Alberni District Historical Society

ICE CREAM PARLOURS by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research courtesy of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society The human being is a social creature as noted in last week’s article. Cafes were one place to gather, as were the ice cream parlours. From the early 20th century up until the 60's, it was common for small town residents and big city dwellers to enjoy ice cream sodas and conversation at the local ice cream parlours. Port Alberni was no exception.... Many were housed in pharmacies, known early on as apothecaries. Others were part of the coffee shop scene. Stirzaker’s Koffee Kup Cafe, as highlighted last week, was one such popular place. Adults could be seen there enjoying a cup of coffee but you can bet the younger crowd would be up to their high jinx at the horseshoe-shaped soda fountain. Saturday was the day of the week when families came to town to do their shopping. They often stopped by their favourite ice cream parlour for five cent cones for the kids. Spooner’s on 1st Avenue, next to the Port Theatre, had a special draw. Mr. Spooner was not content selling run- of-the-mill commercial ice cream. He purchased and installed the most modern freezing equipment and machinery and began producing the best local ice cream. As touted in an early edition of the West Coast Advocate, Spooner’s ice cream is known throughout the length and breadth of the Alberni district and there isn’t a finer product on the island. There’s nothing better than Spooner’s ice cream. High praise indeed! An ice cream parlour still spoken of by older folks today is the Sugar Bowl. It was situated at the corner of Argyle Street and 3rd Avenue in the building built by Syd Croll. It still stands today. Roley Tombs bought the business in the 40's and ran the Sugar Bowl in an atmosphere not unlike that of TV's ‘Happy Days’. Margaret Chipman (nee Jorgenson) worked there as a 16-year old. Muddy, as she was known, recently passed away but left wonderful memories of that first job. The weekend shifts, with five or six girls working, dressed in our green uniforms, was hectic but also lots of fun. Roley was a really great guy to work for, so easygoing. Teenagers would meet there, drink thick milkshakes and play the jukeboxmaybe do a bit of smooching in the booths too. The Sugar Bowl was also popular with the soldiers stationed at the army camp. Arguably, this was the place to beif you were a teenager, that is. Do you recall others I haven’t mentioned? Ahhagain born too late. I love the idea of sippin’ sodas in an ice cream parlour and smoochin’ a little in that back booth! Caption for our photo today: Even before known for it’s ice cream, Spooner’s had made a name for itself in chocolates.

ICE CREAM PARLOURS by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research courtesy of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society The human being is a social creature as noted in last week’s article. Cafes were one place to gather, as were the ice cream parlours. From the early 20th century up until the 60's, it was common for small town residents and big city dwellers to enjoy ice cream sodas and conversation at the local ice cream parlours. Port Alberni was no exception.... Many were housed in pharmacies, known early on as apothecaries. Others were part of the coffee shop scene. Stirzaker’s Koffee Kup Cafe, as highlighted last week, was one such popular place. Adults could be seen there enjoying a cup of coffee but you can bet the younger crowd would be up to their high jinx at the horseshoe-shaped soda fountain. Saturday was the day of the week when families came to town to do their shopping. They often stopped by their favourite ice cream parlour for five cent cones for the kids. Spooner’s on 1st Avenue, next to the Port Theatre, had a special draw. Mr. Spooner was not content selling run- of-the-mill commercial ice cream. He purchased and installed the most modern freezing equipment and machinery and began producing the best local ice cream. As touted in an early edition of the West Coast Advocate, Spooner’s ice cream is known throughout the length and breadth of the Alberni district and there isn’t a finer product on the island. There’s nothing better than Spooner’s ice cream. High praise indeed! An ice cream parlour still spoken of by older folks today is the Sugar Bowl. It was situated at the corner of Argyle Street and 3rd Avenue in the building built by Syd Croll. It still stands today. Roley Tombs bought the business in the 40's and ran the Sugar Bowl in an atmosphere not unlike that of TV's ‘Happy Days’. Margaret Chipman (nee Jorgenson) worked there as a 16-year old. Muddy, as she was known, recently passed away but left wonderful memories of that first job. The weekend shifts, with five or six girls working, dressed in our green uniforms, was hectic but also lots of fun. Roley was a really great guy to work for, so easygoing. Teenagers would meet there, drink thick milkshakes and play the jukeboxmaybe do a bit of smooching in the booths too. The Sugar Bowl was also popular with the soldiers stationed at the army camp. Arguably, this was the place to beif you were a teenager, that is. Do you recall others I haven’t mentioned? Ahhagain born too late. I love the idea of sippin’ sodas in an ice cream parlour and smoochin’ a little in that back booth! Caption for our photo today: Even before known for it’s ice cream, Spooner’s had made a name for itself in chocolates.

Dancin’ the Night Away by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS, All research courtesy of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society Today many of us spend Saturday evening lounging on the couch watching a Netflix movie. It might be low key and comfortable but something has to be said for dressing up and dancin’ the night away....Continue reading

Cafes of Yesterday by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research courtesy of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society In earlier years, when cars were fewer in number and everyone walked to where they were going, the coffee shop was there as much for socializing as anything else.The Korner Coffee Bar on the southeast corner of Johnston and Elizabeth was sometimes referred to as Alberni’s other city hall. Opened around 1940 by Mrs. E Simpson, it was the setting for coffee... and pie and discussion of everything from world affairs to those of the neighbours. Other popular eateries included Dunvagens on Argyle Street, the Club and Good Eats Cafe on 1st Avenue. All served up bottomless cups of coffee and good, wholesome meals. In 1935, the Good Eats Cafe, now owned by Andy Ercolini, was completely modernized. A few years later, the cafe changed hands again when George Martin bought it, operating it until 1946. You might recall when he moved up to Argyle Street, where he ran Martin’s Cafe for a number of years. On 3rd Avenue, up the block from McGarrigle’s Meat Market was Harry Stirzaker’s Koffee Kup where a piece of pie cost 10 cents. Harry’s wife, Evelyn, baked those many pies - 700 of them paid for a new wringer washing machine. In 1947, Harry expanded in a big way. He had a building constructed just up the block (later occupied by Woolworth’s) where he opened a spacious ice cream parlour and coffee bar. Stirzaker’s was touted as being ‘the most modern restaurant on the island’. A state-of-the-art feature was the introduction of remote control boxes by which the Wurlitzer could be played from anywhere in the cafe. Another unique feature of Stirzaker’s was located in the lower level of the building. For some time, it housed a roller rink where youngsters could rent skates, drink a Coke and hang out with their friends. These are just some of the valley’s cafes. You may well recall others. At any rate, they all had one thing in common. They served much more than a cup of coffee. As importantly, they served as a gathering place for all - a very worthwhile place for the social soul that is the human being. Next week:- To follow through with this social theme, watch for the upcoming article on Ice Cream Parlours in their hey-day. Photos: 1. Good Eats Cafe on 1st Avenue. The four waitresses are standing with owner, George Martin. L to R:- Milly Hanson, Dorothy Ristow, Jessie Federation, who later married George, and Marion Federation, Jessie’s sister. C 1941 PN08945 2. Stirzaker’s coffee shop consisted of a sofa fountain in the Center, with booths encircling it on three sides. 20 waitresses were hired to cover the two shifts for this going concern. 1947

Agricultural Fair was a Time to Shine by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research courtesy of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society The Alberni District Fall Fair, happening this weekend, got its start shortly after the end of WWII. Everyone was ready for a good time and the fair was one of them. The first fair was staged in a collection of cast off army camp tents in the same location as it is now, 75 years later. ... Yes, this was the birth of the Fall Fair as we know it today but there was a precursor, Alberni’s Agricultural Fair. In this farming community, people worked hard raising the best livestock and crops. They took pride too, rightfully so. The farmers weren’t alone. Homemakers and children prided themselves in the likes of baked goods and penmanship, respectively. The fair was their chance to shine. The first annual fair of the Alberni Agricultural Association was held in 1904 in Brand’s Hall. Eight years later, in 1912, the fair had far outgrown its location. The new one was found across from Gill School on Peter Nicholas’ property. The Agricultural Association purchased the five acres and built a fine hall. Fair Day was always scheduled for the first week of September. Wheat and oat sheaves along with giant sunflowers decorated the entrance. The aroma of fresh fruit and vegetables, along with the sound of friendly chatter welcomed all in. It was a chance to check exhibits and see if a blue ribbon hung on yours. Admission was 50 cents for adults and 25 for children. Prizes for most years were sponsored by national flour and seed companies. Local businesses also stepped up. These included grocers, Thomson’s and Bishop & Son, and Joseph Clegg’s Photography. Most prizes were of goods valued from $8 for the top purebred bull to $2 for a piece of sewing by a bachelor. Mrs. George Forrest, a good cook, often took home the 100 pounds of flour prize for the best loaf of bread. Children were encouraged to exhibit. In 1924, young Trevor Goodall was pleased to go home with a special prize sponsored by the Canadian Bankers Association for the winning calf. The agricultural fair continued here until 1931 when it moved again to the new community hall at Stirling’s field. Still, days were numbered. The worldwide Depression dictated that the fair, along with many things ceased to exist. Throughout its existence, the agricultural fair played a vital role as a unifying and social force in the young community. Photo today (courtesy of the Alberni Valley Museum, PN 1145): The agricultural fair of the early days attracted those wishing to exhibit their wares. Pictured here is the interior view of the agricultural hall in 1916 chock full of exhibits. Winners in the domestic science category were:- Mrs. G. Forrest, biscuits; Mrs. E. Gill, pies; Mrs. A. Heath, butter molded into rose shapes.

Dancin’ the Night Away by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS, All research courtesy of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society Today many of us spend Saturday evening lounging on the couch watching a Netflix movie. It might be low key and comfortable but something has to be said for dressing up and dancin’ the night away....Continue reading

Cafes of Yesterday by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research courtesy of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society In earlier years, when cars were fewer in number and everyone walked to where they were going, the coffee shop was there as much for socializing as anything else.The Korner Coffee Bar on the southeast corner of Johnston and Elizabeth was sometimes referred to as Alberni’s other city hall. Opened around 1940 by Mrs. E Simpson, it was the setting for coffee... and pie and discussion of everything from world affairs to those of the neighbours. Other popular eateries included Dunvagens on Argyle Street, the Club and Good Eats Cafe on 1st Avenue. All served up bottomless cups of coffee and good, wholesome meals. In 1935, the Good Eats Cafe, now owned by Andy Ercolini, was completely modernized. A few years later, the cafe changed hands again when George Martin bought it, operating it until 1946. You might recall when he moved up to Argyle Street, where he ran Martin’s Cafe for a number of years. On 3rd Avenue, up the block from McGarrigle’s Meat Market was Harry Stirzaker’s Koffee Kup where a piece of pie cost 10 cents. Harry’s wife, Evelyn, baked those many pies - 700 of them paid for a new wringer washing machine. In 1947, Harry expanded in a big way. He had a building constructed just up the block (later occupied by Woolworth’s) where he opened a spacious ice cream parlour and coffee bar. Stirzaker’s was touted as being ‘the most modern restaurant on the island’. A state-of-the-art feature was the introduction of remote control boxes by which the Wurlitzer could be played from anywhere in the cafe. Another unique feature of Stirzaker’s was located in the lower level of the building. For some time, it housed a roller rink where youngsters could rent skates, drink a Coke and hang out with their friends. These are just some of the valley’s cafes. You may well recall others. At any rate, they all had one thing in common. They served much more than a cup of coffee. As importantly, they served as a gathering place for all - a very worthwhile place for the social soul that is the human being. Next week:- To follow through with this social theme, watch for the upcoming article on Ice Cream Parlours in their hey-day. Photos: 1. Good Eats Cafe on 1st Avenue. The four waitresses are standing with owner, George Martin. L to R:- Milly Hanson, Dorothy Ristow, Jessie Federation, who later married George, and Marion Federation, Jessie’s sister. C 1941 PN08945 2. Stirzaker’s coffee shop consisted of a sofa fountain in the Center, with booths encircling it on three sides. 20 waitresses were hired to cover the two shifts for this going concern. 1947

A COUNTRY SCHOOL AND A TOWN SCHOOL by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research courtesy of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society I realize I have written about local schools recently. I hope I am not boring you but interest has been expressed about two others in particular Cherry Creek School, a country school and Eighth Avenue School, a town one....Continue reading

Dancin’ the Night Away by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS, All research courtesy of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society Today many of us spend Saturday evening lounging on the couch watching a Netflix movie. It might be low key and comfortable but something has to be said for dressing up and dancin’ the night away....Continue reading

Agricultural Fair was a Time to Shine by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research courtesy of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society The Alberni District Fall Fair, happening this weekend, got its start shortly after the end of WWII. Everyone was ready for a good time and the fair was one of them. The first fair was staged in a collection of cast off army camp tents in the same location as it is now, 75 years later. ... Yes, this was the birth of the Fall Fair as we know it today but there was a precursor, Alberni’s Agricultural Fair. In this farming community, people worked hard raising the best livestock and crops. They took pride too, rightfully so. The farmers weren’t alone. Homemakers and children prided themselves in the likes of baked goods and penmanship, respectively. The fair was their chance to shine. The first annual fair of the Alberni Agricultural Association was held in 1904 in Brand’s Hall. Eight years later, in 1912, the fair had far outgrown its location. The new one was found across from Gill School on Peter Nicholas’ property. The Agricultural Association purchased the five acres and built a fine hall. Fair Day was always scheduled for the first week of September. Wheat and oat sheaves along with giant sunflowers decorated the entrance. The aroma of fresh fruit and vegetables, along with the sound of friendly chatter welcomed all in. It was a chance to check exhibits and see if a blue ribbon hung on yours. Admission was 50 cents for adults and 25 for children. Prizes for most years were sponsored by national flour and seed companies. Local businesses also stepped up. These included grocers, Thomson’s and Bishop & Son, and Joseph Clegg’s Photography. Most prizes were of goods valued from $8 for the top purebred bull to $2 for a piece of sewing by a bachelor. Mrs. George Forrest, a good cook, often took home the 100 pounds of flour prize for the best loaf of bread. Children were encouraged to exhibit. In 1924, young Trevor Goodall was pleased to go home with a special prize sponsored by the Canadian Bankers Association for the winning calf. The agricultural fair continued here until 1931 when it moved again to the new community hall at Stirling’s field. Still, days were numbered. The worldwide Depression dictated that the fair, along with many things ceased to exist. Throughout its existence, the agricultural fair played a vital role as a unifying and social force in the young community. Photo today (courtesy of the Alberni Valley Museum, PN 1145): The agricultural fair of the early days attracted those wishing to exhibit their wares. Pictured here is the interior view of the agricultural hall in 1916 chock full of exhibits. Winners in the domestic science category were:- Mrs. G. Forrest, biscuits; Mrs. E. Gill, pies; Mrs. A. Heath, butter molded into rose shapes.

Dancin’ the Night Away by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS, All research courtesy of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society Today many of us spend Saturday evening lounging on the couch watching a Netflix movie. It might be low key and comfortable but something has to be said for dressing up and dancin’ the night away....Continue reading

Army Camp School Life by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research courtesy of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society In a recent article, I touched on the Army Camp school experience. It was an interesting time, one I will elaborate on here....Continue reading

Agricultural Fair was a Time to Shine by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research courtesy of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society The Alberni District Fall Fair, happening this weekend, got its start shortly after the end of WWII. Everyone was ready for a good time and the fair was one of them. The first fair was staged in a collection of cast off army camp tents in the same location as it is now, 75 years later. ... Yes, this was the birth of the Fall Fair as we know it today but there was a precursor, Alberni’s Agricultural Fair. In this farming community, people worked hard raising the best livestock and crops. They took pride too, rightfully so. The farmers weren’t alone. Homemakers and children prided themselves in the likes of baked goods and penmanship, respectively. The fair was their chance to shine. The first annual fair of the Alberni Agricultural Association was held in 1904 in Brand’s Hall. Eight years later, in 1912, the fair had far outgrown its location. The new one was found across from Gill School on Peter Nicholas’ property. The Agricultural Association purchased the five acres and built a fine hall. Fair Day was always scheduled for the first week of September. Wheat and oat sheaves along with giant sunflowers decorated the entrance. The aroma of fresh fruit and vegetables, along with the sound of friendly chatter welcomed all in. It was a chance to check exhibits and see if a blue ribbon hung on yours. Admission was 50 cents for adults and 25 for children. Prizes for most years were sponsored by national flour and seed companies. Local businesses also stepped up. These included grocers, Thomson’s and Bishop & Son, and Joseph Clegg’s Photography. Most prizes were of goods valued from $8 for the top purebred bull to $2 for a piece of sewing by a bachelor. Mrs. George Forrest, a good cook, often took home the 100 pounds of flour prize for the best loaf of bread. Children were encouraged to exhibit. In 1924, young Trevor Goodall was pleased to go home with a special prize sponsored by the Canadian Bankers Association for the winning calf. The agricultural fair continued here until 1931 when it moved again to the new community hall at Stirling’s field. Still, days were numbered. The worldwide Depression dictated that the fair, along with many things ceased to exist. Throughout its existence, the agricultural fair played a vital role as a unifying and social force in the young community. Photo today (courtesy of the Alberni Valley Museum, PN 1145): The agricultural fair of the early days attracted those wishing to exhibit their wares. Pictured here is the interior view of the agricultural hall in 1916 chock full of exhibits. Winners in the domestic science category were:- Mrs. G. Forrest, biscuits; Mrs. E. Gill, pies; Mrs. A. Heath, butter molded into rose shapes.

A COUNTRY SCHOOL AND A TOWN SCHOOL by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research courtesy of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society I realize I have written about local schools recently. I hope I am not boring you but interest has been expressed about two others in particular Cherry Creek School, a country school and Eighth Avenue School, a town one....Continue reading

A COUNTRY SCHOOL AND A TOWN SCHOOL by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research courtesy of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society I realize I have written about local schools recently. I hope I am not boring you but interest has been expressed about two others in particular Cherry Creek School, a country school and Eighth Avenue School, a town one....Continue reading

Agricultural Fair was a Time to Shine by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research courtesy of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society The Alberni District Fall Fair, happening this weekend, got its start shortly after the end of WWII. Everyone was ready for a good time and the fair was one of them. The first fair was staged in a collection of cast off army camp tents in the same location as it is now, 75 years later. ... Yes, this was the birth of the Fall Fair as we know it today but there was a precursor, Alberni’s Agricultural Fair. In this farming community, people worked hard raising the best livestock and crops. They took pride too, rightfully so. The farmers weren’t alone. Homemakers and children prided themselves in the likes of baked goods and penmanship, respectively. The fair was their chance to shine. The first annual fair of the Alberni Agricultural Association was held in 1904 in Brand’s Hall. Eight years later, in 1912, the fair had far outgrown its location. The new one was found across from Gill School on Peter Nicholas’ property. The Agricultural Association purchased the five acres and built a fine hall. Fair Day was always scheduled for the first week of September. Wheat and oat sheaves along with giant sunflowers decorated the entrance. The aroma of fresh fruit and vegetables, along with the sound of friendly chatter welcomed all in. It was a chance to check exhibits and see if a blue ribbon hung on yours. Admission was 50 cents for adults and 25 for children. Prizes for most years were sponsored by national flour and seed companies. Local businesses also stepped up. These included grocers, Thomson’s and Bishop & Son, and Joseph Clegg’s Photography. Most prizes were of goods valued from $8 for the top purebred bull to $2 for a piece of sewing by a bachelor. Mrs. George Forrest, a good cook, often took home the 100 pounds of flour prize for the best loaf of bread. Children were encouraged to exhibit. In 1924, young Trevor Goodall was pleased to go home with a special prize sponsored by the Canadian Bankers Association for the winning calf. The agricultural fair continued here until 1931 when it moved again to the new community hall at Stirling’s field. Still, days were numbered. The worldwide Depression dictated that the fair, along with many things ceased to exist. Throughout its existence, the agricultural fair played a vital role as a unifying and social force in the young community. Photo today (courtesy of the Alberni Valley Museum, PN 1145): The agricultural fair of the early days attracted those wishing to exhibit their wares. Pictured here is the interior view of the agricultural hall in 1916 chock full of exhibits. Winners in the domestic science category were:- Mrs. G. Forrest, biscuits; Mrs. E. Gill, pies; Mrs. A. Heath, butter molded into rose shapes.

The Little General Store of Yesterday by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research compliments of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society In recent articles, I have spoken of general stores, the likes of Bishop’s and Thomson’s. There were others. In 1896, the largest of them on the west coast was the Alberni Trading Store. Located on Victoria Quay, it was owned by Henry Saunders. Manager, Dave Riddell and family lived in quarters upstairs. Down the road, on the corner w...as Captain Huff’s store. In these days, stock in trade amounted to little more than staples like coal oil and candles, flour and tea and a some yard goods. You might find a few tools like picks and shovels. 1896 saw growth in the settlement and Arthur Waterhouse saw the potential. To accommodate the ships coming in with supplies, he built a wharf in the area soon to be known as New Alberni. On it, he erected a small warehouse which did duty as a store, post office and telegraph office. Waterhouse was later to expand his store in partnership with Charles Greene. The store, renamed Waterhouse and Greene, was located on First Avenue and Kingsway Street. It was touted as being much more than a small general store with departments such as dry goods, women’s & children’s wear, men’s wear, a bakery and one expressly for tobacco. By the turn of the century, the mining industry was a driving economic force in the valley. Much development was being carried out as the population expanded. Accordingly, growth of the grocery store business was happening. C. F. Bishop, for example, along with the Alberni store, opened another on Argyle Street. His son, Harold, ran it for years. Many will remember Anderson’s Groceteria on Johnston Road and Connelly’s on the bottom of Third Avenue. Many of these small store owners personally delivered groceries to isolated logging camps like McLean Mill and Franklin River. By the 1940s, the relatively high average income and the demands for consumer goods encouraged many nationwide firms to establish branches here. Among the first was Woodward's which bought out Waterhouse and Greene. It opened on March 1, 1948 to an enthusiastic clientele. Canada Safeway, Shop Easy, Durante’s Red & White and Super Valu followed. Time has brought with it many changes and conveniences. Still, something has to be said for the little general store where one could buy a dill pickle from a barrel. Pictures today are: 1. Fashion Show held at Waterhouse and Greene Store, circa 1938. The woman standing at centre (bride) is Frances (Strain) McDonald. PN04349 2. Opening day of Shop Easy Store, 1959. Some of the clerks pictured are l to r:- Margaret Miller, unknown, Adele Paruk, Elsie Marocchi, Shirley Adams. PN09380

Army Camp School Life by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research courtesy of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society In a recent article, I touched on the Army Camp school experience. It was an interesting time, one I will elaborate on here....Continue reading

Readin’, Writin’, & ‘Rithmatic The men and women who educated the Valley’s children By Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research courtesy of Archives, Alberni District Historical Society...Continue reading

A COUNTRY SCHOOL AND A TOWN SCHOOL by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research courtesy of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society I realize I have written about local schools recently. I hope I am not boring you but interest has been expressed about two others in particular Cherry Creek School, a country school and Eighth Avenue School, a town one....Continue reading

Army Camp School Life by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research courtesy of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society In a recent article, I touched on the Army Camp school experience. It was an interesting time, one I will elaborate on here....Continue reading

STONE BROS a Legacy of the Sea by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research courtesy of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society When E. Douglas Stone arrived on the SS Tees in New Alberni in 1911, he brought with him the legacy of the sea. In England, his grandfather, father and uncles before him were barge builders.... In later memoirs, Doug recalls his first days here. The next day was the Queen’s birthday with sports being held. In the evening, a dance was held in White’s Hall over Ephraim Coleman’s blacksmith shop in Old Town. Doug built a boat building shop on the waterfront and remember that he regularly charged 50 cents/hour in those days for repair work and often worked ten hours for $3.00. Within three years, with war clouds looming over Europe, E. D. Stone padlocked the shop, enlisted and was shipped overseas. In 1919, he returned. As a note of interest, on opening up the shipyard after all those years, not one nail or bolt was missing from the shop. Doug did not return alone but brought with him his wife, Gladys, and young son, Douglas Jr. He also convinced his younger brother, Percy, to come from England to help with the burgeoning business. It was subsequently named Stone Bros. Ltd. Towing. The brothers built their first little tug themselves with the proceeds of Victory bonds. This was to be the first of many Victory boats to come. The business was diversifying. From 1920 to 1936, the Stone brothers operated the mail service on the Alberni Inlet and Barclay Sound. No roads existed and mail was delivered three times a week. Passengers, too, were transported. As many as 14 post offices dotted the shoreline in these heyday years of the canneries and reduction plants. To those living in the remote camps and villages, the longest running boat, Victory V with her engineer, George Bellamy, was considered their lifeline to the outside world. When the contract ended in ‘36, Stone Bros. had completed 2209 mail trips, all without injury or mishap. The business continued to grow. In 1940, they added the Victory Xl to the fleet. As the years passed, the tug boat fleet increased in size and power. At one time, there were 31 vessels operating on the inlet. The powerful diesel-driven steel tugs could take on any towing job from ship handling and barge towing to log bundle towingand they did. After the passing of the elder Stone brothers, the firm carried on for many years under Doug Stone Jr. and his sister, Mrs. R. J. Green. As Doug Jr. recounts in an interview some years ago, Those were busy days. I’ve seen 6 or 7 freighters tied up at the dock and another 5 or 6 anchored out in the harbour. The business remained family-owned until 1974 when it was sold. Stone Bros. Ltd. is noted locally as being one of the longest continuously family run business - 63 years. It’s impact on the community is note-worthy.

The Little General Store of Yesterday by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research compliments of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society In recent articles, I have spoken of general stores, the likes of Bishop’s and Thomson’s. There were others. In 1896, the largest of them on the west coast was the Alberni Trading Store. Located on Victoria Quay, it was owned by Henry Saunders. Manager, Dave Riddell and family lived in quarters upstairs. Down the road, on the corner w...as Captain Huff’s store. In these days, stock in trade amounted to little more than staples like coal oil and candles, flour and tea and a some yard goods. You might find a few tools like picks and shovels. 1896 saw growth in the settlement and Arthur Waterhouse saw the potential. To accommodate the ships coming in with supplies, he built a wharf in the area soon to be known as New Alberni. On it, he erected a small warehouse which did duty as a store, post office and telegraph office. Waterhouse was later to expand his store in partnership with Charles Greene. The store, renamed Waterhouse and Greene, was located on First Avenue and Kingsway Street. It was touted as being much more than a small general store with departments such as dry goods, women’s & children’s wear, men’s wear, a bakery and one expressly for tobacco. By the turn of the century, the mining industry was a driving economic force in the valley. Much development was being carried out as the population expanded. Accordingly, growth of the grocery store business was happening. C. F. Bishop, for example, along with the Alberni store, opened another on Argyle Street. His son, Harold, ran it for years. Many will remember Anderson’s Groceteria on Johnston Road and Connelly’s on the bottom of Third Avenue. Many of these small store owners personally delivered groceries to isolated logging camps like McLean Mill and Franklin River. By the 1940s, the relatively high average income and the demands for consumer goods encouraged many nationwide firms to establish branches here. Among the first was Woodward's which bought out Waterhouse and Greene. It opened on March 1, 1948 to an enthusiastic clientele. Canada Safeway, Shop Easy, Durante’s Red & White and Super Valu followed. Time has brought with it many changes and conveniences. Still, something has to be said for the little general store where one could buy a dill pickle from a barrel. Pictures today are: 1. Fashion Show held at Waterhouse and Greene Store, circa 1938. The woman standing at centre (bride) is Frances (Strain) McDonald. PN04349 2. Opening day of Shop Easy Store, 1959. Some of the clerks pictured are l to r:- Margaret Miller, unknown, Adele Paruk, Elsie Marocchi, Shirley Adams. PN09380

The Little General Store of Yesterday by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research compliments of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society In recent articles, I have spoken of general stores, the likes of Bishop’s and Thomson’s. There were others. In 1896, the largest of them on the west coast was the Alberni Trading Store. Located on Victoria Quay, it was owned by Henry Saunders. Manager, Dave Riddell and family lived in quarters upstairs. Down the road, on the corner w...as Captain Huff’s store. In these days, stock in trade amounted to little more than staples like coal oil and candles, flour and tea and a some yard goods. You might find a few tools like picks and shovels. 1896 saw growth in the settlement and Arthur Waterhouse saw the potential. To accommodate the ships coming in with supplies, he built a wharf in the area soon to be known as New Alberni. On it, he erected a small warehouse which did duty as a store, post office and telegraph office. Waterhouse was later to expand his store in partnership with Charles Greene. The store, renamed Waterhouse and Greene, was located on First Avenue and Kingsway Street. It was touted as being much more than a small general store with departments such as dry goods, women’s & children’s wear, men’s wear, a bakery and one expressly for tobacco. By the turn of the century, the mining industry was a driving economic force in the valley. Much development was being carried out as the population expanded. Accordingly, growth of the grocery store business was happening. C. F. Bishop, for example, along with the Alberni store, opened another on Argyle Street. His son, Harold, ran it for years. Many will remember Anderson’s Groceteria on Johnston Road and Connelly’s on the bottom of Third Avenue. Many of these small store owners personally delivered groceries to isolated logging camps like McLean Mill and Franklin River. By the 1940s, the relatively high average income and the demands for consumer goods encouraged many nationwide firms to establish branches here. Among the first was Woodward's which bought out Waterhouse and Greene. It opened on March 1, 1948 to an enthusiastic clientele. Canada Safeway, Shop Easy, Durante’s Red & White and Super Valu followed. Time has brought with it many changes and conveniences. Still, something has to be said for the little general store where one could buy a dill pickle from a barrel. Pictures today are: 1. Fashion Show held at Waterhouse and Greene Store, circa 1938. The woman standing at centre (bride) is Frances (Strain) McDonald. PN04349 2. Opening day of Shop Easy Store, 1959. Some of the clerks pictured are l to r:- Margaret Miller, unknown, Adele Paruk, Elsie Marocchi, Shirley Adams. PN09380

Army Camp School Life by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research courtesy of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society In a recent article, I touched on the Army Camp school experience. It was an interesting time, one I will elaborate on here....Continue reading

Readin’, Writin’, & ‘Rithmatic The men and women who educated the Valley’s children By Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research courtesy of Archives, Alberni District Historical Society...Continue reading

Readin’, Writin’, & ‘Rithmatic The men and women who educated the Valley’s children By Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research courtesy of Archives, Alberni District Historical Society...Continue reading

The Little General Store of Yesterday by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research compliments of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society In recent articles, I have spoken of general stores, the likes of Bishop’s and Thomson’s. There were others. In 1896, the largest of them on the west coast was the Alberni Trading Store. Located on Victoria Quay, it was owned by Henry Saunders. Manager, Dave Riddell and family lived in quarters upstairs. Down the road, on the corner w...as Captain Huff’s store. In these days, stock in trade amounted to little more than staples like coal oil and candles, flour and tea and a some yard goods. You might find a few tools like picks and shovels. 1896 saw growth in the settlement and Arthur Waterhouse saw the potential. To accommodate the ships coming in with supplies, he built a wharf in the area soon to be known as New Alberni. On it, he erected a small warehouse which did duty as a store, post office and telegraph office. Waterhouse was later to expand his store in partnership with Charles Greene. The store, renamed Waterhouse and Greene, was located on First Avenue and Kingsway Street. It was touted as being much more than a small general store with departments such as dry goods, women’s & children’s wear, men’s wear, a bakery and one expressly for tobacco. By the turn of the century, the mining industry was a driving economic force in the valley. Much development was being carried out as the population expanded. Accordingly, growth of the grocery store business was happening. C. F. Bishop, for example, along with the Alberni store, opened another on Argyle Street. His son, Harold, ran it for years. Many will remember Anderson’s Groceteria on Johnston Road and Connelly’s on the bottom of Third Avenue. Many of these small store owners personally delivered groceries to isolated logging camps like McLean Mill and Franklin River. By the 1940s, the relatively high average income and the demands for consumer goods encouraged many nationwide firms to establish branches here. Among the first was Woodward's which bought out Waterhouse and Greene. It opened on March 1, 1948 to an enthusiastic clientele. Canada Safeway, Shop Easy, Durante’s Red & White and Super Valu followed. Time has brought with it many changes and conveniences. Still, something has to be said for the little general store where one could buy a dill pickle from a barrel. Pictures today are: 1. Fashion Show held at Waterhouse and Greene Store, circa 1938. The woman standing at centre (bride) is Frances (Strain) McDonald. PN04349 2. Opening day of Shop Easy Store, 1959. Some of the clerks pictured are l to r:- Margaret Miller, unknown, Adele Paruk, Elsie Marocchi, Shirley Adams. PN09380

STROLL DOWN VICTORIA QUAY. 1912 By Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All. Research courtesy of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society ... Have a look at the painting above. It is one I love and see each day hanging on my living room wall. Painted by artist, Kathleen Scott in 2012, it is a rendering inspired by a Leonard Frank photograph in the AV Museum collection. This painting of Victoria Quay was part of Port Alberni’s Centennial celebration that year, depicting life in the valley 100 years ago. So let’s stroll down the quay in 1912. Life was quieter then except on Saturdays. That was town day and farmers from Beaver Creek, Cherry Creek and residents of Sproat Lake travelled to Alberni by horse and buggy to do their weekly shopping. Groceries were a priority. There’s Ethel Bishop standing in the doorway of her father’s store, presumably taking a breath of fresh air. CF Bishop had opened Bishop & Son a few years earlier, selling groceries, confectionery and baked goods. His daughter worked there for years. Another store, the white peaked building, stood behind Bishop’s, across Southgate Street. Johnny Thomson owned and operated Thomson’s General Store. These stores, along with the Alberni Trading Company, further up Victoria Quay near the present day Legion Hall, catered to the needs of the townspeople and each had it’s loyal clientele. That’s Brands Hall, the flat-front building on the corner of Southgate Street and Victoria Quay. Fred Brand built it to accommodate meetings and dances. Once electric lights were installed in 1909, basketball games and other indoor activities were held here. Saturday night was dance night at Brand Hall. The place would be hopping with music supplied by a local piano player and, perhaps someone on banjo. Early Sunday morning, a couple of men could be seen trundling the piano down the road from the hall to All Saints Church on Gertrude Street (see the steeple in the background) for a different kind of music. Such sharing is nice to see. Regarding the church, it was built in 1898 by local contractor, George Forrest for less than $1700. A hall was added later as was a driving shed to shelter the horses. Just down from Thomson’s store near Roger Creek was a local fixture, the blacksmith shop. Ephraim Coleman was the town’s blacksmith and he was a character. According to Fred Bishop’s memoirs, He was a big, burly fellow, covered in grime all the time. The local children thought he was a grizzly bear! At any rate, Ephraim was the man to see to have farm tools made or a buggy wheel fixed. Look at the bike parked at the river’s edge. Do you suppose the rider was enticed to stop for awhile and go fishing? Maybe. After all, these were quieter times weren’t they?

The Valley’s Movie Business through the Years Written by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research courtesy of the Alberni District Historical Society...Continue reading

STONE BROS a Legacy of the Sea by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research courtesy of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society When E. Douglas Stone arrived on the SS Tees in New Alberni in 1911, he brought with him the legacy of the sea. In England, his grandfather, father and uncles before him were barge builders.... In later memoirs, Doug recalls his first days here. The next day was the Queen’s birthday with sports being held. In the evening, a dance was held in White’s Hall over Ephraim Coleman’s blacksmith shop in Old Town. Doug built a boat building shop on the waterfront and remember that he regularly charged 50 cents/hour in those days for repair work and often worked ten hours for $3.00. Within three years, with war clouds looming over Europe, E. D. Stone padlocked the shop, enlisted and was shipped overseas. In 1919, he returned. As a note of interest, on opening up the shipyard after all those years, not one nail or bolt was missing from the shop. Doug did not return alone but brought with him his wife, Gladys, and young son, Douglas Jr. He also convinced his younger brother, Percy, to come from England to help with the burgeoning business. It was subsequently named Stone Bros. Ltd. Towing. The brothers built their first little tug themselves with the proceeds of Victory bonds. This was to be the first of many Victory boats to come. The business was diversifying. From 1920 to 1936, the Stone brothers operated the mail service on the Alberni Inlet and Barclay Sound. No roads existed and mail was delivered three times a week. Passengers, too, were transported. As many as 14 post offices dotted the shoreline in these heyday years of the canneries and reduction plants. To those living in the remote camps and villages, the longest running boat, Victory V with her engineer, George Bellamy, was considered their lifeline to the outside world. When the contract ended in ‘36, Stone Bros. had completed 2209 mail trips, all without injury or mishap. The business continued to grow. In 1940, they added the Victory Xl to the fleet. As the years passed, the tug boat fleet increased in size and power. At one time, there were 31 vessels operating on the inlet. The powerful diesel-driven steel tugs could take on any towing job from ship handling and barge towing to log bundle towingand they did. After the passing of the elder Stone brothers, the firm carried on for many years under Doug Stone Jr. and his sister, Mrs. R. J. Green. As Doug Jr. recounts in an interview some years ago, Those were busy days. I’ve seen 6 or 7 freighters tied up at the dock and another 5 or 6 anchored out in the harbour. The business remained family-owned until 1974 when it was sold. Stone Bros. Ltd. is noted locally as being one of the longest continuously family run business - 63 years. It’s impact on the community is note-worthy.

STONE BROS a Legacy of the Sea by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research courtesy of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society When E. Douglas Stone arrived on the SS Tees in New Alberni in 1911, he brought with him the legacy of the sea. In England, his grandfather, father and uncles before him were barge builders.... In later memoirs, Doug recalls his first days here. The next day was the Queen’s birthday with sports being held. In the evening, a dance was held in White’s Hall over Ephraim Coleman’s blacksmith shop in Old Town. Doug built a boat building shop on the waterfront and remember that he regularly charged 50 cents/hour in those days for repair work and often worked ten hours for $3.00. Within three years, with war clouds looming over Europe, E. D. Stone padlocked the shop, enlisted and was shipped overseas. In 1919, he returned. As a note of interest, on opening up the shipyard after all those years, not one nail or bolt was missing from the shop. Doug did not return alone but brought with him his wife, Gladys, and young son, Douglas Jr. He also convinced his younger brother, Percy, to come from England to help with the burgeoning business. It was subsequently named Stone Bros. Ltd. Towing. The brothers built their first little tug themselves with the proceeds of Victory bonds. This was to be the first of many Victory boats to come. The business was diversifying. From 1920 to 1936, the Stone brothers operated the mail service on the Alberni Inlet and Barclay Sound. No roads existed and mail was delivered three times a week. Passengers, too, were transported. As many as 14 post offices dotted the shoreline in these heyday years of the canneries and reduction plants. To those living in the remote camps and villages, the longest running boat, Victory V with her engineer, George Bellamy, was considered their lifeline to the outside world. When the contract ended in ‘36, Stone Bros. had completed 2209 mail trips, all without injury or mishap. The business continued to grow. In 1940, they added the Victory Xl to the fleet. As the years passed, the tug boat fleet increased in size and power. At one time, there were 31 vessels operating on the inlet. The powerful diesel-driven steel tugs could take on any towing job from ship handling and barge towing to log bundle towingand they did. After the passing of the elder Stone brothers, the firm carried on for many years under Doug Stone Jr. and his sister, Mrs. R. J. Green. As Doug Jr. recounts in an interview some years ago, Those were busy days. I’ve seen 6 or 7 freighters tied up at the dock and another 5 or 6 anchored out in the harbour. The business remained family-owned until 1974 when it was sold. Stone Bros. Ltd. is noted locally as being one of the longest continuously family run business - 63 years. It’s impact on the community is note-worthy.

Readin’, Writin’, & ‘Rithmatic The men and women who educated the Valley’s children By Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research courtesy of Archives, Alberni District Historical Society...Continue reading

C M Pineo - first a Druggist then a Dentist by Diane Dobson, Dir, ADHS ..All research is courtesy of the Archives of the Alberni District Historical Society.. In keeping with the medical theme, I will be sharing today the story of Clifford Pineo. About 1895, the Pineos arrived in the Alberni Valley. Rev. A J Pineo had been a scholar and minister in their hometown of Pictou, Nova Scotia. Clifford was the second of five children....Continue reading

STROLL DOWN VICTORIA QUAY. 1912 By Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All. Research courtesy of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society ... Have a look at the painting above. It is one I love and see each day hanging on my living room wall. Painted by artist, Kathleen Scott in 2012, it is a rendering inspired by a Leonard Frank photograph in the AV Museum collection. This painting of Victoria Quay was part of Port Alberni’s Centennial celebration that year, depicting life in the valley 100 years ago. So let’s stroll down the quay in 1912. Life was quieter then except on Saturdays. That was town day and farmers from Beaver Creek, Cherry Creek and residents of Sproat Lake travelled to Alberni by horse and buggy to do their weekly shopping. Groceries were a priority. There’s Ethel Bishop standing in the doorway of her father’s store, presumably taking a breath of fresh air. CF Bishop had opened Bishop & Son a few years earlier, selling groceries, confectionery and baked goods. His daughter worked there for years. Another store, the white peaked building, stood behind Bishop’s, across Southgate Street. Johnny Thomson owned and operated Thomson’s General Store. These stores, along with the Alberni Trading Company, further up Victoria Quay near the present day Legion Hall, catered to the needs of the townspeople and each had it’s loyal clientele. That’s Brands Hall, the flat-front building on the corner of Southgate Street and Victoria Quay. Fred Brand built it to accommodate meetings and dances. Once electric lights were installed in 1909, basketball games and other indoor activities were held here. Saturday night was dance night at Brand Hall. The place would be hopping with music supplied by a local piano player and, perhaps someone on banjo. Early Sunday morning, a couple of men could be seen trundling the piano down the road from the hall to All Saints Church on Gertrude Street (see the steeple in the background) for a different kind of music. Such sharing is nice to see. Regarding the church, it was built in 1898 by local contractor, George Forrest for less than $1700. A hall was added later as was a driving shed to shelter the horses. Just down from Thomson’s store near Roger Creek was a local fixture, the blacksmith shop. Ephraim Coleman was the town’s blacksmith and he was a character. According to Fred Bishop’s memoirs, He was a big, burly fellow, covered in grime all the time. The local children thought he was a grizzly bear! At any rate, Ephraim was the man to see to have farm tools made or a buggy wheel fixed. Look at the bike parked at the river’s edge. Do you suppose the rider was enticed to stop for awhile and go fishing? Maybe. After all, these were quieter times weren’t they?

STROLL DOWN VICTORIA QUAY. 1912 By Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All. Research courtesy of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society ... Have a look at the painting above. It is one I love and see each day hanging on my living room wall. Painted by artist, Kathleen Scott in 2012, it is a rendering inspired by a Leonard Frank photograph in the AV Museum collection. This painting of Victoria Quay was part of Port Alberni’s Centennial celebration that year, depicting life in the valley 100 years ago. So let’s stroll down the quay in 1912. Life was quieter then except on Saturdays. That was town day and farmers from Beaver Creek, Cherry Creek and residents of Sproat Lake travelled to Alberni by horse and buggy to do their weekly shopping. Groceries were a priority. There’s Ethel Bishop standing in the doorway of her father’s store, presumably taking a breath of fresh air. CF Bishop had opened Bishop & Son a few years earlier, selling groceries, confectionery and baked goods. His daughter worked there for years. Another store, the white peaked building, stood behind Bishop’s, across Southgate Street. Johnny Thomson owned and operated Thomson’s General Store. These stores, along with the Alberni Trading Company, further up Victoria Quay near the present day Legion Hall, catered to the needs of the townspeople and each had it’s loyal clientele. That’s Brands Hall, the flat-front building on the corner of Southgate Street and Victoria Quay. Fred Brand built it to accommodate meetings and dances. Once electric lights were installed in 1909, basketball games and other indoor activities were held here. Saturday night was dance night at Brand Hall. The place would be hopping with music supplied by a local piano player and, perhaps someone on banjo. Early Sunday morning, a couple of men could be seen trundling the piano down the road from the hall to All Saints Church on Gertrude Street (see the steeple in the background) for a different kind of music. Such sharing is nice to see. Regarding the church, it was built in 1898 by local contractor, George Forrest for less than $1700. A hall was added later as was a driving shed to shelter the horses. Just down from Thomson’s store near Roger Creek was a local fixture, the blacksmith shop. Ephraim Coleman was the town’s blacksmith and he was a character. According to Fred Bishop’s memoirs, He was a big, burly fellow, covered in grime all the time. The local children thought he was a grizzly bear! At any rate, Ephraim was the man to see to have farm tools made or a buggy wheel fixed. Look at the bike parked at the river’s edge. Do you suppose the rider was enticed to stop for awhile and go fishing? Maybe. After all, these were quieter times weren’t they?

The Valley’s Movie Business through the Years Written by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research courtesy of the Alberni District Historical Society...Continue reading

Our Hospital’s History by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS One of the district’s greatest community efforts was the establishment of the first West Coast General Hospital in 1913. Up until that time, patients were treated in their own homes or in the homes of Dr. A D Morgan or Dr. C T Hilton....Continue reading

C M Pineo - first a Druggist then a Dentist by Diane Dobson, Dir, ADHS ..All research is courtesy of the Archives of the Alberni District Historical Society.. In keeping with the medical theme, I will be sharing today the story of Clifford Pineo. About 1895, the Pineos arrived in the Alberni Valley. Rev. A J Pineo had been a scholar and minister in their hometown of Pictou, Nova Scotia. Clifford was the second of five children....Continue reading

STONE BROS a Legacy of the Sea by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research courtesy of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society When E. Douglas Stone arrived on the SS Tees in New Alberni in 1911, he brought with him the legacy of the sea. In England, his grandfather, father and uncles before him were barge builders.... In later memoirs, Doug recalls his first days here. The next day was the Queen’s birthday with sports being held. In the evening, a dance was held in White’s Hall over Ephraim Coleman’s blacksmith shop in Old Town. Doug built a boat building shop on the waterfront and remember that he regularly charged 50 cents/hour in those days for repair work and often worked ten hours for $3.00. Within three years, with war clouds looming over Europe, E. D. Stone padlocked the shop, enlisted and was shipped overseas. In 1919, he returned. As a note of interest, on opening up the shipyard after all those years, not one nail or bolt was missing from the shop. Doug did not return alone but brought with him his wife, Gladys, and young son, Douglas Jr. He also convinced his younger brother, Percy, to come from England to help with the burgeoning business. It was subsequently named Stone Bros. Ltd. Towing. The brothers built their first little tug themselves with the proceeds of Victory bonds. This was to be the first of many Victory boats to come. The business was diversifying. From 1920 to 1936, the Stone brothers operated the mail service on the Alberni Inlet and Barclay Sound. No roads existed and mail was delivered three times a week. Passengers, too, were transported. As many as 14 post offices dotted the shoreline in these heyday years of the canneries and reduction plants. To those living in the remote camps and villages, the longest running boat, Victory V with her engineer, George Bellamy, was considered their lifeline to the outside world. When the contract ended in ‘36, Stone Bros. had completed 2209 mail trips, all without injury or mishap. The business continued to grow. In 1940, they added the Victory Xl to the fleet. As the years passed, the tug boat fleet increased in size and power. At one time, there were 31 vessels operating on the inlet. The powerful diesel-driven steel tugs could take on any towing job from ship handling and barge towing to log bundle towingand they did. After the passing of the elder Stone brothers, the firm carried on for many years under Doug Stone Jr. and his sister, Mrs. R. J. Green. As Doug Jr. recounts in an interview some years ago, Those were busy days. I’ve seen 6 or 7 freighters tied up at the dock and another 5 or 6 anchored out in the harbour. The business remained family-owned until 1974 when it was sold. Stone Bros. Ltd. is noted locally as being one of the longest continuously family run business - 63 years. It’s impact on the community is note-worthy.

Our Hospital’s History by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS One of the district’s greatest community efforts was the establishment of the first West Coast General Hospital in 1913. Up until that time, patients were treated in their own homes or in the homes of Dr. A D Morgan or Dr. C T Hilton....Continue reading

The Valley’s Movie Business through the Years Written by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research courtesy of the Alberni District Historical Society...Continue reading

Part 1 - Pioneer Doctors in the Valley by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS When one considers what a doctor at the turn of the 20th Century coming to the Alberni Valley had to endure just to reach his patients, let alone treat them, one has to marvel at the fact they came at all. A district population of under 500, a lack of reliable transportation on the dirt roads and no hospital were just three factors. Communication, or lack there of, was another issue. In a number of cases, they...Continue reading

C M Pineo - first a Druggist then a Dentist by Diane Dobson, Dir, ADHS ..All research is courtesy of the Archives of the Alberni District Historical Society.. In keeping with the medical theme, I will be sharing today the story of Clifford Pineo. About 1895, the Pineos arrived in the Alberni Valley. Rev. A J Pineo had been a scholar and minister in their hometown of Pictou, Nova Scotia. Clifford was the second of five children....Continue reading

STROLL DOWN VICTORIA QUAY. 1912 By Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All. Research courtesy of the Archives, Alberni District Historical Society ... Have a look at the painting above. It is one I love and see each day hanging on my living room wall. Painted by artist, Kathleen Scott in 2012, it is a rendering inspired by a Leonard Frank photograph in the AV Museum collection. This painting of Victoria Quay was part of Port Alberni’s Centennial celebration that year, depicting life in the valley 100 years ago. So let’s stroll down the quay in 1912. Life was quieter then except on Saturdays. That was town day and farmers from Beaver Creek, Cherry Creek and residents of Sproat Lake travelled to Alberni by horse and buggy to do their weekly shopping. Groceries were a priority. There’s Ethel Bishop standing in the doorway of her father’s store, presumably taking a breath of fresh air. CF Bishop had opened Bishop & Son a few years earlier, selling groceries, confectionery and baked goods. His daughter worked there for years. Another store, the white peaked building, stood behind Bishop’s, across Southgate Street. Johnny Thomson owned and operated Thomson’s General Store. These stores, along with the Alberni Trading Company, further up Victoria Quay near the present day Legion Hall, catered to the needs of the townspeople and each had it’s loyal clientele. That’s Brands Hall, the flat-front building on the corner of Southgate Street and Victoria Quay. Fred Brand built it to accommodate meetings and dances. Once electric lights were installed in 1909, basketball games and other indoor activities were held here. Saturday night was dance night at Brand Hall. The place would be hopping with music supplied by a local piano player and, perhaps someone on banjo. Early Sunday morning, a couple of men could be seen trundling the piano down the road from the hall to All Saints Church on Gertrude Street (see the steeple in the background) for a different kind of music. Such sharing is nice to see. Regarding the church, it was built in 1898 by local contractor, George Forrest for less than $1700. A hall was added later as was a driving shed to shelter the horses. Just down from Thomson’s store near Roger Creek was a local fixture, the blacksmith shop. Ephraim Coleman was the town’s blacksmith and he was a character. According to Fred Bishop’s memoirs, He was a big, burly fellow, covered in grime all the time. The local children thought he was a grizzly bear! At any rate, Ephraim was the man to see to have farm tools made or a buggy wheel fixed. Look at the bike parked at the river’s edge. Do you suppose the rider was enticed to stop for awhile and go fishing? Maybe. After all, these were quieter times weren’t they?

Our Hospital’s History by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS One of the district’s greatest community efforts was the establishment of the first West Coast General Hospital in 1913. Up until that time, patients were treated in their own homes or in the homes of Dr. A D Morgan or Dr. C T Hilton....Continue reading

Part 1 - Pioneer Doctors in the Valley by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS When one considers what a doctor at the turn of the 20th Century coming to the Alberni Valley had to endure just to reach his patients, let alone treat them, one has to marvel at the fact they came at all. A district population of under 500, a lack of reliable transportation on the dirt roads and no hospital were just three factors. Communication, or lack there of, was another issue. In a number of cases, they...Continue reading

OOps, here is the picture, but I can't get it to fit on our cover.

The Valley’s Movie Business through the Years Written by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS All research courtesy of the Alberni District Historical Society...Continue reading

OOps, here is the picture, but I can't get it to fit on our cover.

C M Pineo - first a Druggist then a Dentist by Diane Dobson, Dir, ADHS ..All research is courtesy of the Archives of the Alberni District Historical Society.. In keeping with the medical theme, I will be sharing today the story of Clifford Pineo. About 1895, the Pineos arrived in the Alberni Valley. Rev. A J Pineo had been a scholar and minister in their hometown of Pictou, Nova Scotia. Clifford was the second of five children....Continue reading

Our Hospital’s History by Diane Dobson, Dir., ADHS One of the district’s greatest community efforts was the establishment of the first West Coast General Hospital in 1913. Up until that time, patients were treated in their own homes or in the homes of Dr. A D Morgan or Dr. C T Hilton....Continue reading