Here’s a retail complex that is no more and since we photographed it last spring has been demolished to make way for new development. We’re exploring Stadium Shopping Centre, in the community of University Heights in Calgary, weeks before it was to be leveled. Dating from the early 1960s, everything was long closed before our visit, but the parking lot remained in use. With construction at the Foothills Hospital across the road, spaces there were at a premium so for one, it handled overflow when things got busy.
Stadium was a a pretty typical neighbourhood strip mall with an anchor store and supporting specialty shops. Here one could buy all the things needed day to day and tenants over the years included grocery stores, hair salons, bakeries, meat shops (the famous Bon Ton), movie rental places (remember those?) eateries of all kinds, a corner drug store, a pub and others. We started scanning old phone books (a big rabbit hole for us) and the list of businesses that operated here once could fill this post to bursting. In any case, you could get pretty much everything you needed in one easy convenient location and there in was its key to success.
Gonesville: Stadium Shopping Centre – nothing spared. Out there with Chris Doering & Connie Biggart (BIGDoer/Synd)
But it became old and tired, the main tenant (a supermarket) moved away and business dropped off as result. In times like that, there’s only one solution: redevelopment! That’s in full swing on the publishing of this article.
Scroll down for photos and to comment.
The shopping centre is named after nearby McMahon Stadium with the neighbourhood taking its title from the University of Calgary, which it borders to the north. Stadium Shopping Centre fronts on busy 16th Avenue, aka the Trans-Canada Highway, although we bet lots of people passing through don’t use this inner-city route and instead take the ring road to bypass congestion.
Old aerial photos from the 1940s show the land here mostly open pasture with a few scattered ponds, some buildings and what look to be corrals. Another air photo from the late-1970s shows the Wendy’s Burger joint under construction, making it the newest building here. Wendy’s was flanked by the Keg and Redwater Grille, just two other eateries that called the Stadium Shopping Centre home.
Most prominent in the complex is a large arched roof section that tells us a “Marina” style Safeway, was once located here. And it was the anchor store. This distinctive style of roof was the grocery chain’s signature design back in the day and even with renovations over the years, there’s no denying what this one was. The design was innovative and distinctive in look, allowing for a large open space free of supports, thereby affording the interior a modern airy feel. These unique structures were built in large numbers across North America in the 1960s and there’s still a few of them left here in the city (we’re down one with the loss of this example). Some in Calgary still operate as grocery outlets (but not as Safeways).
This design was a great way to distinguish themselves from the competition, but today the Safeway firm takes the generic building approach and nothing they do in that regard stands out. They kind of lost their way a while back and are just another store now. At one time they dominated the industry but under present ownership function as re-badged IGA/Sobey’s.
One day we’re going to have to do an inventory of former Safeway buildings with Marina Roofs (Rooves?) in our area. Like we don’t have enough on the go!
It’s not clear when this Safeway moved out, but the 1980s is hinted at. In more recent times Moose McGuire’s Pub occupied the eastern half of this part of the building. A quick search shows they found a new home in another part of town. Whoa, thought we almost lost one there.
That Stadium Shopping Centre sign is so ’90s and probably marks the last time the complex had a make over. Neon! And that checker board pattern! Hold tight for a sec, my beeper’s gone off.
Separate from the complex and in behind, a most interesting church and something we might have to check out sometime. We has a soft spot for quirky ’60s era architecture.
Towering over everything, even though it’s way over there, it’s the Calgary Cancer Centre building at the Foothills Hospital. A massive undertaking, it won’t be completed for a few years and has a budget with so many zero it’d crash most computers.
The new Stadium Centre (not sure if it’ll have a different name) will be a mix of retail and residential. Think condo towers and coffee shops – the world demands more Starbucks! They also mention a hotel might be part of the project, which is curious since it seems Calgary already has an oversupply of rooms. Not sure the angle here.
Last time we passed the property it was a big gaping pit and now Stadium Shopping Centre lives on only in memory and here in a few snapshots. See if you can spot the Mighty BIGDoer-mobile.
Ye I remember it. I was going to school and there was a big flame and my friend had to go to the hospital. He was in the hallway with one of them oxygen tanks n that with a fireman. Then the school evacuated to the childrens hospital. My friend was fine but at first I was scared cuz the firman ain’t answer me just waved me away when asked if my friend was good.
Reminds me of the Miracle Mart stores in Ontario which had even higher arched roofs. The architects office I worked for spent a lot of time coming up with ideas to dress them up to tie in with other developments.
We had a Marina roof Safeway in Chilliwack when I used to live there built in 1961 but was abandoned in 2006 and eventually torn down 10 years later. I used to go to that Safeway when I was going to Van Horne school years ago.
Lakeview..which then was IGA, which then was Sobyes, which then is now IGA. Also the torn down safeway in Marda Loop 34thave and 17st, Braside across from the leisure centre..etc etc.
I look forward to seeing that inventory of Safeway roofs! I wish new builds were unique instead of boring boxes. The downtown Red Deer Safeway is interesting; have you checked that one out?
The Safeway project is on the to-do list (a BIG to-do list) and coincidentally we scouted out a couple of them just the other day. They put a little more effort into the design of that Red Deer Safeway than is typical now – yes too many of these places are now featureless boxes.
I worked at IGA in Rocky Mountain House through high school and the at building was similar to the above Safeway. Nice high ceilings and full front windows. However IGA moved into a new ‘box’ on the edge of town and became Sobeys. A franchise of the Brick is in the building now so at least it’s still there.
(A long read) After twelve years it's time to put a face to the name and come clean on something. That's rarely-seen Chris in the photo, one half of Team BIGDoer, my best friend for almost thirty years and orchestrator of everything you see here. For his entire adult life, he's battled a deep depression.
Mostly it's manageable, but there are extended bouts where it's crippling and his life comes to a grinding halt. Sometimes there are days or weeks where he's lost. Sleep does not come easy at this time and further aggravates the issue. As he ages, it's worsening and seems intent on destroying him from the inside.
If you see a lack of posts here, or ones poorly worded, confusing or simply off, it's from one of these periods.
Through all this, he remains as kind, thoughtful and loving as ever, but is somewhere else. To the family, it's just Chris and accepted as it should be. The kids and grandkids adore him no less. Until today, however, this has been hidden from the outside world, although closer friends and some readers were probably already suspect of his condition. I hope admitting this does not break the site.
He finds clarity when we're out and doing things, hiking or documenting something historic and it's only THE reason this page and our website exists. It's therapy. Then he's a new and passionate person, but the monster as he calls it always returns. The Beer Parlour Project has brought out a side I've never seen and when out in the field he's never been so on point and confident.
This post is not for sympathy but to inform. Just so you know where he is and here's what you can do to help (a last ditch request)...
If you see a missed comma or oddly worded sentence in a post, please be kind. You'll probably see his uncertainty when he's off and be nice there too. But if you like what you see, even if the write up could be presented better, post your encouragement. Say something and say it loud...it's important and will keep him sharing. Help Chris get better by cheering him on.
Other than some photos that are mine, everything else comes from him. All the tiring research and the writing (he admits he's NOT a writer), are his.
Chris puts every dollar he makes into this "project of a lifetime", and it's supplemented by donations from readers who enjoy the content. If you want to help...
Admittedly he was not thrilled with the idea of posting this but agrees it probably should be said, even if it makes him uneasy. He doesn't like appearing in photos either. He's so shy, thinks he looks goofy and hates his husky eyes. I love them and they're windows into a wonderful, complex and quiet, but tortured soul. It breaks my heart when he's in a bad space.
This image comes thanks to photographer Arturo Pianzola and was captured while exploring the historic Riverview Mental Hospital in Coquitlam BC. Chris thought since he was in the area last year, he'd stop by to visit with a grandfather he never really knew, who spent his last years at the facility and is buried on the grounds.
Thanks for listening and your understanding. Hopefully we'll see you next week. Johanna (Connie).
Journey of Natty Gann (Disney 1985) and the same location in the Crowsnest Pass 2014. We're visiting the Pass over the new year, as we often do, and this time we'll be staying at a house that appears (briefly) in the film. How cool, eh? Chris has decided it's time on this visit to reshoot this and other Natty Gann comparison shots we did from ten years ago. Stay tuned!
This scene was shot in historic downtown Coleman and shows the former Holyk's Grocery. It was built in the early 1900s and the store closed in the '60s. _______
Exploring history with Chris & Connie from Off the Beaten Path. Thanks, Johanna (Connie).
From 2015. Rob Pohl and his strange old-style view camera joined us in documenting the Laing House (with permission). Head down to the comments to see an amazing coincidence with something I found inside.
From the Crossley slides, it's an undated view of Towers School, out near Cluny Alberta. It was originally called Swastika School but that's before the word and symbol were ruined by negative connotations. Built 1922. Gone? _______
Exploring history with Chris & Connie from Off the Beaten Path. Thanks, Chris.
The same alley in downtown Calgary's west end, in the 1970s & today. You have to look hard to see the connection! The area was quite run down back then and is in stark contrast to all the shiny condo towers seen present day. Calgary Place West, an apartment block, appears in both images although it's barely a sliver in ours. Check the comments for more info.
Photo credit: James Tworow collection. _______
Exploring history with Chris & Connie from Off the Beaten Path. Thanks, Chris.
Lost highways (2022): a section of old #93 in Southeastern BC. That BIGDoer-mobile is gone now but quite famous and had a following of its own. Old mine roads, cow paths, 4x4ing across fields - no problem and people would recognize us out in remote areas just by this car. _______
Exploring history with Chris & Connie from Off the Beaten Path. Thanks, Chris.
Y’all forgot to mention the fire that happened, only reason it got remodelled cuz everybody would always use it, the fire just ended it fam.
Yes, we saw evidence of that but for the sake of brevity, didn’t mention it. But we’re glad you did. We’re already way too long winded. Thanks!
Ye I remember it. I was going to school and there was a big flame and my friend had to go to the hospital. He was in the hallway with one of them oxygen tanks n that with a fireman. Then the school evacuated to the childrens hospital. My friend was fine but at first I was scared cuz the firman ain’t answer me just waved me away when asked if my friend was good.
WOW! That’s close to home for you. Thanks again.
Awesome shots!
Thanks for all your support.
I see the Brentwood Safeway is due to close very soon and reopen in the fall as a Fresco
Interesting…
Mayland Heights too.
The Family Foods place.
Reminds me of the Miracle Mart stores in Ontario which had even higher arched roofs. The architects office I worked for spent a lot of time coming up with ideas to dress them up to tie in with other developments.
Wow, those Miracle Marts did have some exaggerated arches. Never heard of the firm before till now.
We had a Marina roof Safeway in Chilliwack when I used to live there built in 1961 but was abandoned in 2006 and eventually torn down 10 years later. I used to go to that Safeway when I was going to Van Horne school years ago.
These Safeways were everywhere and the arch design instantly memorable.
I remember that shopping centre. Use to go there.
Those neighbourhood strip malls were pretty convenient but seem to be going the way of the Dodo.
So many of those signature ‘gull wing’ Safeway stores have gone the same route as our beloved wooden grain elevators.
Stuff from the old days is vanishing fast.
I used to ride the mechanical horse in front of the store back in the ’60s.
Awesome!
Acadia had one.
I think the same could be said of every Calgary neighbourhood. Safeway stores were everywhere and they commanded a huge chunk of the market back then.
I feel like there was one off of 37th in Glamorgan too right?
Yes, it’s empty now but was last a fitness place.
Ogden had one as well.
Yes, by the old Ogden Hotel. It was latter a bingo hall as I recall before being torn down.
Bowness had the horse and a helicopter for a nickel
Every Safeway seemed to have a kid’s ride out front.
Lakeview..which then was IGA, which then was Sobyes, which then is now IGA. Also the torn down safeway in Marda Loop 34thave and 17st, Braside across from the leisure centre..etc etc.
You can still see the arch of the Lakeview IGA from the back alley.
The Brentwood store still has this roof line, it’s just covered up, but visible on the inside.
And from the back of the building too.
Was it torn down due the Billingsgate Fish Market fire from a few years ago?
I think the writing was on the wall even before that event.
The Brentwood store still has this roof line, it’s just covered up, but visible on the inside.
You can see it from the backside too. That’s so cool!
I work in one on 22nd street west in Saskatoon, big old arched beams in the roof.
The auto parts place?
The sky!
Shout out to Mother Nature for making the shots the best they could be.
I used to shop at this Safeway in the late 1980s, early 1990s.
That’s so cool!
I look forward to seeing that inventory of Safeway roofs! I wish new builds were unique instead of boring boxes. The downtown Red Deer Safeway is interesting; have you checked that one out?
The Safeway project is on the to-do list (a BIG to-do list) and coincidentally we scouted out a couple of them just the other day. They put a little more effort into the design of that Red Deer Safeway than is typical now – yes too many of these places are now featureless boxes.
I worked at IGA in Rocky Mountain House through high school and the at building was similar to the above Safeway. Nice high ceilings and full front windows. However IGA moved into a new ‘box’ on the edge of town and became Sobeys. A franchise of the Brick is in the building now so at least it’s still there.
Yes, that place. Now I remember.