"Why If It Isn't Premier "Bible" Bill Aberhart!"

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
#6, 14504-108 Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta T5N 1G8

June IVth, MMXIV

Hon. Jeff Johnson, B. Ed., MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

VIIth (7th) Premier of Alberta, William "Bible" Bill Aberhart was sure an interesting gentleman. I cannot find a middle name for William so I insert his nickname in the Labels area which seems appropriate as he did preach spiritually.

- William has the distinction of being the only Premier to have been born in one province, served as Premier of Alberta, & be buried in a IIIrd province. William was born in Kippen, Ontario, ran the Province of Alberta from MCMXXXV-MCMXLIII (1935-1943). William died in Vancouver, British Columbia  unexpectedly & Mrs. Jessie Aberhart his good wife had him buried there nearby in Burnaby to save Alberta taxpayers the cost of transporting his body back II Alberta & also the fact she had intended to move with the Premier when he retired to live with their II adult daughters in Vancouver where they resided anyway.

- William had the distinction of serving III (3) monarchs. Their Majesty's King George The Vth, King Edward The VIIIth, & King George The VIth. Definitely a factoid for students interested in the monarchy II know.

- William was a school principal at Alexandra School in Calgary & also taught religious studies at Grace Presbyterian Church, as well as Wesley & Trinity Methodist Churches. William later became a lay Baptist preacher & became involved with the Westbourne Baptist Church.

- William had an intense interest in education & wanted to shape children in not just a Christian way, but in a moral way so that Alberta students of the 1930's & 40's would bring religious honesty & integrity to their daily lives as citizens. This interest led William to be the Minister of Education simultaneously for every single day in office he was also Premier.

- William has a high school named after him in Calgary in honour of his dedication to young people.

The MCMXXXVII (1937) Social Credit Caucus Revolt,

Rory

Source: William Aberhart Historical Foundation.