Markerville…Small and Proud
by Shaune Jonasson
As we explore the Icelandic settlements in Alberta, one particular area comes to mind. Markerville began as a small community and has remained relatively small over these many years. However, despite its size, it is no less important than any other Icelandic settlement in North America. Its footprint is as impressive today as it ever has been.
A small area along the Medicine River in the central-western area of the then North West Territories became home to approximately 50 Icelanders in 1888. They had travelled from the Dakota Territory and Wisconsin, where they had experienced years of drought and very little return for their efforts. They sought better land and began to look further north and west in Canada.
Sigridur J Bjornsson was elected by a group of Icelanders in North Dakota to make a trip searching for land that with water accessible for their livestock and fishing. Stopping in Calgary, Bjornsson met Olafur Goodman, who lived in the area for a time and was well acquainted with an area north of Calgary called Medicine River. 1
Scouting the area, Bjornsson reported seeing green rolling hills and meadows growing in fertile soil. There were rivers and tributaries where shrubs and trees grew, and home to many fish. The scouts, learning land surveys were completed in the area, sent word. This area appeared to meet the requirements. It was a somewhat isolated area, but one where the Icelanders felt their living conditions would thrive and they could continue with their culture. 2
The settlers, after travelling by train to Calgary via Winnipeg, continued their remaining 100 kilometers (67 miles) by horse-drawn wagons. Perseverence was key as they faced challenges of river crossings and rough, sometimes muddy ruts along the trails.
The were greeted with green rolling hills, rivers and tributaries, with woods and parkland areas. The sloughs produced much needed grasses for hay. Resources were plentiful for both the settlers and their livestock.
The initial homesteads were built up along the east banks of the Medicine River. A year later, in 1889, another group of Icelanders settled slightly north of the first settlers. Among them was Stephan G. Stephansson, who became known as the greatest Icelandic language poet since the 13th century. He remained an influential member and leader of this community for many years.
The earlier years in the district left many discouraged. Weather patterns saw alternating wet and dry summers, with the drier summers happening in the first years of their arrival. The success they sought was not immediately realized. Stephansson, a farmer himself, encouraged them not to give up, saying that mixed farming was the best choice. Many remained, but some chose to leave.
As with other Icelandic settlements of this era, the two communities focused on literature and education, religion and social clubs. They built schools, a church, a community hall and a post office. Within the area, they had helped to construct roads and bridges to cross the rivers and tributaries.
The post office bore the name Tindastoll, the same as the hamlet. It is said that the landscape reminded many of their homeland of Iceland. Its name, selected by Stefansson, was from a mountain in northern Iceland. 1,2
The first school was built in 1892 from locally sourced materials and volunteer efforts. It was erected across from Stephansson's home. "Hálaskóli" meaning the School in the Hills, was the name given to the school. Twelve years later, in 1904, it was rebuilt along the Medicine River. Another school was built in Tindastoll, establishing the two school districts.
Religious beliefs were not unified in the area. In 1900, the Markerville area formed a Lutheran congregation and had a church built in 1907.
Tindastoll’s ladies, in 1891, formed a club known as “Vonin” meaning “hope”. Their mandate was to provide assistance to those in need and support the Lutheran church, as well as contributing to the religious education of the younger generation. They held a Tombola (a craft fair or bazaar) annually to raise funds. The Vonin Ladies Aid still remains active in supporting their community after more than 135 years.
By 1894, various businesses became established. Two creameries began operations; one owned by Helgi Jonasson, and another by Jon Benediktson on his homestead. They each expanded to include the making of butter. By 1899, both struggled mostly due to the federal Department of Agriculture’s partnering with local organizations. Both Jonasson and Benediktson closed their creamery businesses. By 1902, the increased demand for butter was the incentive for constructing a new facility west of Tindastoll of the banks of the Medicine River.
The success of the creamery prompted other business growth. Jonasson and Benediktson capitalized on this opportunity. In 1899, they each opened a general store in close proximity to the other.
By 1903, additional surveys were completed on the land behind the businesses. It became known as Markerville, a name selected to honour Dr C.P. Marker, the Danish-born Dairy Commissioner of the then North-West Territories.
The hamlet of Markerville was thriving, soon becoming the more prominent community in the area. Other settlers of Danish, Swedish, and American immigrants, arrived, sourcing their supplies in Markerville.
Also in 1903, a community hall called “Fensala Hall”, which means “home of the Gods,” was constructed, which soon became the hub of the community’s social events. The Vonin club was active with the concept of Fensala Hall.
The Icelandic settlement expanded when the second generation of Icelandic families established their homes in the area. Icelandic traditions and customs remained important and festivals were celebrated. Some of the younger generation married partners outside of the Icelandic community. The Icelandic customs continue, but fewer remained in the area to share in the celebrations.
The Markerville population grew to about 100 people at its peak but remains a small hamlet today with a population of approximately 40 people.3 Many buildings from the early days are still visible.
In 1974 the Stephan G. Stephansson Icelandic Society was formed with the mandate to restore the landmarks in Markerville. The first restoration was the homestead of Stephan G Stephansson that was completed in 1976 and opened as a Provincial museum. Visitors from across the globe have visited the Stephansson House Museum.
The creamery, worn and weary after being disregarded for years, was restored to depict its original appearance of 1932. Visitors are welcome to visit the Markerville Creamery Museum and relax in the coffee shop.
Today, Fensala Hall remains an important landmark in Markerville and is designated as a Provincial Historic site. It is attributed with keeping the Icelandic community and its traditions alive. The 2006 restoration, which included the addition of a commercial kitchen and other modern amenities, hosts the annual Fensala Hall concert Series as well as many other special events.
The Markerville Lutheran Church, originally built in 1907, was also refurbished. It has become the venue for many events, including weddings and a special Christmas Eve service.
The Buttermaker’s House is the latest restoration project, opening its doors in September 2023. This is a single-resident house located on the banks of the Medicine River. Artists of all mediums can rent the house while they continue their work. They are welcome to join in the community’s activities while in residence.
Additionally, Tindastoll Cemetery became dilapidated and required reclamation. The Stephan G. Stephansson Icelandic Society took the responsibility, and through community effort, donations, and hard work, the restoration of the grounds was completed. The Vonin Ladies Aid assists with the upkeep of the Tindastoll Cemetery.
Additional Reading and Resources:
1_Lindal, W. J. The Icelanders in Canada. National Publishers Ltd., and Viking Printers Limited, Winnipeg. 1967. (pg 191-198)
2_Historic Markerville https://www.historicmarkerville.com/
Wikipedia: 3_Markerville https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Markerville Stephansson House https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stephansson_House
Icelandic Roots https://www.icelandicroots.com/
Travel Alberta: Markerville Historic Markerville | Canada's Alberta
