McKernan History Representative

Ed Stover is McKernan's resident Historian. Information about the history of McKernan is always welcome. Contact Ed if you have stories and/or photos that you would like to share.

Click here for Ed's contact information.

McKernan History Briefs

It was way back in 1932 that the McKernan Community league began. The first elected president, Professor W.H. Alexander was reputed for his intellectual prowess and was the darling of the anti-prohibitionists in the 20's.

At the time of the League's inception, the Toonerville Trolley was still rocking along 76th Street to its turnaround at Saskatchewan Drive (the edge of town). McKernan Lake was "the" place to be during the summer and winter months, until it was drained after WWII.

A great many events have defined the community over the years, including some of the milestones highlighted below: (Click here to see the Details)

• The league rink at 79th and 114th St. began in the 30's
• By 1940, a small community hall was added for the annual summer and winter carnivals.
• 1946 - local carnie J.E. Elliot set up his small circus complete with rides, shows and two lion cubs.
• Also in 1946, the league pressed the city to fulfill its promise of extending the sewers into McKernan.
• 1949 - a committee constructed a playground in McKernan Park.
• During 1949, the League brought the sorry state of the roads and sidewalks to the attention of city engineers.
• Re-zoning woes began in 1949 as changes were proposed. It was feared that this would endanger the neighbourhood's single family character.
• In the early 50's, the League relocated to its present location due to the construction of McKernan School. A rink was promptly re-established.
• After a few years of fund raising, construction commenced on the new (current) hall in June of 1950.
• 1954 - The first issue of the McKernan Messenger
• March 1956, the new hall was christened. Volunteers worked many a "nail and hammer" party under the direction of Building Chairman, Dick Sherwin.
• Civil action continued into the 70's. The planning committee operated under the mandates - "to keep new development compatible with the area" and "keep McKernan stable."
• The playground was relocated when the school expanded.
• In 1979, a survey indicated that 92% wanted McKernan to preserve its single family dwelling status.
• During 1980, the planning committee successfully lobbied against a condominium development after the developer previewed his plans.
• 1987 - new playground equipment was installed by a weekend work party at McKernan Park.
• During the 90's various committees were hard at work on the 114th Street redevelopment plan.
• 1992 - the park area east of the rink shack was dedicated and named after the long time resident, author and actress, Elsie Park Gowan. The brass plaque has recently been joined by a wooden sign.
• In 1994, the City Council adopted the McKernan / Parkallen / Belgravia Community Development Plan.
• 1997 - Fundraising, grants and a few years of planing culminate in several weekends of volunteer community labour to construct a new playground south of the rink shack
• 2000 Rink shack is burned down by #@*&# vandals - rebuilt in time for next winter.
• 2000/2001 - planning continues for the 114th Street L.R.T.
• 2001 - McKernan battles to retain its long-fought-for Community Development Plan against a one-size-fits-all City Plan