heroines.ca
A Guide to Women in Canadian History

Home ·  About ·  Meet the Author ·  Contact · People ·  Gallery ·  Celebrate ·  History ·   Resources ·  News ·  Search
 
Celebrate
.Stamps
.Statues
.Currency
.Historic Sites
.Women's
History Month
Statues and Monuments

Lois Hole: A Legacy of Love and Learning
St. Albert, Alberta

 
 
Lois Hole statute
Lois Hole: A Legacy of Love and Learning
(Photo courtesy of Barbara Paterson)

This larger than life bronze statue of Lois Hole, the beloved former lieutenant-governor of Alberta who died in 2005, is located in St. Albert, Alberta. It was commissioned by the city as a tribute to it's most widely known citizen: Lois Hole. The bronze monument was unveiled at city hall on May 14, 2009 before a crowd of about 300, who were enthusiastic despite snow flurries and frigid temperatures. The statue will evenually be moved to Lois Hole Centennial Provincial Park.

Lois Hole was a popular figure in Alberta, a politician as well as an entrepreneur, gardener and author. The Lois Hole Library Legacy program, one of Hole's favourite projects, encouraged donations to purchase books. She served as a school trustee as well as University of Alberta chancellor,and was a keen promoter of education. Nicknamed the "Queen of Hugs", Hole is remembered for her caring nature and warm personality.

The monument was created by the renowned Alberta sculptor Barbara Paterson, who depicted Lois Hole with a child clutching a book. Paterson created this impressive tribute to Lois Hole over a four-year period, and was particularly pleased at the opportunity to commemorate her as they were friends for 15 years. Paterson wanted to create a tribute that showed her friend's love of children and learning.

"She would be thrilled to know that Barbara was doing it," noted Lois' son Bill Hole.

Barbara Paterson with Lois Hole statute
Sculptor Barbara Paterson with Lois Hole statue
(Photo courtesy of Barbara Paterson)

Home | About | Meet the Author | Contact | Site Map | Heroines | Biographies | Group Histories | Pictures | Cartoons | Posters | Stamps | Statues | Currency | Historic Sites | Women's History Month | Time Travel | This Month in History | Books | Shop | Classroom | Films&Videos | Related Links | Upcoming | Latest News

Copyright © 2004 Merna M. Forster. All rights reserved.