Mayerthorpe, a charming town nestled in central Alberta, Canada, is a destination that offers a unique blend of history and modernity. Located approximately 120 km northwest of Edmonton, Mayerthorpe is conveniently situated at the intersection of Highway 43 and Highway 22, also known as the Cowboy Trail. The town is enveloped by the scenic Lac Ste. Anne County and is part of Alberta's Census Division No. 13.
The history of Mayerthorpe dates back to 1915 when the post office was established. The town was named in honor of R. I. Mayer, the first postmaster. The term "Thorpe" is derived from Old English, signifying a hamlet or village. Mayerthorpe officially incorporated as a village on March 5, 1927, and later as a town on March 20, 1961.
The town has witnessed significant events over the years. On March 3, 2005, the Mayerthorpe tragedy occurred, where four officers serving with the Mayerthorpe and Whitecourt detachments of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) were killed.
On July 29, 2008, the Mayerthorpe Arena was destroyed by a fire. However, the resilient community bounced back, and after three years of meticulous planning and fundraising, the new arena, now known as the Mayerthorpe Exhibition Centre, was officially opened in 2011.
In 2016, Mayerthorpe faced another challenge when a string of suspicious fires resulted in the destruction of a CN trestle bridge. The bridge was promptly rebuilt in about twenty days, showcasing the town's resilience and determination.
According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Mayerthorpe had a population of 1,259 living in 511 of its 572 total private dwellings. This represented a change of -4.6% from its 2016 population of 1,320. The town, with a land area of 4.39 km2, had a population density of 286.8/km2 in 2021.
In the 2016 Census of Population, Mayerthorpe recorded a population of 1,320 living in 540 of its 600 total private dwellings. This was a -5.6% change from its 2011 population of 1,398. With a land area of 4.37 km2, the town had a population density of 302.1/km2 in 2016.
Mayerthorpe, Alberta, with its rich history and resilient spirit, is a town that continues to thrive and grow, offering a unique blend of past and present for residents and visitors alike.
