In 1942, the Alaska Highway was built rapidly as a military supply route, after the bombing of Pearl Harbor raised fears that Alaska could be attacked or cut off from the rest of North America.
The road stretched from Dawson Creek, B.C. to Fairbanks, Alaska (about 2,700 km), through rugged wilderness.Men from across Alberta, including Calgary and its farming districts such as Chestermere, signed up. Many were farmers, ranch hands, or young men looking for steady wages in wartime.
Civilian contractors such as Poole Construction (Edmonton), McNamara Construction, and others recruited local workers. Farmers from Chestermere would often supplement their income with this kind of seasonal or contract work.
Come out and enjoy a presentation by Todd McBride and Kay Clarke to tell you about the involvement of men from Chestermere in this endeavour. The Whitecappers will be co-sponsoring by having a cash bar, and Chestermere Historical Foundation will provide snacks, tea and coffee. The event is FREE.
