In the Ellerslie area sporting activities have been available since the late 1930's. Originally hockey and baseball were available, however in 1962 local residents decided that their area needed a curling facility. They quickly designed and constructed the first curling rink in the district. The original curling rink consisted of two natural sheets of ice, a double row of straw bales forming walls, and of course a lounge. The unique structure became known as the Straw Palace.
In 1966, after four seasons of success and curling becoming a popular sport in the area, the members decided it was time to upgrade their facility. Under the new name Ellerslie Recreation & Curling Association, an arch rib structure with a concrete floor was constructed. Now it could also be used in the summer months as a community hall. The new facility had three sheets of artificial ice and an upstairs lounge.
In 1995 a third curling facility was constructed to replace the aging facility built in 1966. Since the area had been annexed by the City of Edmonton, the members decided it was time to join the Edmonton Federation of Community Leagues. The new curling club opened it doors in 1995 under the designation Ellerslie Recreation & Community League and has six sheets of artificial ice.
The present curling club was constructed with the assistance of the numerous volunteer workers who put in hundreds of hours of their time and effort. The result was a fabulous new curling facility containing six sheets of artificial ice, a large lobby area, main floor concession, locker room, offices, and an upstairs lounge with a dance floor and ice-viewing area.
Since the first curling season in 1995-1996, the club has provided for Men's, Ladies, Mixed, Senior, Junior, and Stick league curling, to name just a few. As well, we have hosted numerous bonspiels, and have recently added an annual Stick 'spiel. We welcome and encourage school use of our facility and provide daytime use for many school recreational programs.
Our curling club is located at 530-71 St SW just north of Ellerslie Road and west of 66 Street. It is hidden behind trees and cannot be seen from the main roads.
