History

Recent stories about history


A picture of a neon sign in downtown Edmonton
history downtown

A moment in history: Feb. 21, 2014

On this day in 2014, Edmonton's Neon Sign Museum lit up for the first time.

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A man in a plaid shirt stands smiling next to Fringe posters.
arts history

Fringe historian to document Edmonton theatre history

Gerald Osborn, the Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival's first official historian, told Taproot that he always lies that he was at the first festival in 1982.

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A newspaper clipping that reads, "Long-time garage now a cafe"
history architecture

A moment in history: Feb. 14, 1986

On this day in 1986, the story of one of Edmonton's oldest former garages was told.

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A newspaper clipping that talks about the King Edward Hotel.
history downtown

A moment in history: Feb. 7, 1931

On this day in 1931, Edmonton's premier hotel was offering a Sunday dinner for 50 cents.

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A newspaper advertisement for the Rainbow Ballroom.
history entertainment

A moment in history: Jan. 31, 1951

On this day in 1951, those looking for a party were getting ready to hit one of Edmonton's hottest clubs.

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A newspaper clipping that reads, "Queen Mother's phone stolen"
history

A moment in history: Jan. 24, 1975

On this day in 1975, thieves stole a telephone that had been custom-made for Queen Elizabeth.

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A newspaper clipping showing people who contributed to the Citadel in 1975, including Sandy Mactaggart.
history arts

A moment in history: Jan. 17, 1975

On this day in 1975, one of Edmonton's most influential philanthropists was being honoured for contributions to the Citadel Theatre.

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A newspaper clipping from 1916 that details an orchestra performance at the Hotel Selkirk.
history downtown

A moment in history: Jan. 10, 1916

On this day in 1916, one of Edmonton's most storied hotels was hosting an orchestral performance.

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A newspaper clipping discussing the Freemason Hall.
history downtown

A moment in history: Dec. 20, 1946

On this day in 1946, a funeral was held in the Freemason Lodge downtown.

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