The Ladysmith and District Credit Union has announced the completion of its new Wall of History mural. The artwork, painted by local artist Kathy Oliver, showcases over 77 years of the Credit Union’s history.
“From the humble beginnings of a meeting at Nicholson’s Hall, (above the Wigwam), to the more than $300 million multi-entity of today, this stunning mural beautifully encapsulates our history and the history of our support for the Ladysmith community,” said John de Leeuw, chief executive officer, in a news release.
The mural shows portraits of three Credit Union founding members; Rev. Everett Fleming, the first president; Helmi Kotilla, the first female president of a credit union board and John Ulinder, one of the board’s longest-serving directors.
“Another connection to our beginning is the inclusion of a locomotive from the Comox Logging Co., many of whose employees were founding members of the Credit Union,” de Leeuw said.
There are renditions of each of the previous Credit Union offices, from 1948 – 1974 and all past and current logos included on the wall.
Major Ladysmith landmarks, including Transfer Beach, the skatepark and the amphitheatre, are included on the wall. It also shows off events sponsored by the Credit Union.
“On the north-facing wall, we are honoured to demonstrate our ongoing friendship with the Stz’uminus First Nation, showing the logo for our Oyster Bay branch and the artist’s conception of the Salish Wind, a traditional canoe representing the relationship between the Stz’uminus people and the Town of Ladysmith,” de Leeuw said.