101 Barclay Parade SW
Calgary, AB T2P 4R3
Property For Lease

The Eau Claire & Bow River Lumber Co. was established in Calgary in 1886 by lumber interests from Eau Claire, Wisconsin, interested in the potential value of southern Alberta timber. The company soon grew to become the largest supplier of lumber in the North West Territories. The mill was located along the Bow River between 3 and 4 Streets W. It became the parent company of numerous other local industrial firms, including the Calgary Iron Works, the Calgary Milling Co., and the Calgary Water Power Co. Ltd. The present building was the second office erected by the lumber company and served both that business, and the power company. It was built circa 1903-04. The building has undergone some changes: the original roof has been raised to a cross-gable roof with dormers, and a full concrete basement has been developed, but the building retains its character as a small wood-frame commercial building of the beginning of the century. Its drop siding is well preserved, and the double-hung sash windows are replicas of the originals. The building has excellent historical significance for being the sole survivor of this important group of companies that involved prominent Calgary businessmen. The lumber company gave the name "Eau Claire" to this part of town. The sawmill closed in 1945, and the building ceased to serve the lumber company in 1951. The relocation of the building to its permanent spot at Eau Claire Plaza is an excellent opportunity to enhance the already well developed Bow River pathway. The success of the Simmons building retail environment in East Village highlights a destination that adds value to an already amazing pathway. The addition of the Eau Claire plaza and future retail development will create another destination that will add interest and expanded options to the area. Further additions, like the kiosks that have recently been added near West Eau Claire and the Peace Bridge also add to the experience of the pathway.