Vonda Rink facts for kids

The Vonda Rink is a very special old building in Vonda, Saskatchewan, Canada. It is known as a municipal historic property. This means it's an important building that the town wants to protect because of its history.

This building wasn't always an ice rink. It started its life as a large hangar for airplanes! After World War II ended, the town of Vonda bought it from the Canadian government. In 1947, the building was taken apart, moved, and then put back together in its current spot. Today, it's a busy community ice rink, complete with a lobby and a kitchen.

What is the Vonda Rink?

The Vonda Rink is a unique building with a fascinating past. It's not just any ice rink; it's a piece of history that has been repurposed for the community.

How did it become an ice rink?

Before it became the Vonda Rink, this building was an aircraft hangar. Hangars are large buildings used to store and maintain airplanes. This particular hangar was first built for a very important program called the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan.

What was the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan?

The British Commonwealth Air Training Plan was a huge program during World War II. It helped train pilots and other aircrew members from many different countries, like Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. These trainees learned how to fly and work on airplanes to help in the war effort. The hangar that became the Vonda Rink was used by the No. 23 Elementary Flight Training School, which was based in Davidson, Saskatchewan.

After the war, many of these hangars were no longer needed for training planes. The town of Vonda saw an opportunity to get a large building for its community. They bought the hangar and moved it to Vonda in 1947. It was then rebuilt and turned into the ice rink that people enjoy today.

Why is the Vonda Rink important?

The Vonda Rink is important for a few reasons. It shows how buildings can be reused and given a new life. It also connects the community of Vonda to a significant part of Canadian and world history – the efforts made during World War II.

A place for community fun

Today, the Vonda Rink is a central place for sports and social events in Vonda. It provides a space for ice skating, hockey games, and other winter activities. The lobby and kitchen make it a comfortable place for people to gather, warm up, and enjoy snacks. It's a great example of how a historic building can continue to serve its community in a new and exciting way.