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When UFA celebrates its centennial in 2009, I believe our co-operative will be even stronger than it is today.
-Dallas Thorsteinson, President and CEO
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Our Heritage
UFA has a long history of adapting to the changing needs of our owners and customers, and responding to the ever-changing rural marketplace. The influence of UFA in political, social and economic areas of Alberta is a rich and interesting story full of major milestones and accomplishments.
Founding
In 1909, farmers across Alberta joined together to create a co-operative that would improve conditions for agricultural producers and bring modern conveniences to rural areas. UFA was created because a group of farmers had a vision; they would be more powerful collectively than as individuals.
Transforming Alberta
From 1921-1935 UFA was a political party and formed the provincial government. During that time, UFA secured the mineral rights that made Alberta one of Canada’s wealthiest provinces. It also worked to establish equal rights for women and to promote education and health care for rural communities.
Petroleum
In 1957, UFA saw an opportunity in an unexpected venture and purchased Maple Leaf Petroleum. A move intended to help members meet their bulk fuel needs, has grown to represent more than two-thirds of UFA annual revenue and serves our customers and owners through more than 120 locations throughout Alberta, BC and Saskatchewan.
 History in Motion Request (PDF : 36 KB)
Timeline
- 1909 – The Canadian Society of Equity and Alberta Farmers Association amalgamate and becomes United Farmers of Alberta with President James Bower at the helm.
- 1921 – Dissatisfaction with existing political parties convinced the farmers to form their own political organization. UFA wins 38 of 60 seats and forms the new provincial government. Caucus selected Herbert Greenfield (1865-1949) as Alberta’s first UFA premier.
- 1921 – Irene Parlby, leader of the United Farm Women of Alberta, and member of the “Famous Five” is elected to the Legislature and subsequently becomes Canada’s first female cabinet minister.
- 1925 – John Brownlee replaces Greenfield as premier. The UFA government gains control over natural resources and promotes equal access to education and health care for rural communities.
- 1935 – The UFA Co-op partners with Maple Leaf Petroleum, a subsidiary of Imperial Oil. A new era in UFA history begins.
- 1939 – Four years following the loss to William Aberhart’s Social Credit Party, members pass a resolution to take UFA out of Alberta’s political arena and focus their attention on the farm supply and petroleum businesses.
- 1954 – The first farm supply store is opened in Calgary, recording $855,802 in sales during the first year.
- 1957 – UFA purchases the entire assets of Maple Leaf Petroleum for $1 million and gains independence in its operations for member-owners.
- 1962 – The first Youth Program is held aiming to build interpersonal and leadership skills in Alberta youth.
- 1995 – UFA establishes a youth advisory council of 15 members, which leads to such initiatives as AGVANTAGE 25 and other youth-driven programs.
- 1998 – UFA purchases Stirdon Systems, recognized as a leader in providing high quality equipment and services for grain handling systems, farm feed mill systems and modern facilities for swine and poultry.
- 2008 – UFA prepares to celebrate its 100 year anniversary and opens a new head office in Calgary
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IN THE NEWS
To thank you for your patience, interest on your statement is taking a month off
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Members and customers help UFA Co-operative Limited reach another record year
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UFA Co-operative Limited announces new board of directors
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In The News Archive
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