The Ladysmith and District Historical Society and the Town of Ladysmith received a $15,300 federal grant from the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program for the community to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the construction of the Ladysmith Agricultural Hall (Aggie Hall).
Aggie Hall is located on 1st Avenue near the roundabout and is an important example of an early community-driven building project. The hall and grounds were initially developed with funds raised by the community through subscription and the sale of shares. It was built in 1922 in seven weeks by miners, according to the town.
When the floor was laid a dance was held, the first of many that would bring joy to generations of residents. The Agricultural Fall Fair became a tradition that continued into the 1990s as a major annual event with extensive involvement from local growers, food producers, artisans, gardeners and families.
Today, the Aggie Hall remains an important place within the community, housing the Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron 257, one of B.C.’s oldest aid cadet squadrons and Ladysmith Family and Friends (LaFF) as well as hosting other community events.
A celebration for next September is being planned by The Aggie 100 Committee, composed of representatives from a variety of community organizations.
“The Town appreciates the efforts of volunteers in carrying on the spirit of this historic landmark in the planning of activities of celebrations, details of which will be announced in 2022,” reads a news release from the Town of Ladysmith.
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editor@ladysmithchronicle.com
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