Alix, a quaint village nestled in central Alberta, Canada, is a place where history and community spirit intertwine. Located northeast of Red Deer, Alix is a community that proudly showcases its unique heritage and vibrant culture. The village's mascot, the Alix-Gator, is a beloved symbol that can be seen on numerous signs and businesses throughout the area.
The settlement that would become Alix was initially named Toddsville, after Joseph Todd. However, when the settlement was incorporated on June 3, 1907, it was renamed in honor of Alexia Westhead, the first white woman settler of the community, who was affectionately known as Alix. The first mayor of Alix was Robert F. Sanderson, who also owned and operated the general store.
Alix Westhead's friend, Irene Marryat, was invited to visit in 1896. After meeting local farmer and Oxford graduate Walter Parlby, Irene became Mrs. Parlby and made Alix her new home. Irene Parlby's public life began in 1913 when she was chosen as secretary of the Alix Country Women's Club. Her public role expanded when she was elected President of the United Farmers of Alberta's (UFA) Women's Auxiliary and later served as the local MLA from 1921 to 1935.
Irene Parlby's political career reached its zenith when she was appointed a cabinet minister when the UFA formed the government of Alberta in 1921, a position she held for 14 years. In 1935, she was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from the University of Alberta. In 2009, Parlby and the other members of the Famous Five were posthumously appointed honorary senators.
According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Alix had a population of 774 living in 343 of its 385 total private dwellings, marking a 5.4% increase from its 2016 population of 734. The village spans a land area of 3.11 km2 (1.20 sq mi), resulting in a population density of 248.9/km2 (644.6/sq mi) in 2021.
In the 2016 Census of Population, Alix recorded a population of 734 living in 343 of its 385 total private dwellings, a decrease of 11.6% from its 2011 population of 830. With a land area of 3.13 km2 (1.21 sq mi), it had a population density of 234.5/km2 (607.4/sq mi) in 2016.
Alix, Alberta, with its rich history and welcoming community, is a charming village that offers a unique glimpse into Alberta's past while providing a warm, friendly environment for its residents.
