Olson Residence

The Olson Residence, built circa 1923, is a highly unique expression of vernacular residential architecture. The residence’s unique jerkinhead roof, the only example in the community, asymmetrical hipped-roof projection at the rear of the residence and one-time second story balcony on the northeast facade characterize this one-of-a-kind community resource. Once John and Mary Olson purchased the existing butcher shop in town from William Turvey and moved to Sexsmith, they purchased this residence in 1926 and lived here for over 15 years before moving to a farm just north of town. For a period of time the residence was used as a rental property for the family. This continued until 1974 when John Olson’s son, Roald, and his wife took title of the residence and retained the house until 1992.