The Basilica Recreation Centre — Before and Afigr

Besides the various programs and activities mentioned above, the centre was used by many of the organizations of the parish for their meetings and other activities such as special speakers, conventions, workshops and social events. There was also a very active day care program.

When you consider the thousands of young people that frequented the Rec Centre over that 40-year period, one can imagine the different experiences that each generation had.

While compiling information for this book, I spoke to many people regarding their experiences at the centre. They would first have a smile or a chuckle, and then reminisce about the good old days, the friends they made and, in some cases, still maintain.

A good example of this was reported in the Charlottetown Guardian on November 5‘“, 2005, in a feature story by Mary Mackay, “Changing Faces of the Past”. It is about the story renowned P.E.|. artist Brian Burke told through his paintings of 17 of his pals from the past, many of whom he hadn’t seen in 20 years or more. The Basilica Recreation Centre in the 19605 was the hot spot for Brian and his teen friends.

Sharon Claybourne, left, and Nadine MacMillan Moffat. Painting by Brian Burke.

Joe Basha. Painting by Brian Burke.

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