BIG VALLEY BULLETIN -- The next meeting of the Big Valley Historical Society takes place on Tuesday, Feb. 16 at 7 p.m. at the Railway Station meeting room. Everyone is welcome to attend. 2016 memberships are due, and it is not too late to join the society. Also, if you are interested in becoming a volunteer at train times to greet the tourists, talk to a society member about what is involved. It is a lot of fun and all help is greatly appreciated.
In the 1920s, Big Valley was not a village, but a town with a much larger population. The state of health care here in Big Valley was much different as there actually were two doctors in town—Dr. Smyth and Dr. Ross. At times, a larger house doubled as a hospital, but according to the May 19, 1928 Calgary Herald, "A new hospital to be known as the Elks' Free Hospital and administered by Catholic Sisters, will be opened in Big Valley, Alberta around June 15...The building was formerly used as a hotel. It is owned by Diamond Brothers of Calgary, and Father Nolan stated that arrangements for the sale of the building have been completed. At the present time it has 46 rooms and when it is remodeled and completely renovated, it will have accommodation for about 33 beds." Though the Historical Society can't tell us which hotel this was, (not the Frontenac), it is interesting to note that at one time there were several other hotels here in Big Valley.
Seventeen players came out for crib at the Big Valley Inn Sunday, Feb. 7. Margaret Levesque took first place, Bill Kirtley took second place and Lawrence Wilkie took third spot. Gloria Emblau went home with the booby while Margaret Levesque won the draw. The next tournament is on Sunday, Feb. 14, Valentine's Day.
The Friends of the Big Valley Library Society held their first meeting of 2016 last week with an agenda dominated by plans for programming events they will be sponsoring this year. Upcoming events, beginning this March include "Chair Yoga", a six-week course presented by HJC Care Services beginning on Tuesday, March 1; a book talk with the author of "Unspeakable Gift", Carole Lauweryssen on Monday, March 7 and the Lavera Goldeye Talking Circle on Thursday, Marc. 17. For more information on programs stop by the Big Valley Library or contact Cindy Mailer at 876-2132.