About us
Bison Lodge, is a social enterprise of NAPDA, a non-profit association in Edmonton, dedicated to the improvement of social and friendly relations of all Albertans. Supporting Bison Lodge, means supporting Community, Culture, and Maintaining the History of our region- For that, we thank you.
BISON LODGE
Historic Charm in the Heart of Edmonton
Opened in 1959, this rustic hand-build log lodge, features a grand stone fireplace, Maple floors, Hand made window frames, and cedar shingles on the gable roof. It was built by a 76-year-old log craftsman named Hobart Dowler for the Northern Alberta Pioneers and Descendants Association.
Designed and constructed with Albertan logs at Dowler’s property near Pigeon Lake, each log was fitted by axe, then numbered before being dismantled and rebuilt on our fieldstone foundation on site. Dowler used notch and saddle-style connections to form a tight weatherproof fit without the need for chinking or plaster. The entire process was done using the same techniques and tools available to early Pioneers to the region.
Historic Charm in the Heart of Edmonton
With incredible views of the River Valley and Edmonton's glowing skyline, including the Walterdale and High Level Bridges, Parliament building, and Downtown. Pioneers Cabin is an incredible venue that can't be replicated.
Built as the Old Timers Cabin in the 1950s using log construction reflecting early practices of pioneers in Alberta.
The Lodge was situated in the river valley on Scona Hill, on a site which had been leveled to provide fill for the Low Level Bridge. The cabin is a relatively modern example of log construction. The style was consciously chosen for its status as a pioneer icon, reflecting the Northern Alberta Pioneers and Descendants Association’s connection with the past. The association dates back to 1894 when it was founded by Edmonton’s earliest prominent businessmen, such as James Gibbons (1894 – 1895), Donald Ross Sr. (1896), John McDougall (1897), and Harrison Young (1898).
Since 1959, our facility has been known as the Old Timers Cabin, Pioneers Cabin, and now as Bison Lodge. No matter the name, our goal is to be a social hub that actively supports the social and friendly relations of all Albertans.
1894
Association FOUNDED
Edmonton Old Timers Association
The historic cabin was built by 76-year-old log craftsman, Hobart Dowler for NAPDA- at the time, known as The Edmonton Old Timers Association. NAPDA is one of Edmonton's oldest chartered clubs. The association was established by a group of 36 pioneers and early prominent businessmen who either trekked across the prairies from the east or worked their way up the Saskatchewan River by boat. Published mentions of the organization date back to 1883, and artifacts showing 1849. The association was legally registered, June 22, 1894.
1925
RENAMED
Northern Alberta Pioneers
The association's name changed to Northern Alberta Pioneers and Old Timers Association in 1925. TO include newer and younger members.
1959
A New Location
Northern Alberta Pioneers
The current log cabins construction was completed. It was host to many lavish banquets, K-days breakfasts and other important Edmonton events.
1983
Renamed
Old Timers Cabin
The association's name changed once again. This time to the current, Northern Alberta Pioneers & Descendants Association. This opened membership to all decendants of Pioneering Families.
2018
MAJOR RENOVATIONS
Inside & Out
The cabin has been renovated inside and out to maintain the historic charm and durability, as well as bring the interior up-to-date with modern facilitation for events, including a retreat room, lower level events space, and exterior restoration.
2024
REBRANDING
Bison Lodge
NAPDA has always been committed to social impact. Even in 1894, our official mandates included the social and friendly relations of our members. In 2024, the name of our facility has changed to Bison Lodge. This better reflects our current social mandates and commitment to the inclusion of all Albertans.
PIONEERS CABIN
With its rustic charm and picturesque scenes of the River Valley, Muttart Conservatory Pyramids, and downtown skyline, the Pioneers Cabin is a unique Edmonton events venue and one of the best locations in the city to hold one-of-a-kind wedding ceremonies and receptions, corporate events, and social celebrations.
If you would like to inquire about the Pioneers Cabin for your event or book a tour to see what the facility has to offer, please get in touch with us through the Contact Us page. You can also read more information under Booking.
