Happy 100th birthday Marie Smyth

Marie Smyth

Toni Lucas - Marie Smyth celebrated her 100th birthday today on Tuesday, August 11 at Pincher Creek's Crestview Lodge.  There was music, song and cake to mark the occasion.  "I never expected to be here, but I'm very happy," said Smyth. Her actual birthday is Friday, August 14, and there are a number of  celebrations planned by friends and family for the soon-to-be centenarian throughout the week.

Smyth grew up in the Vulcan and Champion area of Alberta and moved to Pincher Creek as a young woman with her family, including her late husband Eddy.

Mayor Anderberg presents certificate to Marie Smyth as Millie Loeffler looks on

Mayor Don Anderberg gave Smyth a certificate and a centennial pin on behalf of the Town of Pincher Creek.  Others recognizing her milestone and sending certificates of achievement included Reeve Brian Hammond, Prime Minister Steven Harper, Governor General David Johnston, and Queen Elizabeth.

Marie Smyth with niece Janice Day

Jackie Therriault at the piano

Local musician Jackie Therriault played piano during the event, adding to the festivities.

Pincher Foundation CAO and Crestview Facility Manager Millie Loeffler recited a list of the prices of items in 1915, the year of Marie's birth, including bread, a dozen eggs, and a gallon of milk, none of which topped ten cents.  Gas was 8 cents a gallon.  A stamp was 2 cents.  A movie ticket cost 7 cents.  Ford was an progressive company that paid all of their employees a minimum of $5.00 a day at a time when many did not make $35 in a month.  Farm help was paid an average of 30 cents an hour, $37.10 a month.

"We love you dearly, God bless you," said Loeffler..