Overlooking the Red Deer valley, the red brick four-storey building on the east hillside that currently stands, repaired after being ravaged by fire, is a ghost of it’s former self. Constructed in 1913 for the Women’s Presbyterian Finishing College in all its splendor and glory was, too, a casualty of the Great War.
The Alberta Government purchased the building after the tuitions stopped due to the global conflict. The new residents were also ghosts of their former selves. Having survived the horrors of the European battlefield, they now were referred to as ‘shell shocked’. The Hospital for Returned Soldiers remained in operation until 1923 when it moved its wards to Oliver Hospital in Edmonton. During the residents time in Red Deer, some passed away in body as they did in mind, able to cross over to the other side and rejoice in their glory.
It seems all but one made the journey to the beyond. For the past 84 years, there have been sightings of a soldier roaming the halls or appearing in windows. They say it is Albert, a soldier who, during his time, wandered the halls looking for his fallen comrades who were left behind on the bloody battlefields. Although rumors of his death vary, the fact remains that he did die in the building all those many years ago.
As your quest takes you through hallowed grounds nearby, pay homage to those who fell for our freedom, as their markers will guide and protect you on your mission:
A. At 52º 16.454 North and 113º 47.352 West, the stone that watches over the final resting place of Herbert J. Leake bears his date of death. He will offer the day of the month divided by ten for you to use in your search.
B. Watch for the gravesite of Ernest Roy at 52º 16.480 North and 113º 47.325 West. He will give you the second digit in his serial number to navigate your course.
C. William Hucal lies peacefully at 52º 16.462 North and 113º 47.324 West. To keep your path true, he leaves you with his age at the time of his death.
D. Finally, the last of your unearthly guides, Leonard Patterson, bestows upon you the second and third digits in the year of his birth. You can find him resting at 52º 16.470 North and 113º 47.159 West.
Since this glorious building was cursed by lightning and fire in 2003, there have been reports of lights being turned on and off in the old vacant Gaetz farm house. Perhaps Albert has moved down the road a little during that time of chaos and construction.
Combine the guidance you have been blessed with and keep your wits about you to reach the goal of your mission at the following location:
52º 16.CA North and 113º 46.DB West
If you should happen to cross Albert’s path, please post a picture of him. That is, if you can keep the camera steady.
NOTE: It is best to do your searching during the day, as the adjacent grounds are closed to the public between 11 pm and 6 am. Also, please be respectful when you are inside the cemetary. This is a Halloween cache, so please trade related items if you can.