Complete Travel Guide to Lacombe, Canada

Lacombe Lacombe is a city in central Alberta, Canada. It is located approximately 25 kilometres (16 mi) north of Red Deer, the nearest major city, and 125 kilometres (78 mi) south of Edmonton, the nearest metropolitan area. The city is set in the rolling parkland of central Alberta, between the Rocky Mountains foothills to the west and the flatter Alberta prairie to the east. Positioned at coordinates 52.46681°N, -113.7353°E, Lacombe occupies a geographically significant location that has influenced its historical development and contemporary importance. The precise geographic coordinates of Lacombe place it within a region characterized by diverse landscapes and strategic transportation routes that have shaped settlement patterns for centuries. At an elevation of 855.0 meters above sea level, Lacombe benefits from unique topographic advantages that influence local climate, agriculture, and scenic beauty. The elevation of Lacombe creates distinctive environmental conditions that support specific ecosystems and agricultural practices while providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Home to 13396 residents, Lacombe maintains a community scale that balances urban amenities with traditional social structures and cultural continuity. The population of Lacombe represents a diverse community that has adapted to changing circumstances while preserving essential cultural traditions and local knowledge. Community life in Lacombe reflects the resilience and adaptability that characterize populations throughout Canada, demonstrating successful integration of traditional values with contemporary opportunities. Within the broader context of Alberta province, Lacombe contributes to the cultural and economic diversity that defines Canada's regional character. The role of Lacombe in regional development extends beyond its municipal boundaries, encompassing influences on transportation networks, economic activities, and cultural preservation efforts. Visitors to Lacombe discover a destination that embodies the authentic character of Canada while offering unique local perspectives and experiences unavailable in more commercialized locations.

Historical Heritage of Lacombe

History Downtown Lacombe in 1908 Lacombe is named after Albert Lacombe (28 February 1827 -- 12 December 1916), a French-Canadian Roman Catholic Oblate missionary who lived among and evangelized the Cree and Blackfoot First Nations of western Canada Roman influence in Lacombe established foundational infrastructure and administrative systems that continued to shape the region for centuries.

He is now remembered for having brokered a peace between the Cree and Blackfoot, negotiating construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway through Blackfoot territory, and securing a promise from the Blackfoot leader Crowfoot to refrain from joining the North-West Rebellion of 1885.

The Lacombe Police Service have policed the community since 1900 The first permanent settler, Ed Barnett, arrived in 1883 Barnett was a retired member of the North-West Mounted Police (NWMP) who had served a mere three years He left Fort Macleod in August 1881 at 23 years of age.

According to his own diary and his official obituary in the RCMP Quarterly, spring 1940, on July 19, 1881, Barnett was among a small NWMP party that escorted Chief Sitting Bull and his people to the Canada–US border Along the Calgary and Edmonton Trail, he established a "stopping house" for travellers on a land grant given to him for serving in the NWMP.

His family and friends moved out of Ontario and the community began to grow The stopping house then became known as Barnett's Siding The Calgary and Edmonton Railway reached the area in 1891 This provided better access to the area and new opportunities for settlement.

By 1893, the downtown blocks and lots were surveyed Village status was granted in 1896, and town status in 1902 In 1907, the federal government set up an experimental farm to research grain and livestock production The President of the C , William Van Horne, renamed Barnett's Siding to Lacombe in honour of Father Lacombe.

Town of Lacombe (February 2007) Archived from the original on 2007-09-28 Retrieved 2007-03-08 Most historical accounts give 1883 for the arrival of Barnett Barnett's grandson, Doug Barnett, gives the date 1884 He writes: "In February 1883 he travelled north in a buckboard with four horses as far as the Red Deer River.

The only source of supplies was by a wagon train running every week or so between Calgary and Edmonton Ed came across a couple of drifters and the 69 of them built a log cabin by the Red Deer River where they remained over the winter of 1883–84 They survived the winter on a diet of rabbit and flour until spring brought a welcome addition of ducks and geese from the south.

Barnett was still looking for a good place to start ranching and farming He therefore moved farther north in the summer of 1884, across the Blindman River to the area where Lacombe stands today " See Barnett, Doug _Ed Barnett: from mountie to rancher _ Alberta History.

Accessed 03-20-2011 City of Lacombe website Lacombe Police Service (LPS) History Archived 2011-07-21 at the Wayback Machine Accessed 03-20-2011 4 ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ City of La.

The historical trajectory of Lacombe demonstrates the complex interplay between local agency and external influences that has characterized regional development throughout successive historical periods. Understanding this historical context provides essential background for appreciating the depth and authenticity of contemporary cultural expressions.

Historical preservation efforts in Lacombe reflect community commitment to maintaining connections with ancestral heritage while adapting to contemporary circumstances. These preservation activities create opportunities for visitors to experience authentic historical environments and traditional practices.

The legacy of historical development in Lacombe remains visible in architectural styles, urban planning patterns, cultural traditions, and social organizations that provide continuity between past and present while supporting future community development.

Geographic Environment and Natural Setting

Geography #Climate Lacombe experiences a humid continental climate (Köppen climate classification _Dfb_). Climate data for Lacombe Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Record high °C (°F) 15. 9) Mean daily maximum °C (°F) −6. 8) Daily mean °C (°F) −12. 7) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) −17. 2) Record low °C (°F) −48. 0) −45 (−49) −41. 9) Average precipitation mm (inches) 17. 6) Source: Environment Canada 1. Environment Canada—Canadian Climate Normals 1971–2000 Archived 2013-11-30 at archive. Retrieved 23 March 2010.

The topographic characteristics of Lacombe result from complex geological processes that have created distinctive landscape features supporting diverse ecosystems and human activities. These natural features provide both opportunities and constraints that have influenced settlement patterns and economic development throughout history.

Hydrological systems in the Lacombe region play crucial roles in supporting natural ecosystems and human communities through provision of water resources, transportation routes, and agricultural irrigation. Understanding these water systems helps explain historical settlement patterns and contemporary development opportunities.

Soil composition and agricultural potential in the Lacombe area reflect the interaction of geological substrate, climatic conditions, and human management practices that have created productive agricultural systems supporting local food security and economic development.

Natural resource availability in Lacombe has historically influenced economic activities and settlement patterns while continuing to provide opportunities for sustainable development that balances economic needs with environmental conservation.

The relationship between geographic features and human settlement in Lacombe demonstrates sophisticated adaptation strategies that maximize advantages while minimizing risks associated with natural hazards and environmental constraints.

Seasonal variations in the geographic character of Lacombe create changing opportunities for agricultural production, outdoor recreation, and transportation that influence the rhythm of community life and economic activities throughout the year.

Climate Patterns and Environmental Conditions

#Climate Lacombe experiences a humid continental climate (Köppen climate classification Dfb). Climate data for Lacombe Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Record high °C (°F) 15. 9) Mean daily maximum °C (°F) −6. 8) Daily mean °C (°F) −12. 7) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) −17. 2) Record low °C (°F) −48. 0) −45 (−49) −41. 9) Average precipitation mm (inches) 17. Rainfall patterns in Lacombe determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. 6) Source: Environment Canada 1. Environment Canada—Canadian Climate Normals 1971–2000 Archived 2013-11-30 at archive. Retrieved 23 March 2010.

The climatic regime of Lacombe reflects the complex interaction of geographic location, topographic features, and regional weather patterns that create distinctive seasonal characteristics influencing both natural ecosystems and human activities throughout the year.

Temperature variations in Lacombe create distinct seasonal periods that influence agricultural cycles, energy consumption patterns, and outdoor activity opportunities while requiring adaptive strategies for housing, clothing, and food preservation.

Precipitation patterns in Lacombe determine water availability for agricultural production, urban consumption, and natural ecosystem maintenance while influencing the timing of traditional festivals and seasonal economic activities.

Seasonal weather patterns in Lacombe create varying opportunities for different types of economic activities, recreational pursuits, and cultural celebrations that contribute to the distinctive rhythm of community life throughout the year.

The interaction between climate and human adaptation in Lacombe demonstrates sophisticated traditional knowledge systems for managing seasonal variations while taking advantage of favorable conditions for agriculture, construction, and outdoor activities.

Climate considerations for visitors to Lacombe include understanding seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours that influence the availability of different activities and the appropriate preparation for outdoor exploration and cultural participation.

Cultural Heritage and Community Traditions

Demographics Federal census population historyYearPop. The demographic composition of Lacombe reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. ±% 1901499— 19061,015+103. 0% 200610,742+14. 0% 201613,057+11. 6% Source:Statistics Canada In the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, the City of Lacombe had a population of 13,396 living in 5,194 of its 5,552 total private dwellings, a change of 2. The demographic composition of Lacombe reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 6% from its 2016 population of 13,057. The demographic composition of Lacombe reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. With a land area of 20. 95 sq mi), it had a population density of 650. The demographic composition of Lacombe reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 1/sq mi) in 2021. The population of the City of Lacombe according to its 2019 municipal census is 13,985, a change of 9. The demographic composition of Lacombe reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 9% from its 2014 municipal census population of 12,728. The demographic composition of Lacombe reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. In the 2016 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, the City of Lacombe had a population of 13,057 living in 4,797 of its 5,034 total private dwellings, a change of 11. The demographic composition of Lacombe reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 5% from its 2011 population of 11,707. The demographic composition of Lacombe reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. With a land area of 20. 03 sq mi), it had a population density of 627. The demographic composition of Lacombe reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 1/sq mi) in 2016. Panethnic groups in the City of Lacombe (2001−2021) Panethnic group 2021 2016 2011 2006 2001 Pop. % European[a] 10,895 83. 55% Indigenous 755 5. 53% Southeast Asian[b] 665 5. 64% African 255 1. 64% South Asian 205 1. 21% East Asian[c] 130 0. 77% Latin American 100 0. 38% Middle Eastern[d] 55 0. 08% 0 0% 0 0% 0 0% Other/multiracial[e] 80 0. 38% Total responses 13,070 97. 16% Total population 13,396 100% 13,057 100% 11,707 100% 10,742 100% 9,384 100% Note: Totals greater than 100% due to multiple origin responses 1. The demographic composition of Lacombe reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. “Table IX: Population of cities, towns and incorporated villages in 1906 and 1901 as classed in 1906”. The demographic composition of Lacombe reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. Census of the Northwest Provinces, 1906. Sessional Paper No. Ottawa: Government of Canada. “Table I: Area and Population of Canada by Provinces, Districts and Subdistricts in 1911 and Population in 1901”. The demographic composition of Lacombe reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. Census of Canada, 1911. Ottawa: Government of Canada. “Table I: Population of Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta by Districts, Townships, Cities, Towns, and Incorporated Villages in 1916, 1911, 19. The demographic composition of Lacombe reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life.

The cultural landscape of Lacombe represents a living repository of traditions, customs, and social practices that have evolved over centuries while maintaining essential characteristics that define community identity and provide continuity between generations.

Social organization in Lacombe reflects sophisticated systems for maintaining community cohesion and mutual support that have enabled the population to preserve cultural traditions while adapting to changing economic and political circumstances.

Traditional arts and crafts in Lacombe continue to flourish as expressions of cultural identity and sources of economic opportunity, providing visitors with authentic opportunities to observe skilled artisans practicing techniques transmitted through family and community networks.

Religious and spiritual practices in Lacombe provide insights into the values and beliefs that guide community decision-making and social interaction while creating frameworks for cultural continuity and adaptation to contemporary circumstances.

Language use and cultural expression in Lacombe demonstrate the dynamic relationship between tradition and innovation as communities maintain linguistic heritage while adapting to contemporary communication needs and educational opportunities.

Cultural festivals and community celebrations in Lacombe provide opportunities for visitors to experience authentic traditional practices while participating in community life and supporting local cultural preservation efforts.

Economic Activities and Development Patterns

Economy Nestled in one of Central Alberta's most fertile valleys between Calgary and Edmonton, the local economy includes a strong agricultural base supplemented by oil and gas industry. The city is also home to the Lacombe Research and Development Centre where the first livestock breed developed in Canada, the Lacombe hog, was produced. #Lacombe Research and Development Centre For more than a century, the federal government has funded agricultural research through a network of research centres strategically placed in almost every province. This research program has played a major role in developing the more than $120-billion Canadian agrifood industry. The Lacombe Research and Development Centre (LRDC) is one of a network of 20 national agricultural research centres operated by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. The centre conducts research in field crops and livestock production relevant to the central Alberta region. The centre's main research focuses on the factors that influence red meat: yield, quality, safety and preservation. The centre also develops integrated, sustainable crop and animal production systems and crop varieties for the short-season environments of the parkland and northwestern Canada. The LRDC developed a variety of hog called Lacombe. Work began in 1947. It took 12 years to develop the 'Lacombe' variety which is noted for its characteristics suitable to the harsh prairie environment. 'Lacombe' is 55% Danish Landrace, 22% Chester White, and 23% Berkshire. The 'Lacombe' hog was the first livestock breed to be developed in Canada. ##Len Thompson Manufacturing Plant Since 1958, Lacombe has been the home of the Thompson-Pallister Bait Co. manufacturing plant, a four generation family business that produces fishing lures, including the Len Thompson Fishing Spoon, a popular game fishing lure. The company also owns and manufactures Northern King fishing lures and True North brand wood chips and seasonings. "First Livestock Breed Developed in Canada". _Edmonton Journal_. Retrieved 2008-04-19. Jones, Stephen Morgan, "Research Stations, Agricultural", _The Canadian Encyclopedia_ Accessed 03-20-2011 3. _Lacombe Research Centre_, 31 July 2015 Accessed 03-20-2011 4. Pukite, John (1999). _A field guide to pigs. _ Helena, Montana. Falcon Publishing. [_permanent dead link_] 5. , "Pig Farming", _The Canadian Encyclopedia_ Accessed 03-20-2011 6. _Len Thompson Fishing Lures_. Retrieved 27 September 2024.

The economic structure of Lacombe reflects a complex balance between traditional livelihoods and contemporary opportunities that enables the community to maintain economic stability while preserving cultural values and environmental sustainability.

Traditional economic activities in Lacombe often center around sustainable resource management practices that have been refined over generations to maximize productivity while maintaining environmental balance and community welfare.

Local markets and commercial activities in Lacombe serve as important centers of community life where economic transactions intersect with social interaction and cultural exchange, providing visitors with opportunities to observe traditional trading practices.

Agricultural production in Lacombe demonstrates sophisticated adaptation to local environmental conditions while maintaining traditional crop varieties and farming techniques that support both food security and cultural continuity.

Service sector development in Lacombe has evolved to accommodate external economic connections while maintaining authentic community character and traditional approaches to hospitality and customer service.

Economic development opportunities in Lacombe focus on sustainable approaches that build upon existing community strengths while creating new opportunities for education, employment, and cultural preservation.

Transportation and Regional Connectivity

Transportation infrastructure serving Lacombe reflects the balance between accessibility and preservation of community character that characterizes regional development throughout Canada. Road networks, public transportation options, and traditional travel methods create multiple approaches for reaching and exploring Lacombe.

Regional connectivity from Lacombe provides access to broader transportation networks while maintaining the authentic character that distinguishes this destination from more commercialized locations. Understanding transportation options helps visitors plan efficient and respectful approaches to exploration.

Educational Institutions and Learning Opportunities

Education Northern Lights over Burman University Lacombe’s Seventh-day Adventist university, Burman University (formerly Canadian University College), was established near Lacombe in 1909 and continues to operate today. It and the former Hamlet of College Heights were annexed by Lacombe in 2000. Lacombe is home to many public schools within the Wolf Creek Public School Division, including École Secondaire Lacombe Composite High School – a Grade 10-12 school with approximately 800 students that recently underwent extensive renovations completed in 2009. Other public schools include École J.S. McCormick School (K-3), École Lacombe Upper Elementary School (4-6), Terrace Ridge School (K-7), École Lacombe Junior High School (7-9), Father Lacombe Catholic School (K-9), and Lacombe Outreach School. Lacombe’s private schools include Lacombe Christian School (Preschool-Grade 9) and it has two campuses one for pre-2 and the other side from 3–9, Central Alberta Christian High School (10-12), College Heights Christian School (K-9) and Parkview Adventist Academy (10-12). 1. “Board Order: MGB 042/00” (PDF). Municipal Government Board. March 10, 2000. Retrieved November 20, 2012. 2. “Order in Council (O.C.) 135/2000” (PDF). Province of Alberta. April 12, 2000. Retrieved November 20, 2012.

Educational institutions in Lacombe serve as important centers of learning and cultural preservation that contribute to community development while maintaining connections to traditional knowledge systems and contemporary educational standards.

Planning Your Visit to Lacombe

Successful visits to Lacombe require preparation that extends beyond typical travel planning, as this destination rewards visitors who approach it with cultural sensitivity, environmental awareness, and genuine interest in learning from local communities and traditions.

The most meaningful experiences in Lacombe often emerge from patient observation, respectful participation in community activities, and willingness to adapt expectations to local customs and environmental conditions rather than imposing external standards or expectations.

Practical considerations for visiting Lacombe include understanding seasonal variations in weather and activity availability, respecting local customs and social protocols, and supporting community-based economic activities that contribute to cultural preservation and sustainable development.

The rewards of visiting Lacombe extend far beyond the duration of your stay, as the insights gained from experiencing authentic traditional culture often influence perspectives and values long after returning home, providing new understanding of human potential and community cooperation.