An historic landmark in the Big Hill Springs Valley became a victim of progress and was burned down March 21, 2025. This grand old barn was built in 1892 by Robert Cowan. In 1906 the Hutchinson family bought the ranch from Robert Cowan as he and his family had decided to return to England.
The base of the barn and the house was made of square sandstone blocks which were quarried from an outcrop just up the hill. Without all the modern equipment we have today, it would have been quite the challenge.
When the only way of travel in the winter was horseback, sleigh or buggy, people were often caught far from home in one of Alberta's famous snow storms. The house and cozy barn were a welcome sight for many a weary traveller and their horses.
The loss of this historic barn is sadly the way of today. It is an unfortunate event called progress! It is now gone but not forgotten by those of us with an appreciation for the history of the Big Hill Springs Valley. The memories will live on as the stories are passed on to the next generation.
Jane Mason
Rocky View County, AB
