ROCKGLEN — The hills around Rockglen are a portal into the past; what is the story of the lowly seashells lying on top of the hills? Can you hear the ring-stone taking you back to a different era in time? What are the secrets hiding under the pointed prairie pyramids covered in wild grass? Look for the staircases cut into the sides of the hills created by the antediluvian waves as the glaciers melted; where do they lead? You will notice the straight black lines that are embedded in the hills and ditches that go on for miles, what do they mark and why?
The Rockglen area was once the home of ancient reptiles and forests of massive trees, and you can see the fossil evidence of this hiding in the streams and fields. Fresh-water shrimp, source unknown, carried by underground streams. Many say that the rocks around Rockglen give off an aura of spirituality. You may find some the answers to these early mysteries at the Rockglen Tourism Station and Information Centre.
A visit to the Station, as it is known, allows you the opportunity to see some of the special fossils and reproductions garnered from the area including a hadrosaur skull that was the first fossil found in Canada by George Mercer Dawson. Have your picture taken with Oliver, our mastodont, or sit in the 100-year-old Diamond Willow chair made by Ches Sproule the first administrator of the town. The Station offers local crafts and souvenirs for sale and in the Tearoom, you can enjoy a refreshing drink, coffee, or a sweet ice cream treat.
Take a walk around a lovely modern small town where older buildings have been updated. You can stroll up Main Street where you will see the beautiful Dreamland Theatre at the top of the hill. Now hosting a spin studio and café, the building retains many of the original seats and acoustics from the bygone era. The owner of the 68 Café has artistically repurposed many antiques and if you are lucky, you can ask and get a tour of the old theatre building.
Above the Dreamland Theatre you will see the old Red Cross Hospital, now a beautiful home. On a leisurely walk around town, you will see the old Lutheran Church, next to the Post Office, now a private residence. Another former church in town, Wesley United, has now been renovated into The Prairie Crafters Market, a showplace featuring the artistic works and crafts of local artists and many from around the province.
Pay a visit to the Rockglen Heritage Orchard, a serene space planted with flowers and fruit trees of many varieties lovingly cared for by volunteers. There are walkways to wander and a gazebo where you can sit with friends or just meditate, do not forget to sign the guestbook. Lastly, keep an eye out for the delightful murals that you will encounter all over town.
Nestled in the Burning Hills, Rockglen has inspired a thriving artistic community. It is a small town with a big heart and friendly people will make sure you will always remember your visit!
