News Release
January 3, 2008
50TH Anniversary Officially Launches On Charter Delivery Date
Valentine’s Day is a special day to demonstrate affection to others. In Grande Prairie this year, it will also be a reason to embrace our community. Fifty years ago on that date, Grande Prairie received its charter, officially making it a city.
The 50th Anniversary committee will announce events it has funded on that date as well as details of other celebrations and contests.
The City’s charter arrived in Grande Prairie on Feb. 14, 1958 on horseback. Henry McCullough, a district guide and hunter, sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce, completed a nine-day trek from Edmonton with the document. He was met at the outskirts of the community by the RCMP and a 16-man cavalcade. The delivery of the charter attracted a crowd of 12,000 people and set off three days of celebrations.
“Marking the arrival of the charter and kicking off celebrations for the 50th is a natural,” says 50th Anniversary Committee Chair Bill Given. “We are excited about celebrating this milestone in grand fashion with great events and contests throughout the year.”
The City has set aside $40,000 to fund 50th anniversary events. The first application deadline was Nov. 23. A second application receipt deadline is Feb. 1.
“We are excited with the applications we have received and approved and look forward to announcing all the events that will be funded,” says Heritage Resources Manager Trenton Perrott. “We encourage other groups to come forward with their ideas before the next deadline.”
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Media enquiries may be directed to:
Ald Bill Given Heritage Resources Manager Trenton Perrott
780-814-0518 780-532-5482
bgiven@cityofgp.com tperrott@cityofgp.com
1 comment:
Hi Bill--
Wow--50 years as a city! I hope the celebrations go wonderfully.
I remember being at the courthouse with Mrs. Alloway and my friend Ruth (and maybe others--can't remember) on that really cold day in February 1958 when Henry McCullough rode into town with the city charter. As little kids we couldn't see much but knew it was an exciting day.
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