Glenora has always been one of Edmonton’s most distinguished communities — a neighbourhood shaped by visionaries, government leaders, and generations of families who valued beauty, nature, and architectural craftsmanship.
This photo-story takes you on a journey through Glenora’s evolution, contrasting historic archival views with the modern streetscapes residents know today.

1. Government House Grounds (1913) → Today

Then:
When Government House was completed in 1913, it instantly elevated Glenora’s profile. Surrounded at the time by open fields and fresh landscaping, the new residence for Alberta’s Lieutenant Governor symbolized prestige and upper-class suburban planning.

Now:
Today, the mansion is nestled within mature forest and walking paths. Though the provincial museum has moved, the grounds remain a peaceful heritage anchor for the neighbourhood.

2. Alexander Circle — Glenora’s Architectural Heart

Then:
Alexander Circle was the centrepiece of James Carruthers’ vision for Glenora — a planned “garden suburb” featuring curved streets and elegant estate homes. Early photos show the circle as a newly planted roundabout framed by freshly built residences.

Now:
Today, Alexander Circle remains one of Edmonton’s most recognizable residential landmarks, complete with the iconic 1954 fountain and a canopy of mature elm trees.

3. Glenora Residences: Early Luxury Homes → Modern Architectural Mix

Then:
From the 1910s through the 1930s, Glenora grew into a neighbourhood of stately, architect-designed homes. Strict building standards ensured consistent quality, and styles like Tudor Revival, Georgian, Craftsman, and early Modern were common.

Now:
While many historic homes still stand proudly, Glenora also reflects today’s architectural diversity. Modern infill — glass-fronted homes, contemporary cubes, and custom estates — now lives alongside heritage treasures.

4. Groat Ravine & 102 Avenue Bridge — Connecting Glenora to Edmonton

Then:
Before the 102 Avenue bridge was built (1909–1910), Glenora was largely isolated by the steep ravine. Early photographs show dirt paths and wide stretches of untouched land where today’s roads run.

Now:
Modern infrastructure integrates Glenora seamlessly into the city, but the ravine still gives residents instant access to nature — trails, wildlife, and one of Edmonton’s most scenic green corridors.

5. Tree-Lined Avenues — From Saplings to Iconic Elm Canopies

Then:
Early street photos show small trees and open boulevards, reflecting the beginning stages of the neighbourhood’s garden-suburb design.

Now:
Decades of growth have transformed Glenora into one of Edmonton’s most lush neighbourhoods. Towering elms and dense vegetation create shaded residential streets infamously beautiful in all seasons.

6. Royal Alberta Museum Grounds — A Mid-Century Landmark

Then:
In 1967, the Provincial Museum of Alberta opened beside Government House, becoming a major cultural landmark for over 40 years. It brought families, school groups, and visitors from across Alberta into Glenora.

Now:
With the museum relocated downtown, the Glenora site marks an important chapter of mid-century civic development. Its legacy remains tied to the community’s identity.

Why Glenora’s Story Matters

A Living Example of Garden-City Urban Design

Curved streets, integration with ravines, and centrally planned public spaces make Glenora one of Canada’s best-preserved garden-suburb neighbourhoods.

Historic Architecture Meets Modern Demand

With many historic homes still intact — and new infill reshaping streets one lot at a time — Glenora captures a unique balance of old and new.

A Community Worth Preserving

Efforts by residents, heritage groups, and the City of Edmonton continue to protect Glenora’s distinctive character amid ongoing redevelopment pressure.