The Delta Heritage Society has many items in its collection with fascinating stories to tell, although some of those tales are incomplete. This month the society is spotlighting four such items in the hopes members of the public might be able to shed some additional light on their stories.
Those who have any information are asked to email delta-museum@delta.ca.
Bucket
While in extremely poor repair, this bucket has a lot of interesting features which tie it to the use of wells before water was piped into homes. It appears that the bottom and sides were partially constructed from canvas, and the staves of the bucket were glued in place with pitch. This item is beyond repair, but we would be interested in a similar item from the early 1900s.
E Flat Bass Horn [2004.18.2]
In the 1950s, Walter Brown led the town band. He allowed his own instruments to be used by those learning to play. In 1959, the band was on the first vehicle to go through the Massey Tunnel as it performed for Queen Elizabeth.
The horn is now in bad repair, and there are significant dents and damage. Additional information about the band, and any other instruments that may have been used would be welcome.
Potato Flat [1996.7.1]
This is one of two similar flats that we have in the collection. It was likely used either to sprout potatoes prior to planting or to allow the potatoes to dry after coming in from the fields. We have no information about who donated this item, but given the construction method, we are wondering if there is a connection to Chung Chuck, or was this typical of all potato growing farms?
Wooden trough/ tub [1971.36]
This was found on the Fraser River, and brought into the collection in 1971. The donor said that it was typical of a style used by local Chinese famers. It would likely have been kept filled with water to keep it water fast. Additional information about the use of this item would be helpful.
