Glimpses of the Past: January 30, 2025
Compiled by Jaimie Reynolds, Collections Manager
Bourne Brothers General Store on CPR Hill, circa 1890. Revelstoke Museum and Archives Collection, P-5642.
130 years ago: The Kootenay Mail, January 26, 1895
There was a bit of horsing around that occurred in Revelstoke while fire crackers were being lit in celebration of the Chinese New Year. A Bourne Bros’ horse, which was attached to a sleigh, was spooked by the commotion and took off running up Front Street. The horse ran along the riverbank, under the bridge, past the brewery and out into the countryside. It was safely caught at Hetherington’s farm house, with only one of the shafts on the sleigh broken.
120 years ago: Revelstoke Herald, January 26, 1905
The fourth annual hospital ball took place in the Revelstoke drill hall. It was said that the “unanimous opinion of all present was that from every standpoint it was the most successful [ball] ever held in the city of Revelstoke”. It was hosted by the Ladies Guild, who tastefully decorated the hall with flags and bunting, while lace and chenille curtains were draped over the windows. The Revelstoke Independent Band performed for over 200 people, and the dance floor was a wonderful scene of “gaiety and mirth”.
110 years ago: Revelstoke Mail-Herald, January 30, 1915
The fifth meeting of the Revelstoke high school club was held. After the regular business was attended to, the members listened to a talk on “Irish Wit and Humour” by Mr. B.R. Atkins, who was from Erin, Ireland, himself. The presentation was well enjoyed, and afterwards a piano solo was played, alongside a vocal accompaniment.
100 years ago: Revelstoke Review, January 28, 1925
A very special Cinderella Dance was going to be held on Saturday, January 31st. It was set to be hosted by the G.W.V.A at the drill hall in Revelstoke from 8:30pm to midnight. The entertainment for the evening was McMahon’s Orchestra and admission was only 50 cents.
90 years ago: The Revelstoke Review, January 25, 1935
An avalanche at Clanwilliam, just west of Revelstoke, took the lives of three men. The slide demolished several buildings at the National Defence work camp at that site. One of the victims was George Boyd of Sidmouth, who was in charge of the camp for unemployed men. The camp was located at the west end of also known as Clanwilliam Lake, also known as Summit Lake.
80 years ago: The Revelstoke Review, January 25, 1945
Despite it being very early into the growing season, apples were still rolling over the CPR Revelstoke Division from the Okanagan. The previous week, 11,050 cars had been handled during the season by both railways. The 1943 figure was 6,207 and 1942’s was 8,213.
70 years ago: Revelstoke Review, January 27, 1955
The local figure skating club was well into the planning stages of their annual skating carnival. The club had 79 members, and during a special carnival meeting, it was decided that the club should become a member of the Amateur Figure Skating Association. Due to a lack of facilities, the concessions committee had been unable to serve coffee, etc., at events thus far, and therefore, it was mentioned that this would need to be fixed by the date of the carnival.
60 years ago: Revelstoke Review, January 28, 1965
Special services were taking place in local Revelstoke schools, along with the rest of BC to mourn the passing of Sir Winston Churchill. The schools would close at noon for the rest of the day after the morning services. Sir Winston Churchill passed away on the 24th of January, 1965 and the Commonwealth countries were all still processing and mourning his loss.
50 years ago: Revelstoke Review, January 30, 1975
The Revelstoke Kinettes, as part of the local Snow Festival were going to host a “Nifty Fifty” Dance, at the Revelstoke Civic Centre for $2.00 a person. The dance would be from 9:00pm until 1:00am, and delicious refreshments would be served. The Kinettes asked attendees to “dig out those pants and skirts, saddle oxfords and bobby socks, and join in on the fun!”
40 years ago: Revelstoke Review, January 30, 1985
Thirteen Candy Stripers started work in the Mount Cartier Wing of Queen Victoria Hospital. The Candy Stripers met at RSS once a month to exchange ideas and discuss any problems. They provided a much appreciated and worthwhile service to extended care residents.
30 years ago: Revelstoke Times Review, January 27, 1995
A very exciting contest was on offer for a lucky Revelstoke resident. A Valentines Getaway to the Banff Springs Hotel was up for grabs. The “one night extravaganza” included castle accommodations, dinner (a five course meal) and dancing in the Rob Roy restaurant, and a choice of a Banff Springs breakfast or a continental breakfast in bed. Tickets were being sold at many local businesses including Chalet Bakery, Emos, Heather Hut and Coopers.
20 years ago: Revelstoke Times Review, January 26, 2005
The Revelstoke Art Group was all set to continue their Banner Painting Program. The theme of the year was all about heritage, featuring the beauty of stained glass windows. As stained glass windows often showcased stories, the theme would allow the community to feature its own historical beauty without the use of language. This year was especially exciting as it was the first banner series to involve Revelstoke children!