NAPDA

Northern Alberta Pioneers and Descendants Association, was officially founded in 1894.  News articles from the Edmonton area, indicate the group was active as early as 1882 and memorabilia indicate as early as 1849.

In 2023, NAPDA's Board of Directors committed to the reinvigoration of the organization after hardships related to renovation overages and unfortunate timing of the COVID-19 shut down.  After identifying the needs of the organization, NAPDAs Board hired a new strategic Executive Director, Mike Alexander.

In 2024, Alexander consulted with members of the organization and community.  Researching the history, activities, and intentions of both founders and current members.  After a thoroughly understanding the historically important aspects of NAPDA, Alexander began consulting and creating new relationships with the Indigenous Communities in the Edmonton area. 

This process, identified key areas that the Indigenous community and the Pioneer community shared as part of their heritage.  The Bison being one symbol of that.  Continued Indigenous consultations identified programs and areas that the organization can advance Truth and Reconciliation efforts while maintaining an advocate stance, not a primary focus. 

NAPDA partnered with MacEwan University to research and create new, inclusive branding.  Using the important shared history of the bison, The fact our lodge is built so close to a bison trail, and river crossing, and the early Bison Head donated to NAPDA in the early 20th century, Bison Lodge was a natural progression.

Today, NAPDA's Bison Lodge, hosts monthly members programs, Indigenous ceremonies, community building events, health and wellness sessions, and provides space for countless nonprofits and community organizations.

NAPDA funds those efforts through the generous support of the Social Enterprise Fund, the Municipality of Edmonton, the Edmonton Heritage Council, and renting our beautiful space for private functions such as Weddings, Corporate socials and meetings.