The Wild Rose Badlands are among the coolest destinations in Canada, but there’s one village in particular that really stands out.
Located less than 20 minutes from Drumheller, Wayne, Alberta used to be a bustling settlement with over 2,490 people, most of whom were miners and their families.
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Now, it’s widely considered a ‘ghost town’ despite a remaining population of 28 residents.
As for what’s left from its heyday? Only a saloon and hotel – both of which have a sorted past.
Originally built in 1913 across the street from the mine, ‘The Last Chance Saloon’ and ‘Rosedeer Hotel’ are actually open for business and are often visited by tourists and locals looking for an adventure off the beaten path.
In both, black and white photos are displayed and old mining gear occupies space, but what’s more, bullet holes can be seen in the wall of the bar.
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“In the 1920’s this bar was called the Bucket of Blood because of the fights the miners got into,” owner Fred Dayman recalls on their website.
“My mom says the miners were pretty good because they would go outside to fight. They’d sit and drink and get arguing, then they’d go outside, beat the hell out of each other, then come back in and drink some more. They were friends again.”
For this reason, it should come as no surprise that many believe the buildings to be haunted.
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In fact, it’s been the subject of many paranormal investigations – though nothing has been proven without a shadow of a doubt.
If you’d like to check it out yourself, be their guest – at your own risk, of course, and take some pictures.
It’s an interesting place with some even more interesting stories, some of which you won’t believe.
Happy travelling and good luck. You never know what you’ll hear, see or feel in such a place.
The Last Chance Saloon and Rosedeer Hotel – Wayne, Alberta
Where: 555 Jewell St Drumheller, Alberta
