Calgary was booming in the ’50s and the Stampede benefited from the surplus cash. Bigger is better seemed to be the motto and the old rural roots started giving way to Hollywood glamour.
1950: The Stampede Corral was opened in December. The best facility of its kind in the West, it became home ice for the Calgary Stampeders Hockey Club.
1950: Casey Tibbs wins Saddle Bronc and Bareback titles.
1951: The Stampede organized a special Royal Winter Stampede for Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip in October during a visit here.
1952: Guy Weadick was an honoured guest, to mark the Stampede’s 40th anniversary. Weadick officiated at the closing ceremony, ending many years of a rift with the Stampede.
1953: Guy Weadick died in 1953, and was laid to rest in High River.
1954: Six hectares between the eastern boundary of Stampede Park and the Elbow River were added to the lease. Stampede Park’s total land base was then 45 hectares.
1954: The Sonja Henie Ice Revue was presented in the Corral during the Stampede.
1954: Evelyn Eagle Speaker became the first Indigenous Stampede Queen.
1956: The selection of a special honorary parade marshal became an annual event.
1956: A Mexican village was featured at the Stampede. It included entertainers, master craftsmen and authentic Mexican merchandise and food.
1958: A special Calgary Royal Stampede was held for Princess Margaret on July 29.
1959: The Big Four Building officially opened. In addition to its role as an exhibits building, it also housed 48 sheets of ice during the winter, making it the largest curling facility in the world.
— Chronology compiled by Karen Crosby, Norma Marr and Aimee Benoit.