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Early Townsite of Drumheller20th Century
Drumheller, Alberta
Credits:Town of Drumheller
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During the roaring 20's, all of the Drumheller Valley communities were coal towns. From gambling and bootlegging to strikes and racial tension, the valley was full of action and entertainment.3
Very early Drumheller, Whitehouse Hotel, train station, boxcars on track, Vickers Bros.1912 - 1922
Drumheller, Alberta
Credits:Town of Drumheller
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From 1916 -1923, Alberta was supposedly a "dry" province. However, many old-timers remember gambling dens, bars and brothels in almost every mining community during these years. Since travel from the valley was limited, many miners were stuck and had very little to do in their leisure time. Miners eagerly looked for places of entertainment to spend their hard earned cash, and business owners in the valley ate it up.5
Six miners and one pony underground at the Atlas #31940
East Coulee, Alberta
Credits:Atlas Coal Mine Historical Society
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Downtown Drumheller20th Century
Drumheller, Alberta
Credits:Town of Drumheller
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Downtown Drumheller was so crowded on Saturday nights, that a person could hardly take two steps before bumping into someone. Every language in Europe was heard on the streets. Fist fights were common, and provided lively entertainment for all. Many businesses kept stills for making alcohol in the basement, and secret gambling rooms in the back.8
Four men, two pretending to fight20th Century
Unknown
Credits:Atlas Coal Mine Historical Society
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Miners' band1920's
Credits:Atlas Coal Mine Historical Society
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On the outskirts of town two ladies, who were great entrepreneurs, each started up their own successful business between 1917 and 1918. Gambling, drinking, dancing and excellent food were all great reasons to come and enjoy a night at Mary's or Fanny's. Customers minded their manners, as both women kept weapons on hand.It is no wonder that these establishments lured almost every man in the valley. Often stuck in cramped and stinky company housing, These men welcomed the idea of spending the evening in the company of a lady. There were two areas in town that were known by their name and reputation to brothel goers, "the Western Front" and the Blue light District. From time to time these thriving businesses would be raided and the owners would end up in court. However, no judge would ever convict them. If he did he would never be welcome in thier establishment again.
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Four miners standing outside of their boarding house20th Century
Lehigh, Alberta
Credits:Atlas Coal Mine Historical Society
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These business women were strong figures in the community. They often donated to worthy causes, sometimes more than the mine operators. There are accounts of taxis full of groceries showing up at needy families homes anonymously. Everyone knew who was behind the kind gesture.13
Mine camp cookhouse1914
Rosedale, Alberta
Credits:Atlas Coal Mine Historical Society
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