Campbell Block, Presbyterian Manse officially designated as a Municipal Historic Resources

The City of Lacombe is now home to two more Municipal Historic Resources following city council’s approval of Campbell Block and the Presbyterian Manse for designation.

“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 Campbell Block is a two‐story brick‐clad building prominently situated on two‐and‐a‐half lots in Lacombe’s Historic Downtown.

Campbell Block was built in 1920, with the western wing of the Block built in 1899 during the city’s first significant boom period. The unique construction and architecture were directly connected to the pre-1900 and interwar development periods.

"The HRC is thrilled when an owner steps forward and commits to designation, but when we see two buildings before council in a single meeting, we're simply over the moon,” Board Chair of the HRC Myles Chykerda said. “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."

The Presbyterian Manse has historical value in Lacombe as a symbol of early development, with the property and surrounding area being 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.

"The Presbyterian Manse is only the second residential building in Lacombe to be elevated to the Historic Registry,” Chykerda said. “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."

Previous buildings and structures that have been designated as Municipal Historic Recourses include: