Calgary Historical Sites
Mewata Armoury
Mewata Armoury, at 801 11 Street SW, is the red brick castle-like building you see at the west end of 8 Avenue. It went up in 1917–1918 to a design by federal architect Thomas W. Fuller, and it was named a National Historic Site in 1989.
- Built
- 1917–1918
- Community
- Downtown West End
- Address
- 801 11 St SW
- Designation
- National Historic Site (1989)
The Design
It's in the Tudor Revival style common to Canada's armouries of that era. Look for the four square corner towers with battlements, the narrow windows and the low arched entrance between two more towers. The building's size reflected how much pride Canadians put into the militia after the South African War.
Regiments and Cadets
The King's Own Calgary Regiment and the Calgary Highlanders, both founded in 1910, have called Mewata home for many years. It's still an active military building for reserve units and cadets, so check official access information before planning an indoor visit.
Next Door
Cowboys Park sits beside the armoury, and it's a nice spot to stand back and take in the whole building.
Getting There and Nearby
Downtown West–Kerby station is a short walk away, and Sunalta station is just to the southwest. By car, Bow Trail and 11 Street SW pass nearby. The Downtown West End surrounds it, with Sunalta, the Beltline and Eau Claire close by.
Mewata Armoury in pictures
Photo gallery.
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