A brief introduction to the history of Strome
In 1902 settlers headed west on the railway, looking for free land and the history book makes the point that the early settlers had to be non-conformists to brave the cold, isolation, separation from family, friends, and the drudgery. They thrilled to the challenge of developing a new country “surrounded by friends and good neighbours” and cherishing the land their parents chose, wanting it to “pass on to those who will follow, with faith in God and optimism for the future”.
In 1905 the town site was developed with Strome developing as a successful centre to serve the farming community, with a restaurant and first hardware store set up in a tent. In the fall of 1905 Max Knoll opened the first post office, under the name of Knollton and set up the first general store. The name of the first Post Office was changed to Strome on July 1, 1906. The Hotel, another hardware store, and churches followed. Strome became and incorporated Village on February 3, 1910. By 1911 Strome was one of the most prosperous towns along the line. It is good read the “The farmers looked on Strome as the town where they receive a fair deal, when other places nearer the packing plant, cannot or will not pay the prices given here”.
An annual agricultural fair and exhibition was held in the fall of the year until 1930. Strome was always active in recreation. Sports were keenly followed, with special sports days and all kinds of tournaments. The business people used to host free events on these days. There were tennis courts, skating and curling rinks, basketball and so on. The Memorial Hall was built as a social centre for picture shows, dances and other gatherings. Strome boasted the best dance floor in any small town in Alberta. The Old Timers recall the spirit of the early settlers and the willingness to go to any length to entertain themselves. The people entertained royally. Picnics at Way Lake were common, advertising everybody welcome, sports and games for all, Band in attendance. Races were always part of the picnics.
Trees along Main Street were planted in remembrance of the war ending. The school kids did the planting and carrying the water to them. Bowery dances were held in Strome with the dance floor built in the spring and lined with trees. The dances were enjoyed by young and old alike. Bands of Indians would arrive in Strome in the spring and hire out to local farmers. One year when they were finished with their brush cutting jobs, they came into town, camped and built a dance bowery and invited the townspeople to their pow wow. One year Dr. Carmichael raced a 70 year-old Indian named Steinhaurer down Main Street. The native Indian won hands down. One year, the ‘Fat Man’s’ race was cancelled due to the heat! When people got together in their school districts for community activities they held concerts, dances, box socials, and card parties. The whole family would come, even the tiny babies. Strome was very good at hosting inter-generational activities – and still is!
For the Jubilee celebration, following the picnic with the races and entertainment, scores of people gathered for the official dedication of the new roadside tables and shelter located near a grove of trees just off the highway, the only rest stop for travelers between Provost and Leduc, except for Camrose.