Exploring the Rich History of Whistler Through Archival Films

Whistler’s Nostalgic Film Screening

A recent event highlighted the charm of Whistler through archival films, offering a glimpse into the area’s rich history. On June 18, the Whistler Museum and the Point Artist-Run Centre hosted a captivating film screening featuring 8mm films that date back to the 1950s and ’60s. These films include delightful snippets of sailing on Alta Lake, engaging pie-eating contests at Cypress Lodge, and even an amusing 1958 hiking incident where stew was accidentally burnt on Whistler Mountain, accompanied by footage of a house under construction.

Building the Strachan Family Home

The home featured in the film was constructed for Florence Strachan (formerly Petersen) in September 1966. Florence’s connection with Alta Lake started in 1955 when she, along with four friends, purchased a cabin they aptly named Witsend. Following their initial purchase, four of the friends decided to buy a neighboring lot for just $500. Over time, the other three sold their shares, leaving Florence as the sole owner of the land.

The Dream to Build

Florence envisioned a summer home with stunning views overlooking Alta Lake while continuing her teaching career in Burnaby. The clearing of the lot needed significant effort, as seen in the films where friends and family help remove trees and the remnants of a couple of structures. The construction was managed by Andy Petersen, whom Florence married in 1967, with ample assistance from her friends and family. The footage amusingly captures the group, decked out in shorts and sandals, relocating what resembled an “explosive” outhouse.

Constructing the Prefabricated House

Florence chose a prefabricated house designed by Greenall Bros. Ltd. This company was known in the ’60s for producing prefabricated structures ranging from homes to schools. According to their advertisements in 1964, such buildings offered solid construction at great value, allowing for quick occupancy while maintaining a conventional appearance.

Constructing with Community Spirit

In September 1966, the house arrived at Alta Lake, already meticulously prepped with all pieces cut to size. Friends and family rallied around, constructing the house under Andy’s supervision, although some practices wouldn’t comply with today’s safety standards, such as working atop the roof without harnesses. The supportive spirit of the Alta Lake community was evident as neighbors often lent a hand in various projects, from stashing firewood to assisting in building endeavors.

The Journey of Completion

Although the house was deemed “built” in 1966, it would take 25 years for it to reach its completion. The initial phase of the house was uninsulated and lacked power, making winter visits quite uncomfortable. It wasn’t until after the installation of electric heating that the Petersens began frequenting the house year-round. Grounded on posts, Andy later added a proper foundation, continually improving the finishing touches.

Memorable Incidents During Construction

In the spring of 1968, Andy settled in the house full-time while working alongside Dick Fairhurst of Cypress Lodge on constructing the Scotia Creek water line. A memorable mishap occurred when blasting created some holes in the roof, prompting a quick trip to Vancouver for repairs. When questioned by Florence, he merely said he had to retrieve some materials without admitting to the roof’s damage.

A Lasting Legacy

Florence transitioned to living full-time in Whistler after retiring from her teaching career in 1983. Following Andy’s retirement and their gradual completion of the house, he began nurturing the garden, developing three terraces between the road and their home. In 2006, Florence reflected on their life together, expressing, “we can’t imagine living anywhere else and never tire of the view across the lake.” The couple enjoyed their residence until Florence passed away in 2012, after which Andy relocated from Whistler.

The Value of Archival Films

Finding gems like the archival films in the Petersen Collection is always a delight, as they breathe life into the stories told through letters and interviews. Some films have even been digitized and are available for viewing online, serving as excellent resources for those interested in Whistler’s fascinating history.

Conclusion

Archival films offer a precious glimpse into Whistler’s past, showcasing how community, perseverance, and passion cultivated the beautiful landscape we cherish today. While reviews and accounts of the past provide valuable insights, nothing quite compares to the personal experience of exploring these historical tales. At GetExperience.com, booking experiences from verified providers empowers you to make informed decisions without extra costs. With options catering to various tastes and budgets, visitors can truly immerse themselves in the adventures awaiting them. To explore the unique tours and experiences available, Book your Trip at GetExperience.com.