This year, British Columbia’s Heritage Week theme is Good Neighbours – Heritage Homes and Neighbourhoods.
The importance of historic houses and neighbourhoods to our communities is a theme that many people can relate to. While ornate or decorative historic houses are what many people think of first when they hear “heritage,” established, stable and attractive neighbourhoods make an equally important contribution to the community, creating a positive sense of well being, enjoyment, and security.
This year’s theme explores the character and warmth of historic homes, and the timeless appeal of established older neighbourhoods with vintage house styles, gardens, landscaping, trees and boulevards. Often close to the town centre and developed in an era when the automobile was a less dominant feature of daily life, older neighbourhoods lend themselves to a more sustainable lifestyle.
Neighbourhoods and districts from earlier eras also promote a layered sense of community history and contribute to visual appeal and variety. They enhance community attractiveness and livability.
Confirmation of the broad appeal of these qualities is reflected in the desirability of heritage home ownership, the premium prices generally paid, and the fact that heritage homes hold their value better than other segments of the residential market.
The value of the individual heritage home is significantly affected by its context of other well preserved vintage homes – the market value lies as much with the character of the neighbourhood as with the house itself. There is also the role of heritage home owners who, through their pride of ownership, stewardship, and investment, give a lot to the community.
Come out and celebrate Heritage Week in Revelstoke at the following community events:
Wednesday, Feb. 20, from 12:15 p.m. to 1 p.m. – The Revelstoke Museum & Archives hosts a special BC Heritage Week Brown Bag History Lunch on historic neighbourhoods. Bring your bag lunch. Coffee and cookies are provided. $5 per person.
Saturday, Feb. 23, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. – The Revelstoke Museum & Archives is hosting a Heritage Week Celebration with the City of Revelstoke and the Community Heritage Commission. Come for the hot beverages and fresh heritage cake, stay to learn about municipal heritage conservation in Revelstoke, view the new First Tracks – History of Skiing in Revelstoke exhibit, explore Revelstoke’s history within the museum exhibits, or find the history of your home using the municipal tax and fire insurance records. Children’s activities will be available. The 2012 City of Revelstoke Heritage Awards will be presented at 1:00 p.m. after which cake will be served. No cost, donations accepted.
Saturday, Feb. 23, from 2-4 p.m. – The Revelstoke Railway Museum is hosting a panel of retired railroaders for their foruth annual Heritage Week event. This year’s theme is technological advancements. Held at the Revelstoke Railway Museum. Admission is by donation and members get in free.