Lethbridge Iron Works

Lethbridge Iron Works is an example of a business that came to the city because of the pro-business policy of the early 1900's. The company was introduced into Lethbridge to serve the needs of the coal mining industry. The iron works manufactured coal bits, picks, steel supports, and other products used in the mines.

P19760011034-GP Welders working hard at the Lethbridge Iron Works.

Many important members of Lethbridge society played a role in the early development of the company. In 1898, David Creighton established the Lethbridge Foundry at 1st avenue and 1st street south. C.A. Magrath, Lethbridge's first mayor, bought a share in the company in 1904. Creighton sold his shares of the company to John Silver in 1909. Silver managed the foundry until 1912 when Magrath and B.B. Hoyt bought it. Magrath's son, C.B. Magrath then managed the iron works until 1915,when he went overseas to serve in the first world war.

P19930021000-GA The Iron works supplied many business' in town with the equipment they needed to operate.

When mining slowed in the 1920's, and the coal mines died out, Lethbridge Iron Works began making farm equipment. They produced a wide range of iron products, focusing on the growing farming industry. For example, they custom made “Buffalo Brand” cultivators. The Iron Works stayed at its 1st Avenue location until 1976. When the building underwent a $2.5 million upgrade and moved into the city’s industrial park. Lethbridge Iron Works continues to operate at this location, and it is one of Lethbridge's oldest businesses.