L.-r., back row: Partyn, Metro (Nick), John. l-r, front row: Wasyl (Bill), Zanahiria holding baby Steve, George standing in front of Steve, unknown person to the right, date unknown. Photo — WDM Collection.

Wlasichuk Family Keptar Vest, c. 1890s

Elizabeth A. Scott, Ph.D.

This was Partyn Wlasichuk’s embroidered sheepskin vest, or keptar. It was later passed down to his son George Wlasichuk and is now an artifact in the Western Development Museum (WDM) Collection. In the accompanying portrait, Partyn can be seen wearing his keptar. Men specialized in making and decorating keptar vests, doing their own embroidery, trims, and leather work. Wearing the keptar for family portraits, lent an air of formality to the occasion.

Wlasichuk Family Keptar Vest, c. 1890s. WDM 2015-S-141. Photo — Western Development Museum Collection

The Wlasichuks lived in the Bukovina region of what is present-day Ukraine. The family immigrated to Canada in waves between 1909 and 1913, the oldest boys Metro and John going first. By 1921, the family had reunited and settled together near Veregin, Saskatchewan.

George grew up to work for CP rail and farmed. He loved carpentry and playing cards. Most of all, he loved his grandchildren. George lived to 94 years old. He kept his father’s keptar his whole life and passed it on to his children. M

Elizabeth A. Scott, Ph.D. is Curator at the WDM Corporate Office.