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1950 and Beyond:
After 1950, Old Glenora and Capital Hill entered a period of relative stability until the late 1970s and early 1980s when a process of subdividing double lots began on some properties and new homes were built. In the early 1950s, unused train tracks could still be seen at the east end of the bridge over Groat Road on 102 Avenue and trolley buses were used for the route along the Avenue. An exciting new feature of the area was the addition of the fountain at Alexander Circle in 1954. The biggest construction project in the neighbourhood began in the 1960s to create the Provincial Museum adjacent to Government House.
By the late 1970s and early 1980s, young families were moving into the neighbourhood and it it was felt that the history of the area was getting lost as former residents left. The 40th anniversary of Glenora School created an impetus to create a historical record of the neighbourhood and this ultimately resulted in the establishment of the Old Glenora Historical Society which published the Old Glenora book in 1984.
As the neighbourhood evolved, residents became increasingly concerned that the heritage of the area was being eroded by insensitive new developments and in 2013, the same year that Government House became a National Historical Site, a group of residents spearheaded the formation of an association to address the concern. The Old Glenora Conservation Association was formed and an early initiative to document the significance of the area to Edmonton was successful in convincing the City to conduct an Inventory of Historical Resources in the community. The Report was published in 2017.
Early 1950’s
Courtesy: City of Edmonton Archives EA-10-790
The Edmonton Yukon & Pacific Rail tracks are visible in the foreground at the east end of the bridge on 102nd Avenue over Groat Ravine. The tracks are removed when the Groat Road is constructed later in the decade.
1954
Courtesy: Provincial Archives of Alberta PA74
The fountain, installed in 1954, is paid for by the 14 families that reside on the Circle with the agreement that the maintenance will be the City’s responsibility. Alexander Circle is named in honour of Lord Alexander of Tunis, in the early 1990’s, when addresses around the circle become increasingly confusing to the postal service.
1967
Courtesy: Provincial Archives of Alberta A1169A
The Provincial Museum and Archives Building is constructed on the 29 acre site of Government House by a funded partnership between the Federal and Alberta Governments in celebration of Canada’s Centennial year. Significant sculptures celebrating Alberta’s history contribute to the beauty of the stone building.
1968
This home, on 3 lots along St. Georges Crescent becomes the official residence of the Lieutenant Governor. It is later demolished in March 2004.
1984
The Old Glenora Historical Society publishes a limited edition of 750 copies of OLD GLENORA written by long time resident Peggy O’Connor Farnell who lives in The Graenon, the first house built on St. George’s Crescent. Seventeen members of the Society research the history of this ‘Garden City Suburb’ with participation from early residents, many of whom were able to provide firsthand accounts. The book spans the period from the early settlement of the land by pioneer Malcolm Groat and concentrates on the years up to the end of the Second World War.
Invitation to the OLD GLENORA book launch in the historic Cornwall House.
The Evening Launch of the OLD GLENORA book with committee members of the Old Glenora Historical Society and author Peg Farnell, far right, holding flowers.
2005
Between May 23rd and 25th, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh visit Alberta to celebrate Alberta’s Centennial year. On May 24th Her Majesty tours the Provincial Museum of Alberta and unveils a bronze plaque bestowing a new title, the Royal Alberta Museum.
Courtesy of the Government of Alberta
Her Majesty walks to Government House after the official ceremony at the newly renamed Royal Alberta Museum.
Courtesy of the Government of Alberta
Her Majesty, hosted by Lieutenant Governor Norman Kwong and Mrs. Mary Kwong, is seen greeting visitors prior to attending a tea at Government House.
2013
Alberta Government House
Alberta’s Government House is Placed on the National Register of Historic Resources.
Alberta’s Government House, A Vice-Regal Residence by author Jane Ross is published.
Invitation to the “Centenary Celebration Launch”
In August of 2013, the Old Glenora Conservation Association is established to be a voice for the residents of Old Glenora and Capital Hill. The Association aims to maintain the neighbourhood and its significant historic character by supporting the terms of the Carruthers Caveat and the ‘Garden City Suburb’ layout of the neighbourhood. The first meeting is held early in 2014.
2015
The Old Glenora Conservation Association is successful in convincing the City of Edmonton to undertake a heritage inventory of the entire Glenora Neighbourhood.
December 6, the Royal Alberta Museum in Glenora is officially closed 48 years after its opening and its future remains undetermined. A new Museum building constructed downtown is later opened on the old Central Post Office site.
Awaiting the evening’s program, a stage is set for the ceremony to recognise the closure of the Royal Alberta Museum on the grounds of Government House.
Courtesy: Alberta Government
The High Level Bridge is brightly lit in Royal Alberta Museum purple to acknowledge and honour the Museum on its final night.
2017
The Glenora Historic Resources Inventory Report is completed. One hundred and sixteen properties are added to the Inventory of Historic Resources in Edmonton. The report identifies 3 areas within the oldest part of the neighbourhood that possess characteristics that could merit special protection.
To view the PDF Document Click Here. Please note, it is 2309 pages so it will take a moment to ‘Load’. Alternatively, a link to the PDF Document can be found on our RESOURCES Page.
2019
The Old Glenora Conservation Association begins work with the City of Edmonton and the Community on a Heritage Zoning initiative. Click Here.