Carrying on the Tradition of Hosting
Experience Alberta's History in Fort Vermilion
The Old Bay House | Fort Vermilion, AB
Truly one-of-a-kind in Canada, the Old Bay House in Fort Vermilion is Alberta’s last remaining factor house—upscale accommodations for the Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC) Chief Factor—still in its original location. And, you can rent it on Airbnb today!
“Part of the vision was to keep it as a ‘hosting space,’” said Fort Vermilion Heritage Centre Manager Steven Simpson. “Historically, anyone of note would stay there when they would come though. By renting it out on Airbnb, the house continues to be a hosting space for travellers.”
Boasting four bedrooms—all with ensuite bathrooms—the house is perfect for groups, although rooms can also be rented individually. It has a full kitchen, large dining and living rooms and beautiful views of the Peace River.
Known for being the oldest European settlement in Alberta, Fort Vermilion offers many activities for visitors. While in the area, visit the Fort Vermilion Heritage Centre—their historical escape house is a must try, and so is their mini golf. You can rent kayaks from the Fort Vermilion Recreation Board to use on the river, or visit Wadlin Lake for fishing and relaxation.
The Old Bay House’s rich history is an important part of its charm. Built between 1906 and 1908, it was managed by the HBC until it fell into private hands in 1948. Over the next four decades, it slipped into disarray and decay.
In 1988, the Friends of the Old Bay House Society was formed, and its members began to care for the building. In 2005, the house underwent a rigorous restoration after a lengthy and complicated process to transfer ownership and have the building declared a Provincial Historic Resource.
With the help of volunteers, the Old Bay House was brought back to its original glory.
Marilee Cranna Toews has become known as the Knowledge Keeper of the house and of the organization. From the beginning, she has been committed to keeping the original design and finishes. From hand painting fabric wallpaper to sourcing rare materials, every small detail was carefully considered and executed.
“We had a vision and a standard of excellence to return the house to the way it was supposed to look,” said Cranna Toews. “I was told the house would be my teacher and my guide.”
The house told many interesting stories over the 15 years of restoration it received. Writing under bannisters included shipping instructions and dates. The types of wood used spoke to an attention to quality and the uniqueness of the build in the area at that time. Its basement foundation was built with river rocks pulled from the Peace River.
Unfortunately, the devastating flood in Fort Vermilion in 2020 hit just as the restoration was nearing completion. The building suffered major damage—flooding the basement completely and leaving a layer of residue in every area on the main floor where the water came up to the windowsills.
The community really came together to get it cleaned up. Though the flood delayed progress, the Old Bay House became available on Airbnb in 2022, opening the door to an incredible piece of history for visitors to experience.
For more info about the Old Bay House, visit fortvermilionheritage.com. Rent it on Airbnb for your next stay in beautiful, historic Fort Vermilion.
By Kelly Pippin | Photography submitted
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