The Full Story

At Garve on the 22nd of September 1909 by the invitation of Capt. Stirling of Strathgarve Messrs W.D. Mackenzie Garve Hotel, Roderick Mackenzie Postmaster, W.M. Mackenzie Merchant, Geo. MacLennan Farmer Killin and Dili Raw Manger Strathgarve met with Captain Stirling in the new public hall erected and furnished by him for the benefit of the district.

Captain Stirling explained that he wished to hand over the management of this hall to a committee who would have full control of everything in connection with its management in the interests of the public, and for the general good of the residents in the locality and he asked the above-named gentlemen if they would undertake this duty.

They all agreed to accept office and expressed their please of the obligation under which

Captain Stirling has placed the whole community by this large-hearted liberality.

Captain Stirling then briefly indicated the lines on which he proposed the committee should run the undertaking: That while making their scale of charges for the use of the hall as moderate as possible they should aim at making it self-supporting regarding cleaning, heating, lighting, and general upkeep. Which he very kindly undertook not only to let them have the buildings and furniture free of rent but also to pay all rates, as well as the premium on the insurance policy.

He further expressed the wish that the committee would see that no political party or religious discrimination should be placed at any disadvantage regarding obtaining the use of the building, but all should be treated with the upmost impartiality.

In addition to the above Captain Stirling also offered to buy a piano for the committee- should they wish this-and let them pay up the purchase price by instalments when their funds permitted them to do so. The committee grate-fully accepted this generous offer and heartily thanked Captain Stirling for his kindness.

Captain Stirling having departed the committee, proceeded to hold their first meeting and appointed W.D. Mackenzie convenor and Dili Raw secretary and treasurer. They then took up the question of appointing a caretaker and decided to fix the commemoration for that office at five pounds.

per annum (£5).

It was suggested that the post be offered to Police Constable Smith and the meeting approved of this. Smith was then sent for and after an interview with the committee, he accepted the post on these terms, subject to the approval of the Chief Constable.

The committee instructed the secretary to write to Captain Finlayson, asking his consent to this arrangement and to report regarding this to a future meeting.

The meeting then took up the question of the formal opening of the hall, and it was agreed to hold a concert there at an early date and the secretary was instructed to consult Captain and Mrs Stirling in regard to what would be a suitable date for them, and to enquire whether Mrs Stirling could kindly help them in regard to finding any outside help for the entertainment. The result is to be reported to a future meeting

This was all the business and the meeting closed with a vote of thanks to the chairman.

W.D. Mackenzie

Convenor