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Photograph of the Administration building's front lawn. ca. 1935 G. Morris Taylor photograph
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Photograph of the Jasper National Park administration building decorated with Union Jack flags for the 1939 Royal visit. 1939 Frank Reed photograph
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Jasper National Park Administration Building with a World War I trophy, a German 77mm cannon in front. Ca. 1925 Clossen Otto Photograph
by Nora Findlay. Photos courtesy of Jasper-Yellowhead Museum & Archives
A New Exhibit for 2014.
2014 is the centennial of one of Jasper’s most prominent buildings. Situated in the centre of town, the Information Centre is seen by almost every visitor to the park. This beautiful stone building is described by Rustic Building Programs in Canada's National Parks as, ” one of the earliest and finest examples of rustic design in the national parks.” The Jasper-Yellowhead Museum & Archives is creating a summer exhibit to celebrate the people and events linked to this Jasper landmark.
It is one of the most interesting architectural beauties in Jasper, surrounded by equally beautiful grounds. Both the building and the grounds are of historic significance. In 1913, Government House was planned and supervised by a well-known architect by the name of Alfred Calderon. It was originally designated to be the home of the park superintendent, Colonel Rogers at the time, with a few offices for the then very small personnel.
It was built long before the streets of Jasper were paved, and whitewashed stones marked the grounds, which incorporated the entire block surrounding the home.
From the beginning and to this day great care has been used to give this area a park-like appearance, with lovely flower beds, interesting strategically planted trees, and a well-groomed lawns. Except for a small area cordoned off by the original superintendent for a chicken coop, this area has been kept sacred for all to enjoy.
The inside of the building has had to have a number of renovations to accommodate the multiple purposes for which it has been used since its innovation. In 1936, a new and lovely superintendent’s home was erected beside Seton Hospital, and Government House was then exclusively used an Administration Building.
In 1972, the administration offices for the government were moved to new quarters and the beautiful building became known as the Information Centre. More interior alterations were necessary, but through all its history, little has been done to destroy the fine structures of the outside of the original building.
Since the beginning, the Government House grounds have been used in many ways. A wide variety of performances, both by locals and by bands and groups, have been held on that lawn. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Prime Minister John Diefenbaker shook hands with the citizens of Jasper on those grounds. It has served as a meeting place for hikes, picnics and outings ever since 1913, and is still being used in the same manner.
To learn more about Government House and other engaging historic landmarks in Jasper visit the Jasper-Yellowhead Museum at www.jaspermuseum.org or call (780) 852-3013.