Carstairs, Alberta, is a town with a rich history that reflects the broader development of Southern Alberta. Originally inhabited by Indigenous peoples, the area saw increasing European settlement in the late 19th century as the Canadian Pacific Railway expanded, facilitating access and economic growth.

Established officially in 1903, Carstairs grew primarily as an agricultural community, benefiting from the fertile prairie lands surrounding it. The town's name is believed to be derived from Carstairs, Scotland, reflecting the heritage of some early settlers. Over the decades, Carstairs developed infrastructure including schools, churches, and community facilities, helping to establish a close-knit community.

The town played a role in regional agricultural production, with farming and ranching as key economic drivers. In the mid-20th century, Carstairs began to evolve with changing transportation routes and the expansion of nearby urban centres such as Calgary and Calgary International Airport.

Today, Carstairs maintains its small-town charm while adapting to modern growth pressures, preserving its historical roots through community museums and cultural events that celebrate its past and rural heritage.