Stories from our pages over the last 150 years.
The centennial committee has evolved a pictorial symbol for B.C.'s hundredth birthday in 1958, round which will be wrapped all centennial publicity.
He is a cheerful-looking creature in work-a-day garb called "Century Sam." Whether this is the most apt trademark that could be devised is perhaps open to question: There is a rustic tinge to him scarcely compatible with this day and age.
On the other hand, he recalls and typifies the pioneer who opened up this great province and that repays a debt; all the wondrous modernity of today hinges on the sturdy work and sacrifice of the early explorers and settlers like Century Sam.
Sam is supposed to be a holdover from the gold rush of 1858 who crawled into the lee of a big rock and went to sleep, although not until he had disposed of an intruding rattler with one hefty bite.
Like Rip Van Winkle, he woke up again, just in time for 1958's big birthday party. This is a theme that will need handling with care lest outsiders get the idea that B.C. has been dozing for the past century. Actually it is not Sam who is celebrating the centennial, but his descendants. However, he is shown as of spritely go-getting mien and the impact of his enthusiasm should not be lost on all who hear about him or glimpse his image.
Century Sam, in fact, is the rallying figure for everyone. By the time 1958 rolls round, he will be a familiar friend, part of our folk lore and doubtless indelibly etched in our memory.
