We have a lot to be thankful for this Thanksgiving and mostly it's for the community we have been able to build this first year. In January we were able to receive a community vibrancy grant from the City of Medicine Hat. We used it to create an evening of entertainment and education at the Monarch Theatre. On September 15th we invited some local historians to speak with Brian about the history of Medicine Hat. They shared some fantastic stories about our city and our audience was very interested in what they had to say. Sit back and relax as we present some of the facinating stories of notable figures, historical artifacts and intriguing tales that connect our community and our citizens.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the episode and guests
00:30 The story of Mayor Brown and his controversial history
01:00 The discovery and significance of the Benwell Tablet
01:29 Research into Major Benwell's military service and controversies
01:51 The story of Nancy the grizzly bear and local family tales
02:21 Connections between Jesse James and Medicine Hat
02:50 The story of Lord Beresford and the ranching history
03:20 Family stories of early settlers and explorers
03:50 The history of local brickyards and industry
03:58 Closing remarks and upcoming publications


The Tale of Mervyn Brown
Sally shares an unexpected story about Mayor Mervyn Brown, who served from 1918 to 1921. Initially depicted as an exceptional leader, further research revealed a darker side. After his death, it was discovered that Brown had been involved in serious allegations while living in England, including assaults on chambermaids, which were hushed up by influential friends.
"This is a case of a man who did not seem as he appeared," Sally reflects, highlighting the complexities of historical figures.

The Benwell Tablet
Next, William introduces us to Major Ernest George Benwell, who commissioned a memorial tablet honouring the men of the Third Canadian Mounted Rifles during World War I. Despite its noble beginnings, controversy surrounded the tablet’s display due to accusations against Benwell, leading to its eventual placement at City Hall instead of the originally intended church.
"When lawyers get involved, you know you're in trouble," William quips, emphasizing the tangled web of community dynamics.

The Early Days of Medicine Hat
Malcolm introduces us to the beginnings of Medicine Hat through his family stories of his Great Grandfather James Hargrave who took the train from Portage la Prairie to Maple Creek. From there, he rode out to Medicine Hat Coulee where surveyors were looking to build a bridge. As Malcolm says "I heard bits and pieces of it, and actually when I went to university and studied history of Western Canada, it started to click that, hmm, my family's actually in this."

These stories are apart of the history of Medicine Hat and made the city we call home today. We invite you to watch and listen to the whole live show recorded in front of an audience of enthusiastic history buffs. We want to thank the City of Medicine Hat, The Medicine Hat Historical Society, and the Monarch Theatre for their contributions to helping us create this special live event.

Medicine Hat Fire Department reminds you to charge your devices with the cord that came them. Third party cords can damage your rechargeable batteries and lead to fire.

Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast

Support the show

In Part two of our conversation Brian and David discuss his remarkable journey through faith, community service, and leadership. David talks about his experiences with politics, church, and community development in Calgary and his legacy here in Southeastern Alberta.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
01:58 David's Early Community Work in Calgary
03:54 Founding of Trinity Place Foundation and Saint Margaret's
06:55 Leadership in the Legislature and Maintaining Neutrality
11:07 The Role of Faith in Public Service
14:11 Historical Stories of Calgary and Saint Margaret's
17:12 Reflections on Community Development and Personal Life
20:03 Challenges in Community and Government Relations
23:10 The Significance of Saint Margaret's Cemetery and Memorials
25:55 Closing Remarks and Personal Reflections

Bring Back The Porch invites you into an intimate conversation with David J. Carter, who reflects on a life filled with diverse experiences, from politics to pastoral care and memorial work. David’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. He has worn many hats: an Anglican minister, a speaker of the House, a railroad worker, and even an author of eighteen books. His life’s work has intertwined with history, service, and community.

On Leadership
Reflecting on his time as speaker, David shares the complexities of maintaining neutrality while representing a diverse constituency. "I have sympathy for every person who becomes a speaker. We're here to represent all of the people in your constituency, not just the ones who voted for you," he emphasizes, reminding us of the importance of inclusivity in leadership.

Building Community
A significant highlight of David’s story is his involvement in community development. He recounts the efforts to build a senior citizen's high rise in downtown Calgary, emphasizing collaboration among different faith groups and community members. "Every Friday, we put on soup and sandwiches for all the workers putting up this eighteen-story high rise with a hundred and fifty units. Wonderful times," he reflects, showing the power of community engagement.

Embracing Identity
In a touching exchange with a bishop, David shares a humorous yet poignant moment regarding his identity. "Bishop, they can call me whatever they want, but my Christian name is David," he asserts, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in one's role.

As we listen to David’s conversation with Brian, we are reminded of the profound impact of faith, leadership, and service. His story is a testament to the challenges and rewards of navigating leadership within a community, underscored by a deep commitment to inclusivity and service.

Medicine Hat Fire Department reminds you to charge your devices with the cord that came them. Third party cords can damage your rechargeable batteries and lead to fire.

Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast

Support the show

A special Bring Back the Porch as Reverend David Carter shares his remarkable life journey, from working on CPR railroads to serving as a minister, politician, and author. Discover how his diverse experiences and passions have shaped his contributions to history, faith, and community service.


Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview of David Carter's Life
02:00 Restoring Cemeteries and Preserving History in Alberta
04:01 Early Life, Family, and Move to Medicine Hat
06:02 Educational Journey and Love for Canadian History
07:51 Path to Ministry and Early Career Experiences
11:49 Work with CPR and Railroads in Western Canada
18:03 Transition to Politics and Role as Speaker of the Legislature
21:58 Literary Influences and Friendship with W. O. Mitchell
27:56 Contributions to Historical Archives and Community Service
33:56 Reflections on Faith, Mentors, and Personal Growth
39:46 Legacy, Honors, and Continuing Impact

Bring Back The Porch invites you into an intimate conversation with David J. Carter, who reflects on a life filled with diverse experiences, from politics to pastoral care and memorial work. David’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. He has worn many hats: an Anglican minister, a speaker of the House, a railroad worker, and even an author of eighteen books. His life’s work has intertwined with history, service, and community.

In part one, Brian and David sit down for a very special conversation. One of the most touching stories shared is about David's commitment to preserving history through the restoration of cemeteries. After retiring in 1993, he and his friend Bob Brown dedicated themselves to restoring neglected grave markers across southern Alberta. Their efforts not only revived these historic sites but also fostered relationships with local Hutterite communities, showcasing the importance of collaboration in preserving heritage.

Reflection on Ministry
David shares profound insights into his calling to ministry, influenced by his father’s wisdom:
"If you help one person, your ministry is justified." This simple yet powerful perspective shaped his approach to service and leadership.

The Call of the Rails
David discusses his love for railroads which began in childhood, a passion that led him to work with the CPR. David recounts his youthful experiences spraying tracks and managing operations, revealing how these formative years nurtured his fascination with history and service.

As we explore David's journey, it’s clear that his life is a tapestry of stories, each thread representing a commitment to community and history. His reflections remind us that every life is worth examining for the lessons and legacies it holds.

There is much more to discuss with Brian and David. Keep and eye out for part two coming soon.

Thank you for listening and sharing you are one in a million! We are excited to announce our community is growing and we couldn't do it with out you!

Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast

Support the show