Calgary’s Historic Firehall No. 6: A Restored Landmark with a Past

The historic Firehall No. 6 in Calgary has transformed from an active fire station into a restored landmark, capturing the city’s rich history. Built in 1906, this two-storey structure showcases locally made bricks from the now-defunct Brickburn Plant. The building not only serves as a historical site but also offers visitors a glimpse into the past, overlooking the serene Bow River.

The bricks that form this iconic firehall carry traces of its origin. Some bricks bear the markings “E.H.C” for Edward Henry Crandell, who purchased the Brickburn Plant and its surrounding area in 1905. Others feature “CALGARY,” a stamp from the Calgary Pressed Brick and Sandstone Company, founded around the same time. Remnants of the Brickburn Plant can still be found in nearby Edworthy Park, enhancing the connection to Calgary’s architectural heritage.

Firehall No. 6 was operational until 1967. Although it has been decommissioned for decades, local lore suggests that it remains alive with history, as residents report eerie sounds reminiscent of its past. Reports include distant bells, whinnying horses, and the clatter of hooves, evoking the era when horses were integral to the city’s firefighting efforts.

In 2002, a significant restoration project costing $1.4 million revitalized the firehall. This effort preserved its historic brick exterior while enhancing energy efficiency, ensuring that the building remains a vital part of Calgary’s architectural landscape. Today, Firehall No. 6 is located at 1111 Memorial Dr. NW and is adjacent to Poppy Plaza, an expansive war memorial park covering 86,100 sq. ft.. This tranquil setting provides a reflective backdrop for visitors, just a short stroll from the Bow River.

Calgary is home to several historic fire stations, and Firehall No. 6 is not the only one with a haunted reputation. The city’s historic Firehall No. 3, now operating as a pub, is rumored to be haunted by a mischievous monkey, adding to the intriguing narrative of Calgary’s fire stations.

As Calgary continues to grow and evolve, Firehall No. 6 stands as a testament to the city’s storied past. Its restoration not only preserves a piece of history but also enriches the cultural fabric of the community, inviting both residents and tourists to explore its legacy.