Hedley Vicers Dartt
A Life of Service and Community: Remembering Hedley Vicars Dartt
Born on April 20, 1882, in Alton, Nova Scotia, Hedley Vicars Dartt began life in the quiet countryside of Colchester County. At just 15 years old, he journeyed west with his family to Alberta, where they settled in Red Deer — a move that marked the beginning of a life defined by courage, resilience, and deep community ties.
But Hedley’s greatest journey was still ahead. As a young man, he enlisted with A Division of the South Africa Constabulary and served in the Boer War. His bravery earned him the Queen’s South Africa Medal with clasps for Cape Colony, Orange Free State, and Transvaal. In 1902, he returned to Red Deer, decorated and determined.
Soon after, Hedley made his way to Golden, British Columbia — the town that would become his lifelong home. During World War I, he served as secretary for the returned men, helping lay the groundwork for what would become the Golden Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion.
In Golden, Hedley began working for the Canadian Pacific Railway, rising through the ranks to become a fireman. Tragically, his career with the CPR was cut short when a train wreck crushed one of his hands, forcing him to seek new paths.
Undeterred, Hedley explored several ventures — from running a pool hall to operating a picture show — before forming a lifelong business partnership with George Patterson. Around this time, he married Ann Munro McBeath, a beloved local woman. Together, they became known as “Uncle Hedley” and “Aunt Ann” to the children of Golden, hosting socials and community events that left lasting impressions.
Though their early business ventures were modest, Hedley and George earned respect in British Columbia’s lumber industry. They began by cutting ties and timber for the CPR, and in the 1920s, established a sawmill near the Columbia River Lumber Company. As their reputation grew, so did their business.
In 1938, Hedley and Ann relocated to the Skimiken Valley near Tappen and Salmon Arm, continuing their lumber operations and building strong ties with local firms. Just as they had in Golden, they became cherished members of their new community.
By 1947, Hedley’s health began to decline due to arthritis, and in 1955, he and Ann retired to a new home they built in Vancouver. After George Patterson’s passing in 1958, Hedley sold the sawmill to the Blanc Brothers, closing the chapter on his lumbering career.
Hedley Dartt passed away on February 17 at the age of 82, leaving behind a legacy of service, perseverance, and deep devotion to the town of Golden. His story is one of quiet strength and enduring impact — a reminder of how one life can shape the spirit of a community.