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.
Robert (Bob) A. Callaway Family
The winter of 1948 was one to remember. We measured the snow in feet not inches! The farms south of Cochrane had to rely on Griffins to keep the main road
open with their D8 Caterpillar.
2026 CHAPS AGM Snippets
Together, these four presentations offer a glimpse into the work being done by CHAPS and the museum, and the people who help keep Cochrane’s history alive.
Top 10 Posts of 2025 5 through 1
Here are the top 5 posts of 2025. Enjoy, feel free to comment and click on any image for a larger view.
History Needs Champions — Will You Step Forward?
Your current Executive has served faithfully for several years. While some are willing to continue, new leadership, new energy, and new ideas are essential for CHAPS to move forward.
Carry Our Community’s History Forward
Cochrane Historical & Archival Preservation Society and Cochrane Historical Museum are looking for Volunteers to help with various projects, programs and becoming Museum Docents in the coming year. If you are interested please check out our poster and contact lynn@chapscochrane.com.
Carpe Diem: Memories of the Old Cochrane School
In the late 40s a Mr. Gish was the principal of the school. He had served in WWII and tended to run the school like a military operation. Before entering the school in the morning or afternoon we would line up in front of the building with the boys in one line and girls in another. Mr. Gish had a school bell and we had to march into the school in time with the bell.
