Storming the Fort! Snowshoeing at Rossland's Early Winter Carnivals
Normally discussions of Rossland’s early Winter Carnivals are dominated by the skiing competitions, but this year, we’re putting the spotlight on snowshoeing!
Many early Rosslanders participated in snowshoeing as it was both a practical skill and an easily accessible leisure activity. From the very first Winter Carnival in 1898 until the early 1910s, snowshoe races and the Snowshoeing Championship of British Columbia found an important place alongside the other Winter Carnival provincial/national championships. The snowshoeing races would later be joined by more theatrical events like “Storming the Fort” and torchlight parades through town. Although these events are no longer part of the Winter Carnival, their impact is still felt through the love of snowshoeing many locals hold today.
2286.0028 - Snowshoeing near Rossland
Our newest outreach exhibit - Storming the Fort: Snowshoeing at Rossland’s Early Winter Carnivals explores the foundations of the snowshoe races and Storming the Fort as well as the Rossland Snowshoe Club. Featuring snowshoes from the early- to mid-20th century, Storming the Fort will be on display in the Curiosity Clothing & Gifts window from January 22nd through February 5th.
WE WANT TO EXTEND A HUGE THANK YOU TO TRINDA AND CURIOSITY CLOTHING & GIFTS FOR CONTINUALLY SUPPORTING OUR OUTREACH DISPLAY PROGRAM!