Little known facts about living in Medicine Hat

If considering relocation to Medicine Hat or “the Hat” as locals call it, there’s a lot you will simply adore about this hidden treasure prairie city located in Alberta, Canada. With its sunny climate, rich history, and vibrant culture, it’s a wonderful place to settle down. With a population of just over 63,000, it’s a small enough city to feel like a tight-knit community, but big enough to offer plenty of amenities and opportunities. So let our experts from Centennial Moving Canada help you explore everything that living in Medicine Hat has to offer firsthand.

Ten little-known facts about living in Medicine Hat

Here are some little-known facts about living in Medicine Hat that might come as surprise to anyone who has ever considered a move to Alberta or Canada.  The city has a lot of job opportunities, a variety of markets, and restaurants. Also, the city has a vibrant community of artists and is renowned for its sustainability, storied history, sunny days, festivals, and much more. Not to mention the number one remarkable trivia about this place, its distinctive name and historical legacy with interesting tales. Whether you’re moving cross country or coming to Canada for the first time, you will easily settle down with a little help from local movers such as moving companies Medicine Hat offers.

People living in Medicine Hat are often happy, and let us tell you why.

1. It has an intriguing history

The history of Medicine Hat is rich and varied.  This place has been home to a variety of people and cultures, with archaeological findings indicating that people have been living in the area for more than 5,000 years. Initially, the city was a meeting point for the Blackfoot First Nations. However, ultimately grew to become a critical location for the fur trade.

2. It is home to the world’s largest tepee

Standing at 215 feet tall, the world’s largest tepee (or tipi) holds its ground in Medicine Hat. Built in 1991, the Saamis Tepee is an impressive sight and a testament to the city’s indigenous history. Below the Saamis Tepee in scenic Seven Persons Coulee lays one of the Northern Plains archaeological sites – the Saamis Archaeological Site. The area was once a buffalo camp and meat processing site. Additionally, experts believe over 83 million artifacts are buried at the site.

Saamis Tepee in Medicine Hat was originally constructed for the Calgary 1988 Winter Olympics.

3. Medicine Hat is the sunniest city in Canada

With an average of 330 days of sunshine per year, residents of Medicine Hat get to enjoy more sunshine than any other city in the country. This means that winters are mild and summers are hot, making it an ideal place to live if you love the outdoors. If these hidden insights into living in Medicine Hat have sparked your interest and fortified your decision to move, consider exploring facts about how some of the affordable Canadian moving services can assist.

4. Medicine Hat is a city of festivals

Throughout the year, Medicine Hat hosts a variety of festivals and events. This includes the Medicine Hat Exhibition and Stampede, the Sunflower Festival, and the Canada Day Celebrations. All of these events bring the community together and offer something for everyone.

5. It’s heaven for art enthusiasts

Medicine Hat is a perfect environment for artists to thrive. It has a variety of galleries, studios, and events that showcase the incredible talent of local artists. Whether you’re a painter, sculptor, or musician, you’ll find a community eager to support and collaborate with you.

6. Medicine Hat is very affordable

One of the most appealing facts about residing in Medicine Hat is its affordability over other places in Alberta as well as some of the lowest property taxes in Alberta. Housing is relatively economical with a range of options available to suit different budgets and lifestyles. Moreover, is also plenty of grocery stores, restaurants, and markets with competitive prices.

The idyllic beauty of Medicine Hat is one of the top reasons for living there

7. Medicine Hat is a leader in sustainability

Medicine Hat is a synonym to sustainability. The city is famous for its efforts in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting renewable energy. It is also home to a number of green initiatives, including a biogas plant that converts organic waste into energy. Given that the city lies on the South Saskatchewan River and on the Trans-Canada Highway about 50 km west of the Saskatchewan border, Centennial Moving recommends getting informed about the services of a car shipping company in Canada you can leverage to make your move a smooth experience.

8. Natural gas was accidentally discovered in the Medicine Hat area in 1883

The discovery of natural gas in Alberta was an accident that began a massive industry. In 1883, the Canadian Pacific Railway was drilling for water for its transcontinental railway fifty-five kilometers northwest of Medicine Hat. Also, the drilling stirred up the natural gas industry in the Medicine Hat area. In 1910, Medicine Hat residents created their own gas utility board.

9. Medicine Hat’s name and its controversies

There are a few explanations for how the city got its unusual name. The name ‘Medicine Hat’ is based on either: A battle between the Blackfoot and Cree; A native legend involving love and human sacrifice; A landmark that looks like an Indian’s (medicine man’s) headdress (i.e. ‘medicine hat’ Saamis, in Blackfoot (Siksika)).

10. Rudyard Kipling supported Medicine Hat’s community efforts to preserve the city name

In 1910 some residents petitioned to change the name of the city. They claimed the name was deviating from the norm. However, a number of old-school Hatters strongly opposed this proposal.  They went ahead and sought support from the famous English writer Rudyard Kipling. As a result, thanks to their initiative and Kipling advocating for the traditional name, the legacy of Medicine Hat continued to be preserved.

So, how does living in Medicine Hat seem?

In conclusion, living in Medicine Hat is a great choice for many reasons. The city offers a high quality of life at an affordable cost, making it an ideal destination for everyone. The city’s rich history, thriving arts scene, and stunning natural landscapes provide residents with a diverse range of cultural and recreational activities to enjoy. Also, the community is friendly and welcoming, and public spaces and amenities are well-maintained. Whether you’re looking to start a new chapter in your life or simply seeking a change of pace, Medicine Hat has something to offer everyone. So why not consider making Medicine Hat your new home?