James (Jim) Gadsby was one of the first settlers of the area, as well as one of the most colourful. He left home at an early age and had a number of jobs as a soldier, gunman, outlaw, prospector, and cowhand. He was also an associate of the infamous Jesse James Gang. In the mid-1880s, Jim and his wife, Mary Root, made their home on Spotted Lake, about 25 miles east of Lacombe, and became a respected member of the community.
Learn more about Jim Gadbsy at this memorial dedicated to him and his family.