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Calgary Skyline |
Calgary and Area
Trail History
While Calgary may just seem to be another modern metropolis with no connection to cowboys, don’t believe it. The city has a rich western tradition as displayed by its citizens and at a number of venues which tell the story of Calgary and Alberta’s west.
Less than 150 years ago Calgary was a broad expanse of prairie with few trees and no townsite until the North West Mounted Police established Fort Calgary at the junction of the Elbow and Bow Rivers in 1875 to control the whiskey trade which was decimating the Blackfoot nation. Eight years later the Canadian Pacific Railway laid down tracks in Calgary and connected Alberta to eastern Canada. This opened the way for settlers to come west and beef and wheat to be shipped east and started a migration west that continues today.
In 1912 four wealthy ranchers held the first Stampede Rodeo and Agricultural Fair to recognize the passing of open range ranching which was disappearing as agriculture settlement combined with barb wire fencing changed the face of the country. Almost 100 years later the Calgary Stampede still celebrates the wild west and the survival of cowboy traditions despite barb wire, automobiles and urbanization.
If you’re lucky enough to arrive in early July, plan on catching the “Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth”. Here you’ll see some of the world’s best rodeo athletes compete for the richest rodeo purse in the world. Then hit the famous Rangeland Derby where the top 36 chuckwagons in the world compete each evening in a display of spectacular driving ability as they navigate the “Half Mile of Hell.”
Western Canada’s largest museum, the Glenbow boasts two of the country’s finest exhibitions on western history and heritage. One celebrates the culture of the Blackfoot People, the other tells the story of Alberta’s legendary Mavericks who helped shape the history of the West.
Another gem in the middle of the city, Heritage Park is one of North America’s largest and most successful living history facilities. It has several Cowboy Trail connections, including the two-storey outhouse from the Windsor Hotel in Lundbreck.
Before you high tail it out of town, kick up your heels on one of the biggest dance floors in Calgary at the Ranchman’s Dance Hall and Emporium. Or take in some fine dining at The Ranche, the elegantly restored former Bow Valley Ranch house, located in Fish Creek Provincial Park at the southern edge of the city.
Did You Know?
The first Calgary Stampede, held in 1912, wasn’t limited to cowboys. Some of the best cowgirls in the world also competed, including Fannie Sperry who rode Red Wing to earn the title “Lady Bucking Horse Champion of the World.”
Did You Know?
Cowboy hats should be stored on their crown with the brim up. Storing a hat with the brim down puts excess stress on the brim, causing it to lose shape.
Look for our Partner Logo at all participating venues in the Calgary & Area.
- Glenbow Museum
Visit Glenbow Museum to see and experience Alberta’s history. Located in Calgary.
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