Welcome Book 2 | Page 11

A Brief History of Cochrane

FOUNDED ON HARD WORK & DETERMINATION

The Town of Cochrane has faced its share of traumatic events, aside from raging world epidemics, Cochrane was the casualty of three major fires; the fires of 1910, 1911 and 1916. At three different times during its existence Cochrane had to rebuild everything; its businesses, homes, and recreational facilities. Although some fires were bigger than others, many took refuge in the surrounding lakes.

The fire of 1916, which spread from the town of Matheson northward to Cochrane left over 200 people dead or missing, 22 of which resided in Cochrane, their names can be found at the memorial site of the 1916 Fire at the intersection of Genier Rd. and Concession 6 & 7.

BUILT FOR GREATNESS & ENGINEERED FOR SUCCESS

Uncharacteristic of other northern railway towns, Cochrane was built and engineered, at the time, to become a metropolitan center for the North, so that it could accommodate all rail line shipments heading to the western provinces. Many of these developments can still be seen today; Cochrane’s roads are wide, just take a look at Railway Street and Sixth Avenue! This intention led the way to ensure that Cochrane was founded and prospered on a diverse economy: rail workers, farmers, loggers, miners and entrepreneurs. All of these industries still support the development of the town today.

11