Secrets of the Southwest 2013 Page 45 Burstall celebrates its country roots By Marcia Love


It may be a small town, but Burstall is bustling with activ- ity. The town has a multitude of clubs and groups which keep the community of just over 300 residents thriving. Burstall was founded as a village in 1921 and incorporated as a town in 1966. It was named after Sir Henry Edward Burstall, a highly-honoured general who served with the Canadian Forces during the First World War. By 1975, the town had about 650 residents. Since then, the number has slowly declined. Agriculture and the gas industry remain two of its main economic drivers. The community currently has more than 20 clubs and


groups, including the Burstall Lions Club and Burstall Bordertown Lions Club.


Burstall offers great sports and leisure facilities, such as its community arena, curling rink, nine-hole golf course, Friendship Centre, community hall and indoor pool compete with hot tub and kids' pool. Residents look forward to


annual events such as the Burstall and District Old Fashioned Fall Fair and the Burstall Summer Slam, which is a baseball tournament and concert. W hile many fall fairs have


dwindled and died over the years, Burstall has adapted its autumn celebration to appeal to both the younger and older crowd.


Shane Andrus, chairman of the fall fair, said the annual event has attracted more people in the last two years since the committee adjusted its focus from making money for local groups to having fun, celebrating country roots and taking pride in the community. "We turned it around that way, and people felt good," he explained. "We've also been more intentional at providing meaningful activities."


The two-day fall fair features a variety of vendors, food, music and arts and crafts, as well as a parade, student art exhibit, children's activities and a huge garage sale. New last year was an antique road show, where some people dis- covered they had highly valuable items in their possession, and vintage car rides. "People just so enjoyed seeing those vintage cars," Andrus said. "For some, it brought back memories... and for this generation, it cer- tainly brought new memories of what they've heard of the past."


The Burstall Fall Fair is fun for all ages.


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