Images of Urbanization

As the forestry industry developed and the railways were constructed, lumber could be cut and delivered to urban centres like Calgary where houses and commercial buildings could be constructed.

There are two factors that lead to the increase of brick and stone buildings in Alberta. The discovery of clay and concrete deposits made the building materials easily accessible, while the availability of natural gas and coal made firing clay achievable. The one and two story wood buildings were replaced by structures that were three or more stories high. These buildings were created during the prosperous periods brought about by ranching and agriculture. The abundance of coal and natural gas in certain parts of Alberta contributed to the building activities.