CHESTERMERE – The members of the Chestermere Historical Society have a multitude of items and
projects on their agenda in the coming months.
The group, who try to meet once per month, meet to discuss things like restoring historical artefacts,
documenting local history, and organizing events.
This past week, members of the Foundation met with Denise Weaver, a teacher at Prairie Waters Elementary, to discuss possible visits and presentations by local residents.
The presentations would recount to students the history of Chestermere and the area, with residents sharing some of their personal stories about living in the community.
Foundation member Jen Peddlesden said that the focus on local history would tie into Prairie Water’s candidacy for the “Primary Years Programme of the International Baccalaureate Organization.”
To quote the school webpage, “the staff is currently in the process of creating and implementing a Programme of Inquiry that encompasses all levels from Kindergarten to grade five…Approximately one-half of the staff have received formal training by the International Baccalaureate Organization. All Grade 3 and Grade 5 classrooms currently implement the Primary Years Progamme in their classrooms.”
Last year, the Grade 3 students are Prairie Waters got a chance to take a peek into the past with the help of Foundation member Audrey McDonald, who has lived in Chestermere for over 35 years.
McDonald made a special presentation to the students about the differences between what life was like for her as a child, compared to how things are now.
She brought in items like an old typewriter and an antique egg-beater, and took time to offer brief explanations of all of her items. She also did a few demonstrations with the items, like showing the students how to beat eggs with the antique egg-beater.
Peddlesden said that the Historical Foundation is seeking citizens to be part of this years presentations. They can participate by volunteering an hour of time to share their experiences and life in the Chestermere area with elementary students. She said that orientation will be provided.
Anyone who is interested can contact Audrey at 403-272-9280 or Jen 403-272-3764.
The next meeting of the Chestermere Historical Foundation is Jan. 10 at 6:30 p.m. at the Chestermere Public Library. For more info, visit their new website at www.chestermerehistory.org.
