Underneath the Arches - the New Cranbrook Arches

The new Cranbrook Arches had their official opening yesterday, Saturday September 11th.

Applause and praise went out most deservedly to Fred Hoechsmann for his vision for this project and his tenacity to see it through. Fred, in his speech, thanked the many people who contributed to this idea becoming a reality. The large undertaking would not have been possible without the skills of Engineer Elmer Higgins, the stonemasons, the organizing committee of Gloria Hoechsmann Val Buchanan, Denise Pallesen, Russ Kinghorn and Chris Lindblad as well as the many donors who contributed financially. Fred reminded the audience that there are still finishing touches to be completed including a mural on the large currently blank wall that borders the entrance. It was also pointed out that the Rotary Way Trail is planned to join this intersection. Fundraising is still under way for these projects and the donation at the Opening Ceremony of $6000.00 from the East Kootenay Community Credit Union, will certainly help in their coming to fruition. Cranbrook can be very proud of the very many volunteers and donors who make large projects like this possible for our city. This historical replication will once again invite and welcome people into the core of our city.  To all those involved we thank you for recognising our history and helping to bring some of it back.

Fred Hoechsmann being interviewed for Shaw Cable

The landmark Cranbrook arches once marked the East and West entrances to the city and were one of the projects completed in the 1930’s by some of the many otherwise unemployed men at that time. A token wage, and for some, room and board were provided.

Old postcard of the East Arch showing a 1937 P4 Plymouth beneath

A line-up of vintage cars was parked under the arches for the opening ceremony. One of the cars, a 1937 P4 Plymouth, owned by Ivor Fredrickson was the same model, although not the same car, as seen in this old postcard of the East Arch.

Russ Kinghorn wearing his Grandfather’s

top hat emceed the ceremony in grand style!

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

West Arch old postcard