Surrey Museum Honours Pioneer Kate Cindrich’s Legacy

A life remembered through history

The Museum of Surrey is paying tribute to one of Surrey’s earliest pioneers, Katerina (Kate) Cindrich, through a new exhibit that runs until October 19. The display highlights her immigration story, family struggles, and community contributions, offering Canadians a rare glimpse into life before the Second World War.

From Croatia to British Columbia

Born in 1909 in the Austro-Hungarian Empire, now Croatia, Kate married Josip Cindrich at just 15. Seeking a better future, Josip moved to Canada in 1928, with Kate following in 1937. The couple first settled in Princeton before making Surrey their permanent home in 1943, carrying their infant across the Pattullo Bridge to farmland in Whalley.

Clearing the “stump farms”

The Cindrich family, like many immigrant settlers, became known as “stump farmers.” Their land was littered with massive stumps left from logging, and survival depended on years of backbreaking work to clear and cultivate fields. Wildlife, wildflowers, and berry patches surrounded their farm, painting a vivid picture of Surrey’s rural landscape in the 1940s.

Building a family against hardship

Tragedy struck early in Kate’s life with the loss of her first two children to influenza. Later, in 1957, her husband Josip died, leaving her a widow with seven children—the youngest just four years old. Despite hardship, Kate became known for her resilience and determination to raise and educate her family.

Champion of education

Though unable to read herself, Kate became a strong advocate for education. She instilled in her children a deep respect for learning, ensuring they all graduated from high school, with many pursuing post-secondary studies. Her dedication was recognized in 1994 when a Surrey school, Cindrich Elementary, was named in her honour. The school’s library also bears her name.

Legacy in Surrey

Kate Cindrich lived in Surrey for 60 years, passing away in 2003 at the age of 94. Her legacy endures through her descendants, the school that bears her name, and the many families she inspired with her resilience. The Museum of Surrey’s exhibit preserves her story, celebrating the immigrant spirit that shaped British Columbia.

Exhibit details

The Kate Cindrich exhibit is open until October 19 at the Museum of Surrey. Admission is free. Visitors can learn more at surrey.ca/museum, by calling 604-592-6956, or by emailing museum@surrey.ca.

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This Asian Heritage Month, the Chinese Canadian Museum in Vancouver’s historic Chinatown invites visitors to experience a stirring new exhibition: “A Soldier for All Seasons: Chinese Canadians in the Second World War.” Opened on May 14, the exhibit shines a spotlight on the courage and sacrifice of Chinese Canadian men and women who served during WWII—at a time when their own country denied them full citizenship.

Stories of Bravery and Change

Created in partnership with the Chinese Canadian Military Museum Society, the exhibition marks the 80th anniversary of WWII’s end by sharing the untold stories of veterans who fought for both their country and their rights. Dr. Melissa Karmen Lee, museum CEO, explains, “These were men and women who risked everything for a country that did not yet recognize them as equals. Their bravery helped pave the way for lasting change.”

Immersive Displays and Personal Histories

Housed on the newly expanded third floor of the Wing Sang Building, the exhibition uses rare photographs, interactive storytelling, and a 3D holobox to bring history to life. Visitors will discover:

• Albert Mah: Fighter pilot who completed hundreds of dangerous missions between India and China.

• George Chow: Narrowly survived a friendly fire incident on D-Day.

• Roger Cheng: Led a daring sabotage mission behind enemy lines in Borneo.

At the entrance, a memorial artwork by Jeanette G. Lee honors these soldiers with engraved names, adding a deeply personal touch.

Remembering the Fight for Equality

Randall (Bud) Wong, President of the Chinese Canadian Military Museum, emphasizes the importance of remembrance: “Our mission is to ensure Chinese Canadian veterans are never forgotten.” Their service played a pivotal role in the repeal of the Chinese Exclusion Act in 1947, finally granting Chinese Canadians full citizenship.

More Than a History Lesson

The exhibition is more than a tribute—it’s a call to reflect on the ongoing journey toward equality and inclusion in Canada. As B.C. Minister Spencer Chandra Herbert notes, “These stories are powerful reminders of courage, sacrifice, and the fight for dignity.”

Plan Your Visit

“A Soldier for All Seasons” is now open to the public and is expected to attract families, school groups, and history lovers throughout the summer and fall. Whether you’re interested in Vancouver’s past, Canadian identity, or the pursuit of justice, this exhibition is a must-see.

Visit the Chinese Canadian Museum to honor the legacy of WWII veterans and explore a vital chapter in Canada’s story of resilience and belonging.

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The Museum of Surrey, in partnership with the City of Surrey’s Accessibility Services Team, will welcome visitors to its annual Sensory Fun event on June 14. Designed to be inclusive and welcoming, this sensory-friendly afternoon promises interactive experiences for all ages and abilities.

Creating a Space for All

Museum manager Lynn Saffery emphasized the importance of accessibility and inclusion as a top priority for the museum.
“To find ways that everyone in Surrey and beyond are able to access Museum of Surrey programs and events is a top priority,” he said in a statement. “We remain committed to being free of charge, accessible, and inclusive for all.”

Interactive Experiences and Community Partners

Running from 12 to 4 p.m., the event will feature a wide range of hands-on activities both inside and outside the museum grounds. Visitors can enjoy sensory stations hosted by partners including:

• Honeybee Centre
• Surrey Nature Centre
• Surrey Natural Areas Partnership
• Surrey United Soccer
• Centre of Child Development
• Autism Community Training

Guests can participate in a mini sound bath, scavenger hunts, face painting, summer crafts, and enjoy treats from the Kona Ice food truck while exploring the museum’s galleries.

Ongoing Commitment to Sensory Accessibility

Since 2019, the Museum of Surrey has been a leader in offering sensory-friendly experiences in collaboration with the Canucks Autism Network. On the first Sunday of every month, the museum hosts sensory hours from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., during which lighting and sound levels are lowered. Noise-cancelling headphones are also available year-round.

A Welcoming Community Gathering

Organizers invite everyone to attend this free, inclusive event at the Museum of Surrey, located at 17710 56A Avenue in Cloverdale.

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