The turnout was "terrific" at the Souris School Centennial Celebration on May 20 to 22, according to April Sampson, chairperson of the centennial committee.The event kicked-off on the evening of the 20th, when the public was invited to tour the school and view Souris memorabilia and heritage displays made by students.
On the 21st, students enjoyed old-fashioned games and activities such as jump-rope, hopscotch, butter churning and rope making - all while being dressed in early 20th century-style clothing."The Grade 5 and 6 students did tours dressed in period clothing," said Sampson. "They really got into it."The students also enjoyed a visit from Queen Elizabeth II (Donna Sanders) who knighted Sampson and Principal Lars Guenther as Lady Sampson and Lord Guenther of Souris. Each student received a centennial pin, which was sponsored by the Weyburn Young Fellows.
The official Centennial Celebration took place during the evening of the 21st, with a cake cutting. Greetings were brought by Mayor Debra Button, Weyburn-Big Muddy MLA Dustin Duncan, Souris-Moose Mountain MP Ed Komarnicki and South East Cornerstone Superintendant Kelly Hilkewich.
"Souris may be 100 years old but it is just as inspiring and relevant today as it was in 1910," said Duncan.Hilkewich calculated that Souris, having been open for 100 years and teaching approximately 150 students per year, has seen 15,000 students pass through its doors."What an achievement that is," said Hilkewich.
Several alumni and former teachers of Souris attended the event, including siblings Maye and Art Wallace. Maye attended Souris from 1924 to 1931 and Art attended from 1933 to 1941. Brothers Rob and Bill also attended Souris."This place has a spirit of its own," said Art. "I just hope that the powers that be leave the place alone."Guests sang a birthday song written by Sampson and viewed a video of former students, produced by Weyburn Comprehensive School student Robyn Lee."The alumni were so excited to see their school and be together," said Sampson. "We're all so proud of that school."Throughout the festivities, guests were invited to purchase a Gordon Stairmand print of Souris School and pewter centennial pins. The items can still be purchased through members of the Centennial Committee.
