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Rocky Mountain House (K-5) - Profile

Population: over 5,400

Rocky Mountain House takes its name from the panoramic view of the Rockies west of the community. It is located 130 miles (209 km) S.W. of Edmonton, 125 miles (201 km) N.W. of Calgary, and 50 miles (90 km) west of Red Deer.

In 1790, Peter Pangman carved his name on a pine tree near the present town site as he searched for a location on which to build a trading post in the north western part of the prairies. In 1799, the North West Company established its most westerly post at Rocky Mountain House.

Originally the post was called Acton House, but soon became known by its present name because of the view of the mighty mountains from the fortress. David Thompson spent the winters of 1801, 1802 and 1806 exploring and mapping the west country locating the pass which led him down the Columbia River.

For many years, Rocky Mountain House was the richest fur producing area in the Northwest, shipping annually, from 3,000 to 4,000 beaver pelts as well as great bales of otter, sable and fox.

Over centuries, Indians drove countless thousands of buffalo over the high hills in the area to their death, at various buffalo drops. Collectors still find artifacts from these major hunts in the fields below the hills.

Due to its location on the boundary between Blackfoot and Cree territory, the fort was often the scene of violent battles and was burned to the ground three times. By 1869, the fur trade had diminished to such a point that it was no longer economically possible to operate it, and the trading post was abandoned.

Today, the past is revived when Rocky Mountain House hosts the David Thompson Days in August. In early June, the wild west is remembered in their Rocky Rodeo.

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