The Innisfail & District Historical Village opens for its 41st season on May 20 and visitors will experience new railway exhibits in the old Bowden Railway Station as well as a new permanent Rotary display.
“The kids are already at the gate to see if we have ice cream,’ said manager Debbie Becker Matthie, who is in her fifth season at the historical village, located at 52 Ave. and 42 St. “We sell 50 cent ice cream cones so they really line up here.”
The Royal Alberta Museum has donated several pieces of early 1900s living room furniture, including a period settee, chair and table.
“I can see someone like Marilyn Monroe draped over that couch,” said Becker Matthie, adding the village is grateful to have acquired the artifacts. “In smaller centres it is hard to find items like this.”
The pieces have been placed in the station master’s quarters inside the train station.
As well, the Canadian Pacific Railway, in commemoration of the completion of the CPR rail line more than 100 years ago, has donated several artifacts from passenger trains and hotels from the 1890 to 1930 era. They have been added to the recently completed model train exhibit in the train station.
Becker Matthie is also thrilled to see the new Rotary cabinet display at the village, which becomes a new permanent home for the service agency to showcase its many philanthropic accomplishments.
And on Canada Day on July 1 the village will be unveiling an 18-ft. tall tepee, which is being constructed by the local aboriginal group at Bowden Institution. The canvass and the polls were made at the institution.
While the village will open for the year on May 20 this year’s grand opening will be held on May 28. The event will feature a Vintage, Classic and Specialty Vehicle Show and Pancake Breakfast.
The village is encouraging citizens to bring their vehicles, and the first 20 drivers to register will receive a free breakfast. There will be prizes for the people’s choice of best vehicles in five separate categories.
Normally admission prices at the village is by donation but the May 28 celebration there is a $4 cost for adults and $2.50 for children under 12. For the fourth year the village’s gift shop will be open for visitors, offering unique souvenir items, a variety of teas and much more.
For further information on the village and its events for the season citizens can call 403-227-2906 or visit the web site at www.innisfailhistory.ca
