Just more than 100 years ago, in 1911, Sam Drumheller and Thomas Greentree tossed a coin in the air and began the rich history of what is now the town of Drumheller.
It was a story I had never heard before, it was a story about how the town came to get its name. The centennial celebration was held on May 15, which was the actual exact anniversary of the incorporation of the Town of Drumheller.
As the MLA for Drumheller-Stettler, I was honoured to have been invited to be in attendance for the ceremony held on a beautiful spring day in the valley. Civic pride was on display by a great many residents of the town, which included a number of residents from the Hillview and Sunshine seniors’ lodges.
The organizers of this event should be very proud of the celebration that was put on, at no charge, to participants that celebrated this historic milestone. Mayor Terry Yemen and town councillors — Sharel Shoff, Doug Stanford, Lisa Hansen Zacharuk, Tom Zariski, Andrew Berdahl, and Jay Garbutt should all be proud of how the town of Drumheller came out in large numbers to enjoy the festivities. The centennial organizing committee is to be commended for making everyone feel welcome and a part of the event.
One of my great pleasures in my newly-elected position as your MLA, is travelling throughout the constituency and recognizing the 100-year milestones of residents’ and towns. Witnessing the pride the people of Drumheller have in their community is inspiring in so many ways and I felt privileged to share this occasion with them.
As visitors mingled and reminisced, the projection screens at the Badlands community facility were filled with historic pictures of the valley and the pioneers that make up Drumheller’s magnificent history. As the old photos and videos ran, it gave you a real sense of what was and still is a very unique place to be. A very entertaining duo also provided the musical entertainment with songs about the town’s history.
One of the highlights of the day for me was the 4 centurion Drumheller residents that were in attendance, with Dr. Brummy Aiello at the age of 102 years, cutting the centennial cake.
Looking forward to the July 1 Canada Day celebration this year in Drumheller, it will be a very special event that I encourage everyone to attend. The events that happen around Drumheller on Canada Day are something to behold. Drumheller comes alive on Canada Day with a crowded parade route and activities for all ages that is all topped off with a spectacular fireworks display that lights up the valley.
Thank you to the town of Drumheller for hosting a great centennial celebration and I hope to see you all on Canada Day in Drumheller.
— From the Legislature