High River's W.O. Mitchell House reopens after flood repairs
House of local author had to be completely gutted, owner says
High River's museum is once again welcoming history buffs as it resumes its historic homes tour — and one home in particular received a huge reception.
The former home of Canadian author W.O. Mitchell had to be completely gutted after last year's floods, like many other historic properties on the tour. After months of repairs, the current homeowners welcomed visitors this weekend, saying it's been a long road back.
"Six months ago, this house was completely gutted. The walls were right back to the exterior wall, there were temporary sub-floors in place," said Leslie Lambert, who owns the home.
After a lot of hard work and help from volunteers, the home has been restored to immaculate condition.
It's one of eight homes open to the public as part of the Museum of the Highwood's historic homes tour.
Seeing the homes on the tour restored after the flood meant a lot to residents.
"I've been really impressed," said Eric Ward, who lives in High River. "It's amazing to see just exactly what's been done, particularly when you know how much damage was done to some of these places."