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0701

CONSTITUTION OF THE Agricultural Association OF THE COUNTY OF MONROE.
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Whereas, the sudden emancipation of the slaves has brought disaster upon the freedmen themselves, as well as great loss upon the planter, and whereas, it is for the interest of the people of Monroe county, as well as their duty, as humane men and citizens, to protect and preserve the colored population of the county, by furnishing them employment, and ministering to their wants and necessities. Now, therefore, in furtherance of the great objects above expressed, we, the undersigned planters and employers of freedmen, agree to and subscribe to the following articles, to wit:
ART. 1st. This association shall be called ''the Agricultural Association of the county of Monroe,'' and every white inhabitant of the county, who is or who proposes to become an employer of freedmen, may become a member of this Association, by subscribing his or her name hereto.
ART 2d. The Officers of this association, shall be a President, a Secretary and Treasurer, which office shall be united in the same person, and an Executive Committee, composed of one member from each beat of said county
Art. 3d.The Officers, to wit a President, a Secretary and Treaurer and an Executive Committee, consisting of one member from each beat of the county, shall be elected by a plurality of the votes of the members of this Association present, and voting at any meeting, when such election shall take place, and said officers of said Association shall hold their offices for one year and until the next annual election, and the regular annual election, shall be held at such time and place as may be fixed by the Association, and on their failure to act in the premises by the Executive Committee.
ART. 4th. The duties of the President shall be to supervise, and generally direct the action of the Association, to preside at all its meetings, and direct all proceedings of an executive character.