Hayfield, Alberta facts for kids
Hayfield, also known as Leighmore, is a small community located in northern Alberta, Canada. It is part of the County of Grande Prairie No. 1. This quiet spot is about 52 kilometres (32 miles) west of the city of Grande Prairie.
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What is Hayfield?
Hayfield, also called Leighmore, is a place in Alberta, Canada. It is not a big city but a smaller area within the County of Grande Prairie No. 1. You can find it west of Grande Prairie.
How Did Hayfield Begin?
The community of Hayfield started around a post office called Leighmore. This post office opened on July 1, 1922. It was set up in the home of a man named George James Beadle.
The name "Leighmore" came from Mr. Beadle's old home. He used to live near a place called Teighmore Park on the Island of Jersey in the Channel Islands. This park was home to a Barnardo Boys Home, which was a charity helping children. The name was accidentally misspelled when it was recorded, becoming "Leighmore" instead of "Teighmore".
A Place for Learning: Hayfield School
As more families moved to the area, there was a need for a local school. In 1934, the Hayfield School District 4661 was created. This new school helped children who lived in the area. Before Hayfield School, students had to go to schools in Appleton or Rio Grande. These schools were becoming too full.
The End of an Era
Over time, communities change. The Leighmore post office closed its doors in 1947. A few years later, the Hayfield School also closed in 1950. Even though the post office and school are gone, the history of Hayfield remains.
Want to Learn More?
If you are interested in the people who lived in the Leighmore district, you can find more information. The book "Beaverlodge to the Rockies" by Earl C. Stacey shares stories about the area.
