to the sponsor (who would then not need to pay the burdens himself, as in the two incidents cited). Now, books have been written citing all the ad- vantages (and also disadvantages) of such medical schemes, and this thesis on "Agricultural Immigration" would again not be the place to digress on this. Only it should be recognized that the immigrant is in an exceptionally vulnerable position, when any exigencies l6From interviews with newly arrived Dutch immigrants. 66. arise, and hence, to help overcome this vulnerability may be of considerable benefit - from a humanitarion if not an economic standpoint. Factors due to changes in status of immigrant. 0n the last few pages we listed five factors dealing with specific obstacles which the immigrant would have to overcome during his first period in Canada. Now each of these factors, in some degree, gives evidence that the status and role of immigrant changes considerably, and that indeed, the immigrants needs be resourceful and industrious, if he is to rise in status from farm worker to farm owner (or tenant). The following chapter will quote specific instances of this. Now, before departure many of the Dutchemen had owned their own small farms in the Netherlands, or had rented them. Table IX shows the extent of farm tenancy in Holland. Hence, to become, in Canada, an "agricul- tural worker" meant also some rungs down on the agri- cultural ladder for them. Moreover, in Canada it was generally harder to become a tenant farmer, since espe- cially in Quebec and Ontario, most of the farms were and are owner-operated. This change in status, accompanied by the need of immigrants to form new friendships, as well as a new acquaintance with agriculture, also had some long-reaching effects. Since farm tenancy was very difficult to obtain in Canada, there arose often a TABLE IX OWNERSHIP AND TENANCY IN H0LLAND17 67. Percent of Total Area Occupied by Tenants Area 1930 1940 Area 1930 1940 Grongingen 42.6 49.0 Noord Holland 55.6 62.4 Friesland 68.8 71.7 Zuid-Holland 58.3 64.4 Drenthe 47.6 53.1 Zeeland 61.2 68.4 Overijssel 31.7 34.5 Noord Brabant 40.6 44.0 Gelderland 39.8 44.0 Limburg 48.3 52.8 Utrecht 49.7 53-5 necessity to make a direct transition from worker to farmowner. The availability of farms for rent remained very small in Quebec, where on the average 93.1% of all farms are fully owned, as indicated in Table X. Like- wise, the percentage of 81.9 farms being fully owned in Ontario also offered relatively small chance for many Dutch immigrants to become farm tenants. Farm ownership in Canada requires capital usually upwards of $2,500, as will be discussed in detail in Chapter VII. As many immigrants would be unable to save 17Source of Table IX: "Dutch Agricultural Facts, op. cit., p. 19. Issued in 1949 by the Dutch Ministry of Ffiods, Fisheries, and Agriculture. 68. .uenem demands noesaosH a m pea HH «.aa m.m m.am oaseuso Hence 0H mud H >.m m. H.mm schema Hence med new Hmfl m.: m.: m.om aoahoasm oxen Ned Ham mmn H.# m.m .mm acumen-osennooo mmH wmm wma m.: m.m m.am «somadasxoxesz boa ema m H m.m >.m m.:m oesoaxeq .pmnsssupo mNH HON Han #.NH N.> n.0m Oahdpco oxdaf mm med mad m.m m.m e.am eooaem-coasm we and mm a.ra H.m m.me easwuaz-oeam mm mma om o.ba m.m >.mb opsoaoa oeaepso woe emm ea e.a H.m «.mm «garage mad mmm mH H.N w.m m.:m anon .pm Oxdn mm mm eh H.H m.m m.mm asseswsmnoanso mm mmH ea m.a :.H :.>m o>50am an mom m mwd NH N.H N.N . H.mm coaching .um caucus mHH «AH and M.m o.m o.mm mafinnszoa saopnsm mma «mm ova . m.m m.mm seesapscusssppo 00H mma mNH m.m m.e 0.0m msamunopso em mma mm .m m.m m.mm flamenco: 009030 is He has a as as 8. passes ream madam passes pnsm I madam nsoamom omsonoa oweno>¢ manna mo useonom PHOTO IX This view shows an immigrant from Holland who will shortly be working on the farm of the Sisters, shown at left. In Quebec especially, there are church farms, found near Montreal, Sherbrooke, Quebec City, which have been hiring quite a number of Dutch immigrants since 1948. 82. PHOTO X This view shows two immigrants (at left and right) who are working also for one of the church farms in the vicinity of Montreal. The church farm is represented in this picture by the man in the centre, who is the farm manager. The immigrants, from subsequent reports, seem to fit in well into their new environment. 83. AMONG THE IMMIGRANT GROUPS ARE ALSO LARGE-SIZE FAMILIES TITII PHOTO XI This view shows one family of eight, shortly after arrival, being enroute to the farm of their sponsor near Ottawa. Families of this size are fairly common, even though it is difficult to locate sponsors with adequate housing facilities for the large families. Note: In this picture the boys are still wearing the "plus-four" trousers which are not often seen in Canada. 81+. PHOTO XII This view shows a family of nine, after having been placed on a Canadian farm. A visiting immigration offi- cer, seat at left, had Just enquired how this family was liking their new surroundings in Canada. As indicated also by the facial expressions (especially of the mother and young children), the reply was very favorable. Note: In this picture the wooden shoes are worn by nearly all the family. This is typical of the clothing found today in many parts of rural Holland. 85. PHOTO XIII This view shows another single Dutch immigrant, shortly after his arrival. The two suitcases beside him contain all his belongings, and "settler's effects." 86. PHOTO XIV This view shows the same immigrant pictured on the previous page, at a later date, doing farm work for a Canadian sponsor in the vicinity of Montreal. The equipment and surroundings are typical of that area of the countryside, and many farms still retain the long narrow boundaries which trace back to the "Seignorial Tenure" system of a bygone era. 87. THE IMMIGRANTS SOON LEARN HOW TO HANDLE MACHINERY ‘ PHOTO XV This view, as well as the one on the following page, shows a young Dutch immigrant who, before his departure from Holland, knew little about operating a "McCormack- Deering" tractor 88. PHOTO XVI This view shows the same young Dutch immigrant pic- tured on the previous page. Like most similar young and enterprising immigrants, it did not take him long to learn the operation of the tractor, and at present he seems to be making very good progress. As mentioned elsewhere, "Most of the differences in farming techniques between Canada and Holland are of a minor nature." 89. HOUSING ACCOMMODATIONS FOR IMMIGRANTS ARE VARIED L ‘...‘. M1!" ll} 'mwm%%zf. Imum‘url I ll PHOTO XVII This view shows a house where a Netherlands immigrant couple are living, together with the sponsor and his wife. As a matter of fact, this building is not typical, but it shows that during their first placement it is often neces- sary for immigrants to be resourceful and optimistic, to overcome such shining obstacles as this. 90. PHOTO XVIII This view shows an immigrant couple posing in front of their sponsor's barn, the upper story of which has been made into a very comfortable apartment for them. Furnished with electricity, hot and cold water, refriger- ator, etc., this situation actually is very favorable, much more so than that pictured on the previous page. 91. QUITE A VARIETY EXISTS AMONG IMMIGRANT INDIVIDUALS PHOTO XIX This view shows three Netherlands immigrants who are graduates of the Agricultural university, speaking French and English fluently, and who are now holding positions paying much more than $A5 per month. They had arrived under the auspices of the Holland-Canada Farm Settlement Plan. 92. PHOTO XX This view shows a group of Netherlands immigrants taken at a county fair. Four of the six individuals are wearing the wooden shoes which are still prevalent in some areas of Holland. Another view of "capital rationing" may be seen upon closer examination of this picture; the cigarette being smoked by the Dutchman third from the left was "rolled by hand." These arrivals via the Farm Settlement Scheme are well content to be in Canada, as indicated at the time of interview. 93. MANY IMMIGRANTS EMIGRATE TO BENEFIT THEIR CHILDREN PHOTO XXI This view shows an immigrant who had experienced some difficulties due to difference in farm management in Canada and Holland, as well as an inconsiderate sponsor. However, the children seem to be very happy, and will probably have a bright future ahead of them in Canada. 94. PHOTO XXII This view shows another immigrant whose wife did much of the farmwork herself, and the immigrant himself also had difficulty learning the language, as well as Canadian farm techniques. Having farmed a very small area of land in Holland, they were at first overwhelmed by the immense areas of Canada. However, at the moment they are making better progress. Moreover, the children in this picture too will probably reap greater benefits from their parents' emigration than will the parents themselves. 95- IMMIGRANTS HAVE OPPORTUNITIES AND ARE CONFIDENT PHOTO XXIII This view shows a market gardening enterprise where at the moment there are some immigrants working. Besides the mixed farming, market gardening is the "second-largest occupation" of the Dutch immigrants, and there, successful ventures take place also. 96. PHOTO XXIV This view shows the confident expression on the face of a Dutch immigrant who feels that there is much more land available for him in Canada, and also a brighter prospect for a future career. 97- AN IMMIGRANT SETTLER PHOTO XXV Above is seen a Dutch farmer-immigrant who was among the first market gardeners to buy his own farm. Besides growing celery, carrots, onions, and tomatoes, 980 he has a fine crop of lettuce, one head of which he is showing in the upper picture. In order to have activity in the winter months, he has built and assembled himself a steam-heated green» house, 60 feet by 100 feet, where he is planning to propagate various cut flowers. Through this diversification, this enterprising immigrant hopes to achieve continued success in his venture into Canadian agriculture. Chapter VII LAND AVAILABILITY, IMMIGRANT SETTLEMENT, AND LONG-RANGE CONSIDERATIONS After the immigrant has spent a few years as a farm-worker, he is usually anxious to start farming on his own; before examining how he progresses towards this goal, the availability of land in Canada should be con- sidered. Although there appears to be no physical shortage of farmlands in the Dominion, the problem at hand is economic - getting land that is productive, accessible to markets and facilities, and priced within reason. Among the most readily available farms are those which have been abandoned. These farms are located in all parts of Canada, especially in some "pioneer areas of the North" where previous settlement schemes had attempted to settle soldiers and others, after‘World war I, and during the depression 1930's. Following this section, more attractive lands for immigrants will be discussed, and with this, the details of immigrant settlement as it has progressed since the first arrivals came in 1947. As farm tenancy is a rather rare occurrence in Canada, so the majority of Dutch lOO. immigrants already settled progressed directly from farm- workers to farmowners.1 Without examining some long-range considerations, it would be difficult to view this Dutch farm movement in its proper perspective. The impact which Canada's post- war prosperity in agriculture has had in facilitating settlement, as well as the outlook for the future of immigrants should be considered. This opens up many topics for further research, which will be briefly discussed in the author's closing remarks. Lands Available Abandoned farms. Throughout the period 1946-1950, there remain considerable farmlands, in all parts of Canada, which are available. One needs only to travel by train or road, even through the more densely populated areas such as from Montreal to Toronto, or from Toronto to Windsor, to see that many potential farmlands are par- tially idle. The l9A1 census reported that, as of June, 1941, there were 32,518 abandoned farms in Canada, and that there were in addition about 70,000 farm owners, aged 65 and over, without dependents in agriculture. A more recent estimate quotes a total of 20,000 farms abandoned for economic and other reasons in Ontario 1See Table Ix, Chapter V, Farm Tenancy and ownership in Central Canada. lOl. alone.2 The forthcoming census of 1951 will provide more up-to-date information on this topic. That the number of abandoned farms is not confined to any one area within Canada is shown by the breakdown of the 1941 census report, which shows the following distri- bution of abandoned farms: Nova Scotia, 2,707; New Brunswick, 1,804; Prince Edward Island, 434; Quebec, 5,315; Ontario, 5,563; Manitoba, 3,190; Saskatchewan, 7,791; Alberta, 4,009; and British Columbia, 1,705; making a total for Canada of 32,518. To analyze why these farms were abandoned, would be difficult without detailed case studies of each individual farm. However, there are a number of out- standing factors which have accelerated the abandonment, and they may be listed as: The movement of Canadians from rural to urban centres,IWhich haifoccurred—In_1arge propOFfIbhE“ ever sInce World War I. A decrease in the rural populations was a consistent trend until the depres- sion 1930's, and even in the late stages, in 1937, 1938, and 1939, as well as in the 1940's, there was considerable migration from rural to urban areas. Unfavorable climatic conditions, especially comprISing drought and dust storms in the prairies caused a large number of abandonments in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta, especially during the mid-1930's. At this time there were also low farm prices. Low farm prices, which caused many farm opera- tions—to be ofIa marginal nature. Especially when the type of farming carried on was of a specialized This figure, which may include some lands unqualified for farming, was obtained from correspondence with the Ontario Department of Planning and Development, Septem- ber 28, 1950. 102. nature (such as the wheat farming in the West, and apple growing in Nova Scotia's Annapolis Valley) the low farm prices accelerated many decisions towards abandonment. ‘ Improper farm management. Some native farm operators had, during the*l920's, disinvested the lands by spending little for fertilizer, upkeep of buildings, a balanced cropping program, etc., so that eventually the farm resources, especially those of a fund nature, became depleted, so that much in- vestment and radically different farm management would be needed to put the farm back on a sound footing. Even in 1950, many Canadian farmers are not yet acquainted with soil conservation and its practical implications. Apart from abandonments in the populated areas of Canada, there have also been farms left desolate in the "frontier regions" in the Clay Belt of Northern Quebec and Ontario. This northern "pioneer country" at Val Gagne, Kapuskasing, New Liskeard, and Abitibi, offers many obstacles to be overcome for successful settlement. As one author writes:3 The human costs are not to be glossed over. For those who fail or are constitutionally unfitted, the hardships and discouragements are severe. To produce enough for sustenance is not easy even on an old farm which required repairs and re-breaking. When the settlement is in the frontier area of the north, when the land must be laboriously cleared of trees and stumps, when first crops are hazardous due to the unworked clay soils and a short growing season, and on top of all this, a long and bitter winter must be endured, the difficulties are im- mensely greater. . . Notwithstanding this, some farming immigrants in the postwar 1940's, and in 1950, have been able to 30. V. Haythorne, Land and Labor, Oxford University Press, 1941, p. 437-438. 103. overcome some of these great obstacles, and have been able to make a living in these frontier areas, by a practice of combining farming in the summertime with some cutting of pulpwood in the winter months. How- ever, it is debatable whether, under present conditions, this "pioneer country" will ever become a great area of large-scale agricultural settlement. Since 1919, there have been a number of government supported settlement schemes, including the Soldier Settlement Scheme in 1919, the Gordon Plan in 1932, the Rogers-Auger Plan in 1933, and the Vautrin Plan in 1934,4 all of which encouraged settlement in the "frontier regions" and gave financial aid in the form of grants and loans to its participants; however, none of these plans met with outstanding success. One author states that by 1932, out of 103 original settlers who settled in Kapuskasing river area of Cochrane County in 1919, there remained only 11 at this place. Of total soldier set- tlements, within 12 years of the launching of this scheme, only 11,600 out of 24,500 remained on their farms. Under the Gordon plan of 1932, there were like- wise a large number of abandonments; under the Rogers— Auger plan, and the Vautrin Plan, better selection and planning helped to reduce the number of failures. Even 41bid., p. 425-435. I‘IIIIIII‘ 104. in the latter, however, "by 1939, 1,408 out of 29,411 settlers had abandoned their lots."5 Apart from these abandoned farms, each of which would be readily available, at a very low cost to the Dutch immigrant, there are other locations where lack of markets and general inaccessibility have made farm- land prices remain at very reasonable levels. These areas, to be found from Nova Scotia to British Columbia, may contain some very fertile soil, such as is found on Amherst Island and Wolfe Island in Ontario. But whether it be due to the inaccessibility of some maritime farms, due to poor roads, or whether the land is basically unproductive due to disinvestment practices6 by previous owners, its attractiveness for immigrants is limited. More promising lands for immigrant settlement could be found among files of the real estate agencies in all sectors of Canada. 7 One author recommends three areas as offering the best possibilities to Dutch immigrants: 5Ibid., p. 435, paragraph 2. 6"Disinvestment practices" would include unwise exploita- tion of the 3011's "fund" resource, including irreplace- able layer of tOpsoil. 7J. Th. A. B. LitJens, "Studierapport van de Canadareis 1949," mimeographed manuscript published in Holland for the Stichting Landverhuizing in October, 1949. ”11......1 . . . ..,._ . .. , .1a Le. .7. 1.: 3...; .2::..:~ a... 111.; Z...L..::a I: LIOS .1. L cage, :2 C.1:1:_|...;:.. “3.3.: moEUEquh r11:1_1.:(1..1, MCIMCLD @11123Lm1/11mamwfiz. .mC1C11Iu U$K_v)._ D ILQJJ ..\1. .\\11 .. ...\ .1. : o 1... III. Us. .........' .. ‘|. y.) «I ”3.111.112 .1 , .. 1 . . ..H1..1...“.”_‘. .I'Mv VAN, .. 1......H.......'I‘\l In“... “ .1...H...n_' kn}: lar . d - animal w. a. law“. .a.. .1".“..‘.“.H... . max 5:3. 3 e2 .1, raqm. 4: 1 w \ \ V a ,A Q . O N. V - I‘Q.i\ \ . .\ av, . Y \ D I / J; /./ \ 1.. , . 1- 1a _ // a a. l 6 m / .a/ . N p . . . . . n .. U A .p C '\ a; / 9 ix. ‘3. . . o... . .. . J .; :I H ./ a . . I uz:2aH 2:12 .. 1.12111111 » . . -11—.L.~'~"_...... _...1 .._._.1. ..;........4.. ... ..a...nhu. .1...._t.,1..u.. a...:.1a,k1 m...mdc.afi. Lana-1._~h. .Q.V.~\)d. U . r . ".1 on r): 3.1.13... / ..... ...1 I n .1 l. v} / .. ._ I V / \ r . I - l.‘ .7“ r l . V , x. z . .s f V In, _ . x x a , l.‘ 5 _ :4, I , / a 1 / . 1 1 \. zx\ .\ .l I ./. J 1 {I . I . y 1 a / 1 .JM no... fl. 1 106. 1. In the environs of the (large) cities, especially in Ontario and Quebéc, with emphasis on dairy and vegetable farming. 2. In the irrigated districts of Southern Alberta, fbr specializedffarming crOps. 3. In the Park Belt area of Northern Alberta, for mixed farming. Apart from these locations, an examination of the immi- grant's background may open up other horizons elsewhere in Canada, as seen in the "Types of Family," Chart II. For the fruitgrowing specialists, there may be opportunities in Nova Scotia's Annapolis Valley, in the Niagara Peninsula of Southern Ontario, and in the Olanagen Valley of British Columbia, as well as in other fruit- growing areas elsewhere. For the graincrops farmers, sections of Manitoba, and Alberta, as well as Saskatchewan, could offer con- siderable prospects, provided that immigrant has adequate capital to start farming with enough land and mechanical equipment.8 For the floriculturist, bulbgrower, or general horticulturist, close location of farm to large city is desirable if the product is very perishable, such as the cut flowers. With growing of bulbs, provided that some shipping facilities are available, and that the operator 8In the prairies, grainfarming may require a higher ini- tial investment of capital and equipment than would be needed to start a self-sufficient dairy farm in eastern Canada. 107. caters to a "mail order market," the immediate nearness to large cities is of secondary significance. The soil and climatic factors are of prime consideration. Instead of advocating that certain areas of Canada offer the optimum prospects to all Dutch farmers, it is more meaningful to consider first the individual subdivision of the immigrant in question. The settlement of immi- grants in disbursed areas throughout Canada may accelerate their assimilation and integration. At present, the distribution of Dutch settlers in Canada is approximately: Ontario, 6h%; Alberta, 15%; Quebec, T%; Manitoba, 6%; British Columbia, 6%; Saskatch- ewan, 2%; Nova Scotia, 1.6%; New Brunswick, 1%; and 'Prince Edward Island, 0.4%.9 With the scarcity of fur- ther data, it is impossible to predict any future trends in location of the Dutch settlers. Details Regarding Immigrant Settlementlo As indicated in Table IX, Chapter V, there is a low rate of tenancy in central Canada. This is also evident in other sections of the Dominion, while in Holland, 9A. S. Tuinman, "Drie Jaar Emigratie naar Canada," p. 5, Op. cit. 10The initial period spent in the employ of a farmer- sponsor is regarded as "placement," and actual settle- ment is not attained until the immigrant himself has command over the land as farm manager, tenant, or owner. 108. the proportion of tenant operated farms is considerably greater.11 Consequently, many Dutch farmers who have completed their period of placement become "farm owners" without going through the (intermediate) stage of being a farm tenant. An exception to this is the few Dutch farmers who have been fortunate enough to find a suitable land- lord, and hence had the opportunity to attain settlement with relatively small amount of capital investment needed. It is generally recognized that farm rental requires a smaller cash outlay than does farm purchases. The least cash outlay of all is required to become a farm manager; for an immigrant interested in this type of "administrative farm management" there is some oppor- tunity, tempered by the small number of farms outside the class of being "owner—operated“ in Canada. Some details on how the stages of "farm manager- ship," farm tenancy, and farm ownership are attained will be examined:12 As farm manager, "the immigrant came to Canada in 1947*to work fer a sponsor in Norwich area. After working later for another sponsor in the Woodstock area, the immigrant showed good progress in acquiring r 11 12 See Table Ix and x, Chapter V. These exerpts from case reports were obtained through the courtesy of various informants connected with, or interested in the postwar immigration. In this sec- tion, identity of immigrants, sponsors and other per- sonnel has been withheld to preserve their anonymity. 109. knowledge about Canadian farming conditions. When a prominent doctor purchased a farm in this area, the immigrant became established there as farm manager. He expects to receive $175 per month lus free house, milk, and fuel, for supervising the 1 0 acre mixed farm which carries about 45 head of dairy cattle and a few pigs and poultry." As farm tenant, "immigrant arrived in 1947, when sponsored“by relative already established in Canada. After work as farmworker for 2 years, he has now arranged a crop-sharing arrangement on a mixed dairy-tobacco-tomato farm in the Chatham area of southern Ontario." Also, "immigrant arrived in Neerlandia, Alberta, in 1948, sponsored by his brother. . .Now operates 160 acre mixed farm on 1/3 share basis with equip- ment assistance from brother and sponsor. Arrived with few assets, now has adequate furniture, as well as possession of 6 cows, 25 pigs and 350 p0u1tryo o o" To obtain farm-ownership, apart when a fortunate immigrant receives an established farm through inheri- tance or gift,13 takes substantial amount of capital.1u To earn this, an immigrant often has to remain as farm- worker for several years. Then, after two or three thousand dollars at least have been saved due to frugal living, and hard work, the immigrant can make a down payment on a property, once he has selected a farm which he considers suitable.15 13Although cases of this exist, their occurrence is very 4rare. 1 From correspondence received in October, 1950, by the Department of Planning and Development of the Province of Ontario, the minimum capital required for farm owner- ship was estimated at $2,500. 15In selection of farm, the immigrant may receive free assistance from Agronomes, County Agents, Settlement Officers, as well as from Colonization Agents of the 110. Financial assistance available to the farm-pur- chasing immigrant is limited. Before listing various agencies which grant loans to immigrants, it should be stressed that before any loan is approved, the immigrant's venture of farming is examined without sentimentality. Consideration of loans is determined only if the immi- grant is considered "a good risk." Usually some collateral or security is required, and at present, the immigrant receives no special privileges. Instead, many agencies require a three or five year period of residence in one area before a loan may be given. Here follows a brief list of some agencies which can provide loans to farmer-immigrants: The Federal Government. "Canadian Farm Loan Act" and the CanadianiFarm Loan Improvement act, both give funds to certain farmers, with relatively low interest rate, provided that the farmer-applicant is able to meet specified requirements. Provincial Governments of Quebec and Nova Scotia, at present, are providing low-interest loans available also to Dutch farmers. It is expected that other provinces also will legislate loans acts such as those of Nova Scotia and Quebec. The railway companies, especially the Canadian Pacific Railway;_have large landholdings in western Canada, and they are willing to sell farmlands of improved, partially improved, or unimproved lands, with often only a small down payment being required initially. Price of unimproved lands ranges from $1 per acre upwards. C.N.R. and C.P.R. railways; friends often are the means used whereby the immigrant finds a farm. 111. The Canadian chartered banks, the credit unions, and various other mortgage and credit companies, are willing to loan the farmer cash to be used for farm purchase (usually at higher rates than the 3 other agencies listed above). Each of these organizations may be of some assistance to the immigrant, but the main assistance would mater- ialize from a kind friend or a generous relative willing to help the immigrant. How farm ownership is attained by immigrants, by aid of some assisting agencies, is shown by the fol- lowing excerpts from case reports:16 The immigrant has been working in the Holland Marsh (Ontario) area since spring 1947. . . has now (Nov., 1949) arranged purchase of 46 acre muck garden farm in Niagara Peninsula for about $7,000. The farm is well-drained and also has an adequate house. . . The immigrant with family arrived March, 1948, in Canada. Has now (December, 1949) purchases 100 acre farm in Huron County of Ontario. Price of farm was $3,500 with down payment of $200 required. Five room house and barn 40' x 60'. . . The immigrant now purchased 60 acre cultivated farm in New District west of Edmonton, Alberta, for $1,500 cash. Has bought Ford tractor and is planing to purchase additional equipment. . . during winter, has been working in bush to get extra income. . . Immigrant with wife and four children arrived in 1947. . . In November, 1949, has purchases 160 acres in northwestern Alberta, Edmonton region. 60 acres is under cultivation at present. The total investment including farm, buildings, a few head of livestock, and 6 room house amounts to about $5,000. Immigrant had established a very favorable rep- utation in the district, and was able to get equip- ment on loan through local and relative assistance. l6These excerpts, similar to those regarding farm tenancy, were obtained from case reports. See footnote l2. 112. From these case reports,17 it is evident that the first settlement usually is humble; immigrants who have saved some money buy a small farm, often with mortgage. Since many immigrants are helped not only directly by sponsors, friends, or relatives, but also by prosperous conditions throughout Canada's agricul- ture, a spirit of optimism prevails. The immigrants are confident that they will be able to pay off their indebtedness. This debt burden varies not only according to the individual characteristics18 of the farm bought, but it also is connected by the district and farming re- gion, which has helped to determine the initial farm price. To arrive at a meaningful figure of the cost of purchasing a 100 acre farm in different provinces would be a hazardous task; much variation exists. A fortunate immigrant may, by personal contacts, purchase a farm at a very reasonable price, and a figure which would often not be revealed through interview or questionnaire.19 17As well as from many other reports examined by the author. 18These characteristics would include: farm size, soil type, location near roads and market centres, as well as other items considered in farm appraisal. 19Many immigrants were reluctant to discuss details of their financial position. In Dutch families, this is considered to be a very personal matter, hence response by interviewee would be limited. 113. One author20 mentions the minimum prices of farm- lands, other than the abandoned farms, to be about $2,000 in Nova Scotia, $4,000 in Quebec, $5,000 in Ontario, $4,000 in the Park Belt of Alberta, and about $6,000 in the irrigated districts of Alberta. This would repre- sent approximately the minimum cash outlay required, even though the immigrant, by means of loan or mortgage. As this depends largely on the individual immigrant, and his ability to persuade creditors of his worthy- ness, generalizations would have little application in this field. Long-Range Considerations During the period under consideration, 1946 to autumn of 1950, Canada has enjoyed a period of great prosperity in the agricultural industry. One indication of this is seen in the recent excerpt of a report made by the Minister of Agriculture for the Province of On- tario:21 Ontario's farms this year will yield a crop worth $1,250,000,000, their greatest ever, Ontario Agriculture Minister Kennedy said yesterday. This is about $200,000,000 more than the previous high. Oats, hay and pasture have been particularly valuable, said Mr. Kennedy. . . 20J. Th. A. B. LitJens, "Studierapport van de Canadareis 1949," 923.ElE°’ p. 24. 21Toronto Globe and Mail, October 3, 1950, p. 1, col. 4. 114. Some $40,000,000 worth of cattle have been sold out of the province in the first nine months of the year, he said. Beef and dairy cattle have been paying well. We always have about $100,000,000 of pigs and this year it will be Quite a bit more, he continued. Eggs and poultry will run to about $80,000,000 to $90,000,000. . . Tobacco will be worth about $50,000,000. . . Further evidence can be found in the report of annual and monthly index numbers for Canadian agriculture, from Table XI. It is evident not only that wholesale farm prices have risen faster than the cost of living, but also that the farm prices may not yet have reached their peak. A high degree of prosperity is evident, even though 22 This it may be somewhat accentuated by inflation. prosperity has reflected itself in the rapid progress which the Dutch immigrants have made towards settlement. There are three abstracts of "Progress Reports" on Dutch immigrants in the Appendix. Each one indicates success experienced; this was largely due to a strong demand for Canadian farm products. It consequently increased farmers' prosperity, and brought to light one major cause for the immigrants' rapid progress. Some direct benefits which the immigrant receives due to Canada's present vigor of its farming industry can be traced through chronologically from the time of 22The degree of inflation within Canada is to a large extent measured by cost of living indexes. 115. TABLE x1 ANNUAL AND MONTHLY INDEX mans,* 1939-195023 Wholesale Prices Pigggs Farm Year gicfig: Living Farm Field Animal tural Costs Products \ Products Products Products 1939 92.6 83.7 101.5 91.8 99.5 1940 96.1 ‘85.4 106.7 96.8 108.5 1941 106.6 88.9 124.4 110.2 114.1 1942 127.1 109.7 144.6 133.1 119.0 1943 145.4 129.0 161.8 157.8 121.7 1944 155.3 144.5 166.1 172.4 122.8 1945 165.3 160.4 170.2 184.2 123.2 1946 177.0 172.9 181.2 200.8 127.1 1947 189.7 179.1 200.2 212.5 138.3 1948 229.6 195.6 263.7 252.4 162.8 1949 225.2 184.9 265.4 250.5 173.2 1950 Jan. 217.2 180.9 253.5 238.5 175.3 Feb. 219.9 180.2 259.6 242.7 Mar. 224.8 183.6 266.0 246.0 Apr. 226.8 185.6 268.0 248.8 176.7 May 229.6 186.3 272.8 249.5 June 238.8 188.6 289.1 258.0 July 242.2 188.0 296.3 262.0 Aug. 229.3 160.2 298.5 251.6 Sep. * 1935-39 = 100. 23See page 98, The Economic Analyst, October, 1950, Vol. XX, No. 5, Department of Agriculture, Ottawa. 116. placement to the attainment of settlement. Recently the Minister of Immigration stated, "There is a contin- uing demand in Canada for the man, and preferably the man and woman, who is willing to work on farms, either for others or for themselves."24 As Canadian farmers have enjoyed higher farm in- comes during the past five years, hence they have been able to hire more help; some are now for the first time in a position to employ labor, while formerly, in the 1930's, theirs was solely a one-man farm. This caused many Canadians to sponsor Dutch farmers, as the native supply of farm labor is very limited. During the placement, Dutch farmers feel the effect of Canada's prosperity in agriculture, not only by receiving higher wages than they would have gotten in the previous decade, but also by the opportunity to earn extra cash through part-time work. In the bush, cutting pulpwood and timber, few immigrants would have been able to do in the 1930's, while at the moment, a number of Dutch farmers are busy in this vocation during part of the winter months. A well-known publication recently reported one outstanding case of an immigrant whose success is 24W. E. Harris, "Hopes and Promises," a radio broadcast over C.B.C. Network on February 27, 1950. (27) 117. reflected by this factor.25 Describing an immigrant who arrived in 1947 via the Dutch-Canada Farm Settlement Scheme, and who settled in the fall of 1949 at an aban- 26 doned farm near Cochrane, Ontario, the article stated: All through the bitter winter, the. . . family worked hard. . . Soon after daybreak, the immigrant and his three sons, aged 20, 17, and 15, went into the bush to cut pulpwood with borrowed axes and saws. . . the menfolk cut enough pulpwood during the winter to pay household expenses and save $2,000. The money bought ten cows, seven calves, a team of horses, and enough wheat, oats, and potatoes to plant a crop. . . In addition, the Dutch farmers contemplating farm purchase in 1950 also are governed by the impact of Canada's farm prosperity. Agricultural investments are a better risk now, both from standpoint of borrower, and of lender, than they were in 1935.27 Also, since there is a great prosperity among some non-agricultural creditors, more money would be available for loans, both from private parties and other institutions quoted elsewhere. Another factor of Canada's postwar boom has led to continued migration of native farmers to urban localities. 258ee Time Magazine, August 21, 1950, "Dutch Payoff," p. 27, column 3. 26Situated in Cochrane County in northern clay belt area. This territory is often referred to as "pioneer land." 27Apart from psychological optimism, are at present high enough in many sections, to allow liquidation of mort- gage within ten years of farm purchase, ceteris paribus. 118. Hence, there has not been as great an increase in prices of farms as there has in many other commodities. Since many Dutch immigrants are able to locate farms priced within reason, their settlement has been facilitated. For future outlook, there is some doubt as to whe- ther the present prosperity can continue. Some observers feel that there may occur a recession in the near future, while others continue to be optimistic.28 Regarding the economic situation, one review states:29 The tempo of economic activities has quickened with the development of the Korean conflict. . . Economic indicators are pointing upward for the final quarter of 1950. . . rising activity and gathering inflationary pressures in the last quarter of the year are now foreshadowed. . . The future of the Dutch immigration movement, apart from factors of a political nature, will also be determined by the state of Canada's agriculture, as long as there are Netherlanders who are willing to emigrate to Canada.30 It will be governed by the progress which present immigrants are making, and this is partly 28Among observers interviewed by the writer during 1950, there was a wide divergency of opinion. Many believed that the international political situation would be the factor to decide future of agriculture, and other phases of activity. 29The Economic Analyst, October, 1950, Op. cit., p. 99, col. 1. "" "' 3oRecent interviews with immigration and consular offi- cials indicate that many Dutch immigrants are anxious to come to Canada in 1951. 119. regulated by the level of business activity throughout Canada. ' Undoubtedly the entry of immigrant has a stimulating influence on Canada's economy. With every additional entry, the domestic demand for Canada's consumer goods and services has been strengthened. Every immigrant who engages himself, either as employer or employee, in productive work, will add to Canada's national income. To measure quantitatively the impact caused by the entry of immigrants, both in "farmer" and in the other occupations, would be one topic open to further research. One author states:31 So long as full employment, or something ap- proximating full employment, prevails in Canada, this country can provide for a very large number of newcomers. If we are struck with another depres- sion, immigration will be almost the first national activity to be curtailed. This statement seems to reflect that there is a direct causal relationship between "the level of em- ployment" and Canada's absorptive capacity for immigrants. This is further amplified when this same author states:32 It is perfectly clear that the (absorptive) capacity will vary directly with conditions. . . reflected in the state of employment at home and abroad. 31H. L. Keenleyside, "Canada's Immigration Policy, p. 16, 92. cit. 321bid. 120. This concept seems to neglect the impact which im- migration may have on the level of employment. Also, the absorptive capacity, and the degree to which it is filled in any one area, may determine the area's pros- perity and business activity. Still, his politics are right; with a depression, immigration would in all probability be curtailed at an early date. Further research would be required to find out specifically this degree to which it (the absorptive capacity) is filled, in various sectors of Canada. This would be another field open for further study, and it should be carried on in conjunction with an inventory of Canada's natural resources. From observation presented in this section, it is evident that the future of immigration, from an economic standpoint, depends upon four factors. Of greatest importance is the continuation of favorable conditions for agriculture. In addition, the productivity and accessibility of new farms, and in- creasing market demands, both play an important role. Regarding ability of settlers to adjust to Canadian farming conditions, the Dutch settlers have made favor- able progress during the period 1946—1950. In conclusion, the Dutch immigration is one twinkle in the large constellation of the population movements progressing in the postwar era. Yet some of the problems 121. considered in this thesis will have bearing also in the other population movements where people from a con- centrated, thickly populated area are transferred to a less densely populous land such as Canada. When the receiving country is prosperous, the immigrants may share in this high level of business activity. Only time will reveal how progress manifests itself under changing conditions. APPENDIX A BREAKDOWN OF DISPLACED PERSONS WHO ARRIVED IN CANADA UP TO FEBRUARY 28, 1950 Farmers Family Farm Group Woodworkers Textile workers Domestic Married Couples Garment workers Garment workers' dependents Railway workers Hydro workers Building construction Steel and Foundry workers Steel and Foundry workers' dependents Miners Domestics Nurses Special trades Furriers Furriers' dependents Shoe workers General labourers General labourers' dependents Cabinet makers Blacksmiths Handicraft workers Handicraft workers' dependents T o t a 1 To Relatives Jewish orphans Other orphans 'International Exchange students G r a n d T 0 t a 1 5.123 3,743 3.599 571 1,540 2,847 2.339 2.391 2,484 796 310 24 3.950 9,825 44 226 461 414 110 394 222 90 20 26 .1129. 41,639 53,127 1,028 187 111.19. 96,011 ' NATIONALITY ORIGINS OF THE DISPLACED PERSONS WHO ARRIVED IN CANADA UP TO FEBRUARY 28, 1950 123. Albanian Armenian Bulgarian Czecho-Slovakian Danish Dutch Esthonian Finnish French German Greek Hebrew Italian Jugo-Slav Latvian Lithuanian Magyar Norwegian Polish Roumanian Russian Spanish Swedish Swiss Turkish Ukrainian T 0 t a l APPENDIX B PROGRESS REPORTS ON DUTCH IMMIGRANT CASES Following are abstracts from three detailed case reports on Dutch farmers who have made outstanding prog- ress since their arrival in Canada. These immigrants had been fortunate in being placed with considerate sponsors; in addition, their progress was facilitated since they were able to rent rather than having to purchase their farm property. Each of the three re- ports reflects success attributable to the immigrant's personal initiative, to the general prosperity within Canadian agriculture, and to fortunate placement cir— cumstances. Case Report 1.1 In Holland, Jan Eems2 was a successf I farmer; his land was fertile, and he was a good worker. He earned adequately for his wife, as well as for the thirteen children; this was a task — since his farm contained only 30 acres. All efforts to buy additional land conveniently close had failed. Jan worried what his children would do when they were ready to start out on their own. The older boys, aged 22, 21, and 19, were getting anxious; they wanted to remain in farming. For some time, the family talked of emigrating. When they heard of the Netherlands-Canada Farm Settlement Scheme, their talks crystalized into lOriginal data for these reports was obtained during the summer of 1950 from the Department of Citizenship and Immigration, Ottawa. 2All names have been changedin order to preserve anon- ymity of immigrants and sponsors. 125. action. The three oldest boys would go first, and their experience would decide the family's future. In Canada, Frank Jones, a farmer, had also heard of the Settlement Plan. He owned a large farm in Ontario, and operated another one on a rental basis. He needed much farmhelp for the sugarbeets, tomatoes, and other crops he produced. He applied for farm workers from the Netherlands, and it was arranged that the three Eems brothers would go to his farm. . . The boys were good workers. With their know- ledge of farming, and their initiative, they were of much help to their sponsor. Their enthusiastic letters home left no doubt in their father's mind as to the wisdom of immigrating to Canada. With his wife and ten children he would also come out to the Dominion. Mr. Jones, who sponsored the three Eems bro— thers, was willing to sponsor the rest of the Eems family; hence in March, 1948, this family was able to arrive in Canada. Mr. Jones provided residence for the immigrants, in the form of a vacant house on his property. During 1948, farm operations for the immigrants proceeded on a sharecrop basis, with all the family working. Their gross earnings amounted to seven thousand dollars. . . Mr. Eems was anxious to be a farmowner in Canada. With his earnings of 1948, he made a cash down payment of $2,000 on the purchase of a 170 acre farm, valued at $23,000. As he had agreed to work for his sponsor for one year, it was not until spring of 1949 that he took possession of his farm. By that time, he was able to buy a tractor, other equipment, and improvements, amounting to $3,000. The first year on their farm did nothing to dampen the enthusiasm of the Eems family. Their cr0ps of sugarbeets, beans, wheat, corn, tomatoes, and cucumbers, all were successful. As farm produce prices also were favorable; Mr. Eems was able to pay off another $8,000 on the purchase price of his farm, and could also look towards following years with greater confidence. . . Case Report 2. In some eastern Ontario news- papers—there could recently be seen an advertisement. "Dutch Sash and Door Factory," it proclaimed, and then went oh‘fB offer "Woodworking of all kinds - first class work - for less money." Behind that ad may be found a progress report concerning two Dutch immigrants who emigrated to Canada under the farm settlement scheme. 126. In 1948, Pieter Smits, a Dutch farmer, was plan- ning to come to Canada, since he was unable to buy a farm in Holland. Sponsored by Canadian farmer Ray Anderson, of Western Ontario, Smits arrived in May of 1948 with his wife and two small children. His first letters home, telling of the new country, were very enthusiastic; they inspired his brother- in-law, Hans Bruyn, to join him. With Mr. Anderson's willing sponsorship, Bruyn arrived in Canada in August. With him, in addition to his wife and baby daughter, was his 17 year old brother, Klaas. Hans Bruyn was a carpenter and cabinetmaker by trade, and his ambition was to have his own factory. He had been brought up on a farm and was quite con— tent to work at farming if that were to help him reach his goal. Smits, on the other hand, dreamed of owning his own farm. Both men worked hard to acquire capital; they had the assistance of young Klaas Bruyn - a willing worker. For two seasons, the three young men worked on Anderson's farm and at other farms in the district. In autumn 1949, their paths diverged for awhile; Hans Bruyn found employment in a woodworking fac~ tory for the winter, worked hard, and soon became a foreman; Klaas Bruyn went to work at the Ontario Hydro Development at Mattawa, where together they saved about $300 per month. With the money saved, the three men were able to rent one of Anderson's farms for one year. This farm, with 100 acres, a herd of 20 milking cows, has also a 12 roomed house. There the two families live. Smits and his wife both work on the land, while Mrs. Bruyn keeps house for them all. And in one of the poultry houses on the farm, Hans Bruyn has started his factory. This factory has a surprising output, although seemingly unimpressive from outside appearance. Hans Bruyn and his brother Klaas are busy at wood- working; machinery has been bought, including $3,000 worth of carpentry tools. Hence Sashes, doors, cabinets, furniture, "woodworking of all kinds" as the advertisement proclaims - is produced at this plant. The output reaches nearby farmers, as well as contractors at Ottawa, Brockville, and Cornwall. Progress is increasing. Already, after four months of work in the poultryhouse, Hans and Klaas Bruyn have been able to buy a truck, and have saved enough money to build a new workshop to handle his increasing output. At the same time Pieter Smits is successful in his farming venture, and he is now arranging for his parents to come and join him in Canada. . . 127. Case Report 3. Willem Jansma arrived in Canada in May, 1948, with his wife and ten children. Willem and his wife were accustomed to living frugally, and working long hours to meet the many demands of pro— viding for a large family. In Holland, they had rented a farm, but were unable to renew the lease as the owner needed the land for himself. Since farms for sale were difficult to find in Holland, Willem decided to come to Canada under the Farm Settlement Plan. He first went to work on the Ontario farm of Patrick Benson; they were given a very good reception; provided with a comfortable house; there was also a stock of groceries on the kitchen shelves upon arrival, so that the adjust— ments during the first days was made easier. Willem Jansma worked on the farm of Mr. Benson, the children went to school, and learned to Speak English. Mrs. Jansma, an efficient and business- like housewife worked and planned with her husband for the time when they would be able to start off on their own. Early in 1950, the time had come. Although Mr. Jansma had less than $1,000 cash, Mr. Benson en— couraged the immigrant, and offered him a loan. With this, Willem Jansma was able to rent a farm; this property located in the Morrisburg district facing the St. Lawrence River, had been idle during the past years. The former owner-operator had been killed in an automobile accident and his widow had been unable to continue operations. There was no stock on the farm, and barns were badly in need of repair. The spacious farmhouse was in good condition. The four hundred acres of land seemed very attractive to Willem Jansma. Completing a three—year rental agreement, the immigrant took over the farm in March, 1950. The Jansma family settled on the property, and farm equipment was bought. This consisted of tractor, drill, plow, for about $1,300, with stock of two horses, four cows, seven pigs, 200 chickens for $900 and seeds for planting cost $185. Sixty acres of the farm were seeded to buck- wheat, oats, potatoes, and corn. This was done by Willem and his oldest son, aged 14. Both worked hard all day in the field, and when their own plow- ing was done, they earned extra cash by doing custom work for neighbors. A contract to deliver milk to nearby dairy, sale of eggs in local market, and rental of the extensive pasturelands not needed for his own live- stock, all provided Willem Jansma with income. So will the sale of apples from the orchard where the 128. immigrant is already working to repair the effects of seasons of neglect. Mrs. Jansma is also kept busy with the cleaning, mending, baking, sewing, and other household tasks for her large family. In addition she finds true to work in the kitchengarden, as well as baking nine loaves four times weekly. During rainy weather, Mr. Jansma can be found inside the barns, repairing and restoring, and planning improvements to various parts of the buildings, and machinery. During the last three years, this immigrant has made good progress, and looks with confidence to the years ahead. BIBLIOGRAPHY Primary References: Interviews with about 300 immigrants, sponsors, immigration personnel, settlement officers, col- onization officials, consular staff members, and others interested in immigration and land settle- ment. Correspondence with land settlement officers, immi- gration personnel, authors on immigration, and others, interested in the settlement of immigrants. Various pamphlets and mimeographed material from the Department of Citizenship and Immigration; the On— tario Department of Planning and Development, and the Nova Scotia Land Settlement Board. (These pamphlets were mostly for limited distribution; none included in this section cited the author who prepared these works.) Secondary References: Agricultural Institute Review, "Canada's Agricul- tural Resources,“*Vol. I: No. 5, Published at Ottawa, Canada in May, 1946. Anderson, D., "Emigration Visas Sought by Two Million Hollanders," New York Times Special to Toronto Globe and Mail, January 2, 1947, p. 3: coI. 4. Bunce, A. 0., Economics of Soil Conservation, Iowa State College Press{_I949. Canada, Department of Agriculture, The Economic Annalist, October, 1950, Vol. XX, No. 5. Canada, Department of Citizenship and Immigration, The Immigration Act and Regulations, Office Consolidation, April, 1950} Canada, Department of Mines and Resources. 1. Report of the Immigration Branch for the Fiscal YEarIEnding March 31, 1946, THE—— KIng's PrInter, Ottawa. "' BIBLIOGRAPHY Primary References: Interviews with about 300 immigrants, sponsors, immigration personnel, settlement officers, col- onization officials, consular staff members, and others interested in immigration and land settle- ment. Correspondence with land settlement officers, immi- gration personnel, authors on immigration, and others, interested in the settlement of immigrants. Various pamphlets and mimeographed material from the Department of Citizenship and Immigration; the On- tario Department of Planning and Development, and the Nova Scotia Land Settlement Board. (These pamphlets were mostly for limited distribution; none included in this section cited the author who prepared these works.) Secondary References: Agricultural Institute Review,-"Canada's Agricul- tural Résources,‘r Vol. I, No. 5, Published at Ottawa, Canada in May, 1946. Anderson, D., "Emigration Visas Sought by Two Million Hollanders," New York Times Special to Toronto Globe and Mail, January 2, 1947, p. 37 coI. 4. Bunce, A. 0., Economics of Soil Conservation, Iowa State College Press,"I949. Canada, Department of Agriculture, The Economic Annalist, October, 1950, Vol. XX, N0. 5. Canada, Department of Citizenship and Immigration, The Immigration Act and Regulations, Office Consolidation, April, 1950. Canada, Department of Mines and Resources. 1. Report of the Immigration Branch for the ‘T‘IF sca Paar—Ending March 3W6TThE— KingTs Printer, Ottawa. "' 131. 2. Report of the Immigration Branch for the FIscaI YEarfEnding March 3;, 1947. 3. Report of the Immigration Branch for the FiscaI Year Ending March 3;, I948. 4. Annual Report of the Department of Mines and’Resources{Ifor the Fiscal Year Ending March 3;, I949. Canada, Dominion Bureau of Statistics. 1. Canada, 1950, The official handbook of present conditions and recent"progre§§, prepared fhr the Department of Trade and Commerce at Ottawa, 1950. 2. The Canada Yearbook, 1948-1949, Department OT’Trade and Commerce, 1949. 3. The Canada Yearbook, 1950, Department of Trade and Commerce, 1950? Fortin, C. H., and Thompson, H. C., "POpulation and Immigration," from Agricultural and Industrial Progress in Canada, pubIIShedin—I94bhy the Departmenf‘of Colonization and Agriculture of the Canadian Pacific Railways, Montreal. Graves, John, "Dealing in Futures," Canadian Geo- graphic Journal, June, 1950. Harvey, D. C., The Colonization of Canada, Clarke- Irwin PubliShers, Toronto, 1936. Harris, W. E., "Hopes and Promises," a radio speech via the Canadian Broadcasting Company, Feb— mary 27, 1950 o Haythorne, C. V. and March, L. C., Land and Labor, Oxford University Press, 1941. Hedges, J. B., Building the Canadian West, MacMillan Company, 1949. Keenleyside, H. L., "Canadian Immigration Policy," Reprint from the International Journal, Toronto, Summer, 1948. Litjens, J. Th. A. B., Studierapport van de Canadareis 1949. PubliEhed'in MimeogPEphed form for the Netherlands Emigration Foundation at the Hague, October, 1949. 132. McMaster University, Population Growth and Immi- gration into Canada, an abstract of papers, puBIIsHedatHamilton, Ontario, in 1949. Netherlands Information Bureau, Begin, Number 2, April, 1949, published at 168 Laurier Avenue, Ottawa, Canada. Netherlands Government, Dutch Agriculture Facts, published for the MihiStfy of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Foods, in 1948. Netherlands Government, Statistisch Zakboek 1947- 1948, published by W. de Haan., N. V. UtreEht, for the Centraal Bureau voor de Statistiek. Schultz, T. W., Production and Welfare in Agri- culture, MacMillan, I949. Smith,4g. Lynn, Population Analysis, McGraw-Hill, l9 . ' Tuinman, A. S., "Drie Jaar Emigratie naar Canada," reprint from the "Landbouw Wereldniews" 1950. Published in The Hague, the Netherlands. Vereniging Nederland-Canada, Nederland—Canada, Vol. 5, No. 4, issue of June, 1950. PuBIished in The Hague, the Netherlands. -H". "h - ...> . ‘01:"! ”EL: : ‘OJI'E'Z‘ ‘fiocvw? 11.11.3464- at . . V3 .. .._-~.-“ JI'IIIV v ‘.\II.'|llivlllrl|[il|.‘ll'l. I‘l'ill' ”TIM EMIHITJIIMM @141“