ODHS Seeking Contributions to Commemorative Book

The Oliver & District Heritage Society is seeking new stories and photographs for the commemorative book planned to mark 100 years of the Oliver community and over 10,000 years of the Syilx people.

The book tentatively titled One Hundred X One Hundred /x̌cəcikst X x̌cəcikst: Celebrating the People of Oliver and the Osoyoos Indian Band will focus on the history of the Syilx people and the many groups of settlers who have made Oliver their home. Ken Favrholdt, the book’s writer, is looking for anecdotes about individuals and their lives, including reminiscences about the area that have not been published before. From Syilx oral histories to present-day memories, any contributions about the people of our area is welcome and will be considered for the book’s content.

In particular, the history of immigrant groups in Oliver is of interest. What was it like for newcomers to Oliver to fit in, how did they make a living, and how did the community change over time? How did organizations and clubs evolve? Of special interest are any photographs that show people at work, at play, and doing activities or attending gatherings related to their cultural background.

Typed or hand-written stories of just a few pages are ideal. If you have stories or photographs, or know of anyone with a connection to our community who would like to contribute, you can submit stories for consideration via email at info@oliverheritage.ca or in-person by appointment at the Oliver Archives by calling 250-498-4027. Please mark email submissions as: Oliver/OIB Book.

This project has been made possible by the Government of Canada.