History of the Malakwa Heritage Church
In 1923 volunteers from Malakwa, Taft and Craigellachie built the Presbyterian church. The church later became the property of the United Church of Canada.
Before building the church there was no permanent building in Malakwa. In the early years of the century Malakwa was one of about six points in a mission field that extended from Rogers Pass to Sicamous and included Glacier, Albert Canyon, Three Valley, Camp 4, Taft and Malakwa. Each summer this area was served by a student minister who held services at least twice a month at each point. T.A. Symington, who was minister in 1908 reported that a congregation had recently been formed in Malakwa and five new members were added. The following year there was an average church attendance of 33.
A dinner was held at the Malakwa Hotel dining room on March 6, 1923. There were 17 Malakwa community members present. It was decided at that meeting that a church was needed in Malakwa.
A student minister by the name of James L. Clerihue who had some carpentry skills designed and built the church with community members helping. They received a $400.00 grant from the Presbyterian Church and a private loan of $600.00. The church was completed by September of 1923. On September 23, 1923 the church was opened and dedicated. In 1925 it became the Malakwa United Church when the Presbyterian church was joined in union with the United Church.
The building has undergone no significant structural changes apart from electricity was installed in the church when it came to the valley in the late 1940s and insulation was added to the walls. The original wood burning stove lasted for more than 50 years. A bronze bell was installed in the belfry in the 1970s. The bell was a donation from Sebastian Dietrick and Stefan Fibich. The front steps have been replaced and the building has received new paint on the exterior.
The last regular services were held in the church in 1977. The church is now available for weddings and other special events. The church is maintained by dedicated community members who operate a Thrift Shop from the church manse. The church is well maintained thanks to these volunteers.
The Malakwa Community Centre Association acquired the United Church in 2007.
From the Community of Malakwa