Three Hills - Three Rescues

Three Hills Golden Jubilee plaque

Frank draws his pocket knife and starts scratching at the Golden Jubilee memorial across from the provincial building in the town of Three Hills.

“What’s the matter?” I say.

“Someone’s stuffed mud into the recessed lettering. I’m digging it out,” he replies.

We stand back and admire the beautiful, clean marble plaque.

“If I was bold enough, I’d clear the bushes hiding it,” he adds.

We click a few pictures and carry on with our exploration of the area.

The community members are rescuing their history by displaying elaborate murals on the sides of some of the buildings. Their history includes coal mining and over one dozen churches, while currently they manage themselves with agriculture and oil and gas production.  Two churches remain in operation.

Coal mining mural

Agriculture mural

We find ourselves trapesing down back alleys. They also display the goings on in small towns and elsewhere. Your back yard tells a lot about you; what you tend to collect, what you are holding back on getting rid of, and your hobbies.

Three Hills back alley

Another rescue lay ahead.

The Armitage’s namesake, at one time, fastened to the back of a metal bench, now lays tattered and hanging by a metal clasp. Frank walks to Big White and returns with his tool kit. In short order, he fastens the unique plaque back in place.

The Armstrong's sign

Frank honours the sign

We see ourselves as part of the community, no matter our destination. Hamlets, villages, towns, cities, counties and countries. We feel it is our responsibility to take care of the surroundings.

“Many people are good at talking about what they are doing, but in fact do little. Others do a lot but don’t talk about it; they are the ones who make a community live.” ~ Jean Vanier, Community and Growth