The Big Four (Calgary)

Program for the 1912 Calgary Stampede featuring the four sponsors

The Big Four were the wealthy Alberta cattlemen Patrick Burns, George Lane, A. E. Cross and Archibald J. McLean.[1] Together they founded the Calgary Stampede, as well as other cultural and entrepreneurial activities in Calgary, Alberta, Canada in the early years of the 20th century.

George Lane and A.J. McLean were ranchers, Pat Burns owned a meat packing business and A.E. Cross was a brewery owner.[2] All four men were involved in Alberta's cattle industry.[1]

Calgary Stampede

In the summer of 1912, the Big Four were approached by cowboy Guy Weadick with the proposal for a wild west show that would "make Buffalo Bill's Wild West Extravaganza look like a sideshow."[1] They each put up $25,000 to finance the first Calgary Stampede held in September 1912.[3] The event has grown since to more than $1.8 million in prize money, and attracts more than one million visitors yearly.

The Big Four Building at the Stampede Grounds in Calgary was named for the four businessmen, and once held the largest curling rink in the world.[4]

Political careers

Legacy

See also

References

  1. 1.0 1.1 1.2 Brennan, Brian (2001). Alberta Originals: Stories of Albertans Who Made a Difference. Fifth House. p. 22. ISBN 1-894004-76-0.
  2. Glenbow Museum. "AE Cross family". Retrieved 2008-10-18.
  3. Calgary Stampede. "History of the Stampede". Retrieved 2008-10-18.
  4. "Big 4 Building - Stampede Grounds". Retrieved 2008-10-18.
  5. Brennan, Brian (2001). Alberta Originals: Stories of Albertans Who Made a Difference. Fifth House. p. 26. ISBN 1-894004-76-0.
  6. Brennan, Brian (2001). Alberta Originals: Stories of Albertans Who Made a Difference. Fifth House. p. 227. ISBN 1-894004-76-0.
  7. CBE. "A.E. Cross Junior High School". Retrieved 2008-10-18.
  8. http://www.cbe.ab.ca/schools/view.asp?id=129
  9. Peak Finder. "Mount Burns". Retrieved 2008-10-18.