Elm Creek Coop - History "To provide the residents of Elm Creek and surrounding areas with goods and services for their consumption and use on a co-operative basis" (extracted from Elm Creek Co-op's Board minutes) This was the original purpose of the Co-op. Those services have been provided by Elm Creek Co-op since 1928, and are still provided today. The very day the Co-op was granted it's charter, the price of gasoline dropped by 6 cents per gallon in the Elm Creek District. This was to set an example for years to come, showing that Co-ops are a benefit to the community. The Elm Creek Co-op has undergone many changes since 1928 both financially and physically. Members, Board Members, Management, and Staff have all benefited from this business over the years. Co-op has provided employment for families in the area & many have served on the Elm Creek Board, and learned the Co-operative way. Although a great many people have been involved in our Co-op since 1928, one name remembered by most is Archie Janzen - manager of the Co-op for many years. He also served on Provincial Credit Union Boards, as well as Co-op Federation Boards. The Co-op has faced many challenges through the years, none more difficult than the economic downturn during the 1980s. It survived!!!!!!!! Today there are still challenges to face, but we have a stronger Co-op because of it's loyal membership. Taken from: "Elm Creek Centennial History Book, 1892 to 1992 - A Century of Memories" What you see today is after many years of extensive planning with FCL and Elm Creek Co-ops Board and Management. The Grand Opening took place during Co-op Week in October of 1999, with over 300 people attending the celebration. | Original Board Members: H.W. Barager J.R. Ivey H.C. Hargest Ed Clucas N.W. Scott R.A. Hargest George Sharp All farmers in the Elm Creek District Significant Dates: 1928 - Co-op incorporated 1960 - Bought first 1 ton barrel delivery truck 1965 - Bought shop garage 1974 - Built new store beside garage 1989 - Built new warehouse across from store, tore down original Co-op store, dismantled bulk plant 1992 - Renovated inside of Co-op store |
