Canada Strikes Oil: Leduc, Alberta, 1947. (The People's History of the West Series). David Newman (Director). Joe MacDonald & Keith Packwood (Producers). Montreal, PQ: National Film Board of Canada, 1991. 17 min., 54 sec., VHS, $39.95. Order Number: C9190 112. Subject Headings: Petroleum industry and trade-Alberta-History. Oil fields-Alberta-History. Canada, Western-History. Grades 3 and up / Ages 8 and up. Review by Betsy Fraser. ***.5 /4

This sprightly and amusing video manages to inform viewers about an important and often overlooked part of Alberta's and Canada's history. A part of "The People's History of the West" series, this video shows what happened in Leduc in 1947 as well as explaining the importance of Imperial Oil's find in 1947 which opened the floodgates for the oil trade in Alberta.
    The video focuses on photographs from the era and cartoons illustrating stories told by Vern "Dry Hole" Hunter, the head driller from the Leduc well. Vern's own story, as well as stories he tells to illustrate the hardships and wonders of the time, are informative and amusing, a wonderful combination. Imperial Oil's decision to try one more well, after almost 150 wells came up dry, adds a sense of drama to the eventual success of Leduc's well.
    This short video would be a wonderful addition to a discussion of natural resources, Alberta's history, or Alberta's economy. By 1985, the Leduc field had produced 35,000,000 barrels, finding a place in Alberta's history.

Recommended.

Betsy Fraser is a librarian with Calgary Public Library.

To comment on this title or this review, send mail to cm@umanitoba.ca.

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ISSN 1201-9364

TABLE OF CONTENTS FOR THIS ISSUE - December 15, 2000.

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