On Range Road 234

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The map titled “CP Rail Lands for Sale 1910 Central Alberta” is a historical document showcasing the lands offered for sale by the Canadian Pacific Railway Company (CPR) in Central Alberta around the year 1910. Here’s a detailed analysis of the historical context, significance, and features of this map:
Historical Context

• Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR): Established in the late 19th century, the CPR played a pivotal role in the development and settlement of Western Canada. The railway facilitated transportation, trade, and migration, contributing significantly to the region’s economic growth.
• Land Sales: The CPR was granted extensive land holdings by the Canadian government as part of the incentives to build the transcontinental railway. These lands were then sold to settlers, immigrants, and investors to finance railway construction and operations.
  Features of the Map
• Geographical Coverage: The map covers Central Alberta, indicating the sections of land available for purchase. This region includes a mix of agricultural land and potential settlement areas.
• Land Parcels: The red shading on the map indicates the specific parcels of land that were for sale. Each parcel is meticulously plotted, showing the systematic approach to land distribution.
• Sectional Grid: The map uses a sectional grid system common in land surveying, dividing the area into manageable units for sale and development. This grid system was essential for organizing the vast tracts of land and making them accessible to buyers.
• Transportation Routes: The map highlights major transportation routes, including railways and roads, which were crucial for accessing the land and facilitating movement of goods and people.
• Topographical Features: Natural features such as rivers, lakes, and terrain types are marked on the map, providing prospective buyers with important information about the land’s characteristics and suitability for farming or other uses.
  Significance
• Settlement and Development: The sale of CPR lands was instrumental in populating and developing Central Alberta. It attracted settlers from various parts of Canada and abroad, contributing to the growth of agricultural communities.
• Economic Impact: The proceeds from land sales helped finance the construction and expansion of the CPR, which in turn boosted economic activities by connecting remote areas to markets and resources.
• Historical Record: Maps like these serve as valuable historical records, offering insights into land use, settlement patterns, and the economic strategies of the early 20th century. They are crucial for understanding the transformation of Western Canada from a frontier region to a developed agricultural and economic hub.
  Conclusion
  The “CP Rail Lands for Sale 1910 Central Alberta” map is a testament to the strategic role of the Canadian Pacific Railway in shaping the settlement and development of Western Canada. By selling land to settlers, the CPR not only financed its operations but also facilitated the growth of thriving communities in Central Alberta. This historical map provides a glimpse into the land distribution practices and the early development of the region, highlighting the interconnectedness of transportation, land use, and economic growth.
  Additional Resources
  For further reading and exploration of historical maps and the role of the Canadian Pacific Railway in Canadian history, you can refer to:
• Historical Atlas of Canada