82

Rural families were the backbone of life in Didsbury. They supplied the
food and products needed to survive the often harsh times that were part
of the growing pains of a small town. Although methods and machinery
have changed the love of the land and the pride, ownership and roots of
family heritage still remain.

Exploring each of our founding families, we have discovered how the politician, urban,
and rural families are interdependent on each another. Rules and laws were required to
operate a town in a fair and democratic manner. As new settlers arrived urban businesses
and services were needed to meet the needs of the families, animals, and equipment.
Rural families provided food and farm products for people living in the urban centres.
Through co-operation, consideration, and sharing of knowledge, supplies and services
Didsbury developed into a prosperous town.

83

Aerial View of Town of Didsbury
2010
Didsbury, Alberta, Canada