The Mewate Armoury in Calgary, Alberta Canada is the home of the Canadian Forces, in the past and still to this day. The building was built starting in 1915 and later added onto in 1918 (additional west side rooms added.) The building was designed by the Department of Public Works Architect, T.W. Fuller. Located on 11th Street S.W., the building served as a training and housing facility for the militia units. The main units to occupy the location included the King's Own Calgary Regiment, the Calgary detachment of 15 Field Ambulances as well as the Calgary Highlanders.
The building itself has a cut stone foundation. It is a large structure that is mainly that of red brick and sandstone. Within the drill hall, you can see the large span of steel trusses, which are uninterrupted there. This is a unique design unlike most other buildings. The overall style of the building is a Tudor and Gothic Revival. In many ways, the Mewata Armoury resembles that of a medieval castle or fortress. It features various corner towers and a crenellate roofline. Originally, the armoury featured 117 rooms surrounding a large sized drill hall. There were a full two floors of soldier's quarters. Down in the basement was a bowling alley as well as a large 30 yard shooting range. Both officer and sergeant's billiard rooms also were included in the design.
Those that wish to visit the building can do so with pre arranged tours. Looking at the building from the outside is sheer immense and a gratifying feeling itself.
