Last modified: 2007-08-25 by phil nelson
Keywords: alberta | barrhead | st andrew cross | wild rose | moose head | spruce trees | klondike trail | lightening bolt | wolf | blue heron | thunder lake |
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![[flag of Barrhead]](../images/c/ca-ab-bh.gif)
image contributed by Darrell Neuman, 1 July 2007
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from the town's history page:
During the late 1800's and the early 1900's, Barrhead played an important role in the settlement of north-western Alberta. Highway 33, known as the Grizzly Trail, follows the original Klondike Trail, which was the shortest route to the Yukon during the Gold Rush years. Once established, this route was key to the settlement of the Peace River region. The old Barrhead town site, 3 km north of the present Town Centre, was a frequent stop over for the Klondikers and others who needed supplies for the rigorous journey north.
Originally established in 1906, Barrhead's position as a major trade centre on the historic Klondike Trail gave it a significant role in the settlement of north-western Alberta. It was a vital link in the trade route from Fort Edmonton to the Yukon.
James McGuire, one of the first settlers in the area, named Barrhead after his hometown in Scotland. Today, the community's rich history can be revisited through a captivating collection of artifacts at the Barrhead and District Museum. The museum also houses the third largest display of African exhibits in Canada, as well as the Barrhead Visitor Information Centre, which is open from May to September. The Great Blue Heron is another prominent figure in local lore. The elegant, long-legged bird, often spotted along the shores of local lakes, is the Town's official mascot. A statue of the bird is situated next to the Community Gazebo that marks the Town centre and miniatures of the bird adorn the street posts.
Phil Nelson, 13 May 2007
Below is a description of the municipal crest of Barrhead, Alberta as provided to me by the Town Manager, Brad Watson.
"The Story Behind Our Crest"
The shield is divided by a St. Andrews Cross as found in the crest of Barrhead, Scotland for which Barrhead, Alberta derives its name.
The Wild rose in the centre of the crest represents the flower of the Province of Alberta.
The blue background represents the Alberta sky.
The moose head represents the wildlife and game in the area.
The spruce trees represent the forestry and the Golden line across the foot of the tree represents the Klondike trail which runs by Barrhead.
In the right quadrant a golden head of wheat and one of the barley represents the agriculture of the district.
The dark cloud with lightning bolt and the wavy blue and white lines represent the water of Thunder Lake.
The wolf, which can still be found in the area is a supporter of the shield of Barrhead, Alberta and Barrhead, Scotland.
The Blue Heron are found in the lakes around Barrhead.
The coronet above the shield symbolizes civic status and its centre a gateway. These coronets are often used in European heraldry and is appropriate to represent the many European immigrants residing in Barrhead.
Source: Brad Watson, Town Manager
Darrell Neuman, 1 July 2007