Mary Metheral celebrated her 105th birthday on July 1 with family and friends gathered around her at the Weyburn Special Care Home.

Her daughter, Audrey Wilkinson, said when Mary was asked how it feels to celebrate this birthday, she replied, "(I'm) ancient." She participated in singing Happy Birthday and blew out the candles. Mother still repeats the Lord's Prayer and sings Jesus Loves Me, said Audrey.

Mary was born to Peter Jacob and Barbara Mary Killian in Arcadia, Wis. in 1899.

In 1907 her parents moved to Weyburn, settling seven miles south on Highway 35. Peter and his oldest son came ahead of the others on a stock car, with their possessions.

Barbara followed by train on April 4, 1907, with five of the younger children. One of the children broke out with measles on the trip and it was a trial for Barbara to look after him and the others.

They drove to the farm in a sleigh. There had been a lot of snow that winter and drifts were so high that steps were cut in the snow leading to the door.

Mary enjoyed the family life and especially looking after her brother Oscar, who was the youngest child. She also helped with outside work, like stooking and milking. She attended Riverview School and recalled escorting a neighbour's young daughter to school each morning.

Carman Metheral and Mary were married on Jan. 8, 1919. They resided seven miles southwest of Weyburn until 1928 when they purchased 18-8-14 W of 2nd, just west of Weyburn. Their son Ron and wife Tory reside there now.

Mary always loved small children so has enjoyed the grandchildren. Her main interests were her home, family, church, gardening, cooking, sewing and handwork. Her talents were shared in many ways as she did sewing for others, shared the garden produce and always welcomed a few more at meal time, with plenty of delicious food.

After Carman and Mary moved to Weyburn in 1955, Mary enjoyed bingo, babysitting the McMurtry children and playing with the musical group of "Merry Makers." She didn't have an easy life and the loss of 17- and 45-year old sons was very trying for her. She had many operations and several broken bones but is a strong person.

After selling the home on Sixth Street, Mary lived for several years at Heritage Place on Seventh Street before going to Weyburn Special Care Home in 1992.

Mary had the distinction of living in three centuries and was honoured with presentations and a tea at the Special Care Home in 2000.

Carman's great uncle, Pascal Metheral, was one of the early settlers in Weyburn, coming in April 1902. He had one of the earliest stores, with his home at 117 Third St. and an apartment called The Terrace on Second Ave., both built in 1902 and still standing.