Have you ever taken a walk in your neighbourhood, or been out on a drive, and your eye is immediately drawn to a house? It has old windows, brick façade, ornate details, and what looks to be the original woodwork. It is so romantic! It is a historic home! If your anything like us, your mind wants to know what went on in the home, who’s lived there, what stories does it have to tell. We have many of these historic gems in our city, and below are a couple that made us look twice.

Sarah McLellan Residence – 11125 – 84 Avenue, Edmonton

This house is like our own little piece of southern charm! I could sit a spell on that porch sipping my tea, watching the world go by! I wonder if Sarah McLellan ever did that. She emigrated from Scotland and built this home in 1913. At that time this house was valued at $4500. Can you even imagine! It is a fine example of the architectural sensibilities of Edmonton’s upper-middle class in the early twentieth century. The inside of the home has also remained intact, despite it’s various uses over the years. Perhaps it’s most notable use was from 1916 to 1922, where it was a nurses’ residence for the nurses working with First World War casualties at the military hospital that was located where the University of Alberta Hospital stands today.

Lester Allyn House – 9932 112 Street, Edmonton

This house is so charming, and may be one of the most intact houses from the pre- First World War period left in Edmonton. It has been home to many affluent business members in Edmonton including Lester Allyn himself, who built the home and lived in it. It was then sold to Frank Ford, Chancellor of the University of Alberta and a Justice of the Supreme Court of Alberta.  The house was also home to Arthur Dodman, general manager of the Hudson’s Bay Company in Edmonton from 1915-17. You just know those walls would have great stories to tell if they could!

 

 

MacPherson Residence – 11519 University Avenue, Edmonton

Known locally at the time as “The Last House” when it was first built as it was surrounded by empty fields and was the last house one would encounter if heading west from Strathcona. Dr. MacPherson and his wife built and moved into this home in 1913. In 1918, Dr. MacPherson became President of the Edmonton Academy of Medicine. In 1919, he was elected as the Public School Board Trustee for Edmonton and was a vocal supporter of married women being allowed to teach in schools. Dr. MacPherson was also among the founding members of the Mayfair Golf and Country Club in 1922. And this may be my favourite part, The MacPherson Residence has never passed into the hands of strangers and has been, so far, home to five generations of Mrs. McPherson’s family.

Molstad House – 9633 95 Avenue, Edmonton

Built in 1912 for Edmonton realtor Edward H. Molstad and wife Addie, it is said this two-storey brick and wood house originally rested on five acres of land and was surrounded by a circular driveway, fountains and trees..oh my! This was the ultimate house for hosting, and became well known in the community for its annual Christmas parties for the local children. I imagine it to be like a scene straight out of a Hallmark Movie! In 1931 it was converted into an apartment building, but it was restored to its original glory by Walter and Jean Kipp. The Molstad House is also one of the first houses to receive historical designation.

Historic homes are a true gift! From the stories they have to share to the beautiful craftsmanship that you just don’t see today. So get on out and explore Edmonton’s historical homes. Take yourself for a guided stroll, or head on over to the City of Edmonton Website where you can find historical walking tour brochures, which include maps and photos along with the history of everything you will encounter. Historical Walking Tours | City of Edmonton

Cheers,

The Beech Woolger Team