Derwent: A community that stands together grows together

by Sonny Rajoo

It's a short drive from the Village of Myrnam on Highway 45 to the Hamlet of Derwent.

Dotting the Albertan landscape are communities that are resilient, courageous with a determination to survive the good times and the tougher ones.

The people of Derwent ascribe to the belief "The God of the Mountains is the God of the Valley."

The Derwent Fire Department is a prime example of how the community can come together with a positive outlook and deep sense of devotion coupled with a massive dose of volunteerism. At an age when fire departments are searching for volunteers, Derwent Fire Department has a waiting list of twelve.

A visit to the Derwent Recreational Centre shows a large hall, recently renovated, which can accommodate seven hundred people.

The Derwent Seniors Centre serves many functions and provides a perfect back drop for our seniors to gather and socialize.

The Derwent Hotel, famous for its pizza, the new convenience store with its Post Office, are just a few examples of Derwent's appeal.

It's little wonder then that Derwent's population has grown from eighty-one to over a hundred with only three houses for sale.

The Two Hills Regional Chronicle offers our greatest appreciation for those in the tranquil hamlet, that contribute so beautifully to our community.