Balzac, Alberta is a quaint hamlet nestled in Rocky View County, within the Calgary Metropolitan Region of the Canadian province of Alberta. This charming community is conveniently located just west of Queen Elizabeth II Highway, at the intersection with Highway 566. It's a mere 24 km (15 mi) north of Calgary city centre and 12 km (7.5 mi) south of Airdrie, making it an ideal stop for those traveling through the region.
Balzac is part of census division No. 6 and falls within the Alberta federal electoral district of Banff—Airdrie. As of July 31, 2007, Balzac is immediately adjacent to Calgary's northern city limits. Moreover, it's directly west of the popular CrossIron Mills shopping mall, offering visitors a variety of shopping and dining options.
The history of Balzac, Alberta is deeply intertwined with the Canadian Pacific Railway. In 1910, a railway station began operating in Balzac, named by William Cornelius Van Horne, then president of the Canadian Pacific Railway. Van Horne, a fan of literature, named the station after one of his favourite authors, Honoré de Balzac (1799–1850), a renowned French novelist.
On April 1, 1912, a post office was established under the name "Beddington," but the name was changed to Balzac on July 1, 1925. The first warehouse in Balzac was built in 1916, primarily for coal storage. Notably, Canadian Senator and senate reform advocate Bert Brown hails from Balzac, adding to the hamlet's historical significance.
Despite its rich history and convenient location, Balzac, Alberta maintains a small-town charm. According to the 2006 municipal census conducted by Rocky View County, the population of Balzac is 1. This unique demographic detail adds to the allure of Balzac, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a quiet, peaceful retreat in the heart of Alberta.
