Samuel A. Dickson Award

Samuel A. Dickson Award

The Samuel A. Dickson Award is presented to a Fort Edmonton Foundation donor each year.

This award provides an opportunity for the Fort Edmonton Foundation to recognize and profile longstanding supporters. These donors have dedicated their hearts, time and financial gifts to the development of Fort Edmonton Park. They are ambassadors and champions–much like Mr. Dickson.

By honouring our donors with this award we help keep the legacy of Samuel A. Dickson alive. He gathered the community together as a Rotarian, member of the Northern Alberta Pioneers and Old Timers Association, and then as a member of the Edmonton Museum Committee.

It wasn’t until 1965 when Dickson was 89 years old that the discussion to develop a heritage park was brought to the City Council. In 1967 commitment was granted, in 1969 the Fort Edmonton Historical Foundation was founded, and in May of 1974, the gates to Fort Edmonton Park were opened.

Chris Ashdown

2024 Samuel A. Dickson Award Recipient

The Fort Edmonton Foundation is honoured to recognize Chris Ashdown as a 2024 Samuel A. Dickson Award recipient.

Chris has spent nearly two decades contributing to Fort Edmonton Park through his passionate involvement with the Edmonton Radial Railway Society (ERRS) — 17 years in total, including 14 as president. Under his leadership, membership has doubled, more than $900,000 in grants have been secured, and two historic streetcars have been fully restored — each requiring over 22,000 volunteer hours.

Chris has been instrumental in numerous projects that have elevated the Park’s streetcar experience: the restoration of the Regina streetcar, expanded service for special events, a rebrand and new digital presence for the ERRS, and major infrastructure upgrades in partnership with the City of Edmonton. His work has maintained an exceptional safety record and earned international attention, with Fort Edmonton’s streetcars featured on BBC, CBC, and The Amazing Race.

Currently, Chris continues to lead the organization into its next chapter, overseeing the design of a major expansion to the streetcar barn. His passion, innovation, and commitment to excellence ensure Edmonton’s transit history remains alive and accessible for generations to come.

Through his leadership, volunteerism, and enduring dedication, Chris exemplifies the values of the Samuel A. Dickson Award. His work not only preserves the past but inspires future generations to stay connected to Edmonton’s story.

We are proud to honour Chris for his outstanding contributions and lasting impact on Fort Edmonton Park and the community it serves.