Join us as we explore the fascinating history and stories of Medicine Hat with Jenny Berrientos, assistant archivist. Discover serendipitous discoveries, local legends, and hidden histories that connect the community and its past.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Land Acknowledgment
02:45 Exploring Harriet McCready's Legacy
05:45 The Mystique of Medicine Hat's History
08:53 Unusual Requests and Serendipitous Discoveries
12:03 The Truth Behind the Tunnels
14:53 The Archives: A Treasure Trove of Stories
18:07 Old Photographs and Their Secrets
20:56 The Evolution of Donations and Digital Archives
27:36 The Enigmatic Mrs. Bassett
29:25 Donations and Community History
31:19 Stump Jenny: A Fun Historical Quiz
33:19 Exploring the Archives: X-Files and Letters
38:38 Influential Figures from Medicine Hat
49:58 The Many Stories Behind Medicine Hat's Name
Archival expert Jenny Berrientos and host Brian Konrad unravel the mysterious tales, from underground bathrooms to secret vaults, and share bizarre stories like haunted watermelons and skittens. You’ll discover how seemingly trivial details, stray hair, old photos, and childhood letters, connect to a deeper, interconnected past full of serendipity and local legends.
We break down fascinating anecdotes: the extraordinary discovery of Harriet McCready, a Métis philanthropist whose story solved a 64-year family puzzle; the strange history of graves on Scholten Hill haunted by cries of a baby; and the puzzling origins of the city’s name, from indigenous legends to Victorian souvenirs. Jenny reveals how archiving the everyday reveals extraordinary stories, from ghostly portraits to lost streets and wartime secrets like the SFTS training school; plus unexpected revelations about the old gas wells, boxing rings, and even a famous artist from Medicine Hat’s past.
Why does this history matter? Because ignoring these stories risks losing a vital part of Medicine Hat’s identity, stories woven into the land, the people, and the city itself. Whether you’re a history buff, a conspiracy curiosity, or a lover of local legends, this episode invites you to see Medicine Hat through a completely new lens; where the line between myth and memory blurs. Dive into the archives, where the past whispers secrets just waiting to be uncovered.
Ready to explore? Hit play and join us on this wild, wonderful journey through the hidden corners of Medicine Hat’s history. Perfect for history enthusiasts, mystery lovers, and anyone curious about how a small city’s legends shape its identity. This episode will change how you see the stories your town has been hiding. Don’t miss Jenny’s vivid tales and the surprising truths behind local rumours—because sometimes, the most unbelievable stories are just the beginning.
Resources
Esplanade Archives - https://www.esplanade.ca/services/archives-reference-services
Roloff Benny's Art Books - https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Roloff+Benny
Medicine Hat Historical Society - https://www.facebook.com/p/The-Historical-Society-of-Medicine-Hat-District-61573961382458/
Thank you for listening and sharing you are one in a million! We are excited to announce our community is growing and we couldn't do it with out you!
Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast
