Glimpses of the Past: September 18, 2025

Compiled by Benjamin Smith, Collection Manager, Revelstoke Museum and Archives

Men at Nakimu Caves cabin. Revelstoke Museum & Archives Collection, P-994.

130 years ago: The Kootenay Mail, September 21, 1895

The telegraph line permitting distanced communication is being built into Lillooet. It will cost about $5 a mile. ($5 in 1895 is equivalent to about $192 in 2025.)

120 years ago: Revelstoke Review, September 21, 1905

Mr. Deutschman received recognition for his discovery of the Nakimu caves, located in Glacier National Park. What’s more, the caves have proven to be extraordinary, a world wonder. The walls and ceiling are literally covered with stalactites, varying in length up to 20 inches. It was asserted that there is not an equal to this cave system on this or any other continent. Congratulations Mr. Deutschman.

110 years ago: The Mail-Herald, September 18, 1915

The internment camp housing Ukrainian & Austrian prisoners of war, among other nationalities, has been filled to capacity. Discussion has shifted to whether or not the site of the camp will prove appropriate for the winter. Mayor Foote & Mr. McRae are firmly opposed to the idea, saying the conditions will be too harsh to put the men to work.

100 years ago: The Revelstoke Review, September 16, 1925

Dastardly acts of theft have been repeatedly committed in our local cemetery. An unknown individual is plucking flowers from the earth beds of our loved ones. One can be certain that officials are highly motivated to catch the assailant, so to inflict a punishment that sees to the end of such depredation.

90 years ago: The Revelstoke Review, September 20, 1935

A sensational exhibition about the Interior is receiving auto-loads of Revelstokians. Located in Armstrong for only a few days, people have been quick to recognize the extensive effort that has been put into the individual displays. Among Revelstoke visitors to the Armstrong Fair were: G. W. Cartwright, J. J. Horn, and the McRaes.

80 years ago: The Revelstoke Review, September 20, 1945

The Women’s Emergency Corps is due many thanks for the integral support they provided to our soldiers situated locally, overseas, and in POW camps. Mrs. Anderson, of the parcel committee, reported that the total number of Christmas parcels sent was 199 overseas, 154 Canadian, and 18 to girls, for a total of 371 parcels. These parcels serve as a reminder to those fighting for our country that a community awaits them.

70 years ago: The Revelstoke Review, September 15 1955

Increasing numbers of Revelstoke people are driving the 400 miles to Spokane for a holiday to take advantage of the reduced cost of living below the border. The paper states the difference is not in freight rates, nor is it in wages, but material goods and appliances, like automobiles and refrigerators.

60 years ago: The Revelstoke Review, September 16, 1965

Beloved Conductor Jim Farrell has announced his retirement from the CPR’s Revelstoke Division after 45 years of service. He made his last run into Kamloops on the “Dominion” last week. Jim Farrell was a good conductor whose kindness to travelers will be long remembered.

50 years ago: The Revelstoke Review, September 18, 1975

The International Union of Operating Engineers commenced its strike in Revelstoke, and picket lines appeared in front of the schools on Tuesday. Board Chairman Yosh Shoji admits his surprise, however he goes on to share that he was served a strike notice, but did not think they would follow through. The Union is seeking a raise in their cost of living clause.

40 years ago: The Revelstoke Review, September 18, 1985

The Mount Mackenzie Alpine Sports Society’s 100 members voted unanimously to accept the offer from the City of Revelstoke to acquire the lands and buildings on Mount Mackenzie, provided the City invests $250,000 into maintenance.

30 years ago: The Revelstoke Review, September 19, 1995

Revelstoke achieved an all-time-record for money raised through the Terry Fox Run. With over 200 enthusiastic participants covering two, five and 10 kilometer treks through the city, a grand total of $4,670 was raised for cancer research.

20 years ago: The Revelstoke Review, September 21, 2005

A collaborative attempt to understand the cause of the dwindling white sturgeon population has commenced between the Ktunaxa and Secwepemc First Nations, and the Canadian Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fisheries Commission (CCRIFC).They are investigating a hypothesis surrounding the presence of hydroelectric facilities in the Arrow system.