Historical Society

Lethbridge’s 1946 Victory Rally and Rodeo

For southern Alberta and Canada, the Second World War dominated the years between 1939 and 1945.

Finally, in 1946, after six years of war, Lethbridge and area were ready to celebrate and participate in post-war activities.

The Victory Rally and Rodeo was a celebration for returning service personnel coming home from the War, as well as an opportunity for everyone to celebrate peace and the return of normalcy

Herman Linder outlined the early plans for the Victory Rally in a presentation before City Council. Scheduled were a parade, rodeo, dancing, midway shows and rides and performances by the Hell Drivers. The Parade Marshall was Gene Autry, the Singing Cowboy, known for being a movie and TV star as well as a guitarist and singer. Autry also performed at the exhibition.

Also present at the event was Patsy Rodgers, the first Calgary Stampede Rodeo Queen.

Did You Know?

Lethbridge Historical Society

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Photographs: Gene Autry leading the Lethbridge parade in 1946, P20021086016; and Patsy Rodgers sitting on a horse at the 1946 Lethbridge Exhibition, P20161098022