Matthews Crossing, Alberta facts for kids
Matthews Crossing is a special place where people used to cross the Pembina River in Alberta, a province in Canada. It's about 10 kilometers (6 miles) from a town called Entwistle.
Contents
The History of Matthews Crossing
Early Trails and Travelers
Long ago, before it even had a name, this river crossing was used by Indigenous people and "packers." Packers were people who carried supplies using horses or mules. A well-known path called Jock's Trail, or sometimes Jack's Trail or the Shining Bank Trail, started near Isle Lake. This trail crossed the Pembina River right here at Matthews Crossing. A packer named N. H. Jock often used this trail to deliver supplies to stores all the way to the Peace River Country.
The Post Office and Its Name
In 1913, a post office was opened on the east side of the river at Matthews Crossing. It helped people send and receive mail in the area. This post office was named after M. H. Matthews, who was the very first postmaster there. A postmaster is the person in charge of a post office. The post office stayed open for about ten years, closing in 1923.
The Ferry and Its Operators
Around 1920, a ferry was set up at Matthews Crossing. A ferry is like a floating platform that carries people and wagons across a river. Several brave soldiers who had returned from World War I worked as ferrymen, helping people cross the river safely. Later, this ferry was moved downstream to a place called Sangudo.
The Matthews Crossing School
In 1935, the Matthews Crossing School was built. It opened its doors in 1936 with 38 students. This was a "one-room schoolhouse," meaning all grades, from first to ninth, were taught in a single room. The school helped educate children in the area until it closed in 1956.
Protecting Nature at Matthews Crossing
Today, the Matthews Crossing Natural Area protects more than 700 acres of beautiful boreal forest. This special area is located upstream from the old crossing. It has been set aside as a park to protect the natural environment for everyone to enjoy.
