Northern Alberta Pioneers and Descendants Association Cabin
The Northern Alberta Pioneers and Descendants was originally formed as the Northern Alberta Pioneers and Old Timers' Association (NAPOTA) in 1984. Dedicated to the preservation of the history of the city and region, the Association collected artifacts and historical documents and helped to preserve historic sites in Edmonton, including Frank Oliver's Edmonton Bulletin building and the original wooden McDougall Church, both now located at Fort Edmonton Park.
One of the main activities of the Association was participation in the Edmonton Exhibition, and in 1925 a tent was set up to serve refreshments to Old Timers visiting the exhibition. The tent was such a success that members decided to construct a permanent memorial on the Exhibition grounds. Major Fred Brewster donated logs from Jasper for the rustic cabin, and local volunteers built the "Old Timers' Roost" in time for an official opening at the 1926 Exhibition.
The "Roost" or Exhibition Cabin became the centre of activity for the Association, offering a place for Old Timers to meet and socialize with family and friends while enjoying refreshments. It quickly became a favourite picnic spot for Exhibition visitors. In addition, Association members used the cabin to display documents and artifacts that made Exhibition visitors aware of the history of Edmonton and the region. These collections would later become central to the development of the City of Edmonton Archives and the city's collection of artifacts, many of which are displayed at Fort Edmonton Park and the John Walter Museum.
Edmonton Historical Board 2008
Submitted by Mo Bot