Oyen pioneers made their own fun

By Joan Janzen

Pioneers worked extremely hard, but they also knew the importance of celebrating together as a community and having fun. The history book ‘Many Trails Crossed Here’ showed how pioneers made their own fun.

Alf Brunner wrote, “There were about eighteen families within a three mile radius of our place. I still think, with fond memories, of the evenings when you could see lights in nearly every direction. We used to drop over to the neighbours for a card game or a cup of coffee.”

The 1927 Jubilee Celebration in Oyen was a festive occasion, including a parade and all kinds of entertainment. Photo from Many Trails Crossed Here

Charlie Nelson drives a team pulling a beautifully decorated hay rack loaded with ladies, in an entry in the 1917 fair parade. Photo from Many Trails Crossed Here

Something as simple as picking berries became an opportunity to have a picnic with friends. “All we needed was half a dozen people and a mouth organ and the fun began!” Alf recalled.

Many days and evenings were spent playing baseball, football, running and jumping competitions and attending community dances. And there was no need for imported music because every district had its own performers.

A travelling variety show called the Chautauqua visited Oyen every fall. It brought music, drama, magic, art and cooking lessons, speakers and comedy to rural areas that were hungry for entertainment.

Although pioneers loved being entertained, they always took time to make their own fun. As early as 1929, the community of Oyen held stampedes, and every special occasion or fair was an opportunity for everyone to get together and have a parade.

Pioneers not only showed the value of hard work and perseverance, but they also showed future generations the importance of celebrating together as a community.