As Seen in Central Alberta: Gadsby, Botha and More!

While on a day trip to the Stettler Town and Country Museum this weekend, (fantastic place and subject of a future post!), I made a couple of pit stops. OK...like 5 pit stops. Mainly to view 2 old schools that a friend brought to my attention. I love finding old schools on my own, either by chance or by research, but after seeing photos of these two, I knew I had to go in person. Also, it just goes to show that even after being all over an area there is always some roads you haven't been down yet.

The first stop was at the former Shooting Lake School. It was originally opened from 1907-1938, the building was condemned by the County and sold for use as a barn. In 1949 Mathano School was moved to the district and became Shooting Lake School (version 2.0), until 1953 when it became a Community Centre. It's in rough shape, open to the elements and appears to have a crumbling foundation. Glad I saw it now before it's gone.

The second school, can be found in a neighboring district and is called Big Knife. In case you were wondering, yes, there was also a Little Knife nearby. Big Knife operated from 1906-1943. It was sold to the Halkirk School District in 1954 and then sold again in 1964 to a local farmer. It stands in the same location today.

Just north of these schools is Gadsby. It is the 'Smallest Village in Alberta'. The 2016 population was 40, up from 25 in 2011.  Population boom!! There are a few interesting buildings, including a church with a very steep peaked roof.  It piqued my curiosity. I'd love a peek inside this beautiful old place. There was no sign or marker outside, but I read that this was the Gadsby United Church built in 1910. It has been repainted sometime in or around 2010.

There is also an old 2 storey brick former bank building, common design in many small towns it seems. That picture is not included here (technical difficulties). Also found an old store front with mostly unintelligible words...I can see 'Service Shop' and 'Repairs'. Also, likely newer old writing, 'Ye Ole Ice Cream Shoppe'.

Peaked and Piqued! 

Garage/Ice Cream Shoppe, probably not at the same time.

Next stop, Botha! To pay a visit my favourite old building. I think you can see why from the photo. It's even haunted, if you believe in that sort of thing. Unfortunately its been boarded up more recently. It's sad to see this majestic building boarded up.

Last but not least, a barn. One of my favourites. It was fall last time I saw it, so it's nice to see it in the summer surrounded by lush green fields.

Happy to see me?

Special thanks to Tim for the tips on the schools and to my kiddo for coming on another adventure with me. There's no one I'd rather be with on a backroad trip.