HSCA Historical Context Paper

A Collaboration between HSCA and Heritage Calgary

The Hillhurst-Sunnyside Context Paper was prepared in 2021-2022 by Marilyn Williams and Gillian Sissons. A context paper is an ideal starting point for future community heritage projects. It lays the groundwork for future heritage activities by identifying the significant cultural and historical themes, cultural practices, institutions, events, and people associated with the area.

This paper explores and characterizes how the community has been shaped by its geography, natural and pre-contact history, town planning influences, land use and transportation patterns, and trends in building styles and design. It also provides a thematic framework that covers important historic associations, themes, activities, as well as economic, social and political movements, and significant eras of development . The context paper will serve as a reference and framework for evaluating the community’s heritage resources and identifying its places of interest and heritage values. Finally, it can inform activities in other disciplines such as the preparation of area redevelopment plans, cultural plans, and community projects.