Strathmore: The Village that Moved

Strathmore, Alberta, is a town with a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Calgary, Strathmore began as a hamlet for the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) lines that were built in the area in 1883. The town was named after Claude Bowes-Lyon, the 13th Earl of Strathmore and Kinghorne, who was a benefactor of the CPR.

The establishment of the CPR was a significant milestone for Strathmore, as it facilitated the settlement of immigrant farmers in the surrounding lands. The passing of the Canadian government’s Dominion Lands Act in 1872, which encouraged settlement, further contributed to the town’s growth and importance as a rail supply stop. A track-laying record was made between Strathmore and Cheadle when the railway was built, with one mile of steel being laid in one hour and a total of nine miles in a ten-hour working day. Strathmore’s first school opened in 1908, marking the beginning of the town’s development as a community. In 1911, Strathmore was incorporated as a town, and it continued to grow and develop over the years. The town’s population has steadily increased, with significant growth periods in the 1980s and early 2000s.

One of the key factors that contributed to Strathmore’s growth was a massive irrigation scheme that brought laborers, farmers, and businessmen to the area. This irrigation project was crucial for the agricultural development of the region, which remains an important aspect of Strathmore’s economy today.

In addition to its agricultural roots, Strathmore has also developed into a thriving community with modern amenities and services. The town offers a variety of restaurants, accommodations, hospitality services, local wines, and shopping options. Its convenient location along the Trans-Canada Highway provides easy access to the picturesque Bow River and the larger city facilities of Calgary. Strathmore has also celebrated its heritage and history through various events and publications. In 2011, the town celebrated its centennial and released a book titled “100 Years of Memories: Celebrating Strathmore’s Centennial”. This book highlights the town’s journey and the memories of its residents over the past century.

Today, Strathmore is a community of over 14,000 people, offering a blend of country living and modern conveniences.