It's the closest thing to getting into a time machine. For 30 years, Francois Arsenault has been collecting old film reels and his discoveries are there for everyone to experience on his ever-growing Youtube channel.
Arsenault has collected over 2,500 reels over the years, including some gems that provide new windows into local history. One of his favourites was simply labelled "Canada" when he acquired it in Los Angeles. It turned out to be a road trip into the past.
"The photographer mounted a camera onboard his Lincoln Continental," he said, "and drove through Vernon in the Summer of 1958 and proceeded to go to Kamloops, Chilliwack, the Sardis border crossing..."
Each time he opens a film canister, he said it's like opening a gift at Christmas.
"It is very much like operating a time machine. It's really, really exciting."
Arsenault's collection of Youtube postings includes sporting events like hockey and basketball games and a mysterious street festival on Bernard Avenue, all from 1961.
He has posted visuals from a 1932 CPR passenger train ride through the BC interior, 1950's street scenes in Vernon, and scenes from the 1962 Cherry Festival Parade in Osoyoos, to name just a few. But he's certain there's more out there.
"That's what's so exciting," he said. "I know there is film all over this valley right now, languishing in people's basements, collecting dust, and just being forgotten."
Arsenault points out that if left too long film can break down to the point where it can't be used.
He hopes more people dig them up and contact him.
"I encourage people to connect with me," he said, "if they want to save and salvage these films. And share them."
If you get value from KelownaNow and believe local independent media is important to our community we ask that you please consider subscribing to our daily newsletter.
If you appreciate what we do, we ask that you consider supporting our local independent news platform.
