The community of Coombs found its roots as a Salvation Army colony beginning in 1910. A group of pioneers were sent from England to Vancouver Island by Salvation Army founder General William Booth and his Commissioner in Canada, Thomas B. Coombs (our town’s namsake).
The first school
The first log cabin school built on Gibbs Road ( now called Shearme Road) in Coombs dates back to 1910, the same year the colony was founded. Our present day school began as a one room school in 1911-1912.
The Coombs General store began its existence in 1911 and the Coombs Agricultural Fall Fair began in 1913 so there is a lot to celebrate.
Join us in the celebrations as we recognize the wonderful members and institutions of our community throughout the next several months. Put the date on your calendar! May 18, 19, 20, 2012
Celebration Weekend Happenings!
May long Weekend (May 18, 19, 20) 2012
Coombs celebrates its 100th anniversary.
A walk down memory lane for past and present residents. Historical memorabilia, Maypole dancing, music, games, entertainment and much more.
Friday, May 18th
at French Creek Community School starting at 2:30 pm an open house, viewing of classrooms, May Pole dancing, team games and loads of fun.
-On the Rodeo Grounds at 7 pm Coombs Country Opera
Saturday, May 19th
10:30 till 4:30. The school will be open for viewing and music, entertainment, games, dancing and other fun filled events will take place on the school grounds. Feel free to arrive in any fashion mode of the past century.
-At 5 pm on the Coombs Fair Grounds long standing traditional Community Potluck Picnic takes place. For many years this Community Picnic was held at French Creek School and in recent years, it moved to the Coombs Fair Grounds. This fun filled family event includes music, games, and a potluck dinner complete with ice cream and a commemorative cake. This event is usually held on the first Friday in June. In recognition of the 100th year celebration of the community, this year’s picnic is happening on Saturday, May 19th. Contact person Marlene Stahley 250- 954-1944.
Sunday, May 20th
Pancake Breakfast – Bradley Centre 8:30 to 11:30 am for $6.00
975 Shearme Rd Coombs, 250-248-2336
- also, a Pancake Breakfast on the Coombs Fairgrounds 8:00 am to 11:00 am hosted by the Arrowsmith Agricultural Board. Contact Janet 752-9757 http://www.coombsfair.com
- Centennial Weekend Car Rally 11am at the Coombs Fairgrounds and open to all.
- Grace United Church next to the Coombs Market a special church service and activities beginning at 9:45 am.
-Coombs Museum for the centennial weekend celebrations will be open Friday through Monday 12 noon to 6 pm . Contact Sharon 248-6655
Watch the PQ News for many more events celebrating this important anniversary.