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Lacombe's Flatiron Building, pictured, was given Municipal Historic Resource designation in 2021. (rdnewsNOW file photo)
campbell block and presbyterian manse

Lacombe gives two buildings historic resource status

Mar 2, 2024 | 11:22 AM

The City of Lacombe has officially designated Campbell Block and Presbyterian Manse as Municipal Historic Resources.

According to the City, the Campbell Block is a two‐story brick‐clad building prominently situated on two‐and‐a‐half lots in Lacombe’s historic downtown. The current iteration of the Campbell Block was built in 1920. However, the western wing of the block was built in 1899 during the city’s first significant boom period. Its unique construction and architecture were directly connected to the pre-1900 and interwar development periods.

The Presbyterian Manse has historical value in Lacombe as a symbol of early development. The property and surrounding area are associated with some of Lacombe’s earliest settlers. The building was constructed in 1902, with St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church (now St. Andrew’s Church) purchasing the property in 1903 as a home for their minister. The house remains intact, with many character-defining features.

“Our community values historic significance of properties and architecture and is renowned for it,” Mayor Grant Creasey said. “Appropriate designations ensure these buildings will remain protected in our community for years to come. I want to thank the current owners of these properties and the Heritage Resources Committee (HRC) for their diligent work in recognizing the historical value of these community treasures.”

The following buildings/ structures have been previously designated as Municipal Historic Resources:

• St. Andrew’s United Church (2013)
• Lacombe Blacksmith Shop (2015)
• Young Residence (2016)
• Urquhart/ Kanngiesser Building (2016)
• Michener House (2016)
• Lacombe Cenotaph, Lest We Forget Park (2016)
• Fraser MacDonald Building (2017)
• Flatiron Building (2021)
• Trimble Residence (2022)
• Denike Block (2022)

“The Campbell Block has watched over our downtown with dignity and grace for over 100 years, and the Nowochin family has been its steward for many of those years. The HRC thanks the owners and looks forward to assisting them in ensuring the building has another 100 years,” says Myles Chykerda, HRC chair.

“The Presbyterian Manse is only the second residential building in Lacombe to be elevated to the Historic Registry. Ron and Hilda Nowochin have meticulously cared for their home for many years, and this historic designation ensures that their work and care won’t be callously undone in future.”

For more information on the City’s Heritage Preservation Program and to view a map of municipal historic resources in Lacombe, visit lacombe.ca.