Coleman project named finalist in national heritage competition

Apr 9, 2026 | 12:58 PM

A Crowsnest Pass heritage site is in the running for a national prize aimed at preserving historic sites across Canada.

The Old Coleman High School, home to the Crowsnest Museum and Archives, has been selected as one of 12 finalists in the Next Great Save competition, organized by the National Trust for Canada.

Organizers say the competition offers $65,000 in cash prizes, including a $50,000 grand prize, to support restoration projects at historic sites across the country.

The Coleman project, titled Bricks of Legacy: Coleman High School Facade Restoration, focuses on restoring the building to ensure the long-term sustainability of the museum it houses.

Built in 1936, organizers say the school is a key piece of Alberta’s coal mining history and has served as a community hub for decades.

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Today, it holds more than 60,000 artifacts and 200,000 photographs documenting the region’s history.

Organizers say restoring the façade will help protect the structure and support its continued use as an educational space.

The Crowsnest Historical Society is backing the project along with local partners, including the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass.

Public voting to determine the winner runs until April 24.

Canadians can vote once per day for their preferred project, with the winner and two runner-ups to be announced later that day.

The competition is supported by Ecclesiastical Insurance, which is funding the grand prize.

Organizers say the initiative highlights the importance of preserving heritage places as vital parts of Canada’s identity.

For more information or to vote, click here.

by Haven Thibert

Coleman project named finalist in national heritage competition

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