Born in Elgin county, Ontario, in 1860, Archie McLean heeded the call: “Go West Young Man, Go West,” in 1881. Upon arrival there he began studying the problems of the cowmen and by 1887 had fitted himself for the responsible position of partner and manager of the CY Ranch located in the foothills of Southern Alberta.

Establishing offices in Lethbridge and Winnipeg he built up an export cattle trade which made the name “Archie McLean” synonymous with fair dealing and business integrity. Many of the cattle that he exported were destined to the markets of London, Liverpool and Glasgow.

During the early years of the 20th century he answered the call of his fellow citizens to represent them in the provincial parliament. Upon being elected by an overwhelming majority he was selected by the premier to fill the post of provincial secretary and in this capacity made a valuable contribution to the affairs of the province.

Mr. McLean was a member of the “Big Four” which organized the Calgary Stampede.