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The Southpark sign that helped advertise the former Don Wheaton dealership lot in Strathcona, promised to be preserved under a redevelopment scheme launched by ONE Properties, now has the legal backing to cement its protection. The well-known neon landmark joins the 1912-built Gibbard Block at 6427 112 Avenue as the 144th and 145th additions to Edmonton's inventory of Municipal Historic Resources.
Installed by Hugh McColl in 1963, the original owner of the Southpark dealership, the conspicuous structure was the second tallest free-standing sign in Western Canada. A protruding horizontal section was added to the sign in 1967 when McColl slid his name in between the "South" and "Park" halves. McColl's name was erased and replaced by "On Whyte" when Don Wheaton took over ownership in 1994.
David Johnston, principal heritage planner, believes the local icon is the first free-standing sign designated as a Municipal Historic Resource in Alberta. The marquee was recently removed from the property in advance of restoration work, and will be prominently reinstated on the Whyte Avenue frontage when the redevelopment is completed.
The Gibbard Block in the Highlands Community has also found a place on the City's inventory of protected properties. Designed by Edmonton architect E. Morehouse, who was also responsible for the Magrath Mansion and the Holgate Residence, the building has been cited as a well-maintained example of Edwardian commercial architecture, punctuated with Classical Revival design influences. Principal heritage planner Scott Ashe describes the Gibbard Block as a "very good example of a commercial building designed to provide apartment housing and businesses for the neighbourhood."
