Lethbridge Diamond City Commerce Stafford

The hamlet of Commerce started out as a halfway point between Lethbridge and the "north country" of Turin and Sundial. It began with homesteaders and opened up to miners and businessmen when the Chinook Mine came in. The Commerce area originally was an extension of Diamond City, but as it grew it became fairly self-sufficient. It boasted its own post office, stores, elevator, clubs, school and restaurant. Many "old-timers" recall the dances held in the hayloft of the Weigand farm, or in the school.

The Commerce post office opened February 1. 1913 and closed March 31, 1931. The three postmasters during this time were W. Glasgow, F. Chipman and W. T. Rogers.

Commerce also had an interesting past, with corruption among the town councillors: name changes to the town; and the sudden closing of the mine.

The familiar red slag heap, which has long been the landmark of Commerce is now gone, but signs still point the way. to the few homes that are in the area.