The Beverly Mines
Did you know there used to be a coal mine where the Rundle Park golf course is located?
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Halloween Traditions
The origins of Halloween can be traced to Ireland when the festival of Samhain began around 400 BC. People there believed that on the night of October 31, spirits, ghosts and fairies could cross the boundary between the physical and supernatural worlds. To prevent spirits from entering their homes, people left jack-o'-lanterns and gifts of food outside. When people had to go out, they disguised themselves as animals or monsters to fool the spirits.
How people kept food cold before the refrigerator
Refrigeration to preserve food gained popularity in Edmonton in the late 1800s. Before that, people relied on salting, smoking or drying food. Leftovers from meals were often fed to the pigs because they could not be safely stored for the next day.
Edmonton's First Fire Hall
The Volunteer Fire Brigade was started in 1891 and volunteers were paid 30 cents an hour to fight fires. A year later, the town of Edmonton built Fire Hall No. 1. This 15 by 15-metre building stood where Canada Place is now, and also served as the first town hall, police station, and courthouse. It also housed the first mayor’s office.
