The past is still alive in Old Strathcona, on the south bank of the North Saskatchewan River. Named after a former president of the Canadian Pacific Railway, Old Strathcona began as a settlement in 1891, when the Calgary and Edmonton Railway arrived from the south. Strathcona continued to grow, becoming a Town in 1899 and a City in 1907. During this period many buildings were constructed, first of wood, then of brick. Development slowed after amalgamation with Edmonton in 1912, resulting in the preservation of a good number of historic buildings.
When a planned freeway threatened this historic area in the late 1960s, supporters rallied to save it. The Old Strathcona Foundation was established in 1974, and since then the cultural and economic benefits have been many. While much of Edmontons architectural heritage has been lost, some of it can still be appreciated in Old Strathcona. It is the perfect spot to see artists and performers year round, especially during the Fringe Theatre Festival. Strathcona is a lively community with a small-town look and big-city appeal, where you can enjoy unique shopping and relaxed coffee shops.
For walking tours of Old Strathcona and Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, call .
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