The Maidstone Museum's 25th anniversary celebration was held Aug. 10.
It started at 11:30 a.m. with a layman's service led by Bill McGillvary assisted by Christine Carlson. Music for the service was provided by the Yellowhead Ramblers. Bill gave a history of the museum's growth over the years and plans for the future.
Fundraising projects and outreach services were mentioned.
Gwen Zweifel of Paradise Hill, networker of the North West Museums Association, spoke about the part Maidstone Museum has played in that organization for the past 20 years. On behalf of the NWMA she presented Maidstone members with a beautifully inscribed plaque in honour of the occasion.
Abby Mames attended to the guest book throughout the day.
Following noon lunch, demonstrations were enjoyed. Daphne McLaren showed how to make a washable, attractive rug from material that would otherwise be discarded. She explained how the specially constructed frame for the rug was made.
Visitors were able to work on a partially made rug and finished rugs were on display.
Gwen Zweifel brought a wool carding machine that is 100 years old and demonstrated wool "teasing," making it ready to use in the machine which made a "bat" to be used for a quilt.
Kevin Rogers heated up the forge in the blacksmith shop. He demonstrated making decorative items from iron. Unfortunately he was called away, so was not with us for the whole day as planned.
Garry Manson arrived at 1 p.m. to give free rides around the park in a rubber-tired wagon behind a beautifully groomed team of Fjord horses. Approximately 50 people, both old and young, enjoyed a ride, six to eight people at a time, until 4 p.m.
The Yellowhead Ramblers provided music all during the afternoon. Christine Carlson was available to take interested people on tours of the village buildings.
A delicious cold plate supper was served at 5 p.m. to about 60 visitors. Food for the supper was supplied by members of the museum.
To finish a most memorable day, a beautifully decorated anniversary cake, made by Gwen Zweifel, was served with ice cream.
The weatherman co-operated giving us a lovely summer day for this special occasion.
