In recognition of Manitoba’s 150 birthday Morden has prepared a plaque display showcasing the history of Lake Minnewasta.
The project was funded by The Morden Area Foundation through the Manitoba 150 Legacy Project Fund, the Lautenschlager Family Fund, and the City of Morden.
During the Communities in Bloom Conference last fall, Dr. Gordon Goldsborough from the Manitoba Historical Society challenged communities in his keynote address to capture history of our communities to celebrate Manitoba’s 150 birthday. He explained that although concerts and events are a fun way to celebrate, it is important that we take these opportunities to also capture history in our community.
Morden took the challenge and came up with the idea of capturing the history of Lake Minnewasta. The Community Services Department worked on the project for 6 months researching and talking to people in the community to ensure our information was accurate. We gathered information from the CFDC, Morden History book, long time campers and Morden Beach Committee members: Howie Sager, Jim Hartry, Rick Mutton, Ed Maddock, Bob Jordan and Catherine Evenson. Conversations with David Scott, traditional oral historian of Swan Lake First Nation, provided information on Indigenous Land Use prior to Lake Minnewasta being created.
“I’m thrilled how the project has come together. We researched many sources of information in completing the project, it was important for us to present accurate information. The challenge was keeping the information concise and manageable on the plaque displays, there’s so much history to share,” explained Clare Agnew, Director of Community Services for the City of Morden.
“The plaques are like the displays in Confederation Park, which captures the history of Morden resident’s involvement in WWI and WWII. There was positive feedback from those displays, so I hope people will feel the same about these ones. It has inspired us to consider further history projects for Morden. I am hoping we can continue with this model in other areas of the city. If residents have an idea on future history projects or locations please share them with our department,” encouraged Agnew.
“It’s important that we capture the history of Morden. I am pleased the staff worked with CFDC and Swan Lake First Nations to complete the project. They’ve created an educational opportunity and a place to relax overlooking our beautiful lake,” shared Mayor Brandon Burley.
The project will be displayed on Friday, July 31 at 11:00 a.m. near the north parking area, overlooking the lake.
