CHAPS Cochrane Historical Museum
Cochrane Historical & Archival Preservation Society
Beautiful Scenery
Visitors to the CHAPS Museum in Cochrane, Alberta are within an hour’s drive of Banff National Park and the mountain playgrounds west of Calgary that offer year round outdoor activities in a beautiful setting.
Located within The Cochrane Ranche
The Dominion Government incorporated a company in 1881 and it was known as the Cochrane Ranche Company. (excerpt from Big Hill Country page 155).
The Museum Building's History
Constructed in 1909 by the Davies family using bricks from the Collin’s Brick Yard. Built to be used as a hospital/nursing home and private residence. Moved to its current site in 2014.

Experience the history of
Canada's West
Through the eyes of its settlers, ranchers and farmers;
the service and supply businesses, the educators and more.


2022 Top Stories Part 2 – 5 to 1
Here is part 2 of our 2022 Top Stories as chosen by your readership count.
Click on the photo to go to the original story.

What’s new in Cochrane February 1917 and 1924
Banff Highway
Considerable discussion is taking place in Cochrane at the present time with regard to a rumor that the Provincial Government is being asked to consider the advisability of changing the course of the Calgary-Banff highway from its present position, to the south side of the Bow River.

2022 Top Stories Part 1 – 10 to 6
We’re pleased to count down our top ten stories of 2022 chosen by your readership count. Here are numbers 10 through 6.
Click on the photo to go to the original article.

Herbert and Gertrude Fox Family
By the terms afforded by the Veterans Land Act, he was now able to borrow the money he needed to move forward with his plans for ranching. Twenty dollars an acre bought him the half section located nine miles up the Grande Valley, but he found himself fairly under-equipped to begin working his new property, starting out with only an axe, his Swede saw, and a prize Adams saddle.

Passing of the Torch 2022
CHAPS recognizes the passing of 3 members this past year. With each passing, we lose some of the drive, spirit, and memories that have made Cochrane and the area such a wonderful place to live. However, we are grateful for the impact they have made.