Lithuanian Society of Edmonton

It is not known when the first Lithuanians arrived in Edmonton. However, during 1927- 1928, quite a few men, and later, women, reached Edmonton and surrounding areas.

After the Second World War, beginning in 1947, a new wave of Lithuanian immigrants reached Northern Alberta, and many of them settled in Edmonton. The first post-war gathering of Lithuanians in Edmonton was organized in 1949, for the February 16 commemoration. This event was initiated by Vincas Kadis (arrived in Edmonton in March, 1948), Jonas Pasukonis and Vladas Zaleskis (residents of Edmonton since 1928). In the autumn of 1949, a committee was organized to coordinate closer contacts among the Lithuanians living in the Edmonton area. In 1950, under the leadership of J. Dovidenas, the Edmonton Lithuanian Society was born, which later became a Branch of the Canadian Lithuanian Community. It was believed that during the 1950's there were 200 Lithuanians living in Edmonton area.

In 1953, under the initiative and enthusiasm of Father J. Jurksas, and valuable contributions of Jurgis Karosas, Vladas Zaleskis, and numerous others, the Lithuanians began construction of the Lithuanian Hall - Chapel, which was financed through shares and volunteer labor. At the same time, "Edmontono Lietuviu Namai" (Canadian Lithuanian Society of Edmonton) was incorporated and registered under Alberta's Corporate Societies Act.

For a few years, there were two organizations in Edmonton: "Edmontono Lietuviu Namai" and the Edmonton Branch of the "Canadian Lithuanian Community." Later these two organizations became one: "Edmontono Lietuviu Namai" (The Canadian Lithuanian Society of Edmonton) which is composed of all shareholders and non-shareholders, living in the Edmonton area.

From 1986-1989, Chairman of the Board (for the second time) was Algirdas Dudaravicius, who initiated the capital renovations of the Edmonton Lithuanian Hall-Chapel. These renovations continued under the subsequent Chairmen (P. Klemka, V. Kadis) and Boards until 1994. During 2003, the renovated building under the Chairmanship of Kostas Zolpis celebrates its 50th anniversary, and serves as a focus for all gatherings of Lithuanians in and around Edmonton