A local philanthropist has given a huge gift to the Calgary Stampede in honour of the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth's 100th anniversary.
Bill Siebens, rancher and businessman, donated nearly 8,000 acres of the O.H. Ranch to the Stampede foundation.
The ranch west of Longview houses a number of historic buildings including a ranchhouse that dates back to 1885, an old Cook house, and a replica of a Northwestern RCMP cabin.
Siebens says he donated the property with its long-term care in mind.
“Alberta has been my home for 54 years. I made my career in the oil business, raised my family here and have a deep attachment and love for the Foothills country west of Calgary,” said Bill Siebens.
“Things turned out well for me and I want to make this gift to the Calgary Stampede Foundation for a few reasons. The Stampede is 100 years old this summer. I’ve been at 54 of those Stampedes. I know that in their hands the southern portion of the O.H. Ranch will be well cared for the next 100 years.”
The land is valued at over $11M.
