From the Archives of Western Newspapers

By Samantha Johnson
For Southern Alberta Newspapers

August 11, 1883 – Edmonton Bulletin

It is estimated that 4,000 men are employed on the CPR between the Gap and the summit, a distance of 75 miles.

Levy and Sanderson nearly drowned at Long Lake on Wednesday afternoon. They got in boat designed only for one person and were shooting ducks. When both fired at the same time, it upset the boat and threw them in the water. Both men lost their guns and coats along with Levy’s hat and shoes. The lake had long grass and rushes and was difficult to swim in and after two hours of struggle, the men finally made it back to shore holding onto the boat as it was too light for them to get back in it. They were thankful to be alive as they had despaired for their lives several times during the ordeal.

Calgary now is a regular city of tents with a large population that is constantly increasing. It contains about 12 stores, 40 saloons, three billiard halls and three livery stables. The police force numbers about 150 and are at loggerheads with the citizens around their strict enforcement against whiskey and gambling.

August 12, 1911 – Redcliff Review

Carter from Winnipeg was in town working on the stubborn lock of the safe at the bank. After coaxing it for 90 minutes, he managed to make the necessary adjustments to the combination so now there shouldn’t be any further difficulties accessing funds during banking hours.

A horse attached to a light rig was left standing outside the post office, but it didn’t stand for long. The only occupant was a small boy, who rode the bumps and gas main trenches well. The rear wheel went to splinters, which impeded the haste of the animal as it headed to south Redcliff. He was easily caught before further damage was done.

Over 300 friends and family gathered at St. Baptiste Church in Quebec City to celebrate the 100th birthday of Ambroise Guay, the oldest citizen in the city. Mr. Guay is still in good health but was spirited away by friends at the height of the festivities so he wouldn’t be too fatigued by the event.

August 13, 1913 – Vulcan Advocate

Mr. Spooner’s novel competition has now commenced with the grand prize: a new sewing machine. The wheel of the sewing machine has been fastened with a chain and Yale lock and each customer who purchases $2 or more of goods from the store will receive a key. At the close of the competition, all key holders will be able to try their luck and the one with the right key gets to keep the sewing machine. The lock has been secured by a local business owner and the right key placed in with all the others.

Under arrangements made with the provincial government and the three railway companies, farm labourers will be granted a fare of one cent per mile from Regina, Saskatoon and Moose Jaw to any other point within the province. A minimum fare of $1 is stipulated and the fare is in effect from Aug. 1 to Aug. 15. Thus far there has not been any applications made for the reduced fare as they require a signed letter by Thomas Malley, superintendent of the provincial labour bureau.

In Paris, a physician at a mental institution says he’s found a cure for madness caused by physical or mental exhaustion. He has tried his remedy, which consists of the injection of oxygen, on two patients who have both recovered.