Dairy farming is one of Alberta’s oldest and most vital agricultural sectors. The first dairy farms near Edmonton emerged in the late 19th century. Over the years, small family operations have evolved into modern farms. In this article on edmonton.name, we’ll explore the history and development of Alberta’s dairy industry.
Alberta: A Haven for Dairy Farming
Livestock and ranching were a key part of Alberta’s identity even before it officially became a province. The region was marketed to European settlers as an ideal place for farming and raising cattle. For instance, a booklet from 1899 described Alberta as a perfect spot for dairy farming. It promised Europeans the best pastures, cold mountain spring water, and no noxious weeds.
The advertising campaign was a success. Many settlers established dairy farms, especially in the Edmonton area. The “West End Dairy,” founded in 1899 near the city, was the first commercial operation. It was located in what is now west Edmonton, at the corner of 110th Street and 99th Avenue. The farm delivered milk and dairy products directly to people’s homes.
The Growth of the Industry
In the early 1900s, the city was growing rapidly. As residents became more prosperous, the demand for milk, cheese, and butter soared. More dairy plants emerged to meet the needs of Edmontonians. The City Dairy was one of them. Established in 1906, it became one of the largest in the city, competing with “Jasper Dairy” and “Woodland Dairy.”
By 1910, the dairy industry had become a vital part of Edmonton’s economy. Its products not only met local demand but were also exported. By 1916, the Edmonton City Dairy was the largest creamery in Canada, producing over 2.5 million pounds of butter annually.
In the 1930s, the number of milk producers in Alberta peaked at around 36. Competition became too fierce, forcing some farms to close. Advancing technology and the loss of agricultural land gradually pushed out the smaller dairies.
Edmonton’s Iconic Dairy Symbol
The City Dairy was the first plant in Edmonton to sell bottled milk. In 1928, the company commissioned a 27-foot milk bottle to be installed on the roof of its new building on Jasper Avenue. It was a true work of modern art, manufactured in New York and shipped to the city. The bottle also cleverly doubled as a water cooler for the plant’s refrigeration system.
For nearly 50 years, the giant bottle was a beloved city landmark. As the train approached from the west, passengers would strain to be the first to spot the “milk skyscraper.” Many Edmontonians called for the bottle’s historical significance to be officially recognized. The bottle outlived the dairy itself and remained on the building long after the company closed.
The End of an Era
In the latter half of the 20th century, the dairy industry’s role in the city’s economy declined. Competition from other provinces grew intense. Eventually, the City Dairy closed its doors. The building was demolished in 1977, and the giant bottle was relocated to Northlands Park.
Today, there is still a community of collectors in the city who prize old milk bottles. While Alberta’s dairy industry isn’t the powerhouse it once was, it remains significant. There are still about 500 dairy farms operating across the province. Modern technology continues to transform and advance the sector. For instance, Edmonton-based developers are now integrating artificial intelligence into dairy farming. AI is being used to help identify cows that are injured or ill.