Bankview (1884 - )
Bankview is one of Calgary’s oldest communities. Its history is the story of an Irish immigrant, William Nimmons, who developed Bankview. Captivated by the wide-open spaces, Nimmons selected a half-section of land during Calgary’s golden age of ranching (1886-1906) to call home. A critical housing shortage in the booming city presented an opportunity. Seeing that housing would be more profitable than cattle, Nimmons sold his land to the city in 1907 and “Bankview” the community was born. It has gone through many changes over subsequent decades with a variety of architectural styles to show for it. Happily, the old Nimmons house from 1898, with its sandstone base from the family quarry and bricks mined from Nimmons’ own brickyard, is currently still standing. The home built in the Queen Anne Revival style is an icon to many Bankview residents. Its future will be part of a new development that will include condos in 2021.
To learn more:
- Hunter, Frederick C. 1999. The Story of Bankview. Calgary: Bankview Community Association. Accessible at Calgary Public Library.
- Bankview/Knob Hill Building Survey, Calgary. 2004-6. Accessible at Calgary Public Library.
- Hunter, Frederick. C. 2013. A Stroll through Bankview. Online Resource.
- Bankview - Calgary District Clippings. Accessible at Calgary Public Library.