Echoes of Time: Fort Calgary's 150-Year Legacy Unveiled at The Confluence

Calgary’s historic Confluence, the site formerly known as Fort Calgary, is set to unveil a profound new exhibition that delves into 150 years of the site's intricate legacy. Titled "From This Place: 150 Years at The Confluence," this landmark presentation, opening on June 21, 2024, invites visitors to journey through a century and a half of pivotal moments that shaped not only the land but also the city of Calgary itself.

The exhibition commemorates a significant milestone: the 150th anniversary of the arrival of the North West Mounted Police (NWMP) and their establishment of Fort Calgary.

This event, often seen as the genesis of modern Calgary, is re-examined through a multi-layered lens, moving beyond a singular historical narrative to embrace the rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives that define The Confluence.

At its heart, "From This Place" is a testament to the power of diverse storytelling.

Visitors will encounter the profound history of the Indigenous peoples, including the Blackfoot Confederacy, for whom this land has been a traditional gathering place for millennia. The exhibition thoughtfully integrates these voices, highlighting the enduring significance of Treaty 7 and its ongoing relevance in contemporary society.

It acknowledges that the site is far more than just a police fort; it is a crossroads of cultures, a place of both encounter and transformation.

Through compelling artifacts, personal testimonies, and historical accounts, the exhibition meticulously reconstructs the site’s evolution. From its beginnings as an NWMP post, a symbol of Canada's westward expansion, to its subsequent roles and eventual transformation into The Confluence, a vibrant cultural hub dedicated to shared history and reconciliation, every chapter is explored with nuance.

The aim is to illuminate the complex interplay of forces – political, social, and cultural – that converged at this crucial geographic point.

Curators and historians involved in "From This Place" emphasize the importance of presenting an inclusive narrative. By juxtaposing the stories of the NWMP, early settlers, and Indigenous communities, the exhibition fosters a deeper understanding of the challenges, collaborations, and shifts in power that have characterized this land.

It encourages visitors to reflect on the concept of home, belonging, and the continuous process of nation-building from a local perspective.

Ultimately, "From This Place: 150 Years at The Confluence" is more than just a historical display; it is an invitation to engage in dialogue and promote reconciliation.

It asks visitors to consider how the past continues to shape the present and to appreciate the profound, multifaceted heritage embedded in the very ground upon which Calgary stands. This exhibition promises to be an enlightening experience, enriching our collective understanding of one of Canada's most vital historical sites.