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Welcome to The Edmonton Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Edmonton Oilers Ink London Knights Center

• AI art of the week

• A deep dive into the life of Martha Louise Black

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Think of each failure, each heartache, and each loss in your life as a lesson in courage and resilience.”

—Kate Anderson

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Edmonton Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

What is the oldest post-secondary institution in Edmonton?

A) Northern Alberta Institute of Technology

B) MacEwan University

C) University of Alberta

D) Concordia University of Edmonton

Last Week's Trivia:

Which Edmonton building is the official residence of the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta? Answer: C) Government House

The Best Stories of the Week

💼Business

Edmonton business honours co-worker’s memory, fundraises for her kids.(link)

🏦Finance

Alberta announces $112M to build 250 modular homes for displaced Jasper residents.(link)

🏒Sports

Edmonton Oilers Ink London Knights Center & 2024 First-Rounder To Well-Deserved NHL Contract.(link)

Edmonton takes on Carolina in a non-conference matchup.(link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

💃 Zumba Drop-In Dance Class for All-Levels with Sofia
3696 97 Street Northwest, Edmonton,
Monday October 28 | 7:30 PM | (more info)

Concerts

🎤 JESSIA - Be Here Now Tour
The Starlite Room - Temple 10030 – 102 Street Edmonton,
Tuesday October 29 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

🎸 JJ Wilde, Fionn
The Starlite Room 10030 – 102 Street Edmonton,
Wednesday October 30 | 8:00 PM | (more info)

Family

🔍 An Epic Scavenger Hunt - Alberta’s Charming Capital
10248 99 Street Northwest Edmonton,
Tuesday, October 29 · 8am - 8pm MDT | (more info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Edmonton with architecture inspired by different planets.” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Edmonton History

1900: The great fire of Edmonton.

In 1900, the city of Edmonton was struck by a catastrophic event that would mark a significant moment in its history: the great fire of Edmonton. This devastating blaze, which erupted on a seemingly ordinary day, quickly escalated into an inferno that consumed much of the young city. Fueled by wooden structures and abetted by dry conditions, the fire spread rapidly, leaving residents scrambling to save their homes, belongings, and ultimately, their lives. The fire's ferocity was unmatched, and it became a turning point for the community, highlighting the vulnerabilities of urban development during that era.

The great fire of Edmonton not only caused immediate destruction but also prompted a period of introspection and change for the city. In the aftermath, the resilience of the Edmontonians was palpable as the community came together to rebuild from the ashes. This tragic event underscored the importance of fire safety measures and urban planning, leading to the implementation of stricter building codes and the establishment of a more robust firefighting service. The memory of the fire became a catalyst for transformation, ensuring that future growth was undertaken with a greater emphasis on safety and sustainability.

Today, the great fire of 1900 remains a pivotal chapter in Edmonton's history, serving as a testament to the strength and perseverance of its people. The event is commemorated and remembered through various means, including historical markers and educational programs, ensuring that the lessons learned from the tragedy continue to inform the city's development. As Edmonton continues to evolve, the legacy of the great fire endures, reminding us of the power of community and the importance of preparedness in the face of adversity.

Famous Edmontonians

Martha Louise Black (1866–1957): The second woman elected to the House of Commons of Canada.

Martha Louise Black: Early Years and Adventures (1866–1898)

Martha Louise Black's journey began in Chicago, where she was born into a prosperous family. Her early years were marked by a conventional upbringing, but her spirit of adventure was evident from a young age. In 1898, drawn by the allure of the Klondike Gold Rush, she left her comfortable life behind, embarking on a daring journey to the Yukon, a decision that would set the stage for her remarkable life.

The Klondike Gold Rush and Yukon Settlement (1898–1905)

Martha's arrival in the Yukon during the Klondike Gold Rush was the beginning of her deep connection to the Canadian North. Despite the harsh conditions, she staked mining claims and ran a sawmill, showcasing her resilience and determination. Her efforts to make a life in the rugged landscape earned her respect and laid the foundation for her enduring legacy in the Yukon.

Family Life and Community Involvement (1905–1935)

Martha's life in the Yukon was punctuated by her marriage to George Black, future Commissioner of the Yukon. Together, they became prominent figures in Yukon society, with Martha taking an active role in community service. She established the first chapter of the IODE (Imperial Order Daughters of the Empire) in the Yukon, demonstrating her commitment to both her community and country.

Martha Black: The Politician (1935–1940)

In 1935, at the age of 69, Martha Black was elected as the second woman to the House of Commons of Canada, representing the Yukon. Her election was a groundbreaking achievement, highlighting her dedication to the North and its people. In Parliament, she was a vocal advocate for the Yukon, focusing on issues related to its development and welfare.

Advocacy for the Yukon and National Recognition (1940–1957)

Throughout her tenure in Parliament and beyond, Martha continued to champion the Yukon's cause, earning national recognition for her efforts. She was known for her speeches that brought attention to the North's potential and needs. Her advocacy work solidified her status as a key figure in Canadian politics and a passionate defender of the Yukon.

The Author and Speaker (1957–1957)

Martha Black's influence extended beyond politics; she was also an accomplished author and speaker. Her autobiography, ""My Seventy Years,"" published in 1938, provided a vivid account of her adventures and life in the Yukon, inspiring others with her stories of resilience and pioneering spirit.

Legacy and Honors (Posthumous Recognition)

Martha Louise Black's legacy is preserved through various honors and recognitions. She was named a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society for her contributions to the understanding of the Canadian North. Her pioneering spirit and political achievements have left an indelible mark on Canadian history, making her a celebrated figure nationwide.

Connection to Edmonton

While primarily associated with the Yukon, Martha Black's influence reached into other parts of Canada, including Edmonton. Her advocacy for northern development and infrastructure improvement resonated with Edmonton's role as a gateway to the North, strengthening the city's connections to Yukon and northern communities.

Key Achievements:

• Second woman elected to the House of Commons of Canada.

• Established the first chapter of the IODE in the Yukon.

• Named a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society.

• Authored ""My Seventy Years,"" sharing her life's adventures and contributions.

Martha Louise Black's remarkable journey from a gold rush adventurer to a respected politician and advocate for the Yukon is a testament to her resilience, determination, and pioneering spirit. Her legacy as the second woman elected to the Canadian House of Commons and her enduring impact on the development and recognition of the Yukon highlight her significant contributions to Canadian history. Black's life and achievements continue to inspire, embodying the spirit of adventure and commitment to public service that defines Canada's heritage.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

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