A look back at the birth of Curling Clubs in Eston

(Excerpts from “Echoes of Eston,” printed in 1966 for the “Golden Jubilee for Fifty Golden Years”)

In 1923, the first curling rink was built in Eston, featuring two sheets of curling ice. It was adjacent to an open-air skating rink situated on 3rd Avenue East. Shares were sold for $10 each to finance the project. The first president was Dr. McInnes, and the secretary-treasurer was Dave Burns. There were 12 to 15 rinks that curled regularly, each curler having his own rocks. Bonspiels were held annually. This building was later sold to Arthur Britten, who demolished it and used the lumber to build a farm home.

One of Eston’s first curling rinks.

In February 1963, the National Film Board filmed Gone Curling. Mr. and Mrs. C.W. Painton, long-time curlers, were part of this film, along with many citizens as extras. The film was later turned over to the local Film Council to include in their library at the municipal office. Photo from “Echoes of Eston”

In 1930, a new rink of sheet metal was constructed on the west side of town, with an adjoining covered skating rink area. At this time, the ladies became interested in the sport, and records show they formed their own club in 1948. Doris Clarke was elected president, Elnora Blayne was first vice-president, and Mona Sandbeck, secretary-treasurer. They held bonspiels, highlighted by a banquet. They became affiliated with the Saskatchewan Curling Association in the 1954–1955 season and then held Ladies’ Briar playdowns. Mrs. Cora Painton was made the first Life Member at the age of 76.

The rink burned down in 1951, and a new structure was built the following year. Artificial ice was installed in 1960 at a cost of $12,800, and the club was incorporated for $15,000. Shares were sold for $50 each. The chairman that year was Glen Blood, the secretary-treasurer was R.J. Caskey, and there was a board of nine directors.

In 1958, honour was brought to Eston when Gordon Grimes, Skip; Jack Sutherland, Third; Syd Gardiner, Second; and Stewart St. John, Lead, represented Saskatchewan in Victoria in the Dominion Briar Playdowns. They captured the Northern Finals.

In 1966, a Jubilee Money Spiel was held, with top-name curlers invited for the first time. Prize money offered was $1,100.