Perched atop a hill, the Lebel Mansion in Pincher Creek stands as a beacon of history and charm overlooking the town’s center. Celebrating its 115th anniversary last year, this former Catholic hospital has been transformed into a bustling community hub thanks to the efforts of dedicated art and heritage supporters over four decades. Today, the mansion hosts a variety of activities, including a pottery studio, children’s art programs, a gift shop featuring local artists, concerts, an art gallery, and various businesses.
While the mansion relies on grants and town support for sustainability, the future looks promising, according to Kassandra Chancey, the Executive Director of the Allied Arts Council of Pincher Creek. She noted a significant increase in community and town backing for the space in the past decade, attributing it to persistent dedication and care.
Constructed in 1910 by the Lebel family and later converted into a hospital, the mansion holds sentimental value for many locals, with fond memories tied to its past as a healthcare facility. After a period of disuse in the 1980s, a group of artisans spearheaded a successful campaign to save the building, emphasizing transparency and community involvement in the process.
Following significant upgrades and a successful grant acquisition, the mansion was reborn as an arts and community center, welcoming visitors of all ages. Notably, the mansion’s rich history includes a local ghost story involving a haunted staircase, adding to its allure and intrigue for visitors, especially around Halloween.
Community support remains pivotal for the mansion’s operations, with innovative fundraising efforts such as selling old bricks and hosting outdoor concerts contributing to its financial sustainability. The success of the Lebel Mansion serves as a model for preserving heritage buildings through community engagement and strategic planning, ensuring their longevity for generations to come.