By Brandie Majeau
The Redwater Art Society has recently completed an exciting community
enhancement project by installing a mural in the heart of downtown Redwater. This
impressive piece can be found at the north end of the Library/Town office on 50th
Avenue, with photographs documenting the mural’s creation generously provided by the
Redwater and District Museum.
The mural not only beautifies the area but also pays homage to the rich history of
the Redwater community. The mural serves as a reminder of the pioneering spirit of
local families, such as the Litwins. Mrs. Mary Litwin (nee Kolmatycki), along with her
mother and young son Nestor, were part of the original homesteaders in the Redwater
district, having begun their journey in 1904. With 15 children, the Litwin family
epitomized the determination and resilience of pioneers. Nestor went on to serve his
country in the RCAF, and despite facing challenges, including a serious injury in 1957,
he became an influential educator, teaching at St. Francis of Assisi from 1966 to 1994.
The mural also reflects the hardworking spirit of the oil industry in Redwater,
featuring a depiction of roughnecks on a drilling rig from 1949. Drilling was tough, gritty,
and fraught with dangers, requiring strength and agility from those who worked on the
rigs, often without the benefit of modern safety equipment.
The realization of this mural would not have been possible without the generous
support of several local organizations. Special thanks are extended to the Redwater
Legion for their financial contributions, the Redwater Museum for both financial support
and historical photographs, and the Town of Redwater, particularly Dede Gordy and Cliff
Dallyn, for their unwavering encouragement.
A heartfelt appreciation goes to the dedicated members of the Redwater Art
Society, whose commitment and efficiency were vital to bringing this mural to life. The
club, which has been nurturing the arts in the community since the 1980s, counts Terri
Hannah (president), Orphelia McKenna, Lea Cook, Della Shannon, Barbara Gaboury,
Lola Alsmo, Carol Cook, Chantel Antoniak, and Jeannie Hare among its committed
members.
For those interested in learning more about the mural and the history behind it, a visit to
the Redwater Museum is highly recommended. The museum is open during the
summer months from Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., providing a wealth of
knowledge about the local area and its storied past. This mural stands as a testament to
the community spirit of Redwater, capturing a piece of its history and the creativity of an
amazing group of people.
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