Revival of History Through Archival Film Screenings

Unveiling the Past

The recent film screening at the Whistler Museum and Point Artist-Run Centre highlighted a captivating collection of 8mm films from the archives that stir curiosity. Showing snippets from the 1950s and ’60s, the footage included delightful scenes like sailing on Alta Lake and pie-eating contests at what’s now the Point. One particularly interesting piece captured a 1958 hike up Whistler Mountain, famously where stew was burnt!

The House That Time Built

One key highlight of the screening was footage showcasing the construction of a house initiated in September 1966 for Florence Strachan (Petersen). Florence’s journey in Alta Lake began in 1955 when she, along with her friends, purchased a shared cabin they aptly named Witsend. The camaraderie flourished as they regularly visited, eventually leading to the acquisition of a nearby lot for just $500 the following year.

From Cabin to Summer Home

Florence’s vision materialized into a summer home on the lot overlooking Alta Lake, even while she continued her teaching career in Burnaby. To commence, the plot required significant clearance—displacing trees and old structures, much portrayed in the 8mm clips. Spearheaded by Andy Petersen (who would become Florence’s husband in 1967), friends and family joined in the task, even humorously moving an old outhouse in shorts and sandals!

Building Bricks and Memories

The home, designed by Greenall Bros. Ltd., was a prefabricated structure, which was a popular option in the 1960s. Their promotional materials of the time emphasized solid construction, enduring value, and a conventional aesthetic. Arriving in September 1966, all pieces of the house were pre-cut, simplifying assembly under Andy’s watchful eye with help from family and friends.

A Labor of Love

While the house was deemed “built” that year, it was far from complete in terms of comfort. For a year, the home remained uninsulated without electricity, making winters quite the challenge. The Petersens often checked in, but more consistent visits began only after the installation of electric heating made things much cozier. Enhancements continued, transforming the house with a solid foundation and finishing touches that would extend over decades.

Life in Whistler

Another view captured was the interconnectedness of the small Alta Lake community where neighbors readily lent a hand—from chopping firewood to major projects like house construction. Though the house construction was classified as complete in 1966, Andy admitted it took 25 years to realize the full potential of their home. In 1968, Andy began living permanently at the lakeside house while collaborating on local construction projects, including water line installations for Scotia Creek. One amusing misadventure occurred when he inadvertently damaged the roof while clearing a path; a trip to Vancouver for repairs humorously tagged along with a cheeky excuse.

A Home for Generations

Florence joined Andy in Whistler full-time after her retirement in 1983. Their home, once a construction site, blossomed into a beautiful residence complete with a terraced garden, reflecting the couple’s later years. In 2006, Florence fondly noted their attachment to the home and its breathtaking views. They cherished their lakefront sanctuary until Florence’s passing in 2012, after which Andy relocated from Whistler.

Preserving Memories

The archival films play an essential role, offering a glimpse into the past that traditional narratives, such as letters and interviews, fail to convey fully. For those captivated by historical sites and personal stories, viewing digitized films gives life to experiences and memories associated with the region. To explore more of these gems, the Whistler Museum YouTube channel hosts a collection of digitized footage worth checking out.

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