Stampede Star Power: From the Archives – The Stampede in the 1950s

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The Calgary Stampede has long been a part of this city’s history. In recognition of this year’s event, we’re sharing archival photo highlights and notable events from decades of the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth. This episode: The Stampede in the 50s.

Calgary was booming in the 1950s and the Stampede was cashing in on the excess money. Bigger is better seemed to be the motto and the old country roots were starting to make way for Hollywood glamour.

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1950: The Stampede Corral opened in December. Best It became home to the Calgary Stampeders Hockey Club, making it one of the premier hockey rinks in the West.

1950: Casey Tibbs wins the Saddle Bronc and Bareback titles.

1951: The Stampede hosted a special Royal Winter Stampede for Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip in October during a visit here.

1952: Guy Weadick was a guest of honor, in honor of the Stampede’s 40th anniversary. Weadick led the closing ceremonies, ending the years-long rift with the Stampede.

1953: Guy Weadick died in 1953 and was buried in High River.

1954: Six acres between the eastern boundary of Stampede Park and the Elbow River were added to the lease. The total land area of ​​Stampede Park was then 45 acres.

1954: The Sonja Henie Ice Revue was presented at the Corral during the Stampede.

1954: Evelyn Eagle Speaker becomes the first Indigenous Stampede Queen.

1956: The selection of a special honorary parade marshal became an annual event.

1956: A Mexican village was featured at the Stampede. included entertainers, artisans and authentic Mexican merchandise and food.

1958: On July 29, a special Calgary Royal Stampede was held for Princess Margaret.

1959: The Big Four Building officially opened. In addition to its role as an exhibition building, it also housed 48 ice rinks in the winter, making it the largest curling facility in the world.

— Chronology compiled by Karen Crosby, Norma Marr, and Aimee Benoit.

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