The Town of Altona is embarking on a project that seeks to uncover and exhibit key themes and moments in the community's history.
The aim, explained Mayor Harv Schroeder, is to celebrate Altona's past by highlighting specific moments that have contributed to the existing fabric of community and place.
The project will focus on themes of land, Indigenous history, immigration, religion, economics and recreation and culture, and tell the story of how Altona has evolved from the 1870s to the present day.
"In the 2023 Strategic Plan, Council identified a project highlighting local history as a priority," said Schroeder. "In the Strategic Plan, we also recognized the importance of making sure that we are including Indigenous history as part of our commitment to Truth and Reconciliation. Our past has shaped the fabric of the community today, and as we plan for the future, it’s good to also recognize where we’ve come from. It also makes good sense to have a fresh look at the history of our community and update how we present that information in recognition of the ways our community has grown and changed over the years."
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Once collected, these moments and themes will be presented in digital and physical formats for enjoyment and education, making it more accessible for residents, newcomers and visitors alike.
"I hope they all find parts of Altona's story that they can connect with and find parts that they can learn something new from," noted Schroeder.
Council has hired Dr. Susie Fisher to complete the work. Having earned a doctorate in Canadian history with a specific focus on immigration and settlement on the West Reserve (where Altona is located), Schroeder says Dr. Fisher is uniquely qualified to take on this project. Dr. Fisher has also lived and worked in the Altona area for over a decade, volunteering on numerous local committees, and owns a local business and works directly with the community.
"She is not only qualified to conduct the research but is also a local resident who is connected to and familiar with the culture and fabric of the community," added Schroeder.
Dr. Fisher will begin her work in the second half of the year.
That process will also require collaboration from residents willing to tell their stories. Anyone who is interested in being contacted later this year to share their stories of growing up in Altona/Altona’s history is welcome to reach out to Sarah Cail at communications@altona.ca or 204-324-6468.