From the Smoky Lake Signal, December 8, 1993

The House in the Middle of Victoria Trail

Division 6 Area, County Councilor Frank Stokowski, wants the house in the middle of Victoria trail moved. The winding road along the north side of the North Saskachewan River has wound round the old house since it was built by one of the original Metis settlers in the Lobstick Settlement. Its' last occupant was Taras Koruk, who lived there for many years with his bachelor brother. They came from eastern Europe, farmed, cleared land, and at one time owned a number of river lots. The house was left uninhabited in the 1970s.

Taras Koruk did not drive. When his brother died, Taras moved to Waskatenau and spent his retirement years collecting bottles, recycling. Taras was in such good health that he never saw a doctor until his 76th year. Then it was found he had lung cancer. After an operation he lived for another five years.

Says Councillor Frank Stokowski, the house obstructs the road in both directions. It should be removed, but for many it's a landmark. Roads such as Victoria Trail are one of the few in this part of the world that are not straight, machinery built, man against nature endeavors. This road followed the lay of the land and continues to meander. Taking the house of the middle of the road would lose part of its scenic quality.

The county will be determining who owns the land, whether its located in a county road allowance, before anything is done.

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