‘Archives’ can be defined as documentary records of long-term value to an organization, family or a community. The Okotoks Museum and Archives’ archival collection includes over 5,000 historical photographs, municipal records, illustrations, diaries, newspapers, sound recordings and maps. These records are a vital part of the community’s collective memory and documenting the people, landscape and development of Okotoks and district from the 1870s to today. Proper care and handling procedures are followed in order to preserve these records for current and future generations to study, learn from and enjoy.
Some of the oldest records in the archive’s collection date back to the 1890s including Thomas Macmillan’s exhibit cards from the 1895 and 1898 Sheep Creek Agricultural Society Fair.
Visitors and researchers can view parts of the collection electronically on the in-house database, or through the online archives.
Original documents can be retrieved for further study, upon request. The archives also has over 80 years of Okotoks newspapers that have been transferred onto microfilm. A public research room, featuring a microfilm reader and resource library, is available for researchers. Museum staff and volunteers are also available for research or historical inquiries.
Please note: our online archive search is currently not available. Please contact the Museum if you require assistance.
