Magrath is one of two settlements whose origins are tied to the construction of the Galt Irrigation Canal. In 1898 the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints entered into a contract with the Alberta Irrigation Company, which called for the Church to provide labor to construct the Galt Irrigation Canal and to develop two villages of 250 persons each.
Since its completion the area around the canal was transformed into a beautiful park with a fish pond, fountain, walking trails, all surrounded by evergreen and cottonwood trees. Along the walking trails there are numerous dedication plaques, informational signs and an NRHP for the canal. Included is this memorial plaque for J.A. Spencer for his tireless work and dedication to preserving the history of the Galt Irrigation Canal.
John Arthur Spencer was born in Saint George, Utah on March 16, 1896 and passed away on October 29, 1984, he was 88 years of age.
Spouse: Olga Annie Therese Soderman Spencer was born January 10, 1897 in London, England and passed away on February 20, 1988.
John Spencer - Parents:
John Taylor Spencer was born August 29, 1870 and passed away on January 13, 1955.
Eleanor Critchfield Spencer was born on October 14, 1869 and passed away on December 21, 1960.
J.A. SPENCER
MEMORIAL
IRRIGATION PARK
John Arthur Spencer was born in 1896,
son of John T. Spencer and Eleanor Critchfield,
who arrived in Magrath in 1899.
A veteran of WWI and II, J.A. Spencer
dedicated his life to serving his community
and country. He was best known for his
work as an historian, specializing in the
history of this region and Native artifacts.
He was the author of several papers &
books, including the Irrigation Builders.
Transcribed from plaque