Built in 1911 to replace Calgary's first Fire Headquarters, which had been erected in 1887, Calgary Fire Hall No. 1 represented advances in fire-fighting characteristic of the pre-war boom in Alberta.

In the cities, fire departments were making the change from primarily volunteer bucket brigades to professionally trained, paid, and mechanized forces. Important figures such as James "Cappy" Smart, Calgary's first full-time fire chief, spanned the whole era of this historical development.

As such, Smart personally participated in the planning of Fire Hall No. 1, and led Calgary's fire fighters from their headquarters there until his retirement in 1933. The station was in continuous use as a fire hall until 1973.

To foster the Historic Firehall as a vibrant cultural hub, we’re hosting a series of inclusive, accessible, and culturally engaging events in partnership with local non-profits, from Sept. 27 to Dec. 13, 2025.

These free arts, culture and music events will showcase Calgary’s cultural diversity, foster community connection, and enhancing downtown vibrancy.

Additionally, the outdoor space is activated with ARTICLE 11’s fireWORKS multimedia projection installation. This installation reminds us that even between events, these historic walls are alive with Indigenous storytelling and creativity. fireWORKS remains viewable until the end of March.

While the outdoor courtyard comes to life with community events today, cSPACE is laying the groundwork inside. Partnering with The City of Calgary to explore transforming the Historic Firehall No. 1 and the neighbouring North West Travellers Building into a vibrant arts hub where Calgary’s artists and cultural organizations can thrive. This vision shows that vacant space can become vibrant space, ensuring these heritage buildings continue to spark creativity, connection, and downtown vitality for generations to come.