1901 Alberta Map

Historical Map Overview: 1901 District of Alberta

This antique map, sourced from Cram’s Atlas of the World, provides a detailed geographic and political snapshot of Western Canada at the turn of the 20th century. It illustrates the North-West Territories before the modern provincial boundaries were established in 1905.

The map features the provisional districts of Alberta, Assiniboia, Athabasca, and Saskatchewan. Notable details include early railway lines, indigenous reserves, and topographical features like the Rocky Mountains and major river systems. The hand-colored partitions highlight the shifting administrative boundaries of a region undergoing rapid colonial settlement and infrastructure expansion.

Alberta in 1901: Fast Facts

• The Population Boom: In 1901, the population of the Alberta district was approximately 73,022. This marked the beginning of a massive migration wave; just five years later, that number would nearly triple.
• Nascent Cities: At the time of the 1901 census, Edmonton had a population of only about 2,600 people, while Calgary was slightly larger with roughly 4,000 residents.
• Agricultural Roots: 1901 was a pivotal year for the "Open Range." While ranching dominated the southern plains, the arrival of the railway was rapidly shifting the economy toward wheat farming and permanent homesteading.