As We Remember Big Valley

The village of Big Valley is located in central Alberta in the southern part of the Battle River Tourist zone. The settlement of Big Valley began even before 1910, during the Ranching Era. The area was recognized for its rich soil and natural grass, known as Prairie Wool, which made it an ideal location for cattle farming operations. The Imperial Lease of land southeast of Big Valley consisted of thousands of acres owned by Pat Burns.

The Rail Era marked a significant period in Big Valley’s history. In 1911, the Canadian Northern Railway (CNoR) began to lay track through Big Valley. By 1912, Big Valley had built a thriving terminal with a big roundhouse, stockyards, rail yards, water tower, coal-dock, general railway maintenance, and repair facilities. This development led to a population boom, with the town’s population growing to 803 by 1920.

The Coal Era began when early explorers discovered coal along the dramatic cut banks of the Red Deer River. Several mines were developed on the outskirts of the village, with the largest, Big Valley Colleries, opening in 1912. The demand for this soft coal remained strong for many years, with the mines continuing to operate almost up to the time that gas and oil were discovered in 1950.

Today, Big Valley is a community with a population of 349. The village office is open, and the Big Valley Whistle, a local publication, is available online. The Railway Station/Museum, located in the former 1912 CNoR Depot, is a centerpiece of the collection of historic buildings within the Village. It features photos and artifacts pertinent to the local area history. The station garden is available as a rest area and is often used for picnics. St. Edmund’s Church, a provincial heritage site, sits on the hills overlooking the Village. This landmark blue 1916 Anglican church was virtually completed by the end of 1916.