Google Maps Could Never: Trails to The Confluence | Hot Dogs & Hot Takes on History

Hot Cakes & Hot Takes on History

Event Date: Thursday, Aug. 27
Event Time: 7-8:30 pm | Doors open 6:30 pm
Cost: $15 (+ fees)
Ages: 13+
Register by: Aug. 24

Before there was a Calgary, before there was a fort, and long before anyone dreamed of vehicles, roads or railways, people already knew exactly how to get here. 

At this installment of Hot Dogs & Hot Takes on History, naturalist, author, and public historian David Finch invites you to travel back 300 years to discover why five ancient trails all led to the place we now call The Confluence. These carefully chosen routes connected people, landscapes, and cultures long before modern maps existed. 

This isn't your typical history lecture. Join us as we sketch maps by hand, compare what we think we know with what the land has always known, and uncover the geography that made this place one of the most important gathering places on the prairies. Streets, rivers, parks, and neighbourhoods will reveal stories that have been hiding in plain sight for centuries. 

Come for the hot dogs, stay for the realization that Google Maps is only about 300 years late to the party. 

For more information, including speaker bio, visit theconfluence.ca/events/hdht-aug2026

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ABOUT HOT DOGS & HOT TAKES ON HISTORY

Debunk and debate local histories at Hot Dogs & Hot Takes on History! Every month, a historian or specialized expert will share their research and offer new perspectives on the history we think we know.

Every Hot Dogs & Hot Takes event kicks off with a short presentation on a historical topic by the guest speaker, followed by an interview facilitated by The Confluence President Jennifer Thompson, and an open discussion where you can offer your knowledge and questions about the evening’s topic.

For this special edition event, pancakes are included with your ticket.

Learn more about this event and all upcoming topics at theconfluence.ca/hotdogsandhottakes