McVittie House and Land Survey Office officially opened, Fort Steele

The culmination of nearly 25 years of work by Fort Steele Heritage Town, the Friends of Fort Steele, British Columbia Land Surveyors, Alberta Land Surveyors, Washington State Land Surveyors, volunteers, friends and families occurred on Saturday July 11th when the completed, restored, McVittie House and Land Survey Office were officially opened.   

Bob Allen representing the Land Survey Association of British Columbia acted as emcee for the event, giving an overview of the McVittie family history and introducing dignitaries.

This project has been a labour of love over many years from the time the residence was first moved by Alvin Townsend across the highway from its original location. 

Many of those who have been involved in the project over the years attended the official opening.  Although the house has been open for a few years, since the restoration of the fireplace, this was the first time many had seen the actual Land Survey Office.  A special presentation of a framed print of the original survey of the Fort Steele town site completed an historically accurate collection of artifacts, which furnish the office.

As part of the ceremony, long time dedicated volunteer Naomi Miller, who now frequently interprets in the McVittie House, was presented with a special token of appreciation for her work supporting this and many other heritage projects in the area.