Since the Penticton Branch was formed in 1948 our aim has been to generate interest in the preservation of local heritage buildings and sites for future generations.
Joined by other groups that support local history, the branch hosts a Heritage Week display each February to share with the public a variety of story board displays as well as photos and artifacts provided by Penticton branch members and the Penticton Museum & Archives.
Heritage Week display in the Cherry Lane Shopping Centre, 2016. Courtesy Karen Collins
Penticton Branch Heritage Week display, 2019. KVR railway and rock ovens, then and now. Courtesy Karen Collins
Members also participate in the Penticton Museum Brown Bag Lunch Lecture Series providing presentations on historic events and people who have helped to shape communities in our area.
Book sales are held every fall at Cherry Lane Shopping Centre which gives us the opportunity to present different facets of the history of our community such as the history of schools, churches, agriculture, and the Kettle Valley Railway.
Dependant on weather in the spring and fall we hold cemetery tours with Randy Manuel as our tour guide or hikes to areas of local importance such as the KVR Tunnels and Rock Ovens above Naramata.
One of the first community packing sheds, c. 1910-1920. Courtesy Penticton Museum & Archives
Haying on the Tom Ellis ranch, c. 1905. Courtesy Penticton Museum & Archives
OHS Book Sales: Copies of the 84th Report of the OHS are available for purchase at the Dragon's Den, 12 Front Street, Penticton (250) 492-3011.
Please note: All events are cancelled till further notice due to Pandemic Restrictions.
Branch Directors
President:
Karen Collins 250-493-1898
Vice-president:
Randy Manuel 250-490-6619
Secretary-treasurer: Jeanette Beavan
Directors: Maggie Ricciardi
Branch Editor:
Karen Collins 250-493-1898
Map of early Penticton created by Bill Barlee. Courtesy Penticton Museum & Archives
