Discovery Series Ornament – Alberta
Discovery Series Ornament Alberta is the first-ever mini mug for this Canadian Province.
Alberta joined the Canadian Confederation on September 1, 1905, as one of two provinces (along with Saskatchewan) carved from the Northwest Territories. The region was shaped by Indigenous peoples, including the Blackfoot, Cree, and Métis, before the arrival of European fur traders in the 18th century. The completion of the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1885 opened Alberta to settlement, while the discovery of oil at Leduc in 1947 transformed the province from an agricultural economy into Canada’s energy powerhouse. Today, Alberta balances its oil and gas wealth with its ranching heritage, world-class mountain tourism, and vibrant cities like Calgary and Edmonton, which embody the Western Canadian entrepreneurial spirit.
Mountains and lakes define Alberta’s stunning Rocky Mountain region, with Banff and Jasper National Parks showcasing snow-capped peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, and pristine wilderness. Lake Louise’s impossibly blue waters backed by Victoria Glacier create one of Canada’s most photographed scenes, while Moraine Lake rivals it for dramatic beauty. The Canadian Rockies draw millions of visitors annually for hiking, skiing, wildlife viewing, and experiencing landscapes that seem almost too perfect to be real. These protected mountain areas represent Alberta’s natural splendor and commitment to preserving wilderness alongside resource development. The contrast between rugged peaks and prairie flatlands defines Alberta’s diverse geography.
Great horned owls reign as Alberta’s official provincial bird since 1977, with these powerful raptors inhabiting forests, prairies, and even urban areas throughout the province. Recognizable by their distinctive ear tufts and deep hooting calls, great horned owls are fierce predators hunting at night. These adaptable birds represent Alberta’s diverse ecosystems and successful wildlife populations thriving across varied landscapes.
Fossils abound in Alberta’s badlands, particularly in Drumheller’s Royal Tyrrell Museum region, where some of the world’s most significant dinosaur discoveries have been made. The province’s ancient rock formations have yielded countless dinosaur skeletons, making Alberta one of the richest fossil sites globally. Fossils represent Alberta’s prehistoric past and contributions to paleontological science.
Honey production thrives in Alberta, with the province producing more honey than any other Canadian province, thanks to vast canola and clover fields. Alberta’s beekeepers maintain millions of hives that pollinate crops while producing high-quality honey. Honey making represents Alberta’s agricultural diversity beyond cattle and grain farming.
Alberta beef is renowned worldwide for its quality, with cattle ranching deeply rooted in provincial identity and culture since the 1800s. The province’s grasslands and grain production support a thriving cattle industry producing premium steaks and beef products. Alberta steak represents cowboy heritage and the ranching traditions that shaped Western Canadian culture.
Agricultural heartland stretches across Alberta’s prairies, with wheat, canola, barley, and other crops making the province a major grain producer. Family farms and large agricultural operations sustain rural communities while feeding markets worldwide. Agriculture represents Alberta’s foundation before oil wealth and the continuing importance of farming to the provincial economy and identity.
