On July 6, the dedication of a centennial plaque in Reston Memorial Park marked 100 years since the park was created with a cenotaph in remembrance of War heroes.
After looking at spots on Main Street where it could be built, a committee led by local businessman, tailor and veteran Alfred Archer proposed that the cenotaph be the centrepiece of a Memorial Park. An empty spot on the east end of First Avenue, running parallel to the railway was chosen. An Italian marble carved soldier statue was purchased at a cost of approximately $3,600 from citizen donations. That park then became Mr. Archer’s special project and gift to posterity. Trees and flowers, benches and birdhouses were personally chosen and tended to in the decades following until he moved back to Ontario in 1968. Others have taken on the task, including paid employees of the RM of Pipestone, LUD of Reston and volunteers. Park Board chairperson Bonnie Guthrie spearheaded many recent projects including a half kilometre of cement pathways, new playground equipment, exercise equipment, and a grass volleyball court. The trees around the perimeter were removed to make it an airier space and new varieties were planted, looking toward the next 100 years.
Some 75 visitors from the community and surrounding areas came to the dedication, looking back a century to June 30, 1922.
Dean Brooker, chairman of the board, shared the park’s history. Tanya Martin and Pat Ross entertained and PAREC provided kids’ games and the Park Board treated guests to strawberry shortcake and beverages.
A remarkable blooming of beautiful poppies in the memorial area the day after the re-dedication appeared to be a sign of recognition and gratitude from the respected war heroes.
