Return to Notre Dame

Notre Dame de Savoie Church is one of the first places I really wanted to check out for myself when I started getting into this whole exploring thing.  When I finally got to the church for the first time, I made it the subject of my very first blog post.

A recent exploring trip brought me in the vicinity of the church (near Halkirk, AB) and since I wasn't too far away at that point, I headed to Notre Dame. A friend of mine, who hasn't been able to see it for himself, was worried that it might have succumbed to the the heavy wind storms that have blown through the area this year. I was preparing for the worst as I headed down the gravel road, but it's still standing. A little saggier and bowing a bit more, but still standing.  Who isn't a bit saggy at 102?  I used my math skills and I calculated that this church has been unused longer than it was in use. (1915-1964)

One thing I didn't mention much or show photos of in my previous post, is the cemetery. It has a few dozen interments dating from 1919 - current. The cemetery is looked after.

It's funny how we feel protective over certain places. In my case, I have no connection to Notre Dame or the area but still I think about this place often. I am sure one of us who cares about this place will check on it after what could be a long cold winter.  Here's hoping for an easy winter for this old church who has survived more than 100 winters already.

Notre Dame de Savoie Church

For my first post, I want to share my most recent adventure through Central Alberta.  This place was one I have been meaning to visit.  I knew I had a few hours to myself so I loaded up the essentials: coffee, camera, lenses, back road atlas, water, snacks, rubber boots, more coffee and some good music.  I also stopped for coffee along the way. 

Notre Dame de Savoie can be found on a quiet crossroads NE of Halkirk, AB.  Kitty-Corner to the church is a cemetery that appears to be kept up.  Beyond that is the Paintearth Mine operation.

This church was built around 1915 by the local Francophone community and was in use until 1964.  A newer church was then built nearby but has since been torn down.  Notre Dame sits silently, save for the flapping and cooing of the pigeon population inside.  I didn't venture into pigeon territory any further than the threshold.  You never know with these old places and exploring alone makes me extra cautious.  My over active imagination also doesn't help....picture falling through the floor boards and being covered in pigeon poop or WORSE.  No thanks.  

I took a few moments to soak in the peaceful quietness and to think about what an important place and hub of activity this once was to so many settlers and families in the area. Even in this state, it still holds a certain charm and beauty and I am hoping it withstands the elements a bit longer.  À la prochaine!