PICTURESQUE PYNELOGS Pynelogs, one of Invermeres most visited historic buildings, is celebrating its 100th anniversary in July.Image submitted
By Kathryn Gowling
Special to The Pioneer
There is much to celebrate about this very special historical building and its grounds. Pynelogs is set in an oasis of pleasant gardens and lakeside scenery just a short walk from the south edge of downtown Invermere.
The parkland setting includes Dorothy Lake, the Botanical Heritage Gardens, District Gardens and is adjacent Kinsmen Beach and Fort Point. The Communitys Greenway Trail commences at Pynelogs.
On the Pynelogs property unexpectedly lies the stone enclosure and plaque marking the grave of Lady Elizabeth Bruce, for whom Pynelogs was originally built. Her husband, Robert Randolph Bruce, built the beautiful Victorian log building as their first home, following their marriage in England. However, after Lady Bruces unexpected death, Pynelogs became a residence for Randolph Bruce alone.
The house was built on industrial-gauge foundation beams from the Thunder Hill mine concentrator. Details of the original residence included every convenience of the time electric light, indoor plumbing and a sewer system.
Bruce worked tirelessly and with enthusiasm on the grounds of Pynelogs. However, after a decade of living alone, Randoph Bruce moved to Victoria to become Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia.
Following a number of health care uses, Pynelogs became the home to the Columbia Valley Arts Council. Now it lives on strongly, actively and gracefully fulfilling its role as the cultural heart of Invermere. Its historical significance in the development of this area and its place in the history of British Columbia warrant maintaining the legacy. As of April 20th, we are now into our 100-day countdown to the 100th birthday party on July 19th, 2014. Mark it on your calendar!
