At the dawn of the 20th century, Rocky Rapids, Alberta's small yet bustling settlement, was a testament to the pioneering spirit and industrious ambition that defined Canada's frontier. The year was 1907, and the Edmonton Lumber Company had just begun its operations, taking advantage of the rich natural resources this rugged land offered. The settlement, named after the formidable rapids that characterized this area of the North Saskatchewan River, quickly became a critical resource hub, supplying timber, coal, and gold to fuel Edmonton's rapid expansion.

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The following year, 1908, marked the arrival of the Bray family by steamboat. Like many others, the steamboat that ferried them was an essential part of the transportation network, especially during the warm summer months when the river was free of ice. These vessels, reminiscent of smaller Mississippi-style paddlewheelers, had replaced the slower York boats of earlier decades, offering a faster and more economical means of navigating Alberta's waterways.

 

However, the journey on the North Saskatchewan River was not without its challenges. The river, known for its treacherous rapids with waves reaching up to three feet, demanded respect and skill from those who dared to traverse its waters. Steamboats often stayed in the calmer sections, while scows were still required to brave the turbulent stretches, working in tandem to transport goods and people across the province. These vessels were integral to Alberta's development until the completion of the railroads throughout Alberta, commencing the steamboat industry's decline.

 

Rocky Rapids, strategically located, was initially valued for its abundant timber. This resource was crucial for the Edmonton Lumber Company, which floated logs downstream to be processed at their facility and D.R. Fraser & Co. Ltd. At its height in 1914, these two steam-powered mills produced an impressive 50,000 feet of lumber in a single 10-hour shift. The timber from these mills was foundational in constructing many of Edmonton's early buildings, some of which still stand today, a testament to the lasting impact of the efforts in Rocky Rapids.

 

Life in Rocky Rapids was marked by a profound connection to the river. The seasonal operation of steamboats, dictated by the harsh winter conditions that often left the river iced over, was a reminder of nature's influence over human endeavours. Despite the challenges, the settlement thrived, driven by the determination of its inhabitants and the bountiful resources of the land.