Celebrating 100 years of parks in St. James

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 14/06/2021 (1890 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the RM of St. James, and you will notice a series of events, projects, and installations taking place as we celebrate this milestone within our community.

We are fortunate to have several green spaces that provide a place to enjoy fresh air and recreational opportunities. I grew up in the area, and have many memories of riding my bike through Bourkevale or walking the trails of Bruce Park with friends; today I continue to enjoy the parks with my kids – one of our favorite activities is sledding the hill at Woodhaven.

As we celebrate St. James’ 100th, let us look back some the parks that have served our neighbourhoods.

Early in Winnipeg’s evolution it was recognized that public parks serve an important societal function as recreational spaces for diverse communities of people. They have a significant impact on our physical and mental well-being and are a crucial part of any thriving community.

Officially opening in 1909 and located along the Assiniboine River, the Assiniboine Park covers 445 hectares and includes a zoo, conservatory, pavilion, outdoor stage, numerous gardens, and other attractions. When it opened, the pavilion became a focus of early Winnipeg’s social life and included a dance and banquet hall, and remains one of Winnipeg’s most popular gathering places!

Just north of Assiniboine Park, Bruce Park runs between Portage Avenue and the Assiniboine River. It is named after Peter Bruce, whose family were Métis farmers who settled the land back in the 1850s. After Peter died in 1933, the land was donated to the Municipality of St. James under the condition that it always remain a green space for all to enjoy. Inside the park is a cenotaph commemorating those from St.

James killed during military service, and many attend the Remembrance Day services there.

Bourkevale Park is located on the north bank of the Assiniboine River, just east of Bruce Park and is also home to the St. James Lawn Bowling Club. Bourkevale Community Centre is also located here; established in 1949, it remains one of the oldest community centres in Winnipeg. Did you know the first clubhouse at 100 Ferry Road was an old H-Hut previously used as wartime housing for the military? Community spirit and determination helped to establish this central meeting place and it remains popular for families today.

Tucked along Sturgeon Creek, Woodhaven Park is home to the Woodhaven Community Club. Land was set aside for this green space in the 1920s and the winding trails and sports fields soon became a popular place for outdoor fun in all seasons.

In 1998, the Richardson family purchased a section of land that included the Woodhaven Hill from developers to ensure the beloved hill would remain for all to enjoy. The Sturgeon ParkGreenway Trail also runs through Woodhaven and is a wonderful trail system to explore.

Here’s to the numerous volunteers and organizers who helped establish and continue to maintain the parks we love to enjoy today.

Happy 100th St. James!