Beginning in 1911, black families from Oklahoma began moving to Canada in order to escape rampant racism. Around 300 blacks moved into Amber Valley/Pine Creek area east of Athabasca, beginning in 1910.

What is now a county’s recreational and historical site was once as a bustling community between 1910-1940, with Black pioneers.

With baseball tournaments, annual dinners, weddings, and any sort of community events, the Amber Valley Cultural Centre has become a staple in the neighbouring communities keeping the legacy of those who created the town of Amber Valley alive.

Photos: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068008511113

Obadiah Place was the homestead of Willis Reese Bowen who was the first pioneer to settle in Amber Valley in 1911. This later became the home of his son Obadiah Bowen who was the pastor for the town. It is the oldest surviving house in the community and had four farm outbuildings and a phone booth.

Photo: Historic Resources Management Branch, Alberta Culture and Tourism.