Thought
this flute now remains broken in its leather covered case, it has seen
a great deal of history through its working life. Originally, this flute
was provided to the inmates of the Prisoner of War Camp 133. When its
internees were repatriated back to Germany, this flute, among many other
instruments, was acquired by the Association of Canadian Travellers.
Wanting to do something for the young people of Lethbridge, the Association
decided to put its efforts into helping establish Lethbridge's first
band. After advertising in the Lethbridge Herald, Frank Hosek was chosen
and appointed band instructor. Later, he put his father, Frank Sr.,
in his place as the leader of this band. Hosek then continued with music,
starting a band in Coaldale and Pincher Creek, in addition to starting
a Symphony Orchestra in Lethbridge. Frank Sr. continued to lead the
band until instrumental music was introduced in the school system. It
is believed that this flute, along with the rest of the instruments,
may have been discarded at Hamilton Junior High School after they disbanded.