Edmonton and the McKernan Area

Robert & John McKernan (10324 Whyte Avenue & 10337 Whyte Avenue)

Robert McKernan was the brother of James McKernan, one of the original members of the North West Mounted Police who came west with the troop on their historic ride in 1874. Robert joined his brother the following year and he and wife Sara settled in 1881 at what is now known as the McKernan community, near 112th Street and 76th Avenue.

McKernan built the Dominion Hotel in 1903 with profits from his farming ventures. With at least 33 bedrooms, several public parlours, a dining room and a beer parlour, the Dominion, at 10324 Whyte Avenue, was known as one of the most spacious and relaxing stopping houses in Strathcona. Only the façade of the Dominion Hotel is original.

Robert and Sara's son John McKernan built the Princess Theatre at 10337 Whyte Avenue. When it opened in 1915, the 660-seat theatre claimed to have the largest stage in Western Canada and began hosting live music, vaudeville acts and movies.

http://oldstrathcona.ca/buildings-builders