Preserving the Past for the Future

According to the minutes book, it was the spring of 1966 when Joe Ashley and his brother Charles approached the Reston Memorial Park Board with the idea to create the Reston and District Museum on their grounds. At that exact time, President Maurice Ludlam and the 9 board members were busy preparing for the imminent departure of long time park volunteer Alfred Archer. Planning for 1967 celebrations of Canada's centennial year were also forefront in everyone’s mind.  The former Stonehill School was offered to move to the Park to house antique and pioneer items. The Ashley brothers were not in favour of this building and they then approached the Reston Lions club with an offer of $1800 if they would supervise construction of a new steel building with a cement floor. Luckily, the Lions agreed to take on the project even though they were heavily involved in building the Alstone Lodge at the time. A location on the north east corner of the Park beside the tennis court was decided on for a museum following a study by a committee of Edison Berry, Lew Trail, John Abbey, Doug Watt and Art Smith. Community support was strong with monetary donations and volunteer labour both generously supplied.

Beaver Lumber Company was given the contract to supply material to build a 30’ X 60’ building under the supervision of Bob Moore. Natural light was part of the design with translucent fiberglass panels. A receiving and scrutineer committee of Alvin Lazenby, Reg Berry and David Braddell were charged with evaluating donations but the history book says they accepted "practically everything offered" .  The Ashley Brothers donated their parents' living room furniture as well as many, many other items, according to an article in the Brandon Sun written by Helen (Manning) Ready in 1976. This clipping and the Trails Along the Pipestone (1981) history book were the main reference sources for this post. 

After much work, the museum opened to the public on Centennial Day celebrated on June 20, 1967. The museum operated through Provincial grants, bequests, donations and sale of memberships.  The same continues today under the direction of a volunteer board. 

Joseph and Charles Ashley were two of the five children born to John Joseph and Rebecca (McGuire) Ashley. The family had relocated from Ontario to the East half of 12-8-27 in the Lambton district, northeast of Reston in 1904. The brothers were innovative thinkers and first in the district to embrace the use of tractors and automobiles. Conversely, they also had a love of antiques, Aboriginal relics, petrified wood and rocks. 

The Ashley farm was just a few miles west of Oak Lake Indian Reserve, now known as Canupawakpa and the people were greatly respected by the family. Joe died in 1969 and his brother Charles in 1975. They are buried in Pipestone Cemetery.  The community of Reston was the benefactor of their philanthropy, both the museum and the United Church received bequests after they died.

This spinning wheel was purchased at an antique store in Brandon circa 1940 – 1950 by Fletch Manning. It was never used in Reston for its purpose, but was often used as an eye catcher in many displays and backgrounds. It was donated to the Museum by Fletch Manning on August 21st, 2013

Dr. A.B. Chapman's black satchel and his medical instruments are on display in the museum.  Chapman was a long serving doctor in Reston from 1900 until his death in 1961.  His colleague, Dr. F. H. Clark's medical library is also part of the museum's collection. The former town bell, used to alert residents of fire or other emergencies as well as to alert children it was curfew time is housed here. Mounted animal heads and team sports uniforms each have a place as do pictures and items from the former Masonic Lodge. A handsome photo of WW2 casualty Gregor Birnie and the Canadian Women's Army Corps (CWAC) uniform of Bessie (Reid) Armstrong remind visitors of Reston and the district's contribution to the wars overseas.  

  

In 1973, the first summer students - Rhonda Russell and Melanie Heath began the annual tradition of youth input and it became the first job for many Restonites over the years including our son Scott. (Pictures and captions with italics are his work from the summer of 2013.) In 1977, a four month curator and historian was hired - David Braddell and much cataloging and research took place.  Besides that, the museum runs on community volunteers. 

This picture from the Reston Museum shows a group of men posing with 56 geese. A caption on the picture identifies the group as Left to Right – Colin C. Campbell, Andy Sutton, Dr. A.B. Chapman, Howard Jackson, Jack Ludy, and Frank Manning. This picture was donated to the museum in 1985 by Doris Robinson.

An annex was built across from the museum to the east and it houses the large agricultural equipment, vehicles and tools. A mezzanine on part of the structure contains many more interesting items donated by local families and businesses.  A mural depicting The Peanut was painted by local artist Whitney Paul-Joseph and brightens up the wall and shows the stops along the railway line from 1906 until 1961.

A third building was added in 1998 when the former home of Peanut conductor Angus McDonald and his family was moved into a location south of the museum. The house was built in 1896 for the R.J. Douglas family and was purchased in 1906 by Mr. McDonald at its former location just south and west of the railway.  Work is ongoing at McDonald house and there are hopes it can be transformed as a location to keep archives in a climate controlled environment.   

Volunteers have always been the life blood of the organization. Dennis Smith was responsible for tuning up the 1929 Ashley Brother's Plymouth and drove it in the Reston Fair Parade for many years. His wife Mabel was a niece of Joe and Charlie Ashley.  Their son Bert Smith continues as a long time board member.  In 1975, the Case steam engine was included in the parade with the work of Leonard and Ken Ludlam among others. Bert Stratford spent many hours making wooden frames to display the collection of pioneer photographs.

This photo from the Reston Museum shows the A.K. Cates curling team from 1922 after winning a trophy at the Souris Bonspiel. W.C. Bulloch was third, W. Mutter was second, and F.C. Guthrie was the lead for this team. Notice the wide brooms that they used then. The large trophy on the table is surrounded by individual prizes for the men. Perhaps they were candy dishes?

Over the years, strawberry socials were held as a fundraiser and a chance to showcase the museum and its items. This past year, the summer student workers set up an Instagram account here to share pictures and information on that social media channel. Great thinking to engage the next generation in keeping our museum interesting and relevant going forward! I hope you will make time to visit in July and August of 2022.  I have it on good authority that the Museum Board is always looking for members too! 😉 

 The caption under the picture says ”A Sample Catch 165 fish Reston July 17, 1913”. A few names are listed on the back of the picture. First in the back row on the left is William McDougall, 4th is Tom Mutter. Seventh person in the front row is Jack Ludy. This picture was donated to the museum in 1967 by Joe Ashley. The bottom right of the mat says “Boynton and Eaton, Reston, Man”. 

Over Half a Century of Independent Living

Early days of the Alstone Lodge - Move in day was June 1, 1969

Same view on a windy afternoon in November 2021

Sitting along 5th Street in Reston, Manitoba between 2nd and 3rd Avenues sits a building with an important place in our community for over 52 years. Independent living suites for singles and couples aged 55+ have created a well loved home for many of our community’s seniors.  A safe and affordable place with friends, family and community nearby also allows independence in self contained suites. 

It would need forward looking citizens to have a vision for the project and detemination to see it through. Mr. Lorne Watt was first to present the idea of such a place to the RM of Pipestone council in 1960. Talk and wishing continued over the next few years. Society was changing and seniors were looking for an alternative to their family homes to lessen yard work and upkeep. Social norms previous to this had often seen aging parents move in with their children but changes in the 1960’s meant more women working outside the home and less able to be elder caregivers and companions.

The Reston Lions Club formed in 1963 and in 1967 they championed the cause of creating a Lodge. A delegation of local men visited various government agencies and were able to secure grants as well as a $69 000 long term loan from through Central Mortgage and Housing Corporation.  Varied community fundraisers took place like a Walk-a-Thon from Reston to Sinclair and back a distance of 35 km!  A board was formed in February of 1968 and the name Alstone was chosen to combine the municipalities of Albert and Pipestone. A total of $128 000 was spent on the building and common room furnishing with strong community support making it possible.

A lot was purchased from Mr. Peterson, one from Keith Clark, and two were donated by Leo Curtis.  Leo's mother Nettie Curtis and his brother Lawrence were two of the first residents a few short months later.  

The suites were complete by June 1, 1969 with 2 double suites and 12 singles. Miss Elizabeth Guthrie moved into Suite #1 first and after a night alone she was soon joined by many more happy renters.  The official opening took place on October 21, 1970.  Suites were all filled and a waiting list established. In 1973 the board approved an addition of 6 more suites and 4 single suites were renovated and made into 2 larger ones. (Fun fact -that explains why there is no suite #2 or #13 in the building now.) In the spring of 2008, three more double suites were added to the north end of the building.

An engraved plaque in the dining room recognizes the Founding Alstone Board members as being John Williamson, Art Smith, Wilbur Thompson, Frank Patmore, George Fotheringham, Wilson Skelton and Doug Watt.  Other men and women of the community who took their turn volunteering time for the betterment of others are also recognized.  

 The Reston Collegiate yearbook for 1972-1973 was the source of the group photo below and tells the rates in 1972 were $58.50 a month for a single room and $73 for a double. Maybe someone can help me with the lady in the back row in the middle, her name seems to be missing. 

** Update - A few short hours after the post went online, the answer came from Helen B. from Winnipeg.  Miss Elizabeth "Lizzie" Guthrie previously mentioned as moving in first is the lady in the back row with the light coloured dress.  Thanks so much, Helen!  

Social activities including group meals have played an important part for the residents and today Congregate Meals are available to eat in or take out 5 days a week. This service started with one day a week but has grown due to its success and value.  The Alstone Notes in the Reston Recorder in the past kept the community in the know about the comings and goings at The Lodge. Seniors Helping Hands organize activities and musical entertainment. The residents themselves gather to socialize, a benefit of living in the Lodge that Covid has made so difficult. 

The solarium at the west entrance and kitchen upgrades as well as regular suite renovations keep the building fresh.The piano in the lounge bears this engraved plaque.

The trees show the passage of time over 50 years. We hope it is home for  men and women in our community for another 50. 

Reston Memorial Park - From Oats to Roses

It was just about 100 years ago that the community of Reston decided to honour those from their town and area who made the supreme sacrifice in WW1. This cenotaph became the cornerstone for the creation of Reston Memorial Park in the southeast corner of the town.  Our park would not have had the success and fame it has attained without the dedication of one man - Mr. Alfred Archer. 

 

The essay below titled ‘From Oats to Roses’ was prepared by Mrs. E.A. Wilkins and Mr. A.D. Anderson of the Park Board and read at the dedication of the main west gate on July 27, 1970. Mr. Alfred Archer had passed away in Ontario in 1967 and the Board felt it important to remember his many contributions to the Memorial Park. The gate was constructed and the dedication plaque installed for a grand total of $549.14 from community collections to the A. Archer Memorial Fund. The committee at the time consisted of Maurice Ludlum, Iris McMurchy, A. D. Anderson, Bert Pierce, Laura Lockhart, Flora Scott, Hazel Rainnie, Elmer Duncan and the caretaker was John Pickett.  Mr. Archer was granted a Life Membership to the Horicultural Society of Manitoba in 1962 and was honoured locally with a presentation for his leadership and hard work. 

From Oats to Roses 

No doubt many of those here today have been visitors to Reston Memorial Park as have hundreds of others who have recorded their names in the Guest Book. They have come from as far away as Italy, Germany, Australia and South America to admire and often wonder how this Park began.

In 1921, after the 1st World War when so many Reston boys lost their lives, a community meeting was held when the decision to erect a monument instead of a hall was made. A committee was formed – J.R. Duncan, William Watt, N.H. Ready,  J.R. McLean, W.A. Brady, J. Guthrie, Drs Clark and A.B. Chapman with E.H. Berry as secretary. These men asked for donations, purchased and erected the monument in the spring of 1922 on property purchased on the advice of Mr. Archer from the C.P.R. by another committee composed of A.E. Smith, A.D. Anderson, R.C. Bulloch and others. This prairie land with a few shallow sloughs, had only native poplar and prairie growth but a good location, popular even in 1917 as a tennis court. The soil, shallow black loam with clay subsoil, a small gravel area but no water supply, required breaking and leveling so in the spring of 1922 J.I. Bulloch broke it and planted a crop of oats, rye and brome. The area - 5 acres - was also fenced.

The plans drawn up in the Agricultural College where no one knew the terrain or soil were rejected in a 1923 committee meeting. Mr. Archer was then asked to join the committee and draw up new plans which were accepted.

Over $200 had been left from the purchase of the monument and provided the funds for the first plantings.  6-12 special trees and shrubs in 1926 also 4 Koster Blue Spruce at $2.50 each which are still good. Also six Spruce which died and six Scotch Pine later eaten by the rabbits. In the dry 30’s, 10 Spruce were bought from a truck. On advice to plant closely, trees died because of lack of moisture. Drought, inexperience, rabbits, wind, insect pests and frost all took their toll through the years but 

Mr. Archer records -

“I don’t remember ever being discouraged“

Through the years, donations of perennials were made. These multiplied and were sold. Flowers were sold and many wreaths etc. made by Mrs. Archer. New plants and trees were obtained by exchanging with other gardeners. Mr. Archer himself collected Pincherry, Paper Birch, Willows and Buffalo Berry from the Assiniboine Valley and was always on the alert for new plants. The supervision and work in the park was his life.  He accepted no pay until later years when he was given a sum yearly in appreciation of his untiring efforts. His pride and joy since 1965 was the rose garden, some 50 or 60 roses. This bed was started with 18 roses donated by Wilbur Pierce in memory of his father. With an abundance of water now, these plants are thriving and well worth seeing. Perhaps, if you have not already visited here, you may plan a group or a family picnic and enjoy the beauties of trees, shrubs, roses and flowers surrounding the equipped picnic area provided with barbecue, the children’s playground and now the museum. Hundreds of birds congregate and nest in the houses Mr. Archer provided since he always cared for his feathered friends carrying food to them in the coldest weather. 

The late Mr. Archer signed the Park Guest Book for the first and last time on August 16, 1967 when he left Reston. However we have a living memorial to him our beautiful Park, now being well cared for by the committee in charge. Do come and see it anytime from the tulip and blossom time until the leaves fall, it is a riot of color.

 

Thanks to Dana from the Reston Museum for lending me some fascinating Park memorabilia from their Archives, including From Oats to Roses.  Keep an eye on this blog for more as we lead up to the day marking 100 years since the original dedication of the cenotaph. 

Telephones in Reston

Finding the receipt below surprised me to see that over 108 years ago in June of 1913, eligible bachelor farmer Thomas Boulton requested telephone service! Twenty-two dollars a year in 1913 converts to over $600 in today's money and I only wish that was the same as my cell phone bill now! The opportunity to connect with family and friends and do business without leaving home must have been an amazing and very welcome concept to the pioneers.   

Alexander Graham Bell received a patent for the telephone in 1876 and a short 2 years later, a local telephone service was being made available in Winnipeg.  To start with, it was a wire connecting two locations but grew steadily until 1881when a switchboard was installed to connect 26 subscribers.  

In 1905, Pipestone Municipal council discussed the idea of a telephone system that would be publicly owned and it was met with enthusiasm.  In fact by 1908, $30,000 in local money was raised by debenture to cover construction costs and work began in the townsites of Reston and Pipestone under contractor John Reid. Poles, wires with insulators and the actual telephones needed to be installed and this would have meant work for many. 

John and Verna Olenick were kind enough to lend me their most interesting copy of the Pipestone Municipal Telephone Directory for the exchange from July 1916.  The final sentence on the opening page reminds subscribers to not use their telephone during a thunderstorm! Customers were also asked not to have their calls go longer than 5 minutes and profane or improper language was strictly forbidden.  The use of the phone is not to be lent to anyone, instead direct them to the nearest pay station.  They knew how to market their service - don't let the neighbour use yours but encourage them to get their own. 

Page 4 of the 1916 Pipestone Municipal Telephone System Directory which includes Thomas

Listings include over 500 business and resident subscribers in the Pipestone, Reston, Sinclair and Virden exchanges.  Rural and town homes were indicated. (The abbreviation "do" stands for ditto - same as above.)  The local doctor - A.B. Chapman - is listed as the Agent during these years. On the numbering system to the left of the name, Thomas was assigned 13 ring 21 so I suppose that's what you told the operator to connect you to their phone.  Let me know if there is a better explanation!

  

Repairs were first made by Troubleman Fred Reeves and later Andy Rutherford.  Unfortunately, he was killed on the workplace in 1926 by a load of poles rolling off a railcar.  Les Parker took over the job and continued for several decades until his sudden passing in 1967.  Thanks to the Olenicks for the pictures of Les below.  Troubleman duties included replacing the dry cell batteries in the phones and attending to wire and pole problems.  

Les Parker with repair car

Les Parker with a snowplane used to be able to fix lines during and after storms

Two operators were on call during the day and one at night to connect calls to the right house. They were also tasked with dispatching fire or emergency services as needed. Miss Edith McDonald was noteworthy for working as an operator for over 37 years. The switchboard was located at Chapman's Drug Store as well as upstairs at the RM Office for some time. Women were the main workforce apparently due to their polite and pleasant voices but a man , Wes Morris,  was hired for the night shift at one time.  Apparently in the 1930's, operators were paid $45 a month and they needed to work every day, including holidays. 

Long distance charges for the month of October 1952

The telephone system paid its way for many years but increasing costs in the late 1940's meant it needed support from a tax levy.  in 1952, Council asked the Manitoba Telephone System to take over the utility and it did so in 1954.  

Correspondence after being taken over by Manitoba Telephone System in 1954

Punch card bill from 1955.  Automation at its beginnings!

The punch card system was the first step to having a computer able to read your billing information when the bill was sent into Winnipeg with payment. 

The first local dial system came into use in 1955.  There is an interesting audio file here from the Manitoba Archives that teaches how to dial properly.  Go to the bottom of the page and click the arrow to play the file.  Avoid whipping your finger and forcing the dial back! 

 By 1969, the utility was burying wire and cable rather than running overhead lines.  In 1976, this area was able to direct dial long distance calls instead of going through an operator. The service building below stands near the north end of Main Street.  Home phone must make up only a small part of their business today.  All in 108 years. Does it make you wonder what will be next?