A while back, over on my main Substack Rudderless Travel: Unpacked, I talked about 4 Surprises That Shattered My Calgary Expectations! 🏇🏾. I made to believe Calgary was about the oil sands, beef, cowboys, and the Stampede. What I discovered was a city bursting with a vibrant food scene, cool neighbourhoods, and unexpected natural adventures and wonders, all within the city limits.
BTW, I got Your Complete Guide to Visiting Calgary: Attractions, Restaurants, Hotels, and Things to Do over on the Rudderless Travel website as well as an excellent video waiting for you!
In this episode, with our guest, Marsha Gordon, Collections Assistant and the Sam Centre, we delve into:
Historical Roots: Discover the Stampede's origins, tracing back to Guy Weadick's vision and the support of the "Big Four" ranchers. Key milestones include the first Stampede in 1912, the Victory Stampede in 1919, and the introduction of chuck wagon racing in 1923.
First Nations Connection: We explore the deep and long-standing relationship between the Stampede and the Treaty 7 First Nations, who have been integral to the event since its inception.
SAM Centre: Finally, we get a glimpse into the SAM Centre, where you can immerse yourself in the Stampede's history through interactive exhibits
Hear from Marsha Gordon, Collections Assistant, on the importance of sharing the stories behind the artifacts
The Spirit of the Stampede
While I've already shared my general impressions of Calgary, my recent deep dive into the history of the Calgary Stampede was awesome! This isn't just an annual event; it's a cultural institution with roots stretching back to 1912, born from the incredible vision of Guy Weadick. He saw the potential to create something truly unique after the 1908 Dominion Exhibition. I have to admit, (and I wasn’t expecting this), but learning about the Stampede's deep historical connection with the Treaty 7 First Nations was a fantastic surprise, especially during current times of Reconciliation.
The Calgary Stampede is far more than just a rodeo; it's a testament to vision, community, and the enduring spirit of the Canadian West, with a fascinating, rich history that's continuously unfolding.
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