GOVERNMENT HOUSE, EDMONTON, ALBERTA

Government House served as the official residence of Alberta’s first six Lieutenant Governors from 1913 to 1938 and became the centre of political and social life in the province in that era. With its imposing exterior and dramatic location overlooking the North Saskatchewan River, it reflected the provincial status acquired by Alberta in 1905 and Edmonton’s role as its capital. In addition, its eclectic architecture combining elements of the late Queen Anne Revival style with classical components inspired by the Beaux-Arts style gave it a formal character that reflected its official functions.

Built in the Glenora district, a residential neighbourhood west of downtown Edmonton, this building fulfilled its function as an official residence for 25 years. It was vacant from 1938 to 1942 and then, during the Second World War, it was leased to North West Airlines. From 1944 to 1950, it was a convalescent home for wounded Second World War veterans. In 1951, the federal government purchased the building and, under the Department of Veterans Affairs, it became a residence for veterans with disabilities. In 1964, the provincial government bought back the building and the large lot on which it sits, and undertook major renovations to convert the building into a centre for hosting government meetings and official receptions. It was refurnished and its doors opened again in 1976.

Early on, Government House became an important political and social hub for the province where many events were held, particularly garden-parties and fund-raisers organized by the Lieutenant Governor on behalf of the Red Cross or other charities. Moreover, along with the Legislative Assembly building built during the same period, it reflected the status of the new province of Alberta, which had recently joined Confederation. Its history also bore witness to the changing political and economic tides of the era. While its construction is associated with a wave of optimism and opulence that swept through Alberta at the beginning of the 20^th century, its closure was a reflection of the ongoing political conflicts combined with the precarious economic situation that prevailed in the country towards the end of the 1930s.

This impressive three-storey building was designed in accordance with the plans of provincial architect Richard P. Blakey. Irregular in plan and massive in appearance, it is made of sandstone from Calgary. The stones, which vary in size, are laid horizontally, while the trim and cornerstones are cut stone. Its highly symmetrical main façade has two large protruding gables flanking a carriage entrance made up of classical columns and pillars and topped by a balustraded balcony.

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