Calgary is a unique city in many ways. One of the biggest things that distinguishes us from other metropolitan areas is how we name our major thoroughfares. The word “trail” is used across our city and pays homage to the the old oxcart trail that existed between Calgary and Fort Benton in Montana. Stoney, Blackfoot, Metis, Shaganappi, Sarcee, and Peigan Trails are all named in honour of the first people on this continent, although the latter two have since changed their names. The Peigan are now known as the Piikani Nation and the Sarcee are now the Tsuut’ina Nation, but both street names remain. Others, such as Edmonton, Banff, Morley, Beddington, Airport, Spruce Meadows, and Bow Trails are named after destinations or nearby landmarks. Glenmore Trail is named for a Gaelic word meaning, “big valley”, which was bestowed upon the area now covered by the Glenmore Reservoir by early explorer Sam Livingstone. What follows are photos depicting the people that our trails, and other prominent roadways, are named after. Each individual has a historical connection to this city, this province, or this country and by using their monikers we are respecting our past, while looking towards the future. How many of these did you know before?
This is by no means an exhaustive list, just a collection of some of the more popular roadways in our city. The photos above were collected from the Glenbow Archives, Wikipedia, and the Calgary Herald. Additional information can be found for each photograph on the Glenbow website by searching the identification number that is printed on each photo. There is also the option to purchase a high resolution copy. Stay tuned for additional posts featuring historical photos from Alberta. We’d love to know what you think in the comment section below.
Tyler is originally from Saskatchewan, and yes he cheers for the Roughriders, but don’t hold that against him as Calgary has been his home for the past eight years. He is a teacher working at a wilderness-
based treatment program for youth working to overcome addiction. Tyler is also a volunteer with the GOT Parks initiative, which aims at reconnecting Canada’s youth with our national, provincial, and territorial parks. During his time away from work, Tyler enjoys outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and snowboarding, team sports, travelling, photography, spending time with good friends, and being at home with his wife and German Shepherd, Rome.
I love Twitter. It is a perfect way to keep up with what my favorite people are up to, and all the happenings around the world. And recently, it is become the place to make […]
When you think of a prospector, what comes to mind? For many, it’s the famous photos of Chilkoot Pass that pop into your head. Lined with people top to bottom, as they attempt to reach […]
Recently I attended a Forestry & Wildlife professional development experience with Inside Education. As part of the day’s activities, Kirk Hawthorn, a Senior Forester with Alberta Agriculture and Forestry, gave a brief presentation about his […]