Today we are a long way from economic prosperity but we are growing as a community and organizing to meet the challenges of tomorrow. The year 1979' was the year of the "Inverness Gathering," a year to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the town's incorporation. The year 2004 has become our Centennial year and one that will be remembered for not only its celebration but a year when our community is experiencing a rebirth and renewal.

'The celebrations of 1954 were in total contrast to the realities of the 1950's. The decade had hardly started when the Provincial Government decided to withdraw financial assistance to the raining operations at Inverness. The mines were the life blood of the community and the harsh impact of this news was evident in the faces of the population as they struggled for survival. People gathered on the Main Street to ponder the widespread unemployment and the future of the town. More than 50% of the population was out of work, unemployment insurance claims were fast running out and tax collections were down 26 per cent. There was a lot of speculation as to whether the town's charter would be revoked. Spirited meetings were held throughout the town that called for immediate action on the situation. Although the Government's decision was considered justified in some quarters many of the town's residents stated that much of the $431,658.81 deficit was due to bad management. Concerned, citizens were amazed at the lack of interest the Provincial authorities showed to the town's desperate position. The town was not able to excuse the government's lack of effort to replace the mining operation with another industry.

Leadership and recommendations came from five action groups within the town. These included the Town Council, the Board of Trade, the Inverness Local of the U.M.W, the Canadian Legion, and the Junior Chamber of Commerce. The Town Council summed up one of the basic worries of the town when they stated that unless conditions improved the town would be forced to revoke its charter.

The five groups organized and forwarded a comprehensive brief to both Federal and Provincial Governments outlining the critical situation and suggesting numerous solutions. Some of their requests were:

1. That a complete and thorough geological survey he implemented to definitely establish the potential of the coal bearing area in Inverness, St. Rose, Chimney Corner, Mabou, and Port Hood.

2.That an economic survey to explore industrial possibilities of Inverness town particularly and the feasibility of processing the lumber which is now being exported in millions of feet in its raw state from the county.

3.That the Government survey the base metal potentials in the county.

4.The establishment of a machine shop in Inverness town and an apprenticeship program for young men.

5.That Inverness Harbour he opemd and permanent piers erected.

6.The development of more and cheaper power to be developed from pulverized coal.

To many observers Inverness was about to fail and fade into oblivion. The projects presented to the Government and the request for a $2,000,000 loan for mine mechanization on the "34 inch" seam by W.N. MacDonald held the key to the town's future.

Promises were made and studies were undertaken but the recommendations were not followed to any significant degree. Smaller mines were opened but governments were reluctant to provide financial aid. Many of the town's citizens were forced to move but many remained to challenge the hardships. They barely survived the extreme crisis of the 50's and struggled through the 1960's still looking and hoping for the industry that would revive and revitalize the town. It did not come and the towns officials felt they could no longer function as a town. By the year 1968 the prophecy of the early 50's had come true. The town has ceased to be a town but the community survived and lives on as a testimonial to the enduring quality of its citizens. Conditions have improved but we are still in search of that elusive industry. A new energy and enthusiasm for the place we call "home" may someday account for a thriving and industrious Inverness. We continue to face our challenges and will prevail. Our energies have combined to provide a wholesome and active community whose qualities of concern and sharing transcend our lives.