In the Ancestors’ Footsteps
Life in Alberta has changed significantly since the arrival of the fur traders and settlement of the first pioneers. Stories of the advent of the railway, development of aviation and fundamental role of the Indigenous and Métis communities will all capture your attention on this interactive, bilingual heritage route. Walk in the footsteps of historical figures who shaped northeastern Alberta as we know it today!
Murals of Legal
In 2011, the Town of Legal was recognized as the French Mural Capital of the World. Indeed, there are over 35 murals proudly displayed around Legal, showcasing the history of the region as well as Canada’s history. Use the BaladoDiscovery app to accompany you while you walk through the town’s streets to discover Alberta’s pioneers’ history and the Francophone heritage of the Centralta region, situated North of Edmonton.
Plamondon Museum
The Plamondon Museum brings us to the beginnings of this French speaking and proud community. You’ll find items that belonged to Father Joseph Plamondon and to other pionneer families, including a century-old organ and Plamondon’s first guitar.
Lac La Biche Mission National Historical Site
Established in 1853 – making it one of the oldest communities in Alberta – the Lac La Biche Mission is a beautiful National Historic Site located on the shores of picturesque Lac La Biche lake. This 45-acre site, including several restored historical buildings, numerous displays and an interpretive centre, offers visitors a link to the past through guided tours, all just a short drive away.
Cold Lake Museums
Visitors will discover the history of 4 Wing Cold Lake in the Air Force Museum. The Oil and Gas Interpretative Centre exhibits the development of the oil sands industry in Cold Lake. The Heritage Gallery is a step back in time and pre-dates WWII. The Aboriginal Gallery exhibits the history of the Dene Suline, Cree Nations, and Metis people with an assortment of displays and artefacts.
Bonnyville & District Museum
A 7-meter high statue of Angus Shaw, a late 1700s fur trader and explorer and stands for posterity’s sake as a reminder of Shaw’s contribution to the fur trade in Western Canada. On site are two churches, a replica of Durlingville School House and a 1907 house that typifies pioneer life as it was in the early years of settlement.
Fort George and Buckingham House Provincial Historic Site
Whether you come with a passion for history or with a desire to make great family memories, you will be intrigued by the stories of these fur trade forts during 1792. Take a guided walk on a winding trail through the aspen forest.
St. Paul Museum
Two Museums in One! The St. Paul Historical Museum showcases the rich history of St. Paul. This area was important to First Nations groups and fur traders. The important Winnipeg Trail from Fort Winnipeg to Fort Edmonton passed through here; Father Lacombe established a Metis settlement on the shore of the local lake in 1896. The Peoples’ Museum Society of St. Paul & District uses a variety of displays to illustrate how farming has changed since the first homesteaders settled here.
Métis Crossing Cultural Interpretive Centre
Métis Crossing is the first major Métis cultural interpretive centre in Alberta. This world-class site celebrates and shares a distinct Indigenous story thanks to a wide range of activities and gatherings. Metis Crossing incorporates traditional craftsmanship with modern materials to create a stunning structure that hints of the building style of the fur trade era river lot homes with the functionality of a contemporary place to gather, learn, and share the Métis story.
Father Lacombe Chapel Provincial Historic Site
Hill is home to the Father Lacombe Chapel, Alberta’s oldest surviving building, built in 1861. Father Albert Lacombe and the Métis constructed a log building to serve the new St. Albert Roman Catholic Mission, which became the centre of the thriving French speaking Metis settlement of St. Albert. From May until Labour Day, costumed interpreters take you on a tour of the chapel.
