Annie Ada York was born to Rebecca Nelson and John York on 9 Dec 1868 in Meaford, Ontario. After training as a teacher, she moved to western Canada first teaching in Carmen, Manitoba, and later in Pakan, Alberta. Annie was a teacher from 1888 to 1891, and then she married Richard Henry Secord on 4 Aug 1891. Richard and Annie had five children – Lillian Laura, Helena (Lena), Imogene (Gene), Richard York, and Isobel.

Richard and Annie built their mansion, Chateau Rochelle, in 1907 at 9842 – 105 St. It remained the family’s home until 1951 and later was the first home of the Edmonton Art Gallery. The building was demolished in 1968.

As well as running her very organized home and helping her husband with his businesses, Annie travelled widely, often with her children and other family members. From their first trip on their honeymoon, Richard and Annie vacationed frequently in Banff. She travelled with her husband around America in 1906 and made a few journeys to Europe. Her trips to Europe included, with her sister-in-law in 1910, with her daughters and a niece at the time of the coronation of George V in 1911, and with all her children in 1913.

She was active in many community organizations, including the local chapter of the Red Cross, Imperial Order - Daughters of the Empire, Women's Auxiliary - Royal Alexandra Hospital, Canadian Women's Club, and the All Saint's Anglican church.

Annie York Secord died 17 Feb 1951 in Edmonton.