Another time when help was needed on the farm was when the grain was cut. Originally it was cut with a scythe, but even after reapers became common workers were needed to bind the grain in sheaves and then stand these sheaves in stooks, groups of 4 or 5 sheaves. The sheaves were later gathered and stored. The early machines greatly reduced the labour. James Norton purchased a reaper for $44.00 in 1884 and was still using the same one in August 1924. Nelson Acorn also recalled his grandfather using a strawcutter and hay press that wrapped the bale of hay with wire instead of twine. Although the modern combines and machines of today make these early machines appear rustic, the farmers still hold fast to the old adage of helping one another and working to¬ gether. The huge combines are often owned jointly by several farmers. The cooperation and work sharing was not limited to farm work. If a new house or barn was built in the community, those with free time would lend a hand. Shingling often brought a group together. In the earliest days, the shingles were also made by the men, not purchased from a local building supply store. If the buildings were for community use, such as a hall, or school, the residents often donated both the materials and the labour. Lloyd MacLeod , Bridgetown cutting ice to be stored in sawdust for future use. 112