The Ewart Duggan House was built in 1887 for local businessman John Ewart by contractor Harry Yuill using bricks produced locally by the McCord brickyard. This magnificent house stands on Medicine Hat's historic First Street and is acknowledged as the oldest brick residence in Alberta. Overlooking the South Saskatchewan River, this classic two story Victorian design remained the Ewart Duggan family home until 1987. The Province of Alberta designated the house a Provincial Historic Site in 1993, preserving it for future generations to enjoy. In 2002, the house was donated by I-XL Brick Industries to the City of Medicine Hat under the stewardship of the Esplanade Arts and Heritage Centre.

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Apply for Residency

The Ewart Duggan House provides residents a quiet and conveniently located setting in which to work. It is fully furnished with negotiable work areas. Accommodation for residents is primarily situated on the second floor of the house, with access to the main floor kitchen and dining areas. The upper level consists of two bedrooms, a bathroom, study and lounge. It has north and south balconies off the lounge and main bedroom areas respectively. The north-facing balcony overlooks the Ewart Duggan House Heritage Garden, historic Law Courts, Public Library and the South Saskatchewan River. Located in the beautiful river valley and in close proximity to the historic downtown, the Ewart Duggan House offers an extensive walking and cycling trail system moments away.

For more information, contact us at:

Phone: 403.502.8583
Email: galleries@medicinehat.ca

Upcoming Open House Days

When we don't have an Art/Heritage professional living in residency at the Ewart Duggan House, we occasionally open the house to visitors. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of vintage charm, or simply curious, our open houses offer a glimpse into the elegance and daily life of Medicine Hat’s past.

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‍2026 Open House Dates
‍Saturdays, May 2 - June 27
Saturdays, November 21 - December 12
From 1 - 4 p.m.

2026 Textile Haunted House Dates

‍In October, artist Shanell Papp transforms the Historic Ewart Duggan House into a softly spooky, immersive haunted house, inviting visitors to explore works that reflect on impermanence, grief, and the things that haunt us. Through her research-driven practice in textiles, sculpture, and multimedia, Papp creates an environment that balances eerie playfulness with thoughtful reflection. The Textile Haunted House is a come-and-go experience, so you can wander at your own pace.

Join us on the following dates:‍
October 17: 1 - 4 p.m.
October 24:  1 - 4 p.m. (paired with the annual Great Pumpkin Smash!)
October 30: 7 - 9:30 p.m.October 31: 1 - 4 p.m.