Countless memories were recalled and friendships renewed last weekend as hundreds celebrated the Halkirk centennial.
“Everyone was just so pleased with the event,” said village councillor Sherry Jamieson, who chaired the organizing committee.
“They enjoyed the displays and visiting with friends and family.”
Several hundred people lined the streets of Halkirk for the 25-minute parade that featured several families with roots deeper than the village, community groups, local and neighbouring municipalities, horses, old vehicles and horses.
“It was probably the biggest parade we’ve had in Halkirk,” said Mayor Dale Kent, who first served on council in the late 1970s.
“Everyone was impressed with the event and how clean the town looked.”
As the village celebrated its past, the mayor also noted how ironic it is that the Halkirk Wind project is about to begin work that will become a significant part of the village’s future history.
Although overall figures weren’t confirmed, Jamieson heard that 700 to 800 people dined at the supper Saturday night.
“It’s been quite a few years since Halkirk last had a reunion, although there wasn’t nearly as many people as this,” Jamieson said.
That was in 1987 when the first volume of the history book Halkirk Home Fires was released.
To update the history of Halkirk, the second edition of the local history book, Halkirk Home Fires, was unveiled at the centennial.
“I feel very honoured to represent Halkirk in the mayor’s position during Halkirk’s 100th birthday, as did the first mayor elected when he likely made the village status official,” Kent said during opening ceremonies after the parade.
County of Paintearth expressed its support and congratulations.
“Our urban neighbours are an essential component in a strong region,” Reeve George Glazier said.
“The Village of Halkirk and the county are involved in many joint services and programs and working together ensures the continuation of quality services to citizens of the region.”
Newly-elected Drumheller-Stettler MLA Rick Strankman sent a message of congratulations, though he was unable to attend because the Wildrose MLA had a previous commitment at the Calgary Stampede centennial
Crowfoot MP Kevin Sorenson was also invited, but didn’t participate in the parade.
During the weekend, other special activities reflected on the village’s history, with school displays and activities at Halkirk Mother Theresa Catholic School, the old grain elevator, the curling rink and Halkirk Community Church.