Peace River is nestled in the valley of the majestic Peace River, the residents here enjoy living in one of the most beautiful physical settings in Alberta. The abundant forests, wildlife, rivers and streams make Peace River a peaceful, and unique vacation opportunity. Peace River's community offers a full range of modern education, health care, recreation and business opportunities. Businesses here provide the town and area full service. The economy thrives with the oil and gas industry, minerals, and agriculture.In 1792, during Alexander Mackenzie's epic journey to the Pacific Ocean, he established Fort Fork on the south bank of the Peace River. The fort was located just upstream of the confluence of the Peace and Smoky Rivers, near what later became the Town of Peace River. Between 1910 and 1916, the rail lines were extended north from Edmonton. With rail came an influx of settlers and others interested in harvesting the Peace Country of trees and oil. Numerous steamboats plied the waters of the Peace, but none more famous or as large as the D.A. Thomas which after 15 years of service, sank in 11 feet of water in 1929. Rail transport became the most important link to the south at the end of the steamboat era. To date, the Town of Peace River functions as a thriving regional trade and service centre for northwestern Alberta. Many of the businesses related to the natural resource sector in northern Alberta, centre their operations in Peace River and take advantage of the variety of services available in the community. Peace Rivers' beauty and activities will keep you coming back time and again! Today, Peace River has a population of over 6,000 residents and it's land mass covers just under 25 square kilometers. |