Carnival days in the 1950s

By Joan Janzen

According to the “Kindersley Memories” history book, the first figure skating carnival occurred in 1936 or 1937, and the sport has thrived ever since. When John Knox returned to work as the town engineer in Kindersley in 1941, he resumed his skating activities.

At that time, he had a contract with the town to operate the arena, and any funds raised were turned over to the Town Fund. Even when admissions were as low as 40 cents for an adult, he turned over $200 or more to the town on more than two occasions.

Throughout the years leading up to 1950, a professional skater named Audrey Darling trained many skaters. In 1951, the club affiliated with the Saskatoon F.S.C., and in 1952, they joined the C.F.S.A.

In 1958, the Knoxes announced the last carnival, which they would entirely direct. Consequently, the 1959-1960 season was directed by Miss Clarice Standen.

Myrna Halpenny and Bill Knox, 1951. Photo: Kindersley Memories

Sheila Johnson, Gloria Francis, Lind Knox, Joan Cameron, Linda Jones, 1959. Photo: Kindersley Memories