Gleichen
On CP’s Calgary to Saskatoon rail line. One mile south of the TransCanada Highway on Hwy 547. Home to numerous historic buildings, Gleichen Rural Fire Association, Library, Arena, Curling Rink, Community Centre, Communities in Bloom, and other clubs.
Population: 324
Yearly Big Event: Gleichen Homecoming, Fall Fair & Rodeo – late August. Lions breakfast, petting zoo, trade fair, bench show (with prizes), craft demonstrations, children’s games, Barbecue supper, and dance.
Proud Heritage
The Canadian Pacific Railway reached Siding No. 11, now the Hamlet of Gleichen, in 1883. By the 1920’s, Gleichen was a thriving town of over 1,000 people. In the early ’30s, Gleichen installed the first pressure irrigation system in North America. The town was the centre of a dynamic grain and irrigation agriculture industry. Following WWII, with improved roads and transportation (which drew people and businesses to larger centres) a slow decline set in and, by 1997, the town had reverted to a Hamlet of Wheatland County.
The Gleichen call : a history of Gleichen and surrounding areas, 1877-1968
“Gleichen has a vibrant history stretching back to before the founding of our Province, numerous famous and infamous individuals have called Gleichen there home at some point throughout their lives.” (The Gleichen Call)
Golden Future
Still a community with a strong spirit, Gleichen boasts top-notch educational and recreational facilities, a supermarket, several local businesses, and over 400 of the best people in the west.