Dickson is the oldest Danish settlement in Western Canada, as well as the home to the largest Danish settlement on the Canadian Prairies. It was settled in 1903 by seventeen Danish settlers from Nebraska. The 17 original Danish settlers came to the Dickson region in hopes of owning their own land and establishing a future for their families. The struggles and hardships of homesteading were endless, but the pioneers worked together to build the community of Dickson.
In 1905, Carl and Laura Christiansen, two of the original settlers, opened a post office in their home. In 1909, Carl built and opened the General Store in Dickson. The family lived on the second floor. The general store contributed largely to effort of building the community. Carl Christiansen bartered with farm produce and lumber allowing pioneers to obtain essential supplies. The Christiansen family continued to operate the store until it closed in 1980.
Restoration of the store began in 1987 through the unselfish efforts of many dedicated volunteers, and in 1991 it was officially opened as a museum by Queen Margrethe II of Denmark. The Dickson Store Museum is a 1930’s restoration of the general store, post office, cold room, and living quarters. Outside facilities include a grassy picnic area and the restored lumber shed. Old fashioned candy, souvenirs and local artisan crafts are available in the museum store and Foothills Ice Cream is served in our quaint Ice Cream Room.
