Farm families were a major part of the Jewish presence in Southern Alberta early in this century. Eighty years ago there were as many Jews living on the land in this area as in the cities.

      Most lived on the three farm "colonies," clusters of homesteads organized by the Jewish Colonization Association. Jewish-Russian immigrants moved to vacant homestead lands to form the Trochu (1905), Rumsey (1907) and Montefiore (1911 near Sibbald) colonies.

      Other Jewish farmers were independent homesteaders. Jewish farm families worked the land near Alliance, Acadia Valley, Cochrane, Rockyford, Okotoks and other areas as early as 1907.

      The pioneer farmers endured great hardship in their efforts to turn the inhospitable prairie into warm homes and fertile fields. A few gave up quickly, but many stayed on to build thriving farm enterprises. The major colonies were able to provide many Jewish communal services. They had, briefly, Rabbis, Hebrew teachers, Yiddish libraries and active social calendars.

      Decline began after 1920, when the communities gradually succumbed to the superior business, job and educational opportunities available in the towns and cities. The Depression and drought of the 30's sped the exodus. Some stayed on their homesteads, and a few Jewish families still work the land here and there in Alberta, but the Jewish experience in the province has become a largely urban one.

      Jewish homesteading brought several hundred Jews to Alberta, men and women whose descendants continue to enrich and lead our community. The heyday of Jewish farming lasted for only 25 years, but they were years of vitality, colour and richness.