Every year the Rotary Club gathers to recognize the people who made Penticton what it is today, the Penticton pioneers.
The club has been doing this for 73 years, recognizing among those who attend their pioneer reception the oldest male and female attendee.
This year, they added an additional recognition, for the oldest pair who, between the two, have the most years spent in Penticton.
READ MORE: Pioneers: as young as you feel
“I was born in Haven Hill,” Clarence Gibbard recalled. “In the boiler room there. Or the room next to it, at least.”
Gibbard, born in 1931, has lived his whole life in Penticton. His eldest daughter, Paige, was recognized alongside him. Through those years, he has seen the city grow and change, as well as many parts of it stay the same.
“I live on the same corner that I have all my life,” said Gibbard. “We have the same streets, the same people around. Regular people. The properties, those changed. Duplexes everywhere, and I wonder where all the people are coming from to fill them up? Doesn’t anyone want a nice yard or garden anymore?”
The change in the city was noticeable even by someone who hasn’t been in Penticton quite as long as Gibbard. Bill Archibald, the oldest man in attendance, moved to Penticton in 1998.
“I can’t believe the growth here,” said Archibald. “That of course goes for the whole valley, but when I came here it was orchards everywhere. Now it’s all grapes and large homes.”
Evelyn Christensen, born in 1921, came to Penticton in 1958.
“I had a lot of relatives on my mother’s side who lived here,” said Christensen, who moved to the town over 60 years ago. “We always liked Penticton, my husband and I, when we visited. He always wanted to come here and when we did, we never looked back.”
“So many things have changed, there are a lot more houses for one,” she said. “When we moved here, they had wooden sidewalks.
“I’ve really loved living here,” said Christensen. “At my age, you know, every day that you get up in the morning is a miracle. I treasure each one I get to spend here. I don’t think I’d change nearly anything. Certainly not coming here.”
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