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
Raymond ManyBears
Kaiyiitsapaomahka
Moving On Air
Niitsitapi Traditional Spiritual Elder for the Sacred Societies, Weasel Tribe
Greta ManyBears
Aakaohksik’kitstakiyaakii
Many Offering Women
Niitsitapi Elder, Knowledge Keeper, Skilled Craftsperson of Traditional Musical Instruments and Beadwork
Peter Weasel Moccasin
Miiniipoka
Berry Child
Niitsitapi Traditional Spiritual Elder for the Sacred Societies, Weasel Tribe
Directors
Larry Wasyliw
President & Casino Chair,
The Bow Valley Ranche
Historical Society
CEO
iiststii'ik
Chris Feist
Vice President
Fred Fenwick
Legal Counsel
Kim Fankhanel
Accounting/Treasurer
Rob Lennard
BVR Learning Center
Historial Education and Outreach
Program Coordinator
Karla McInnis
BVR Curator of The Native Gardens
Clare Wallace
BVR Curator of The Native Gardens
Mary Vlooswyk
Christina Steed
Education and Communication
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.