Few people know that women from Edmonton were among the first in Canada to break into the male-dominated field of architecture. Alice Ross was one of these pioneers, earning her architecture degree and founding the prestigious firm “Ross Home Plans” in Edmonton. Learn more about her journey on edmonton1.one.
Childhood and Early Years
Alice Ross was born and raised in Edmonton. Inspired by her father, who worked on projects for the Canadian Pacific Railway and waterway construction, she initially aspired to become an engineer. However, she later pivoted to architecture and applied to the Rhode Island School of Design in Providence. In 1907, she was admitted as the only woman in her class. By May 1910, Alice became the first woman in Canada to earn an architecture degree.
Alice began her career drafting irrigation canal designs for her father in Calgary. In 1914, she enrolled in the University of Alberta’s architecture program, where she successfully passed the registration exam to join the Alberta Association of Architects. Despite her qualifications, she struggled to find work in established firms and took a secretarial position at Alberta Lumber Company, where she also designed plans for customers purchasing lumber. It was there she met her future husband, Hugh Ross, who managed a sawmill in Waldeck, Saskatchewan.
In October 1917, Alice and Hugh married and moved to Waldeck. They had three sons and a daughter. For a time, Alice paused her career to focus on her family. Hugh’s work eventually brought them to Bonnyville and Bovalon in Alberta.
Overcoming Adversity
The 1929 stock market crash severely impacted the Ross family. Hugh lost his prestigious position due to nepotism, and the family struggled to make ends meet during the Great Depression. Bartering and ration cards replaced cash, and the family lived without many conveniences. Despite these challenges, Alice remained resourceful, using her architectural skills to contribute to the local Catholic community. She led the dismantling and reconstruction of a church in Stony Plain and designed a new community hall.
Moving to Edmonton and Founding an Architectural Firm
In 1941, the Ross family relocated to Edmonton, where Alice resumed her architectural career. Initially, she designed homes for developer George Prudham, who was building on farmland southeast of the city. Recognizing her talent, Alice furthered her education at the Rhode Island School of Design.
Upon returning to Edmonton, Alice founded “Ross Home Plans.” Inspired by her travels, she created a unique catalogue of home designs, offering clients a range of options. Alice believed that houses should be spaced out on adequately sized lots with windows facing south for optimal lighting. For rural projects, she recommended using concrete blocks. While her firm specialized in residential architecture, Alice also worked on larger projects, including contributions to the post-war National Housing Program and designs for buildings such as “Mills Motors Ltd.” and “Miller Lumber” in 1949.
Legacy and Personality
Alice Ross was known for her determination and optimism. According to her son Walter, she was a kind, modern woman with a great sense of humour. Her work left a lasting mark on Edmonton, breaking barriers for women in architecture and inspiring future generations.