Impacts

With a history preceding Edmonton’s designation as a city and provincial capital, it should be no surprise that Northlands Park has had far-reaching impacts on the greater community.

The expanse of land it covers in northeast Edmonton serves as a tangible reminder of its history in the community. Beyond such easily discernable tracks, there are the many lives of people that have been influenced by the actions of the organization. Both through prosperous and difficult times, Northlands Park has retained a clear focus on shaping itself around the needs of its members and the greater community.

With purpose, its activities have shaped the way in which regional businesses go about some of their work and gain attention. In terms of cultural influence, many lives have been personally touched by the roles the organization has played. Socializing, education, and leisure have been complemented by the vision and efforts realized on the exhibition grounds.

Started on commercial soil, the inside of Fort Edmonton Park, the fledgling Edmonton Agricultural Society (EAS) progressively acquired a leadership role within industry sectors, particularly agriculture. In many ways, this stemmed from the composition of its membership—natural and active community leaders.

Bringing together such talented and ambitious people produced results for the organization and the burgeoning community. Fortuitous efforts made by pioneers such as Donald Ross, pushed needed development such as railway extensions. This benefited local development and supported the organization’s fairs that provided opportunities for further networking and alliance building.

With diversification following the post-war years, Northlands Park’s economic impacts became more sweeping. The modern era’s expansion required hiring many more staff and committing more resources to activities such as trade shows. As such, more Edmontonians became an integral part of the organization’s daily work. Programming additions that came with building construction also proved to be significant. 

New facilities provided space in which full-scale concerts and professional sports could take place. Edmonton’s growing population could come together around recreational events and regularly find opportunities for socializing and relaxing. Events like Klondike Days brought people together to exchange through food, music, and attractions.

Educational partnerships also solidified Northlands Park’s commitment to supporting future leaders. Scholarships, educational initiatives, and opportunities for informal learning, all served to enrich the lives of generations exposed to the organization as students, volunteers, patrons, or members. Athletes, community organizations, amateur clubs, and hobbyists have all been affected by the evolution of Northlands Park workings.

Over the years the organization has faced difficult issues, but has worked hard to create a positive legacy for Alberta’s cultural and economic future. As Northlands Park heads into another century of activities, it leaves an impression of what it has done for the community since its beginnings.

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