The Ditchriders of Chestermere
Chestermere Lake, originally named Reservoir #1 by the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR), was functional by 1906 as a crucial part of the irrigation system. Among the key figures ensuring the smooth operation of this system were the ditchriders. Although tasked with patrolling irrigation ditches, their responsibilities extended far beyond mere observation.
The role of a ditchrider was multifaceted, requiring a blend of practical skills and personal diplomacy. Beyond the physical tasks of maintaining canal infrastructure and managing water flow, ditchriders served as intermediaries between the CPR and local farmers. They were entrusted not only with the technical aspects of irrigation, but fostering positive relationships within the community as well.
Joseph Bannerman, former Calgary alderman and member of the Northwest Territories Legislative Assembly, was likely the first CPR employee at Chestermere. By October 1910 he was living at the Lake, where he played a supporting role in a rescue involving a canoe mishap. The Calgary Daily Herald reported that the rescued individuals were taken to Bannerman’s home, “where dry clothing was secured, and stimulants were applied.” In the 1911 census his occupation was noted as “Inspector CP Irrigation Canal.” This may have been an early title for ditchrider or perhaps just a more grand job description provided by Bannerman himself.
Ditchriders like Edward ‘Ted’ Staves became integral members of their respective communities. Ted had a fascinating journey from war hero, decorated for his bravery on the battlefields of World War I, to steward of CPR irrigation in Chestermere by late 1918. The original Chestermere Headquarters property had been bought by the previous ditchrider, so the Staves family moved into a newly constructed company house in early 1919. Ted served at Chestermere until mid-1933 when he was tragically killed in an accidental shooting.
The CPR Irrigation Department provided essential items for each ditchrider, including a house, barn, and five to eight acres of land for growing animal feed. Ditchriders had to acquire two horses, a buggy, and a saddle, with costs deducted from their salary if provided by the company. They could keep up to two cows, a sow with piglets, and one hundred poultry, but were prohibited from selling or giving away excess produce, with any surplus directed to company stores. Each headquarters was to be a showcase for what could be done with irrigation. The ditchrider was responsible for planting and caring for trees, shrubs and a food garden, all on his own time. They were also required to inspect the company’s telephone lines as part of their daily duties.
The drought and depression of the 1930s led the CPR to make plans to divest itself of its unprofitable irrigation system. By 1942, the announcement of the abandonment of the irrigation system prompted alarm among water users, sparking negotiations that ultimately resulted in the transfer of the system to the farmer-controlled Western Irrigation District (WID) in March 1944. Although often overlooked in historical narratives, the dedication of ditchriders played an important part in ensuring that much-needed water was delivered to farmers on time.
Today, Water District Supervisors employed by the WID fill the role formerly occupied by CPR’s ditchriders. Using modern technology, they continue to support area farmers in their task of producing food for Canada and the world.
Photo Credits: Courtesy of Libraries and Cultural Resources Digital Collections, University of Calgary
1. Newly built Chestermere Ditchrider’s Headquarters, 5 November 1918. (CU140763)
2. Ted Staves and wife Margaret in front of Chestermere Headquarters, 22 June 1926. (CU140761)
