Hello, friends! It’s Bob the Rubber Duck here, and I’m excited to take you on a delightful journey through time to explore the charming St. Anne’s Log Church in Parksville, British Columbia – a place with a lot of history tucked into its wooden logs!
Nestled in the heart of Parksville, St. Anne’s Log Church is not just any ordinary building; it’s the oldest surviving log church on Vancouver Island! Can you believe it has stood since 1894? That’s older than many of my fellow bath buddies! This charming little church is a testament to the pioneering spirit of the early settlers, who sought a community gathering place during a time when the vastness of the island felt somewhat lonely.
The story begins in 1893, when the spirited Rev. Canon Charles Cooper made his way from England to Canada in search of the perfect spot for a church. After a journey through Victoria, Nanaimo, and Port Alberni, he set his sights on French Creek. With the community’s help and a bit of engineering magic, construction began on April 17, 1894. Imagine the scene: oxen hauling logs and a lively group of settlers working together, all with a dream of a place to worship and gather.
As I float along, I can’t help but admire the craftsmanship that went into the log structure and the details of the church itself. On June 24 of that same year, the walls of St. Anne’s rose up as if reaching for the heavens, and by July 26, the finishing touches were complete, just in time for St. Anne’s Day!
On that beautiful summer day, the church was consecrated by the Rt. Rev. William Perrin, and the respectful sounds of hymns filled the air. Picture a joyful picnic on the grounds, where people who had travelled from afar shared laughter and stories, surrounded by the beauty of the island they now called home. It’s not just a church; it’s a cornerstone of community spirit!
Over the years, the church has undergone some remarkable upgrades while preserving its historical charm. Notable renovations kept St. Anne’s alive and thriving, such as the installation of the bell in 1936 and significant restorations that followed the passage of time. But what truly warms my rubber heart is the fact that it remains a haven for special occasions, just like a cozy bathtub on a rainy day!
With each visit, one can feel the echoes of history – the first wedding in 1896, memorials for pioneers laid to rest, and the community gatherings that have taken place within its walls. As a rubber duck who loves a good story, I cherish the tales of the past that define this lovely church and the people who built it.
So, if you ever find yourself near Parksville, don’t miss the chance to waddle on over to St. Anne’s Log Church. Explore the grounds, soak in the atmosphere, and touch a piece of Vancouver Island’s history. Who knows? You might hear the whispers of Canon Cooper and the early settlers encouraging you to embrace the sense of community that this quaint little church has given to its visitors for over a century.
Until next time, keep splashing through life’s adventures, and don’t forget – history is all around us, waiting to be discovered! Quack quack!
NEVER MISS A
