St. Peter's Lutheran Cemetery (Wetaskiwin County)

The City of Wetaskiwin’s name is derived from the Cree word “wītaskiwinihk,” which translates to “the hills where peace was made”. This name commemorates a historic event that took place around the year 1867, where a battle between the Cree and the Blackfoot tribes was averted, leading to a peaceful resolution.

The city’s origins can be traced back to 1891 when it was known as Siding 16 on the Calgary-Edmonton Railway. It served as a point of departure for early settlers, predominantly of Scandinavian descent. In 1892, the area was surveyed and officially named Wetaskiwin. The community grew rapidly, with Wetaskiwin being incorporated as a town in 1902 and later as a city in 1906.

Wetaskiwin is home to several museums that celebrate its history and the spirit of innovation. The Reynolds-Alberta Museum, for instance, is dedicated to celebrating “the spirit of the machine,” while the Wetaskiwin and District Heritage Museum documents the pioneer arrival and lifestyle in Wetaskiwin’s early years. The city is also known for its catchy slogan and jingle, “Cars cost less in Wetaskiwin,” which has been a staple in print, radio, and television advertisements since the mid-1970s.

Nearby, the St. Peter’s Lutheran Cemetery serves as a quiet testament to the lives of those who have contributed to the community’s rich tapestry. From a plaque at the cemetery (spelling errors not corrected):

“Remembering with honor and respect the priceless heritage bequeathed to this community by the faithfull and sacrificial labor of the pioneers interred in this cemetery. Psalm 23:6: Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” (Installed 1983)