McGillivray Ridge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids McGillivray Ridge |
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 McGillivray Ridge
Location in Alberta
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 2,697 m (8,848 ft) |
| Geography | |
| Location | Alberta British Columbia |
| Topo map | NTS 83D/08 |
| Climbing | |
| First ascent | 1893 by L.Q. Coleman, L. B. Stewart |
McGillivray Ridge is a large mountain ridge located right on the border between the Canadian provinces of Alberta and British Columbia. It stands tall in the Rocky Mountains, a famous mountain range in North America. This ridge is known for its history and how it got its name.
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What is McGillivray Ridge?
McGillivray Ridge reaches a height of about 2,697 meters (that's about 8,848 feet) above sea level. It's a significant landmark because it sits exactly on the provincial boundary. This means one side of the ridge is in Alberta, and the other side is in British Columbia.
Where is it Located?
The ridge is part of the vast Canadian Rockies. These mountains are famous for their stunning views, wildlife, and outdoor activities. McGillivray Ridge is found in a wild and beautiful area, far from big cities.
How Did McGillivray Ridge Get Its Name?
The name "McGillivray Ridge" has a long history, going back to the early 1800s. Before 1814, this big mountain was actually called "McGillvray's Rock." It was named after an important person named William McGillivray.
Who Was William McGillivray?
William McGillivray (1764–1825) was a very powerful and influential leader of the North West Company (NWC). The North West Company was a major fur trading company in Canada during the late 1700s and early 1800s.
- Fur Trade: In those days, the fur trade was a huge business. People in Europe wanted furs, especially beaver pelts, to make hats and other clothing.
- Exploration: Fur traders like those in the NWC explored vast areas of North America. They set up trading posts and built relationships with Indigenous peoples.
- Leadership: William McGillivray became a key partner and later the director of the North West Company. He helped expand the company's reach across Canada, from the Great Lakes all the way to the Pacific Ocean.
It was common for important explorers, traders, or company leaders to have geographical features like mountains, rivers, or lakes named after them. This was a way to honor their contributions to exploring and developing the country. So, McGillivray Ridge stands as a lasting reminder of William McGillivray's role in Canadian history.
