Big Valley Alberta began to be settled even before 1910; people realized the value of the rich soil and natural grass known as Prairie Wool.

Railink has sold most of the line to a salvage company and now the tracks extend from Stettler to Big Valley.

This remaining portion is owned by a group named the East Central Alberta Heritage Society (ECHAC).

Early explorers discovered coal along the dramatic cut banks of the Red Deer River—about 19 km (12 mi) west of Big Valley.

Located about 2 km (1.2 mi) north of Big Valley, it employed over 100 men and had its own school and hotel.

The demand for this soft coal remained strong for many years and the mines continued to operate almost up to the time that gas and oil was discovered in Big Valley in 1950.

At its peak, the Fenn-Big Valley Field produced 5,352 cubic metres (35,000 barrels) of oil a day for Gulf and similar amounts for Shell and Esso.

It was started by a financial gift from Caroline Leffler (in England) who raised the $500 downpayment by making, and selling, children's clothing.

[5] At that time Big Valley, with its booming mining, ranching, and railroading industries in full swing, made it a logical spot for a new church.

The Village of Big Valley is located south of Stettler and is a busy little community one kilometre off Highway 56.

Big Valley is centrally located in the southern part of the Battle River Tourist zone.

As of the summer of 2005 Big Valley Amphitheatre will be hosting local talent including old time and modern country music, sing-a-longs and storytelling sessions.

Managed by the Big Valley Agricultural Society, facilities include ball diamonds, a playground, and access to the Agriplex for food services and dances.

There is a War Memorial in the park where respect is paid to the significant number of men who fought for Canada in wartime.