If you live in Abbotsford chances are you’ve driven past Trethewey House. Or maybe you’ve heard the story of J.O. Trethewey, a lumber baron who was responsible for the leadership of the company during its boom years in the 1920s. But if you haven’t had the chance to explore the heritage site now is the perfect time as this month they celebrate winning a Heritage BC Recognition Award for their app, Agents of Discovery!

This prestigious award was presented to Trethewey House Heritage Site and Heritage Abbotsford in the Heritage Education and Awareness category and celebrates outstanding achievements in heritage preservation among individuals and organizations across BC. Trethewey House Heritage Site uses Agents of Discovery as a fun and innovative way of engaging visitors with Abbotsford’s rich history.

“We have seen a tremendous boost in engagement from our visitors after implementing Agents of Discovery,” said Christina Reid, Executive Director of Trethewey House. “We were so thrilled to have received this award and be recognized for the effort and passion we put into educating our community with Abbotsford’s history.”

Trethewey House Heritage Site is operated by the Heritage Abbotsford Society, a charity organization dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history of our community. This is achieved through educational programming, tours of Trethewey House, and the Upper Sumas BCER station, exhibits and displays, including the one-room schoolhouse experience and the Heritage Gallery exhibits, along with walking tours, heritage-themed events and workshops, interpretive educational and outreach programs, and summer camps for youth and children.

Spend a few hours exploring the surrounding area of Trethewey House too! Ideally situated beside Mill Lake, visitors can enjoy a picturesque stroll around the lake or relax on a park bench. The Kariton Art Gallery is also located nearby and features changing exhibits highlighting local artists.  The gallery features 10-12 exhibitions per year that showcase the works of over 100 local artists, ranging from emerging to professional.

To find out more information about the Trethewey House Heritage Site please visit http://www.tretheweyhouse.ca/

For a list of current and upcoming exhibitions at Kariton Art Gallery please visit http://www.abbotsfordartscouncil.com/gallery