Stories
Building a Permanent Campus
by Natasha Eklund
By 1925, enrollment had grown to 65 students and it was deemed time for Concordia to move out of its temporary location at the Caledonian Temperance Hotel. Not long before that, President Dr. Pfotenhauer and Mr. Henry Horst of the Missouri Synod had arrived in Edmonton on November 24, 1924 to advise the Board of Control on building matters of the institution. After viewing an impressive location known as Summit Point at the McKinnon Ravine near 98th Avenue and 142nd Street, it was soon realized this location was too far away from the nearest utilities and without adequate transportation. The Board then agreed to purchase the beautiful Fraser Estate and a few other lots situated close by along Ada Boulevard and 71st Street. Professor J.H. Herreilers completed the survey work on the campus grounds while a few unfortunate students bore the brunt end and went to work using a shovel. Other, more fortunate, students contributed by driving horses or holding a plow. Concordia’s first buildings, Schwermann Hall and Founders Hall, were built and a cornerstone containing historical documents was laid. The dedication of Concordia’s new building took place on January 10, 1926, as more than 1,000 people gathered at the front doors on a surprisingly warmer than usual winter day. On May 12, 1978, at 11:00 a.m., Schwermann Hall was dedicated as a historical site by the Edmonton Historical Board.
About Natasha Eklund
Since 2017, I have worked in various capacities for the library, the archives, and the CUE 100 Committee. During my time as an undergraduate student in History, I participated in numerous research endeavours and continue to contribute in this way since graduating in 2019. I am forever grateful for my experiences at Concordia as the institution has provided me opportunities to grow both academically and professionally.
CUE Students and Alum to Make Their Own History
Concordia’s CUE 100 committee is very excited to feature the written work of several students and alumni as part of its centenary celebrations. As these celebrations continue, you can look forward to reading short articles by these writers on interesting aspects of Concordia’s history over the past century. Writers were given access to archival documents on particular topics which they were asked to summarize and personally respond to. You’ll be able to discover much about Concordia’s history and how it still resonates among us today. We hope you find these articles both informative and entertaining. Happy 100, Concordians!