FORT VERMILION

Fort Vermilion is a Hamlet located approximately 78 km southeast of High Level. It is the oldest settlement in Alberta and was established in 1788 as a post for the North West Company located on the banks of the Mighty Peace River. Today Fort Vermilion serves an urban and rural population of about 2500 and has a population of 871. (661 km northwest of Edmonton, Alberta.)

Clark House was built in 1907 as a Hudson's Bay Clerk Quarters. 1943 was home to Willy and Agnes Clark until 1994 when it was moved to its present location next to the Visitors Information Centre near the Community Cultural Complex.	The Visitors Information Centre is a 1923 dove-tailed log Bourassa/St. Germain House. Was originally located on the banks of the Peace River and in 1983 was moved to its present location. Open June to August.	Trappers Shack located at 5003-River Drive. Formerly known as the Riverside Cafe. Built in 1912-1916 and is one of three dove-tailed log buildings in the community. Is a provincial Historic Site.

The name Vermilion comes from the red ochre deposits along the riverbanks in the area. Cree and Beaver Indians were the first to inhabit the area and was a meeting place for northern natives. The fur traders came and shortly after in 1788 the Fort Vermilion trading post was established at Boyer's Post 5 miles downstream from Fort Vermilion. In 1821 Fort Vermilion was taken over by the Hudson's Bay company and about 10 years later, the post was moved to the present location of Fort Vermilion. The old Bay House was built in 1906 near Fort Vermilion near the riverbank. It is the only building left of the Hudson's Bay Complex. It was where the Chief Factor lived. He was the one who organized the operations of the company. In 1907 Fort Vermilion experimental Farm was established and moved to its current site in 1935.

There are over 25 historical sites and buildings to view in Fort Vermilion including the St Lukes Anglican Church Cemetery that dates back to 1877. It has a marble memorial and fieldstone fence. Also located in the same area is the Bay Factor's House and Cookhouse. Follow the River Drive to the east.

St. Theresa General Hospital. 36 beds with 10 beds for extended care. The hospital was built at this location in 1983. (780) 927-3761.	Provincial Court of Alberta. 4607-River Road at the old hospital location.

Special Events: Rodeo held in July with bucking broncos, cattle roping etc. at the Rodeo Grounds located about 5 km southwest of the Hamlet. Bareback local bronc rider Kenton Randle was one of the riders who represented Canada in the 2002 Olympics in Salt Lake City, USA. Canada Day Celebrations are held with many events, activities including a parade. The Town "n" Country Fair and River Daze has been held in early August. Get to know you night, held in September and October. Arts and Crafts Show is held in November. Curling Bonspiels and Hockey Games are held from December to March.

2009 EVENTS OF THE PEACE COUNTRY

A few steps from mainstreet (River Drive) is the Mighty Peace River. The Fort Vermilion Nature Trails cross the town from one side to the other and the hike can take anywhere from 30-45 minute.

There are many rivers and streams in the area that are good for fishing. Mostly walleye, pike and grayling are the catch of the day.

Northern Pioneer Newspaper, is a weekly newspaper published every Wednesday by Mackenzie Highway News that serves Fort Vermilion and La Crete. (780) 928-4000

Community and Cultural Complex (780) 927-4222.

Fort Vermilion Heritage Centre. Museum, Historic site. Over 25 historical sites and building in the Fort. At the site, see the old log house, prehistoric Bison bones, the first Nations Exhibit. Open June to August and only by appointment September to May (780) 927-4603.

Fantasy North Golf & Country Club. The clubhouse is estimated at over 150 years old. 9 hole grass greens, mini golf park, driving range, clubhouse, club and cart rentals, all service RV Park. Located in the heart of Fort Vermilion, River Road and 45 street. (780) 927-4800.

Schools:

Fort Vermilion Public School. Grades 5 to 12. Approximately 150 students attend. (780) 927-3705.

St. Mary's Elementary School. Kindergarten to grade 4. About 145 students attend this school. (780) 927-3201.
school website

Blum Enort Mennonite school. (780) 927-3113.

Northern Lakes College, Fort Vermilion Campus. (780) 927-2450.

The Fort Vermilion Community Library located on River Drive. Read the excellent book collection. (780) 927-4279.