The Oliver-Osoyoos Branch of the Okanagan Historical Society is having its semi-annual meeting on Sunday Nov. 17 at 2:00 pm in the lower level of Oliver United located at 511 Church Ave.

The guest speaker is Ernie Rotheisler and his topic will be “The Evolution of the Cherry Picker”.  He will start with the Trump Giraffe, and then talk about the Girette, Chipmunk, Squirrel and of course the Kangaroo, which was designed and manufactured by the Rotheisler Family. The design, manufacture and use of these machines are an important part of Oliver’s heritage and Ernie’s father, John played a role in their development.  There are still people in the South Okanagan who worked at the Trump plant where it all started and Ted Trump had a very high profile in our community for several years.  Also many of us have memories operating these fascinating machines. Mr. Rotheisler is very knowledgeable in this area.  It will be an interesting presentation and I expect there will be many comments and questions from those in attendance.

There will be a refreshment break after the guest speaker has finished and before the business portion of the meeting begins. Guests are welcome to stay for the business portion of the meeting but they should feel free to leave at this time if they prefer. The most recent 77th Annual Report will be available at the meeting for $25.  One of the articles of particular local interest is a discussion of the battle at McIntyre Bluff between the Okanagan and Shuswaps.  A selection of older Reports will also be available at discounted prices.   They are fascinating reading and make good Christmas gifts.

Contact Larry at 250 498 2452 or Gayle at 250 495 7715 for more information.