History resonates in new park name

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 06/01/2015 (4212 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

In early November our community re-dedicated the park site known as Moore Road Park.

Currently owned by the Seven Oaks School Division and leased to the community of West St. Paul, the site has had a very long and rich history. Its new name is Emesville Park and the Emes family was one of West St. Paul’s true pioneer families, arriving here 107 years ago, in 1907.

Many generations of the Emes family continue to live, work and invest in our community.

John Emes purchased 400 acres in 1907 and through the years Emeses have served the community in many ways. Two brothers, Tom and Daniel Emes, gave almost 50 years service to West St. Paul council  — Tom as Reeve and Daniel as councillor.

The park site was once home to Emesville School, which was in service from 1914 until 1962. Many members of the Emes family attended  this school, as did many of the early residents of West St. Paul/

When Seven Oaks School Division  became responsible for the area and West St. Paul School opened, the division moved the original school building to a farm property on Blackdale Road and the site became a playground for the area. Today the many municipality funded amenities on the site include landscaping, play structures, lighting, benches, pleasure ice and asphalt surface for various activities in a safe environment.

The dedication of Emesville Park was a great event enjoyed by family, friends and many generations of the Emes family, along with other longtime residents of the community.

Former West St. Paul councillor Eugene Kinaschuk , who taught at Emesville School was also in attendance.

As mayor — and as an amateur historian — I was pleased that our council  and administration, on behalf of West St. Paul residents, were able to recognize the Emes family and preserve history for future generations to know and enjoy.

West St. Paul has many streets, roads and parks with names that recognize our rich history and those who have served our country and community.