One hundred years ago a priest from France brought some of the first homesteaders to a location in southeast Saskatchewan or what we now know as Alida; then began the town's history and what would turn out to be a small town that valued the love of family and friends.
That value would remain true to this day, as this weekend past saw friends and loved ones in Alida for the town's Centennial and homecoming celebrations. Family and friends traveled from Alberta, Saskatoon, Regina and other parts of the country to celebrate Alida's birthday, as many described it. The highlight of this "birthday" however was the unveiling of volume three of the Alida and District history book. This is an update to previous books detailing historical information about the town since it was established in 1913. Hugs and kisses was common scene, as long time friends greeted each other and caught up on old times. This was done over a "chili on a bun" on Friday at the Alida Memorial Hall, after which scores of past and present residents were entertained by a pantomime skit. Laughter echoed through the hall as the actors on stage showed the audience the comical and lighter side of a senior's home. Brenda Junk organizer of the centennial and resident of Alida for over 60 years said the homecoming included the town of Alida, R.M of Reciprocity No. 32 and the ghost towns of Nottingham, Aubrntona and Cantal.
"I am a just a person who is just proud of my heritage, my dad's 90 and I thought let's bring people home and it's so nice to see friends, that's what it means to me, is friends and familythe family roots are here and you might have moved on 30, 40, 60 years ago but your family originated here," she said.
The town began with homesteaders from all over Europe, including the French, Dutch and Ukrainians, co-editor of the town's history book Edgar Bendtson says although they came from different backgrounds, everyone found a way to get along. He highlighted the fact that Alida has survived throughout the years and celebrating a hundred years carries with it an ample amount of meaning.
"A hundreds to some people isn't a lot but to others it's several life times," he said.
Saturday featured a slow-pitch game, petting zoo, swimming and children's activities as well as a parade which had various floats on display. The town's hockey rink provided the main meeting place for all to dine as a roast beef dinner was served and entertainment was provided with several local acts performing. Longtime resident Edel Cowan described the weekend as one of pure enjoyment for her family.
"It was a fantastic weekend, my family- the ones away, came home and they thoroughly enjoyed it and especially the ball tournament, they had a great time," Cowan said.
Brenda Junk indicated that the reception she got from many people who attended the event was moving and showed how important Alida is to those who moved away even if it's for several years.
"I'm seeing on Facebook and receiving phone calls or people personally coming up to the committee thanking us for such a tremendous and wonderful weekend - so happy to visit with family and friends they are just so proud of our town, Alida," she said.
Junk also commended on the work ethic of many families there as many helped in cleaning up chipping in, allowing the process to move that much faster.
The following day was a slower pace and winded down from the excitement of Friday and Saturday's activities. A continental breakfast was served and the day ended with a church service.
