Originally designed to help new arrivals longing for home to feel more comfortable as they established themselves in what was to them, this strange new land, the Clinton Annual Ball has withstood the storms of time by dint of determined people.
Think about that first ball, with guests arriving by coach and on horseback, from as far away as San Francisco and Chicago to the biggest and best hotel on the Cariboo Road in the gold rush days, where co-owner Mary Smith created several luxurious days of celebration, culminating in the Grande Ball.
Through hard times, the Dirty Thirties, two World Wars, Korea and fluctuating populations and economic conditions, the Clinton Ball has prevailed.
Articles in the Vancouver Province (circa 1933) mentioned the significance of this event: This event, held annually since 1868, is the social outing for the year and many old Cariboo friendships and acquaintances are renewed only at such gatherings. Guests come from far and near, by
train, automobile, sleighs, horseback and foot.
And in 2012, the little village of Clinton has out-done itself by putting on the social event of the year. The hall was tastefully decorated and, as always, there was a delicious dinner and danceable music all night.
This event is Cariboo history continuing its tradition of perseverance.
If this is an event that interests you, I suggest you contact the Clinton Annual Ball Committee for tickets to next year’s event.
And speaking of preserving our history, be certain to attend the 150th anniversary events in Barkerville this season.
Upon your return, Cottonwood House and most certainly Quesnel Museum and Archives will be on your itinerary, it is to be hoped.
Hoping to see you as you “pass time” at the Museum.
It isn’t the things that go in one ear and out the other that hurt, as much as the things that go in one ear and get all mixed up before they slip out of the mouth.
Honey Affleck is chair of the Museum and Heritage Commission with the Quesnel and District Museum and Archives.
