Pioneers Cabin
Historic Charm in the Heart of EdmontonOpened in 1959, this rustic log cabin features a huge stone fireplace, planed poplar floor, window frames made of spruce, and cedar shingles on the gable roof. It was built by a 76-year-old log craftsman named Hobart Dowler for the Northern Alberta Pioneers and Descendants Association. Designed and constructed of spruce logs at Dowler’s property on Pigeon Lake, each log was fitted, then numbered before being dismantled and rebuilt on a fieldstone foundation in Edmonton. Dowler used notch and saddle-style connections to form a tight weatherproof fit without the need for chinking or plaster.
The Old Timers Cabin was built in the 1950s using log construction to evoke idealized images of pioneers in Alberta.
The Cabin was situated in the river valley on Scona Hill, on a site which had been leveled to provide fill for the Low Level Bridge. The cabin is a relatively modern example of log construction. The style was consciously chosen for its status as a pioneer icon, reflecting the Northern Alberta Pioneers and Descendants Association’s connection with the past. The association dates back to 1894 when it was founded by Edmonton’s earliest prominent businessmen, such as James Gibbons (1894 – 1895), Donald Ross Sr. (1896), John McDougall (1897), and Harrison Young (1898).
In 2020, the name was changed from Old Timers Cabin to Pioneers Cabin, but we will always cherish the rich history of our log cabin no matter the name.
If you would like to inquire about the Pioneers Cabin for your event or book a tour to see what the facility has to offer, please get in touch with us through the Contact Us page. You can also read more information under Booking.
The Cabin's Story
Timeline Highlights
Cabin Founded
Edmonton Old Timers AssociationThe historic cabin was built by a 76-year-old log craftsman named Hobart Dowler for NAPDA for the Edmonton Old Timers Association, one of Edmonton's oldest chartered clubs. The association was established by a group of 36 pioneers and early prominent businessmen who either trekked across the prairies from the east or worked their way up the Saskatchewan River by boat.
Renamed
Northern Alberta PioneersThe association's name changed to Northern Alberta Pioneers and Old Timers Association in 1925.
Renaming
Northern Alberta Pioneers & Descendants AssociationThe association's name changed once again to Northern Alberta Pioneers & Descendants Association in 1983.
A New Location
Old Timers CabinSince 1959, the cabin has been located on Scona Hill as the Old Timers Cabin and used as a beautiful events venue with fascinating views of the city and river valley.
Major Renovations
Inside & OutThe cabin has been renovated inside and out by a government grant to maintain the historic charm and durability, as well as bring the interior up-to-date with modern facilitation for events, including a retreat room, lower level events space, and exterior restoration.
Rebranding
Pioneers CabinIn 2020, the cabin's was changed from Old Timers Cabin to Pioneers Cabin, but we will always cherish the rich history of our log cabin no matter the name.
Weddings
Have a look at how couples celebrated their special days the Pioneers Cabin for ceremonies, receptions, bridal showers, engagements, and other celebrations.
Corporate
Check out how businesses and nonprofit organizations have held all kinds of functions at the Pioneers Cabin, from annual meetings to Christmas office parties.
Social
Get inspired by the different ways in which people have celebrated at the Pioneers Cabin their birthdays, anniversaries, baby showers, family reunions, and Christmas parties.
Why Choose The
Pioneers Cabin
Let Us Count the Reasons
Looking for a wedding venue in Edmonton? The Pioneers Cabin might be your perfect choice for many reasons. These are a few of our favourite reasons.
