Why are place names so important?
Without geographical names, life would be quite difficult. Can you imagine traveling without having any indication of which creek to cross or at what hill to turn? Geographical names act as precise and accurate indicators of space. For example, you could tell someone to meet you at a lake 15 km north of Hondo, but, in fact, there are three lakes 15 km north of Hondo! It would be pretty difficult to figure out which one you meant if they didn't have names. In addition, geographical names reflect our history, culture and the events, people and places that have had an impact on us.
Does every mountain, river, lake, or other physical feature in Alberta have a name?
Officially no, but locally very possibly. Currently, the province of Alberta has just under 10,000 officially approved names. There are at least ten times that number of geographical features in the province. Some may have local names, and some may be truly nameless. Usually, where humans encounter the land, they name it. As it states in Alberta's Geographical Names Manual "the application of names to geographical features is a public trust, carried out for the benefit of present and future generations".
How do I find out about the naming process?
Here is a link to the Geographical Names Manual.
How can I find out more about Alberta's place names?
In 1996, the four-volume Place Names of Alberta series was completed. A joint effort of the Friends of Geographical Names of Alberta Society, the Geographical Names Program of Alberta Culture and Community Spirit and the University of Calgary Press, the books give available origin information on all of Alberta's official place names. With great pride it must be said that Alberta was the first province in Canada to provide such a comprehensive guide. You can also check your nearest library, or the Place Names of Alberta Website.
 Mountain Range including The Fortress, "Gusty Peak", Mount Galatea, and "The Tower" |
 Siffleur River |
How can I learn more about geographical names?
If you have a specific question or place name information you would like to share, please contact the Head of the Geographical Names Program . If you are interested in getting up to date information on geographical names events in the province, you can join the Friends of Geographical Names of Alberta Society For more information, please contact the Friends Executive Director by or at the address listed below.
Is there someone who can come out and speak to my community group or school about place names?
For availability, please contact Society Executive Director Wendy Pearce. We have a common mailing address:
Old St. Stephen's College
8820 - 112 Street
Edmonton, Alberta
T6G 2P8
Fax: 780-427-3956
Wendy Pearce Phone: 780-431-2349
Mathew Wangler Phone: 780-438-8503