On June 20, 1890, for example, Brothers J. McFarlane and Steadman had “charges … laid against” them by the group, for being “under the influence of liquor.” McFarlane avoided that evening’s meeting, surprising the others. Steadman was visited by a committee a few days later, and “he was willing to come back if the Division would receive him.”

In early July, the group moved to expel Steadman from their membership. The expulsion was struck from the record, so that they could hold a vote on his fate. The result of the vote isn’t recorded, but Steadman doesn’t warrant a mention in the later minutes. The next week, McFarlane was expelled.

These minutes are part of a small display of temperance records, in the Region of Peel Archives reading room.

Archivist Jacob Keszei, who chose the records on display, says that “they provide very intimate, human reactions, which are easily forgotten since time has a habit of stripping away everything but the essential details of dates and events.”

Although the Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives is open daily, this case is viewable Tuesday to Friday through the day, and most Thursday evenings.

For more from the archives, visit the website.

Throwback Thursday is provided by Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives (PAMA). PAMA is a place to explore, learn, and make connections about Peel Region’s culture and heritage.