Settlers...

On a little hilltop, above a pretty little valley, is one of the most peaceful places I know.

I've been visiting this church yard for many years...

Through these gates...

Surrounded by sweet picket fences...

Sits the pioneer Anglican church of St Stephens.

Since June the 3rd 1862, services have been continuously held here and has earned it the title of B.C's oldest operating church on it's original site, in it's original building.

I've never been to a service here but I've come here many times to take in the beauty of the valley and the feel of serenity it has to offer.

Here on this bench, I've sat...

 and absorbed this view, completely...

I think of the pioneers who built this church and of the hard life they must have endured farming, clearing land, hunting, just living.

Some came from far away...

Some were historically linked to my great Aunt Thora...

Imagine this, your claim to fame...

Some markers were simple but said it all...

While out in the church yard, we met the custodian who happily showed us where his future resting place will be...under this big tree...

Looking out across the fields...

Not a bad place to spend eternity.

The church doors are open and anyone is welcome to have a look inside...

 I imagine the pioneers coming here on a Sunday, dressed in black wool, fine silk top hats and crinoline.

Some would walk to church, it being the sabbath, and not being allowed to do any work, including tacking up horses to the wagons. 

Many people spent the day in worship.

Children were not supposed to play.

Meals were cooked the previous day.

I think of them on sunny summer mornings and snowy winter days and on days like today...

The air crisp and clear...winter coming on.

I love the sense of history in these places.

It grounds me to people and stories which brought my family here.

Weddings, christenings and funerals are still held here and so the stories continue on.