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THE
RESTORATION
SOCIETY

The Bow Valley Ranche Historical Society is a non-profit charitable society, incorporated in Alberta in 1995. The society was established by local residents, Larry and Mitzie Wasyliw, who were concerned that The Ranche House was in danger of demolition due to budget restraints and the lack of government funds.

The Ranche House and associated buildings in Fish Creek Provincial Park were boarded up and left silent, as they were no longer required by the Government of Alberta. Larry and Mitzie Wasyliw recognized this pivotal landmark of Canadian history that touched the business, social, government and entrepreneurial roots that have built our country.

In 1995, they determined that The Ranche House was structurally sound but in serious need of repair and they established Bow Valley Ranche Historical Society  with a mandate to restore and oversee the Bow Valley Ranche to its original turn of the century grandeur.

Sponsorship and volunteer opportunities are available to assist the Society with current and future projects at the Bow Valley Ranche.

Meet The Society

Council of Elders

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Raymond ManyBears

Kaiyiitsapaomahka
Moving On Air

Niitsitapi Traditional Spiritual Elder for the Sacred Societies, Weasel Tribe

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Greta ManyBears

Aakaohksik’kitstakiyaakii
Many Offering Women

Niitsitapi Elder, Knowledge Keeper, Skilled Craftsperson of Traditional Musical Instruments and Beadwork

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Peter Weasel Moccasin

Miiniipoka
Berry Child

Niitsitapi Traditional Spiritual Elder for the Sacred Societies, Weasel Tribe

Directors

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Larry Wasyliw

President & Casino Chair,

The Bow Valley Ranche

Historical Society

CEO

iiststii'ik 

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Chris Feist

Vice President

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Fred Fenwick

Legal Counsel

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Kim Fankhanel

Accounting/Treasurer

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Rob Lennard

BVR Learning Center

Historial Education and Outreach 

Program Coordinator

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Karla McInnis

BVR Curator of The Native Gardens

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Clare Wallace

BVR Curator of The Native Gardens

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Mary Vlooswyk

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Christina Steed

Education and Communication

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Victoria Zyluk  

Art Curator

The Bow Valley Ranche
was designated as a provincial historic resource in 2001.

The Bow Valley Ranche is a spectacular historical site nestled in a serene meadow 17 minutes from downtown Calgary in Fish Creek Provincial Park. Towering pines highlight The Ranche House, Native Gardens and the Foreman's House in a truly exceptional setting.

The Bow Valley Ranche Restoration Society brings together recreational space, interpretive walks, entertainment  and education ares for students, the community and general public, and stewardship opportunities to honour  our heritage and culture.

 Thank you to everyone who participated and attended the Celebration of Life for Society co-founder Mitzie Wasyliw, held on Oct 17th in the Artisan Gardens. Special thanks to all the talented musicians, singers, speakers and volunteers that helped make this day a memorable one. It was a touching, heartfelt tribute and a true celebration of her spirit, thank you all.

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