Released on October 3, 2018
The Government of Saskatchewan has designated the Prince Albert Immigration Hall, an historic building linked to the wave of immigration into the province in the 1920s, as a provincial heritage property.“This building reflects the important role that government played in helping newcomers get established in the province,” Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Gene Makowsky said. “By designating this property, the story of the province’s settlement and growth can be more fully told and illustrated for present and future generations.”
Constructed of brick, the building is one of the more substantial structures constructed in western Canada for the purpose of immigration. It is the last remaining example of the 34 known immigration halls that were built in Saskatchewan during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Opened by the Government of Canada in 1929, it was used as an immigration hall until 1938 when it was converted into government offices. In 1995, the building became the Indian-Métis Friendship Centre and was later purchased by the YWCA Prince Albert Inc. in 2008.
“The YWCA values the historical importance of this building and was proud to nominate it for provincial heritage property designation,” Prince Albert YWCA Chief Executive Officer Donna Brooks said. “The YWCA recognizes that the building stands as a landmark to our shared heritage and a symbol of our community’s welcoming of new immigrants and helping persons in need – past, present and future.”
Provincial Heritage Property designations help protect important places in Saskatchewan’s history for the benefit of all citizens. For more information about provincial heritage properties, visit www.saskatchewan.ca/provincial-heritage-property.
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For more information, contact:
Sean St. George
Parks, Culture and Sport
Regina
Phone: 306-787-9087
Email: sean.stgeorge@gov.sk.ca