From the Archives of Western Newspapers

Posted on November 4, 2026 by Sunny South News

By Samantha Johnson
For Southern Alberta Newspapers

November 4, 1886 – Qu’Appelle Progress

Mr. McDonald returned from Edmonton on Sunday last and brought specimens from the claims lately discovered above Edmonton. The rock is brick red while being light and soft like pumice stone. When ground, gold is found in exceedingly small particles, many of them microscopic. Gold is only located in the Saskatchewan River below this deposit with none yet discovered above. The party are jubilant and believe they have found a bonanza. 

Reports from various newspapers and others who are in the know that the House of Commons is to be dissolved immediately has been declared, from the highest authority, to be completely unfounded. 

If the cheapening of non-intoxicants and the taxing of intoxicants are moves in the direction of temperance, the Dominion Government can certainly be credited with legislation in favour of sobriety. One of the first things the government of Sir John A. MacDonald did when it took office was to increase the duties upon spirits and to remove those on tea and coffee. Those whom indulge now pay a heavier tax than formerly, while those who confine themselves to the cup that cheers but does not inebriate, get their liquids free of taxation. 

November 1, 1901 – The Wetaskiwin Times

A cow on a ranch near Stockton, California has just given birth to triplets. This same cow has produced twins on three occasions and her owner says he wouldn’t part with her for anything. Many people are stopping by at the ranch to have a look at the trio of calves. 

A unique feature of dwellings in Honolulu is the provision made for lighting the exterior of the abode as well as the interior. Electric lamps are set in the masonry of the walls, thereby throwing a reflection both inside and onto the lawns, where the residents spend most of their nights. 

It is said by botanists the sugar cane cannot be found growing wild in any part of the world. 

November 3, 1910 – The Blairmore Enterprise

Work on the large Blairmore opera house will soon commence. It is the intention of the shareholders to have the house ready for use by December 25th and to have the first dance and formal opening on Christmas day. The building will be 110 feet long and 48 feet wide with a full-sized concrete basement. It will be one of the largest buildings of its kind in Alberta. 

Two lads, both about 20 years of age, were brought before the court on Tuesday on charges of reckless handling of firearms and endangering the lives of citizens. Each was charged $2 and costs. 

The Coleman Miner says that its editor was asked by several businesspeople in Frank to publish a newspaper in their town. The Miner evidently believes that they were in earnest when they made the request. It is to laugh!