“I pledge my head to clearer thinking, my heart to greater loyalty, my hands to larger service, my health to better living, for my club, my community, my country, and my world.” These bold words, spoken by proud 4-H members, leaders, and volunteers, have been ringing through the hills of Potter County for an outstanding 87 years. It all began in 1916, when Bert Straw forever etched his name in Potter County 4-H history by becoming the very first Potter County Cooperative Extension Agent. Straw’s enthusiasm proved perfect for the position and by 1919, he had initiated a boys and girls poultry club. By 1928, that first 4-H club was joined by a dairy club of eight members and a potato club of an astounding 50 members. Word of the numerous benefits of 4-H for youth and adults spread like wildfire and by 1934 there were eight dairy clubs scattered throughout Genesee, Germania, Allegany Valley, Shinglehouse, Millport, Ulysses, and Bingham townships. 4-H popularity grew to such an extent that in 1933, Potter County was reported as the leader of all other counties in 4-H club membership. Potter County 4-H has proven quite successful in numerous other arenas as well, such as in 4-H camps, State and National 4-H competition winners, school and after-school programs, and an international youth exchange program. The year of 1916 was an amazing start for Potter County 4-H, and as the year 2003 nears, the voices of 365 4-H members and 61 volunteers join together to pledge their heads, hearts, hands, and health to making the best better in their club, community, country, and their world.

- Contributed by Shalee Hornin