Alix Wagon Wheel Museum

05/22/2026

Alix or Toddsville? Which name do you like better?

FACT OF THE DAY: Did you know that Alix was originally called Toddsville after the first family to settle here? In 1901, Cynthia and Joseph Todd migrated from Michigan to begin their homestead in what is now just North of Alix. Later on, the President of the Canadian Pacific Railway, Sir William Von Horne, decided to rename the town after Alix Westhead. Sources tell us that the two were 'close friends' despite Alix being married to Rancher Charles Westhead. It is also said that the name was a dedication to her beauty.

Also! Alix Westhead is to thank for Irene Parlby settling here, as she is the friend Irene came to visit before deciding Alix is where she would like to make her home.

05/19/2026

What was your favourite toy?

Did you have a Cabbage Patch Kid, or did you make toys out of sticks? This week's featured display is on toys throughout history!

Cabbage Patch Kids were originally created in 1976, while the slingshot dates back to 10,000 B.C. Toys may come and go out of style, but play is forever.

Come down to the Wagon Wheel Museum and take a look at our toy box! We're open Tuesday-Saturday from 10 to 5.

05/16/2026

SPECIAL FEATURE: Jim Hazlett

There used to be various local light horse shows in Alix, Lacombe, and Stettler. People would travel to these shows, collecting points in hopes of qualifying for the Show of Champions in Old's, where the top contestants would compete. Jim Hazlett was a key part of the Central Alberta Light Horse Association (CALHA) Show of Champions, serving as CALHA President for several years.

Jim Hazlett was known for his dedication, selflessness, friendliness, and desire to see others succeed. He was extremely well-liked and admired for his strong character. Since he was a big part of the Show of Champions, the executive wanted to honour him and created the Jim Hazlett Memorial Trophy. The winner of this award was chosen based on their emulation of Jim’s character. The winner was dedicated, friendly, and selfless in their participation in CALHA.

In 2012, the Show of Champions and CALHA began to disband. There is currently no active CALHA anymore. When the Show of Champions ended, the plaque was given to the last recipient, Anita Gillard, who passed it on to close friends of Jim Hazlett’s. Since then, this memorial trophy has found its way to the Wagon Wheel Museum. Those associated with the plague felt it was important for it to remain in Alix, as that was where Jim was from and where he made his life.

Jim and his wife, Milly, came to Alix in the spring of 1974 and purchased the Harold Clarke farm East of Alix. Jim was self-employed with a backhoe and welding shop on the farm. He spent the majority of his time acting within the Alix Agricultural Society. In fact, Jim was President of the society for a time, working to get the 1981 fair underway.

05/16/2026

Looking for something fun to do this summer?

Join the Central Alberta Regional Museums Network Summer Passport. Discover the rich heritage of Central Alberta with this fun challenge. All you have to do is visit each museum, get a stamp, and take a picture. Each museum you visit is an entry to win!

Join today! Stop by the Wagon Wheel Museum

05/15/2026

The Sargent Community School was founded January 4, 1900 and named after the family whose land it resided on. The school quickly became a hub for rural activity. Besides educating local children the Sargent Community School held dances, card parties, picnics, bingo, and many more fun activities.

The original one room school house was rebuilt in 1946 and then closed for the first time in 1956 due to centralization. Then in 1958 the school was purchased from the municipality for a community center.

The Sargent Community School officially closed its doors in 2009, shortly after its 100th anniversary.

05/14/2026

05/13/2026

ATTENTION CRAFTERS & ART LOVERS:

come down to the Wagon Wheel Museum to take in creations made by local artists. From paintings, tatting and rug making to hodgepodge Alix is not short on talent.

05/12/2026

What can you not leave the house without?

Our new special feature displays houses some of the everyday items a women might take with her when going out on the town!

This display features some of the very fashionable items that have their home in the Wagon Wheel Museum. Featuring a blue velvet hat, crocheted gloves, horned rimmed glasses, a velvet purse, a fan, and a gold bracelet.

Let us know what would be in your display!

05/09/2026

SPECIAL FEATURE: Bathing Suits

With summer upon us its time to dust off your bathing suit! In the 1930s wool bath suits were common for men (right) and women wore full dresses accompanied with a matching sun hat (left).

How comfortable do you think these pieces would be? Let us know if your plan to bring these styles back.

05/08/2026

That's right, we are officially open! Come visit us this summer to learn some fun facts about Canada and the Village of Alix. Fun for all ages!

05/07/2026

SPECIAL FEATURE: The Old Black Kettle

Unlike the kettles you see today this one won't short you! This model of kettle used to be in every home and campfire to make delicious stews or boil water to wash your clothes!

Come down to the Wagon Wheel Museum and see kitchenware you can't find anywhere else!