The Rutherford House

An enchanting look at Alberta's history...

In the tradition of Rutherford House Hospitality (it might as well be trademarked), this beautiful provincial historic site is completely open to the public - no ropes involved.

Built in 1911, this Edmonton mansion gives an excellent look into the past. It has been fully restored, offering in-depth tours from costumed guides.

Their on-site restaurant, Vintage Fork, serves dishes from the past. Although I didn’t dine at the restaurant, it looks like a lovely place for lunch.

The Rutherford House is one of those local sites that you always vow to explore but never do. I’m so glad that I finally went! $7 (per adult) is a small price for an afternoon spent diving deep into Old Strathcona history.

My boyfriend and I went on a warm autumn day and parked by the Old Strathcona farmer’s market. The 20 minute walk to the University campus where the Rutherford house is located is beautiful. To my delight, the area is stocked with elegant historic homes, on streets lined with some of the biggest trees downtown.

I'll save the history lesson for when you're there, but...

here are some things you should know before you visit the Rutherford House:

• the family was pretty involved with establishing Edmonton as the capital
• Alexander Rutherford (the head of the household) was Alberta's first Premier
• He was very involved in the University of Alberta, taking part in making it the world-class learning centre that it is today
• You’ll find out many interesting and personal tidbits because much of the family’s life was recorded (and some of the family still pops in for a visit)
• Even if you couldn’t care less about Alberta history, there’s plenty of information on post-Edwardian life
• It doubles as just a pretty place to get out of the house for

Ultimately, this extravagant family home is an enchanting place to let your imagination dream up stories from the past. I hope this is the first of many Edmonton discoveries I will share to get us through the long winter ahead.

Shop: jumpsuit, belt (old, similar), handbag, jacket

Have you ever visited the Rutherford House?

If you'd like to learn more or visit, click here.