14

The Half Way Hotel was a popular rest point for travelers for in 1895, by Order of Council, the old Fort Trail was deemed for public use. At Oliver, the trail made a sharp turn east to include the Half Way House along its route. It was a regular stop and frequently visited by the officer on his patrol.

This famous landmark was rebuilt after a fire in 1896 and throughout the next few years incorporated a few changes, including a balcony, accompanying shed and a barn. The last record of its occupancy was noted by the Edmonton Bulletin in 1928.

15

The Lamoureux Settlement

16

Future of the Force in Fort Saskatchewan The Lamoureux Church
30 April 2004
Lamoureux Settlement

17

The settlement across the river was first to have a temporary general store which opened on April 1, 1882. Its permanent business was opened August 7, 1882 with a store and hotel. By 1898, there was a operating postal service, community centre, church and blacksmith shop.
The progress of the Lamoureux community did not reach its full potential as it was 'inevitable that the police barracks on the south side of the river would attract the main settlement and necessary services.'

Constable Bagley wrote in his journal his recollections on June 6th 1879, of a ball at 'Joe Lamoureux's. The chief features being the antics of the M. Harnois or "crazy" Harness - so called, and the excellent step dancing of elderly Madam Joseph Lamoureux'.

18

Mutiny and Active Forces Dominion Day Races
24 May 1894
Fort Saskatchewan, Aberta

19

In 1890, the Edmonton Bulletin advertised Dominion Day in Fort Saskatchewan as a popular annual event with its first competitive horse race that held a winning prize of $200.

The opening ceremonies consisted of a procession of Mounted Police riding in Red Serge. During the Queen Victoria day sports event in 1891, 'Minnie S', the mare of a Parry Sound settler won the 'mile-trotting' race.

The races continued to be a part of the July 1st celebrations until the mid 1910's. The fair grounds / horse track were located where the Fort Elementary and High School currently reside.

20

Mutiny and Active Forces Main Street 1898
1898
Fort Saskatchewan, Aberta

21

The first store established in Fort Saskatchewan was close to the barracks. In 1878, Mr. Percy Belcher opened a general store and later joined the North-West Mounted Police as a fellow officer.

By 1904, there had been significant growth and change; merchants were doing well and new businesses were opening.

On July 1, 1904, Fort Saskatchewan became a town and its first bylaw was passed on July 23 1904. "It was concerned with the appointment of a town constable, Samuel M. Carlton, at a salary of $480 per annum."