Home of a hero
Off the beaten track, on a side street in the River Flats, stands a building which at first glance seems quite ordinary. But something about its appearance makes it stand out in this quiet, residential neighbourhood. It has the architectural appearance of an old store.
A little research at the Esplanade Archives revealed its original purpose. Hidden behind years of renovations to modernize its appearance, this apartment building today was once a flourishing grocery and general store. Built in 1911, the structure is far older than what meets the eye. It was known as the Rossiter Store.
It was also the home of 14-year-old Norman Rossiter, a Boy Scout leader, the son of Charles and Ann Rossiter, the proprietors of the store. On Friday June 23, 1911, the Northwest Amusement Company brought its show into town. One of the main attractions was a hot air balloon navigated by George Cokely. On a routine display, the balloonist “had ascended to a height of 3,000 feet when the balloon began to descend rapidly, at the same time drifting along the course of the river. In order to clear the gas bag and save himself, Cokely decided to jump and when about 75 feet above the water he dove downwards.”
Norman Rossiter witnessed the tragedy. When the balloonist, who was now in the middle of the South Saskatchewan River, was about to sink a second time, Norman swam out with a rope and saved the life of George Cokely. For his bravery, in 1911 Rossiter was awarded the highest Scout medal, sharing the honour with two other Scouts from across Canada.
While still a teenager, Norman pursued a career as an electrician. When the First World War was raging in Europe, Rossiter left the trade and in 1916 enlisted with the 210th Battalion. Although wounded, Acting Lance Corporal Rossiter survived the war, receiving two war medals and a badge. By the end of the war, the Rossiters had moved to Calgary, having sold the business and property. Norman resumed his career as an electrician. From 1923 to 1941 Graham’s Groceteria operated from this location.
Long before the era of supermarkets, shopping centres and big box stores, most of Medicine Hat’s quiet residential neighbourhoods were supplied by the corner store and each one has its own story.
Malcolm Sissons is the Chair of the Heritage Resources Committee. This article was prepared by committee member Sally Sehn with the help of Esplanade Archives staff.