GIROUXVILLE

Located approximately 106 km north-east of Grande Prairie, Alberta on Highway 744 is the Village of Girouxville, or approximately 9 km west of Falher. Population of 306 people. (2006 stats) Is a rich French Canadian community and is a strong farming community.

Originally the community was known as Fowler, a name given by the railway when it first opened a train station at the settlement. The name was changed in 1915 after one of the first settlers "Giroux". The First post office opened in 1917. The Cree Indian lived in the area and had called it "umstosee owuskee" meaning "Frenchman's Land". In 1941 a Credit Union was incorporated followed by a Co-op store. In 1951 Girouxville was incorporated as a village.

Since there is no hospital in Girouxville, people must travel east to the McLennan Hospital. RCMP service is also available from McLennan. The Golden Age Manor in Girouxville has 18 units.

Some of the larger businesses of Girouxville include the Caisse Horizon Credit Union and the Co-op Bulk Station. Also located south of Girouxville is Smoky Pork which started operation in 2002 and the Feed Lot Pig Barns which employs a fair number of people. That business started around the year 2000.

Honey production in the area is a major industry with thousands of bee-hives located through-out the area.

The Village of Girouxville office (780) 323-4270. Girouxville Chamber of Commerce (780) 323-2346.

The Annual Religious Pilgrimage is held each August to the Grotto of our Lady of Lourdes located in the centre of Girouxville. Has been a tradition for over a half of a century. A large number of artifacts - statuary, paintings and reliquaries are located in the church, in the grotto and at the Museum. 14 statues are situated at this site.

Events: Many people come to celebrate Chinook Days which is now held every 4 years. Games, sleigh rides, businesses have a trade show, and the Museum is free all day which also provides home made ice cream.

2009 EVENTS OF THE PEACE COUNTRY

Musee Girouxville Museum located on main street was built in 1968. Features a collection of over 6,000 artifacts recalling native, pioneer and missionary life. Also many articles of the early years. Open May to September. 5015-50 Street. (780) 323-4252.

Girouxville Sports club. 5204-51 Street. The Curling Rink has 4 sheets of ice and has many bonspiels during the winter. Located next to outdoor basketball court and outdoor skating rink. (780) 323-4244.

Located on the corner of 50 Avenue and 49 Street is the Paroisse Notre Dame de Lourdes Parish. It holds mostly French services every weekend.

Girouxville Community Hall. Many weddings are held here including the Ladies Auxiliary Fall Ball. The Town's Christmas Party is held each year and many annual meetings are held in the hall as well. 5012-48 Avenue. (780) 323-4111.