Uncovering Hidden Stories: Forgotten Figures in Chilliwack's History - Al Wincott, the Sports Promoter Who Baked Bread and Built Community

Chilliwack’s history is often told through the stories of its founders, politicians, and business leaders. But what about the everyday people who shaped the heart and soul of the community? One such figure is Alwyn Percy Wincott, better known as Al Wincott, a man whose dedication to sports and service left an indelible mark on Chilliwack. While he was never in the political spotlight, his work behind the scenes in athletics, business, and community events helped shape the city’s character in ways that are still felt today.

From Orphan to Baker: A Journey of Hard Work and Resilience

Al Wincott’s life began with hardship. Born on August 14, 1886, in London, England, he was one of eight boys in a family that was quickly fractured by tragedy. When Al was just a baby, both of his parents passed away, leaving the brothers orphaned. Separated at a young age, they were sent to different homes, scattered across southern England. It wasn’t until his late teens that Al was able to reconnect with his long-lost brothers, piecing back together the family that had been torn apart.

Despite his difficult start, Al found stability in baking, apprenticing in England before deciding to seek new opportunities overseas. In 1906, he and his brother Jack immigrated to Canada, determined to build a better life. After a few tough years, they opened a bakery together in Vancouver, working tirelessly to establish themselves. But their journey took an unexpected turn when World War I erupted. Both Al and Jack answered the call to serve, putting their lives and careers on hold.

After the war, the brothers eventually settled in Chilliwack, purchasing the Chilliwack Bakery in 1923. For over a decade, they provided the community with fresh bread and pastries, gaining a reputation for their generosity—especially during the difficult Depression years when they quietly gave bread to those in need. Having known hunger themselves, few were ever turned away from their doors.

Chilliwack Bakery Ad (Chilliwack Progress Archives, Dec 19,1929)

A Champion for Chilliwack Sports

While Al spent his days kneading dough, his true passion was sports. Despite battling a hereditary disease that caused progressive muscle wasting in his leg and arm, Al remained an active sportsman, particularly in golf, which he played regularly at the Chilliwack Golf and Country Club. But his greatest contributions were not as an athlete, but as an organizer, promoter, and advocate for local sports.

His leadership in the Chilliwack Amateur Athletic Association saw him serve as President from 1926 to 1929, where he worked tirelessly to expand opportunities for young athletes. He was instrumental in forming a baseball league for the Upper Fraser Valley in 1926, not only helping to organize teams but also serving as Chairman of the Board of Umpires. From 1929 to 1931, he led the basketball league as President, and from 1931 to 1940, he served as Secretary-Treasurer for the local softball league.

Chilliwack Progress Archives, Apr 19, 1928

Al didn’t just manage these leagues—he championed them. He fought to secure funding, arranged competitions, and worked to ensure Chilliwack’s athletes had the support they needed to play, compete, and grow. His efforts helped establish a strong foundation for organized sports in the region, one that would continue long after his tenure.

Chilliwack Progress Archives, Mar 22, 1928

Beyond the Playing Field: Community Leadership

Al’s passion for community involvement extended beyond sports. He was a key figure on the executive of the Chilliwack Board of Trade, where he helped push forward initiatives to support local businesses and economic growth. One of his most notable contributions was his role in organizing the Cherry Carnival in 1929 and 1930, an event designed to help local farmers deal with a surplus of cherries they couldn’t sell. As Chairman of the festival, he turned a potential economic hardship into a celebration—one that brought the community together in a time of need.

Al Wincott standing in front of his truck mounted Chilliwack Bakery float for the 1926 Cherry Carnival parade. (Image Credit: Chilliwack History Perspectives Facebook page)

Unfortunately, Al was forced to step down from some of his leadership roles due to health concerns. Yet even in the face of personal challenges, he remained involved in the community, continuing to support sports and local causes whenever he could.

A Quiet but Lasting Legacy

Al and his brother Jack never married, instead sharing a house in Chilliwack until Jack’s passing in 1942. Though Al carried on alone, he remained deeply connected to the community until his own passing on March 22, 1969. His name may not be the first to come to mind when recounting Chilliwack’s history, but his contributions—on and off the field—helped shape the city in profound ways.

Today, Chilliwack’s sports leagues continue to thrive, and the sense of community that Al Wincott helped foster remains strong. His story serves as a reminder that true leadership isn’t always about making headlines—it’s about making a difference.