Alberta: A History in Photographs

by Faye Reineberg Holt

To many people, Alberta represents the true Canadian frontier. It is known for its rugged image, its "wild west" past and its staunchly independent residents, from the First Nations who originally inhabited the land to the explorers, homesteaders, cowboys, oilmen and others who continued to build and shape the province. This engaging book uses more than 150 photographs, dating from the 18th century through to the 1940s, and illuminating text to document Alberta's transformation from frontier society to economic powerhouse.

Genres: History, Canada, Nonfiction

112 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1996

Reviews

[Kharah]

I'm looking for local history books, on a mission to rediscover Alberta's history. Very interesting read, and I loved the pictures (that Prince Albert, who I know mostly through "The King's Speech," had a fondness for dude ranches in Alberta was a great discovery). My main critique is that it presents a very "white-washed" history, and skims over some of the less savory aspects of Alberta's story.

[Ireney Berezniak]

I picked this up in a small shop in Bragg Creek. It's a nice little title covering some of the major aspects of Alberta's history. If I could level any criticism at Holt's effort is that it has neither enough photos nor enough history :)

I have read a good number of books covering events and people from all corners of the world, but my knowledge of local history is superficial at best. I've looked for material to fill the gaps and have not found much, but that's likely due my choice of sources I've been mining and inadequate commitment on my part. It turns out local gift shops are one source that can satisfy my curiosity :)

[Sherri Ashton]

short and sweet...love the pictures