
Posted by C Drotsky C Drotsky
Glenora Community is one of the oldest and most desirable areas in Edmonton. The area has elegant, impeccably-maintained homes, many of which date back to the early 1900s. On the eastern boundary, there’s Groat Road, named after the original landowner. On the northern side, the boundary is 107th Avenue with the western boundary being 142nd Street. The McKinnon Ravine and the river valley create the boundaries on the southern side. The Glenora Community real estate often costs more due to demand. The homes are elegant, and the view of the river valley makes it a very desirable location. However, the history of Glenora Community didn’t begin with a rash of land purchases but rather the determination of one man, James Carruthers, a grain merchant and land developer.
History
Carruthers bought the land that composes Glenora community in 1905 and saw its potential for a residential area. However, one problem existed; a large ravine, later named McKinnon Ravine, which made transportation to the city difficult because it separated the town of Edmonton from the property. Within four years, Carruthers made an agreement with the city to build a bridge if the city would offer streetcar service to his new residential area. The bridge is now part of 102nd Avenue and made transporting materials for the construction of the new homes possible.
One of the first buildings in the area was the mansion of the lieutenant governor of Alberta, now called Government House, completed in 1913. Another home, built in 1914 is the Graenon. This 3,152-square foot mansion was the family home of Peggy O’Connor Farnell, the author of the Glenora Historical Book which chronicles the many changes of the community.
Things to Do
One of the places of interest to visit in Glenora Community is the Royal Alberta Museum, which overlooks the river valley. It has exhibits that range from the history of GWG, a division of Levi Strauss Company, to fossils, the history of native cultures, and even teepees for children to enter. The museum rotates in a variety of exhibits and has had some interesting displays such as the dragon exhibition and even famous children’s authors reading their works. The museum doesn’t end after you leave the building; there are many historical sites on the grounds of the museum such as the Government House, Ksan Totem Pole and the Abstract Fountain.
If you love the soothing atmosphere of a beautiful park, Glenora Community has its fair share. Faith Clifton Alan McDonald Memorial Park, Glenora Park, Alexander Circle, MacKinnon Ravine Park and Samuel Dickson Rotary Park are just a few. There are also functions offered by the Glenora Community League. Glenora Community offers the North River Valley Biking Trails you can use to bike to the Victoria Golf Course.
Schools
Glenora Community offers several schools for their constituents, including private schools. The Glenora Elementary and Westminster Junior High are part of the Edmonton Public School System. However, the St. Vincent Catholic Elementary operates on the auspices of the Edmonton Catholic School System. The Progressive Academy is a privately owned school.
The Glenora Community League
The Glenora Community League promotes the betterment of the Glenora area. It offers social opportunities such as the Glenora Champaign Brunch, held at the Royal Glenora Club and public service events and announcements. It provides a wonderful collection of facts on the history of Glenora Community and provides the members with diverse programs including tennis, baseball, basketball, preschool programs, an indoor playground and soccer. Membership to the Glenora Community League also allows you to use the Edmonton Community League skating rink and the Grant McEwen Pool for free.
In addition to the social events planned throughout the year, the Glenora Community League also allows members to rent the community hall for a very small fee. The cost for membership is extremely low and slightly over $1 a month for single individuals. Every September, the Glenora Community League canvases the neighborhood for new members but there are also other opportunities for membership, including joining at the outdoor skating rink or online.
Shopping
There are three business areas in Glenora Community: Jasper Avenue, 124th Street and 102nd Avenue. These areas contain mostly small businesses, coffee shops and restaurants. However, you’re only minutes away from the downtown shopping area in Edmonton containing major department stores and approximately 425 specialty shops.
For more information on communities in Edmonton, visit Mel Simmons Real Estate website.