This lovable little hill, arguably the tallest point between the Red and the Sandilands, attracts dreamers; an odd crew who have sights set on bigger slopes, and aspire to conquer them; those who see each rep of this hill as a small step towards something bigger.
If you have spent time on Abe’s Hill doing something known as “hill repeats”, you must pay your dues and listen to Jac Siemens’ account of the history of this monument to prairie training plans, shared in a 2021 city council meeting.
With apologies (given by Jac himself) for any unverified facts due to his inability to visit the library during the “code red” era (remember that era?) here are a few interesting facts I gleaned from his account:
- Abe’s Hill was initially 46′ tall, brought down to a safe 35′ after a sledding incident (which might also be partially attributed to them icing the hill, but who’s to say…)
- Abe’s Hill, named after the mayor and supplier of earth-moving equipment, was initially named Kin Hill, honouring the community group (Kinsmen) who initially established the park.
- The park was established with big plans, and was far outside of town when first built.
- Contrary to popular belief, the hill was not established as a monument to perogies, and filled with cottage cheese. It was in fact built using the earth excavated during the renovation of Hwy 12.
Below are all the other facts you need to know.
To all you summit clubbers, may each summit bring you closer to your goal, and the views at the top make it worth the effort.