Land acknowledgement
The Town of Cochrane gratefully acknowledges that we are situated on Treaty 7 territory, the traditional lands of Iyarhe Nakoda peoples of the Chiniki, Bearspaw and Goodstoney First Nations. Treaty 7 is also home to the Tsuut’ina, Niitsitapi peoples of Siksika, Piikani and Kainai First Nations, as well as the homelands of the Métis residing within the Rocky View Métis District of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government within the Métis Nation of Alberta.
Early Cochrane
In 1881, Senator Matthew Henry Cochrane established Cochrane Ranch, later to become the Town of Cochrane. The Canadian Pacific Railway granted the town site in 1885, naming it in honour of Senator Cochrane. Despite the surrounding ranch population, few people called Cochrane home at this time.
It wasn’t until 1903 that the hamlet of Cochrane became a village, with a population of 158 in 1906. Shortly after, Cochrane saw a small population boom, with 395 residents by 1911. At this time, before the First World War, Cochrane was home to a stone quarry, a sawmill and four brick plants. Skilled artisans in the community applied their talents to local products to construct buildings of quality and individual style, giving Cochrane a unique and special character.
Cochrane's growth
Following the First World War, Cochrane’s growth slowed. Economic issues and a shortage of workers meant that local industries shrunk. While many residents left Cochrane during the war years, the Town continued to act as a service hub for rural populations.
Cochrane remained a stable but small village until after the Second World War. By 1971, the population had grown to over 800 people, and Cochrane was incorporated as a town. This was coupled with a general economic boom in the 1970s. New residents sparked a surge in construction. This period of expansion also started a process of modernization that saw the demolishing or resurfacing of many older structures.
Cochrane today
Today, Cochrane is known for its western heritage, unique buildings and popular main street. In 2003, the Town celebrated its centennial with a completed downtown revitalization, helping make Cochrane a popular tourist attraction. As of the 2024 municipal census, Cochrane’s population is officially recorded at 37,011.
This historical record is courtesy of the Cochrane Historical and Archival Preservation Society.