Calgary was first established as a city in 1894. Although we are a relatively new compared to our European neighbors, the buildings and communities that make up this beautiful city are rich with history. If the walls around Calgary could tell stories, they would be filled with adventure and resilience.
In recent years the city of Calgary has strived to maintain places with historic significance so that people can enjoy them for years to come. Rather than tare down the old to make way for the new, YYC is preserving and protecting places of historic significance. These historic sites are beautiful, educational and are more common than you may think. Heritage park may have an incredible collection of historic buildings, but the rest of Calgary has history to offer, too.
Here are some interesting historic places around YYC for you to visit during these sunny summer days:
1). THE DEANE HOUSE: Located near the Zoo, the Deane House is one of Calgary’s oldest, best-preserved homes. Stepping across the threshold is hauntingly reminiscent of Calgary during the pioneer days–in more ways than one. The Deane House is famously known as a paranormal hot spot, particularly up in the attic where doors are always opening and closing on their own… insert spooky music here. For more information, visit their website here!
2). CURRIE BARRACKS: The Currie Barracks are located in the SW of Calgary. The barracks were used as training grounds for soldiers about to embark on war during World War 2. The barracks are now used for a number of things, including a school and housing. In fact, Currie Barracks is being transformed into a new, hip neighbourhood with local businesses and extra housing being built. Wander around the historic grounds and marvel at the old and the new. More information here!
3). Lougheed House: The Lougheed house is the only remaining house of its kind and is open to visitors to tour it and learn from it. The Calgary Herald gave it a wonderful tribute, writing the following: “[The Lougheed House is] one of the finest residences in the Canadian northwest. In their day, when the population of this pioneer town was under 4,000, the Lougheeds were among Calgary’s most influential citizens; they would remain so for decades. Their house was a political and social hub of this young and fast-growing prairie centre, and received many renowned visitors.” This residence is worth the visit! Visit their website here for more information.
Have fun and enjoy our historic city!
(Photo via Canva)
Posted by Ken Richter on
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