August 10, 1929

Mr. George Akerson,
Secretary to the President,
The White House,
Washington, D. C.

Dear Mr. Akerson:

Enclosed please find letter received from Mr. W. I. Drummond, Chairman of the Board of Governors of the American Farm Congress, which I will ask that you kindly bring to the attention of the President.

Very truly yours,

THEODORE GARY

(s) By E. A. Terpeiring
Secretary

July 24, 1929

Mr. Theodore Gary

Kansas City, Missouri

Dear Mr. Gary:

As one who has shown consistent and friendly interest in American agriculture from a national economic standpoint, and in the welfare of our farming people, you no doubt realize that the passage of the Agricultural Marketing Act and the setting up of the Federal Farm Board may mark the beginning of a new order.

Regardless of what any of us may think of the value of this legislation, the fact remains that it marks the definite entry of our government into the business affairs of agriculture, in such a manner as probably to make it a dominating factor.

The effect of this legislation upon the future of agricultural organizations as now constituted may be profound. The clear policy of the government under this Act is to encourage the formation of cooperative associations, and to deal directly and exclusively with them. Legislation previously enacted, and now in effect, covers practically all other fields of group activities for farmers. A logical conclusion would seem to be that there may be no further need for general farm organizations.

The question naturally arises among those who have to do with the conduct of organizations such as the American Farm Congress, which confines itself to research and educational work, as to whether it is worth while to devote further time and energy to these movements. In other words, shall the farmers continue to maintain their own associations such as this, or shall they abandon them and look wholly to the government for organization and guidance?

The Farm Congress is not the only organization of a similar or general character which is asking itself this question.

A frank expression of your opinion on this subject will be appreciated.

Cordially yours,
(s) W. I. Drummond
Chairman Board of Governors
WID*FW

August 18, 1929

My dear Mr. Gary:

Your letter of August 10th, enclosing a communication addressed to you by Mr. W. I. Drummond, Chairman of the Board of Governors of the American Farm Congress, has been received. I shall be glad to lay it before the President as requested.
Sincerely yours,

GEORGE AKERSON
Secretary to the President

Mr. Theodore Gary,
Telephone Building,
Kansas City, Missouri.                                                                            ric