Why I love living in Charleswood

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 08/04/2014 (4436 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

I have lived in Charleswood over 30 years, and consider myself a “Charleswoodian”, but there are many who have lived here much longer — some for generations. 

So what is the attraction and what is the reason that so many of us have chosen Charleswood as our home?

One of the first things that comes to mind is the beauty of our natural surroundings — green space, a river, natural grass prairie, and wildlife. Then there’s the Harte Trail — what a jewel we have in our community! You can walk along this protected trail for over six kilometres and feel like you are in the country.  

We are very fortunate to be in a school division that emphasizes excellence in the academics, arts, and athletics. The culture in the schools has always been one of innovation and forward thinking. There are also many resources for our children — community centres, soccer fields, ball diamonds, arenas, gymnastics clubs, curling club and proximity to great golf courses.  

The Charleswood Seniors Centre has proven to be a very valuable resource for our community. From exercise classes to art classes, the Seniors Centre has evolved to be a bustling centre of activity for our 55-plus group.

Charleswood is also home to one of the oldest and most successful art groups in the province. Emerging and established artists come together to share their craft and bring their work to the public. I love art and often comment that I need to add more walls to my house to make room for each piece that I fall in love with.

The history of Charleswood is kept alive by volunteers from the Charleswood Historical Society. From the museum to the annual pioneer dinner, these volunteers are busy being stewards of our past. We also cherish historic sites such as Caron House and The Passage.

A major reason I love Charleswood is the abundance of community leaders. From the very active Charleswood Rotary Club to a recent initiative by a 12-year-old Westdale boy who founded Lunches with Love, I am constantly amazed with the involvement by our residents. Our community leaders are active helping others and making our community a better place to live.

Finally, in Charleswood there is a feeling of roots and belonging. Many of our original families still have descendants living in Charleswood. People know each other’s grandparents, aunts and uncles. This provides the “community” experience you get living in a small town and is one of the things which gives us a sense of identity. I am so proud to be from Charleswood. A little bit country, a little bit city!