Celebrate Canada Day with the Galt

In the 1890s some newcomers saw an arid expanse of bare land in this region. The Galts were inspired by opportunity. Their imagination saw a grand vision: railways to bring new settlers from across the rolling hills, a network of irrigation channels that could create fertile land; and coal mines to unlock from the hills an energy source to power this new settlement.

Alexander Tilloch Galt was born in 1817, in London, England. As a young idealist, 18-year old Galt moved to Sherbrooke, Lower Canada to work at a land company owned by his father, and he soon became active in politics. Alexander Galt’s vision of a strong Canada stretching from coast to coast mirrored the newly forming nation’s own interest in western expansion. It was Galt who first suggested uniting the British North American provinces and the Northwest. Galt’s vision and influence over his fellow politicians make him one of the Father of Confederation.

Elliott Torrance Galt, born May 24, 1850 in Sherbrooke Quebec and through his education had been carefully groomed for a business career. Alexander found a government job for his son and Elliott Galt’s duties took him across the Prairies, and he quickly adapted to life in the Canadian West. Alexander mentored his son in business, and they spent the next several years developing his coalmine, acquiring land and creating an expansive rail network, connecting their company’s coal to the rest of Canada and the United States.

Galt. We celebrate the men who carried this name. Alexander & Elliott, father and son. Their ambition laid the foundation for an industrialized settlement of Southern Alberta.

Celebrate Museum Community Day on Saturday, July 01 from 1–4:30 pm. Join us on Canada Day for music, performances, crafts and free popcorn! Explore our exhibits and enjoy the fun at the Galt then head down to Fort Whoop-Up for more festivities because Fort Whoop-Up Turns 50. Enjoy activities for all ages and free admission at both locations.