Norman F. Priestley | United Farmers Historical Society

Scope and Content: File consists of photographs and negatives: b&w, portraits of Norman F. Priestley, UFA Director and General Manager.

Administrative History: Associated with the executive and administrative capacities of United Farmers of Alberta Co-operative Ltd., Mr. Norman F. Priestley retired in January 1951. A member of a family from Yorkshire, England, who had been active in the consumer co-operative movement originated by the Rochdale Pioneers, Mr. Priestley came to Edmonton early in the century and homesteaded at Onoway, 40 miles northwest of the city. In 1904, the organization of farm people in defence of their industry was just beginning. From that early period onward, Mr. Priestley missed no opportunity to contribute to its development. He graduated from the University of Alberta with his Bachelor of Arts in 1916 and then enlisted in the Canadian Expeditionary Force. On returning from overseas, he was ordained to the Methodist Ministry. For many years, he was vice-president of the Lethbridge UFA Federal Constituency Association. Engaging in research work at Lethbridge, he became acting secretary in the Alberta Institute of Cooperation. Under the Canada Wheat Board Surplus Trust Fund, he produced a brochure on co-operation for the schools of agriculture. In January, 1931, Mr. Priestley was elected as vice-president of United Farmers of Alberta. In 1940, he resigned as vice-president in order to devote his time to the general management of the business. He remained in this position until his retirement in 1951 (from The United Farmer 1976 January-February Page 4).

Can I use it?: Images are provided for research and reference use only. Written permission to publish, copy or otherwise use these images must be obtained from United Farmers Historical Society.