Trust addresses safety risks while salvaging materials to preserve history
(Creston) – Columbia Basin Trust has made the difficult decision to deconstruct the white grain elevator in Creston. While the Trust has invested significantly in the restoration of the red grain elevator, the second white elevator is beyond feasible conservation efforts. This decision comes after careful consideration of the engineering, health and safety, and financial challenges posed by the white elevator.
“This was an incredibly difficult decision as the grain elevators are an iconic part of Creston’s history and skyline,” said Johnny Strilaeff, President and CEO, Columbia Basin Trust. “When we acquired the elevators, we immediately assessed their condition and moved quickly to prevent the red elevator from deteriorating like the white one. While the red elevator could be restored, unfortunately the white elevator’s condition is beyond the stage of feasible reclamation. We will be commencing careful deconstruction to address the immediate safety risks and will focus on retaining as much of the building materials as possible to be used for other community purposes in honour of the history of the white elevator.”
Due to immediate safety concerns, the Trust has started the deconstruction process, shoring up the shed structure and salvage of materials where possible, including valuable first-growth timbers and historic equipment. These reclaimed materials will be repurposed in future projects. In addition, videos and photographs will document the white elevator and be used to develop display signage.
The Trust will work with the community to determine how the salvaged materials can be repurposed and to explore potential future uses for the vacant site.
“As we celebrate 100 years of incorporation, we also recognize that the years bring changes. This decision is part of that change and although it has a visual effect on our Town, it’s being done for the right reasons. It’s our hope the elevator lives on in many creative and innovative projects as we find ways to repurpose the well seasoned timber as it is deconstructed,” said Mayor Arnold DeBoon, Town of Creston. “Thank you, Columbia Basin Trust, for all the work you have done to conserve the red elevator, and for all you have done to ensure the best decision has been made for the badly deteriorated white elevator.”
Started in 2019, restoration efforts of the red elevator envelope are finished. This included activities like removing hazardous materials, stabilizing the structure, adding new roofs and lightning rods, replacing siding, a new coat of paint, and rebuilding and replacing doors and windows. To complete these efforts the Trust invested significant funding in this project and is thankful for the additional financial support of many partners.
“On behalf of Area B residents, I would like to congratulate the Columbia Basin Trust executive and staff on the completion of the restoration work of the iconic Alberta Wheat Pool grain elevator in Creston, BC that was originally constructed in 1936. The preservation of this structure is of historical significance to our province and valley, as it represents an era in the development of our agricultural sector that was and still is the backbone of our economy in the area,” said Roger Tierney, RDCK Electoral Area B Director. “This extremely complex project is a testament to the determination and commitment shown by Columbia Basin Trust to support the local community in preserving its heritage.”
In 2018, the Trust purchased the elevators to help preserve the region’s history and share it with future generations. Approximately six storeys high, they were built in 1935 and 1936. During their prime, they were used to collect, store and ship locally grown wheat, barley, oats and rye. They ceased operations in the 1980s.
To learn more about the elevators and the conservation project, visit ourtrust.org/creston.
