The Gardens of Smeltzer House (1920)

Maurice Smeltzer settled into this home in November of 1892.  The homestead at the time was comprised  of 480 acres.  In 1899 Maurice married a descedent of Robbie Burns, the Scottish poet, a Miss Eliza Pithie.  Their son Frank lived here until 1976 at which time Strathcona County purchased the property.  It was designated a visual arts centre in 1985.  Pottery classes, art shows and other visual arts programs are held here regularly.  In 1985 Smeltzer House was designated a Registered Historic Resource by the Minister of Alberta Culture.

Smeltzer House is enroute to work and I always admire what I can see of the gardens.  For the last few months I have wanted to go explore the grounds so the other day I turned into the parking lot to explore the gardens and the heritage of Smeltzer House.

In addition to a pottery studio, the grounds also have a gazebo which is available to rent for events.  At the time I was there a banner was strung up at the entrance announcing an upcoming wedding.  

I've included a link should you be interested in any of the programs Smeltzer House has to offer.  Pottery seems like an interesting craft to try.

 http://www.strathcona.ca/departments/recreation-parks-and-culture/arts-culture/smeltzer-house/smeltzer-house-history/


#Strathconacounty  #SmeltzerHouse  #ArtsinSherwoodPark  #SherwoodPark

Christmas Creche Exhibit 2014

Thursday November 27 to Saturday November 29, the LDS Church in Sherwood Park held their annual Creche Exhibit.  The exhibit grows larger and larger each year just as does the number of visitors for this event that has been operating since 1996.  

The entire exhibit is comprised of approximately 1250 nativity scenes/sets offered for display by members of the church in the community and surrounding area. There are collections from around the world including Peru, Hawaii, Philippines, Germany, Africa, Peurto Rico, China and Thailand to name a few.  

As one strolls through the aisles viewing the inticacies of the pieces, live performances of Christmas carols from the adjoining chapel are enjoyed.  Here families and individuals from congregations in the community entertain the public with song and instruments.  

In a nearby room an exhibit especially for children is set up.  Here you find Precious Moments, hand-made nativities and other special nativities that children will enjoy seeing.

The Christmas Creche Exhibit is a wonderful way to begin the holiday season. Away from the hubbub of the shopping malls, one can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and remember the true reason for the season.