The front page of a special Leader-Post supplement, marking the commissioning of SaskPower's head office. 
SaskPower head office soon after opening. 
Architect Joseph Pettick speaking at the commisioning ceremony. SaskPower general manager, David Cass-Beggs, sits two to the left. |
The Commissioning
Originally scheduled for November 22, 1963, the head office commissioning ceremonies were delayed due to the assassination of John F Kennedy. Moved to the next day, the ceremony was again rescheduled, this time to accommodate the Saskatchewan Roughrider football game.
SaskPower's new head office would become a powerful marketing and promotional tool for the corporation and Saskatchewan. The building was an icon for the times, an achievement that was a hallmark to the growth and success of the province. Images of the head office were featured on postcards and in advertising, while the unique "Y" design adorned the head office's dinnerware and candy dishes.
The new building was widely praised and regarded as a symbol of prosperity in Saskatchewan. The head office was described as being a "triumph" and "one of the world's architecturally
unique structures". The building, with its unique modern design, represented a period of tremendous growth and progress in Saskatchewan. In the first week 17,000 people visited the building, and by the end of 1964, over 137,000 people had been through. Head Office Today
SaskPower's head office was conceived as a public building, and visitors
were encouraged to enjoy the observation deck and art gallery on the
top floor. However, in an age of heightened security, the building
has had extensive security
upgrades and, unfortunately, is no longer open to the public.
When first opened, head office was designed to promote the use of electricity
and natural gas, and accordingly the building's exterior was spectacularly
lighted. In recent years, the desire to reduce SaskPower's environmental
impact has resulted in the installation of electricity conserving
lights and lighting
systems. SaskPower's head office now incorporates many measures to
promote environmental awareness and responsible environmental management.
Though it has received various upgrades and changes over the years, the building's overall architectural beauty endures. SaskPower's head office remains a landmark in Saskatchewan architecture and is still regarded as one of the most attractive and recognizable buildings in the province.
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