Fort Rouge area is rich in history

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 26/11/2013 (4630 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

One of the great things about Fort Rouge is the rich history of our neighbourhood. 

With the construction of the three bridges across the Assiniboine — Maryland, Osborne and Main Street — Fort Rouge was developed as the first suburb of Winnipeg. Over the century it has changed greatly, but its history is still evident in the architectural details of Fort Rouge’s many buildings. 

A couple of gems, like the Augustine United Church and the former Ashdown House at 529 Wellington, have been designated by the City of Winnipeg as historic sites. Walking through the neighbourhoods of Osborne Village and Corydon Avenue, old homes, forgotten signs and churches help tell the story of Fort Rouge.

Huge mansions on the riverfront and modest homes on tree-lined streets whisper the secrets of bygone days.

Although Fort Rouge is deeply rooted in history, this vibrant community thrives on change and development.

The Osborne Bridge has been refurbished recently. Some buildings have been restored and a few have given way to subsequent development.

Many Winnipeggers have found a home in a number of our high-rise buildings. 

We are fortunate that even though some of these buildings may no longer be around, their stories remain.

Inside and around Shoppers Drug Mart are pictures and stories of the buildings that used to line our streets.

From these it is interesting to learn that the original Victoria Hospital was once located at the corner of River Avenue and Bole Street.

Over the years, proud residents and businesses of Fort Rouge have established traditions to celebrate their neighbourhoods.

 May it be Dancing on the Avenue, the Patio Concert Series at the Gas Station Arts Centre or Winnipeg’s largest and longest-running Canada Day Street Festival, people of all ages come out to enjoy the neighbourhood and continue making memories!

This year, Holy Rosary Church is celebrating its 90th Anniversary and this is a milestone that definitely deserves recognition.

Holy Rosary Church was created to help the newly-immigrated Italian community; the parish assisted each to find housing and work.

These principles have guided the church for 90 years and they continue to be involved in social issues in our community.

It was a great pleasure for me to attend their 90th Anniversary Gala Dinner on Nov. 16 at the RBC Convention Centre Winnipeg and hear the parishioners swapping old stories!     
  
It’s great to see so many historic organizations celebrating anniversaries in Fort Rouge, while we’re also welcoming in new restaurants, apartment blocks and businesses.

 I’m looking forward to meeting our new neighbours at events in the future.