Park Talk Series

History and stories of the Hamlet of Bottrel

This presentation given by Beverley Guthrie will cover the history of the Hamlet of Bottrel from the late 1800s to the present day, including the story of the Bottrel General Store, which is the oldest store in Alberta. This year also marks the 125th anniversary of the Bottrel General Store, making it an especially meaningful time to reflect on its history and legacy.

It will also discuss the restoration and revival of the historic hall attached to the store, the historical connections to the CP Rail and the North West Mounted Police, and the origins of the Dog Pound Rodeo — the oldest rodeo in Alberta — which began in the Bottrel Park campground.

In addition, it will touch on the long-standing relationships between the local ranching, farming, and First Nations communities in the area, and how those connections continue in a positive and meaningful way today.