Beaver Mines celebrates sunny centennial

Adriana Van Der Heijden photos

Toni Lucas

Beaver Mines celebrated its centennial in style on Saturday, August 6 under sunny skies, with close to 300 people in attendance. People gathered around the gazebo in the park to see the displays and enjoy the official program. MLA Evan Berger was on hand to present a plaque to honour the event. Reeve Rod Cyr and Town of Pincher Creek Mayor Ernie Olsen were also on hand to say a few words of congratulations.

Adriana Van Der Heijden
photo

Many local historical names were well represented, including members of the Gunderson, Vroom, Zoratti, Oczkowski, McClleland, and McDowall families, there to enjoy the day and sign the guest book.  Lynn Calder wrote a ballad that she performed with Stuart McDowall, based on the history of the area. Four stages of the local history were orated, each by a different person, adding a sense of context for the audience.  A power-point presentation and music added to the atmosphere of the day. Some of the guests still reside in the area, others came from all over Alberta, British Columbia, California, and as far away as New Zealand.

A prime-rib dinner was supplied by Barry Carnie.  The cake was cut by author Bessie Vroom.
Two historic churches St. Anthony's Mission and Mountain Mill were open for special services. As well, the historic Coalfield School held an open house.

The event was organized by the Beaver Mines Community Association, a group of about 12 dedicated volunteers.  "We had a lot of support, from the Town and M.D. of Pincher Creek joint council, and Shell was very generous," enthused Edna Layton. "It was a wonderful event.  People did not want to go when we were starting to clean up."  Those that wished to continue celebrating were "gently encouraged" to enjoy the atmosphere of Stella's Inn, the Beaver Mines hot-spot. A historical landmark from the turn of the century, it seemed a fitting place to have had everyone finish the day.