Squamish residents have a legacy of banding together during tough times, so this year’s Squamish Culture and Heritage Festival is celebrating community service – past and present – at Brennan Park Recreation Centre on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“There is a strong sense of volunteerism is Squamish, and we don’t want to lose this,” said Bianca Peters, president of the Squamish Historical Society. “We want people, especially those new to Squamish, to know that if you want something done, try to get out there and organize it yourself.”
Due to historically being isolated from Vancouver, the community has had to advocate for itself many times through grassroot initiatives.
During the Great Depression in the 1920s, for instance, Squamish didn’t suffer as much as other towns in B.C. because resourceful residents made sure everyone had enough to eat, according to the historical society. Later on, during the 1950s, the Lions Club fundraised for the first ambulance, and local businesses built dikes in the early 1970s.
Service groups from Squamish and history experts will be presenting information at this year’s Squamish Culture and Heritage Festival.
The Squamish fire department, for example, will show its antique truck, and representatives from Britannia Mine Museum will focus on the importance of the mine to the community. The Squamish Lions Cub, the Legion, the Elks and other service groups will also be on site.
Prizes will be awarded for best historical costumes, and there is a “heritage swim” where guests are encouraged to wear bloomers and other vintage swimming gear.
Peters hopes that by learning about the district’s past, current residents will take action when they see someone in need.
“We want our community to learn about its history and how it’s made Squamish a great place to live today,” said Peters. “We have a legacy of giving and service, and this should continue.”
Last time, 300 students attended the festival, which takes place every two years.
Students in school districts from North Vancouver to Squamish will be presenting displays based on their research projects as part of the Sea to Sky Regional Heritage Fair. Judges will select three students to represent Squamish at the provincial level at UBC.
“You will be amazed by the amount of research the students do. They are very excited about their projects,” said Cindy Rowell, the regional fair’s coordinator.
“We’re making history fun and hands-on to encourage critical thinking about the past.”
