A well known advocate for preserving history in 91原创 has been honoured with a prestigious award.

Fred Pepin, president of the , was presented an Award of Merit by the British Columbia Historical Federation (BCHF) in Nakusp, B.C. on May 26.

This award is given to groups or individuals who have made a significant contribution to the study or promotion of B.C. history.

鈥淔or over 35 years, Fred has been instrumental in saving and restoring heritage structures in 91原创,鈥� a press release states.

鈥淗is skill in assessing the integrity of heritage structures and his deep knowledge of restoration techniques, combined with hands-on work have led to the preservation of dozens of structures in the community, saving many structures from the wrecking ball.鈥�

Through the 91原创 Heritage Society, Pepin has helped restore buildings in Milner, Sperling, Murrayville and 91原创 Prairie, including the 1915 CN Station in Fort 91原创, and the Wark/Dumais House 鈥� one of the earliest farmhouses in the Fraser Valley 鈥� on the campus of Kwantlen Polytechnic University.

Many buildings were being vandalized before his restoration work began and were facing demolition. Tenants with a love of heritage also live in these buildings, keeping them alive.

Accepting the award on his behalf was Mark Forsythe, executive member of the 91原创 Heritage Society.

Established in 1922, the BCHF encourages interest in the history of B.C. through research, presentation and support in its role as an umbrella organization for provincial historical societies. The Federation currently provides a voice for more than 100 member societies and 24,000 individuals.

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