Local author pens book to support scholarship fund

A new book by local businessman and philanthropist, Stewart Ford, relates the story of a family business that served Central Alberta’s pioneers, farmers, and contractors for more than 100 years.

Through stories, archival documents, and more than 250 images, Stewart Brothers: An Alberta Family Business History also gives insight into the development of the province, the lumber and building supply industry in Alberta, and the author’s life.

The book will be launched at a public event on Sunday, March 31, 2019, from 1:00-3:00 p.m. in the Red Deer Museum + Art Gallery’s Stewart Discovery Studio, which is featured in the book. The book will be available for sale, with all proceeds going to the Ford Family Scholarship at Penhold Crossing Secondary School.

Stewart Ford was the third and last generation of one of Central Alberta’s earliest businesses, Stewart Brothers (later Stewart Supplies (Penhold) Ltd. He worked in the family business for fifty-one years, from pre-teen to pensioner, eventually closing the business upon his retirement. Ford served on the Metric Commission of Canada and is the recipient of the Alberta Centennial Medal and Queen’s 60th Jubilee Medal.