Bezanson, AlbertaLocated just 20 km east of Grande Prairie, Alberta, is the Hamlet of Bezanson with a population of 133 living in 58 occupied dwellings. In 2011 the population was 121. Bezanson provides services to the rural community of about 1200. The Bezanson Agriculltural Society comes up with a number of activies to keep the residents busy through-out the year. Bezanson is one of the many communities located in the County of Grande Prairie.
Bezanson Sign - more info
Cultural Centre - more info
Curling Rink - more info
Hall - Archived Photo -more info
The Bezanson General Store has served the Community of Bezanson and the travelling public since the 1950's. It is a convenient store, gas station, post office and liquor store all in one. Lefty's Cafe was located on the left side of the store for many years but in 2023 it was purchased by Tractor Jacks who now operate the restaurant. The Bezanson Hotel opened in the fall of 2000 but has since been change to apartments. For years Highway 43 passed right through Bezanson until the twinning of the highway in 2001. The highway now by-passes the hamlet a short distance to the north.
Legion - more info
Seniors Centre - more info
Churches - more info
Bezanson School - more info
HISTORY OF SMOKY RIVER BRIDGE, ALBERTA
In 1916 school was first held in the Presbyterian log church which was located at the top of the Smoky River hill. In 1919 the first school was built and named after A.M. Bezanson. In 1951 it was sold and moved to the Bezanson Village where it burned down.
An area four miles west of Bezanson was known as Glen Leslie.The Glen Leslie Church was built there in 1915 and has now become a historical site.
Events of Bezanson:
The Bezanson Ag Society holds its annual Horse Show each year as well as a Baseball Tournament, Bezanson Bog, and Curling Bonspiels. The Annual Firemen's Ball is held each spring.
NOW POSTED Events of the Peace Country
Hamlet of Bezanson website
Bezanson Senior Cottages: View Photo
Residence near Bezanson: View Photo
HISTORY OF BEZANSON, ALBERTA
In the early years the Old Bezanson Townsite included: Morrison's Store, Croken, Barn & House, Root Sellar, Turners House, Dorn's Restaurant, Brotherson & Dewhurst Shoe & Harness shop, Flour Mill, Parker & Frederckson's House, Steve Webb's Barn, Hall & Leonard's Store, Morrison's Barn, Mart Gerry's Blacksmith Shop, Billy Bayhan's Livery Stable, Steve Webbs House. The Peace River Milling and Co. Flour Mill . A. Brotherson in February 1915, built a shop with full line of harnesses and saddles as well as repairs. Boot and shoe repairs were also available.
With the railway under construction, many speculators were subdividing an area at the original townsite location with even a block reserved to the station site. Lots were selling for as little as $200 and as high as $400. An incentive to build was also given. The developer of the land would deduct $100 from the price if a building was erected for business purposes within a year. The rail-line did not pass near this location the original townsite, many businesses moved to the current Bezanson location.
The 21 site campground at the Original Bezanson Townsite has been closed for a number of years and only group camping is allowed. The Gazebo next to the river can be rented for small gatherings and private functions can also be booked at the shelter in the day-use area. The day-use area is only open on weekends.
THE ORIGINAL BEZANSON TOWNSITE
The Original Bezanson Townsite is located about 10 km sourth of Bezanson.
The Original Bezanson Townsite is located about 10 km sourth of Bezanson.
Old Townsite Day-Use - more info
Gazebo - more info
Old Townsite Playground - more info
Old Townsite Map - more info
Bezanson Markers - more info
Hiking Trails - more info
Smoky River - more info