Week of June 6, 2024

Medieval Days (ARCH002619)

40 years ago (June 6, 1984)

“Medieval Days”

40 years ago, Medieval Days had taken over Sherwood Park and the News was full of Medieval Days photos and stories. The Strathcona County Information & Volunteer Centre was transformed into a medieval castle with a huge cardboard brick façade. The Eastgate Mall had a highly successful medieval themed “Midnight Madness” sale with costumed Robin Hoods and Maid Marions. Local Sword & Shield owner Herb Belcourt walked the Medieval Days parade in Spock ears to advertise the new film Star Trek: Search for Spock. Classic midway rides like The Zipper were set up and the midway staff were asked “What are the best and worst things about the carnival circuit?” They all seemed to agree that meeting new people and travelling were highlights of the job, but rain and “punk kids trying to sneak on rides” were definitely the downside.

30 years ago (June 9, 1994)

“Twp. 522 Birds Keep Their Nests”

30 years ago, birds nesting along Township Road 522 were spared, thanks to an outcry from local residents. The County had embarked on an ambitious project to widen the then-quiet road to prepare for its eventual connection to the Whitemud Freeway, and brush was being cleared into May, far too late to avoid nesting birds. A local resident contacted Alberta Fish & Wildlife, who confirmed that birds were already nesting in the area and that clearing brush in spring was to be avoided to protect the nests. The County was convinced to ask its contractor to selectively clear the brush, leaving any tree with an active nest standing, until the young birds could fledge.