Exploring the past from oil to aircraft
For a whole week Calgarians can dip their fingers into the rich history of southern Alberta.
From July 26 to Aug. 5, Historic Calgary Week opens the vaults on some of the city’s most venerable buildings and artifacts, such as the Hudson’s Bay Building, Second World War aircraft and pioneer cemeteries.
City historians, authors and entertainers lead talks, tours and walks to a variety of interesting sites.
“Its focus is really on the historical origins or roots of Calgary,” said Jennifer Prest, a member of the organizing committee.
A highlight of this year’s historical week includes a tour of Alberta’s oldest gas plant and first oil rig. Dingman No. 1 Discovery Well, at its peak, produced more than 95 per cent of all the oil in Canada.
Last month’s floods resulted in some rejigging of the schedule. Events that were planned to take place at Old City Hall were cancelled and some other venues were moved.
High River’s Museum of the Highwood was slated to offer a walking tour, but cancelled because of flood damages.
“We decided not to go ahead with it, just more out of respect for the homeowners than anything,” said Irene Kerr, curator of the museum, who added roughly 80 per cent of the museum’s collection was lost in the flood.
Historical Calgary Week started in the early 1980s when, according to Prest, some historic properties were threatened by development. Organizers thought a week of historical education would lead to more appreciation for Calgary’s past.
It is now in its 23rd year and continues to grow.
“It’s something that has really snowballed,” said Prest.
She said much of the rise in interest comes from Calgary’s newcomers. As people stream into the city they feel like they are becoming part of its history.
“It’s sort of a city in the making,” said Prest.
Many Calgarians have a growing interest in the city’s roots. Like the adage, many want to know where they come from to have a better idea of where they are going.
“People are becoming more and more aware of the background,” said Prest.
To kick off Historic Calgary Week, test your knowledge with the historical crossword on page A20 of today’s Herald. The answers will appear in the newspaper Friday, Aug. 16.