Strathmore

Strathmore is a town situated along the Trans-Canada Highway in southern Alberta, Canada, 40 kilometres or 25 miles east of the city of Calgary, within the boundaries of Wheatland County.

The town began as a hamlet for the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) lines that were built within the region during 1883. The CPR named the town of Strathmore after one of its benefactors: the Earl of Strathmore, Claude Bowes-Lyon. A track laying record was made between Cheadle and the town of Strathmore when the railroad was constructed. Within one hour, one mile (1.6 km) of steel was laid and the rails were laid to Cheadle, 9 miles (14 km) for a record. Efforts by the Canadian government to develop western Canada caused increases in Strathmore's population and its importance as a rail supply stop.

The town at present is an important agricultural community. Also, the area has a growing oil and gas exploration and is the headquarters of the Golden Hills School Division. Numerous individuals travel every day from the town of Strathmore to the city of Calgary. During the last three years the town of Strathmore has seen a major commercial development.

The population of the Town of Strathmore according to its 2010 municipal census is 12,139, a 2.5% increase more than its 2009 municipal census population of 11,838. At its existing population, the town of Strathmore is among the largest towns in the province and is qualified for city status. Based on Alberta's Municipal Government Act, a town is qualified for city status when it reaches 10,000 residents.

Ever since 1966, the town of Strathmore has conducted an annual fair and "Heritage Days" Rodeo on the long weekend during the month of August. 1985 saw the Heritage Days Rodeo turn professional and become sanctioned by the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association. Together with hosting Pro Rodeo that weekend, the year 1988 saw the addition of the World Professional Chuckwagon Association Finals come to our grounds.

In the 1990's, there was a concerted effort to focus on a change of image to the weekend event. The event started to incorporate a more family theme, incorporating local entertainment stage, children's entertainment, craft/bench show, livestock show, machinery show, outdoor family entertainment show ring, parade, trade show, midway and fireworks. The hosting of these events yearly each and every long weekend of August created a major tourist attraction to the Town of Strathmore and nearby areas as indicated by its growing attendance.