The International Building, 1947.

machine. There are still Farmall H’s and M’s
operating that were sold in the 1940’s.

When television became a reality in the early
1950’s, the garage purchased a T.V. set and set it
up in the “International”. Although there were
as yet no stations in Manitoba, people would
gather on a Saturday evening to watch some
dubious program emanating from the Minot sta—
tion. Although the reception was inconsistent it
was a beginning. When Brandon built a station
the Garage sold and installed television sets and
antennas. Joe Deedman recalls buying a 17”
black and white R.C.A. Victor in 1956.

The Belmont Garage belonged to an era
which is long since past — an era which saw
virtually every small town in Western Canada
with several car and implement agencies, stores,
cafes, train stations and other businesses. Many
memories remain. But all formed a chapter in the
continuing evolution of the prairies.

Stewart Motors

In 1946 J. S. Gordon (Stewart) established a
farm machinery and automotive dealership in
Belmont under the firm name of Stewart Motors.
The business was located on the north side of
Third Street just below the Hilton road intersec-
tion.

Stewart was just recently discharged from the
Air Force, where he served as a mechanic and
later as an inspector of aircraft. Prior to enlisting
in the Air Force he was employed by John Deere
Company in Winnipeg as a mechanic and advisor
in the manufacturing of farm machinery. Stewart
had a good knowledge of the farm implement
business through these experiences.

He was joined in the business by A. S.

85

 

Stewart Motors approximately 1946.

Urquhart (Andy) in October the same year. Andy
came out of the Canadian Army with several
years of mechanical experience in maintenance
and vehicle repair. Together they pledged to
work toward a common goal, to give their cus—
tomers honest and reliable service in this business
venture.

The garage building was 30 X 60 feet, built of
frame construction with a concrete floor, situ—
ated east and west parallel to Third Street. The
shop and service area took up 40 feet to the east
end of the building. Two large overhead doors
facing south gave convenient access to the two
service bays. The west end of the building con—
tained a display area, spare parts bin, a counter
and office. Outside and in front of this area was
located the gasoline pump island with two gas—
oline bowsers, displaying the Anglo Canadian
Oil Company logo. Stewart Motors were agents
for Anglo Canadian petroleum products, tires,
batteries and accessories. The service shop was
equipped with a hoist, greasing and oil change
equipment, plus the latest in motor overhaul
tools and machinery, plus electric arc and oxy—
acetylene welding equipment were installed.

Stewart Motors held the dealership for the
Minneapolis Moline tractors and farm imple—
ment line. This line of farm machinery was new
to the Belmont area, and created a great deal of
interest in the farm community, especially the
several tractor models that were offered to the
farm trade. One outstanding tractor was the
Model U, a 3—4 plow rugged machine that proved
a leader in its class during this period and sold for
about $2,000. The first Model U that was sold by
Stewart Motors was delivered to Aubrey Cline, a
farmer in the Belmont district. After that first
sale this model was in good demand in the area. A