The First Dutch Settlement in Alberta
Letters from the Pioneer Years, 1903-14
University of Calgary Press
Published on 30. June 2005
Book
Paperback/Softback
402 pages
978-1-55238-173-1 (ISBN)
Description
Translated from Dutch to English, this collection of letters offers a unique perspective on the early pioneer years of the Dutch community in southeastern Alberta. The letters provide first-hand accounts of the preparations to immigrate, the hardships of the pioneer years, and the transformation from the most basic homesteading conditions to progressive rural communities, including the towns of Granum, Monarch, and Nobleford. In fact, within just a decade, new railroads, towns, churches, schools, and even telephone service had been established.
Based on extensive research, the book also includes maps, archival photographs, and an appendix listing all the Dutch settlers in the region between the years of 1903 and 1914.The First Dutch Settlement in Alberta is an invaluable and fascinating collection of primary source material that offers a wealth of information for genealogists and historians, and celebrates the pioneering spirit of Alberta's early Dutch community.
Based on extensive research, the book also includes maps, archival photographs, and an appendix listing all the Dutch settlers in the region between the years of 1903 and 1914.The First Dutch Settlement in Alberta is an invaluable and fascinating collection of primary source material that offers a wealth of information for genealogists and historians, and celebrates the pioneering spirit of Alberta's early Dutch community.
Reviews / Votes
This book, which weaves further threads into the multi-faced tapestry of migration studies, should be welcomed by historians and genealogists alike. Donald Sinnemaas straightforward, jargon-free prose helpfully illuminates the wider context of Dutch emigration to the prairies, turning the spotlight on an era that has been largely ignored by scholars in favour of the post-1945 wave of Dutch immigration. The letters themselves bring to vibrant life the frustrations, achievements and everyday lives of pioneers in early twentieth-century Canada, tracing the development of the Alberta settlement from primitive homesteading to the establishment of a thriving rural community, and incorporating a distinctly Dutch perspective on pioneer life. Marjory Harper, Dutch CrossingMore details
Language
English
Place of publication
Calgary
Canada
Target group
Professional and scholarly
Illustrations
20 black & white photos, 1 map
Dimensions
Height: 229 mm
Width: 152 mm
Thickness: 22 mm
Weight
580 gr
ISBN-13
978-1-55238-173-1 (9781552381731)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Person
Donald Sinnema earned his PhD in historical theology from St. Michael's College at the University of Toronto and is currently a professor of theology at Trinity Christian College in Illinois.
Content
Introduction. Preparing to Emigrate. The Tough Homesteading Years (1903-05). The Years of Growth & Prosperity (1906-09). The Years of Adversity (1910-12). The Years of Renewed Stability (1913-14). Index.