St. Paul's alien landing pad, a white circular platform in the town center, was built in 1967 as a centennial project, funded by federal grants. A plaque greets potential extraterrestrial visitors, expressing hope for a universe free from 'national wars and strife.' The pad features provincial and territorial flags and a stone map of Canada with rocks sourced from across the country.
A Symbol of Unity Amid Separatism
Former town councillor Edna Gervais, now a community liaison at Portage College, called the landing pad 'a national unity symbol.' As Alberta prepares for an Oct. 19 referendum on whether to hold a separation vote, the town's landscape leans federalist. Neighbourhoods near Upper Therrien Lake display over 25 'Forever Canadian' signs and maple leaf flags, while only one Alberta separatist sign was found, partially hidden in a backyard.
Separatists and Alien Believers
Gervais likens separatists to those who believe in UFOs but keep quiet. 'The federalists are showy, the separatists have secret handshakes,' she said during St. Paul's UFO Days, comparing the secrecy of separatist views to alien abduction stories. The town's main street is lined with Canadian flags, contrasting with the lone separatist sign.
UFO Sightings and Local Lore
Judy Thompson, staffing a local art sale during UFO Days, recalled a sighting at age 14 near Mann Lake. She saw a triangular charcoal-coloured object hovering, but paused her story, saying, 'There's more to it,' unwilling to share details with customers present. The sale featured UFO-themed trinkets, ashtrays, and stickers alongside local art.
Historical Context
The landing pad, located about 185 kilometres northeast of Edmonton, reflects the 1960s vision of the future, reminiscent of Star Trek, which was in its second season at the time. The pad's plaque states it is a 'symbol of our faith that mankind will maintain the outer universe free from national wars and strife.'
