The North Saskatchewan river that many of us enjoy was once bustling with activity. So many things were going on from floating log booms from upstream to lumber mills in Edmonton, to the gold dredges and miners of the late 1800's working the shorelines and sandbars. Squatters and working men were all over the river valley. Not like the quiet serene river valley we know today. Steamboats chugged people and supplies up and down the river daily.
One place on the river that canoeists and boaters might enjoy more knowing the history of the spot is Big Island. Big Island is in the Edmonton city limits by Windermere. Across the river from River Ridge golf course. connected to the land now and not really an island unless there is high water. Next time you canoe past stop and enjoy the area and listen for the forgotten laughter of past river enthusiasts.
This article written by Peggy Donnelly is an excellent view of what this island meant not so long ago.
https://citymuseumedmonton.ca/2016/0...into-the-past/