Heritage Park Historical Village works diligently to preserve and share the history of Western Canada with the world – and now we need your help to save a piece of ours.
Since 1975 the iconic “Big H” has stood outside the gates of Heritage Park. It has become a well-loved landmark in Calgary’s landscape, but sadly, over time it has slowly deteriorated, and is in need of some major repairs.
Recently, a concerned group of citizens, whose family history is connected to the construction of the H, approached the Park and asked us to join them in a “crowd sourcing” campaign. We know from stakeholder meetings held prior to the redevelopment of the Park in 2009 that many people in the city view the Big H at the end of Heritage Drive as an iconic landmark and want it to remain.
Heritage Park is a not- for- profit organization, governed by the Heritage Park Society. The Park’s mission is to “Connect people to the settlement of Western Canada.” All funds raised through donations, gate admission, catering events and retail go back into the operation, preservation and restoration of the Park’s artifacts. With over 180 historic buildings and exhibits, our needs outweigh the financial resources available. We prioritize projects based upon guest safety and engagement. While we recognize that the refurbishment of the Big H is important, other projects have taken and will continue to take priority of our limited capital funds. We were touched by this concerned group of citizens initiative to save the Big H and felt their idea of a grass roots fundraising campaign might be the best opportunity to ultimately save the Big H.
Make a little history of your own and help save this iconic piece of Calgary history by donating today! All funds received will aid in the refurbishment of this monumental structure. The H will be refreshed, aligning it with the Park’s current brand. The current crumbling river stone base will be replaced with brick, the axe removed, the log H rebuilt and painted, and the structure will be illuminated with lights, so it’s visible at all times.
Heritage Park is a charitable organization (Registration No. 11895 6457 RR0001) All donations to the Park, no matter their size, make a difference. We thank you for your generosity in helping us preserve a piece of our past. All donations of $25 or more will receive a charitable tax receipt.
Help us spread the word – share your “Big H” photos and memories on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram with #SaveTheBigH
Please donate today by calling our Guest Services team at 403.268.8500 or online by clicking the button below.