Hotels past and present tied to city’s past
Moose Jaw has been a tourist destination for many years now, but even before attractions like the spa, Tunnels, and murals, the city was a popular destination for travellers. As a major rail hub on the prairies, Moose Jaw greeted many guests in its early days. Of course, these individuals needed a place to stay and that is why several of Moose Jaw’s most beloved heritage buildings were once hotels. The Moose Hotel is one such example. Located on the corner of Main and High, it was built in 1883 as a destination for weary travellers. In 1885 it was converted into military hospital for soldiers of the North-West Rebellion. It also served as a private dwelling and as grocery and general store. It was eventually moved to the corner of Fairford West and Third Avenue and abandoned.
Another early hotel was the Windsor Hotel, located at 23 River St. East. Constructed in 1893, it operated as a boarding house known as Aberdeen House. In September of 1895, the CPR Library Association rented two rooms at Aberdeen House for a library and reading room. Over time, the building changed hands was renamed the Windsor Hotel. It was once a popular spot with travelling entertainers, but by 1937 it was vacant and derelict. Two noteworthy hotels are still standing and are still located across the street from the CPR station. First, there is the Cornerstone, which was previously known as the Maple Leaf Hotel. Next, there is the Royal George Hotel, now known as the Park Hotel. At one point, the Royal George was one of Moose Jaw’s most luxurious hotels.
The Brunswick Hotel, which was torn down in 2009, was another notable hotel from the city’s past. In fact, the Brunswick played a large role in Moose Jaw’s past — documents incorporating Moose Jaw a city were signed at the Brunswick on Nov. 20 1903. The Grant Hall was once the city’s swankiest hotel. It was designed by architect Richard Bunyard, who designed several of Moose Jaw’s cherished buildings. It was built in 1927 and operated until it was closed in 1989. The building fell into disrepair. After a lengthy restoration from Verna Alford and her brothers, Alvin and Ervin Beug, it was re-opened to the public in late 2013. Hotels have always been a part of Moose Jaw’s story and there is no doubt that will continue for as long as travellers continue to visit “Canada’s Most Notorious City.”
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