Gravelbourg is the cultural gem of Saskatchewan
The Town of Gravelbourg is the cultural gem of Saskatchewan, as it brings a touch of Europe to the Prairies through its remarkable bilingual heritage, regal architecture and rich culture. The town is located 120 kilometres southwest of Moose Jaw and has a population of roughly 1,100 people. Beginning in 1906, pioneers of several ethnic groups with vastly different backgrounds settled in the town and rural municipality of Gravelbourg. Pioneers came from other Canadian provinces, the United States, and Europe, bringing many languages, religions, and traditions. French Catholic clergy played an important role in developing French settlements across the province, including Gravelbourg. The parish and the cathedral provided a foundation for the growth of the Fransaskois community, working to preserve the French language, which were linked to the survival of the Catholic faith. The clergy was also instrumental in developing institutions such as Collège Mathieu, the convent schools, public radio and various publications. The rich soil of the region has spawned a bountiful agriculture sector here. Before the Great Depression, Gravelbourg once had nine grain elevators, which
The courthouse is one historic point in Gravelbourg.
attested to the community’s prosperity. The Depression hit many elevators hard, though, leaving only one Prairie Sentinel standing there today. Visitors can take a walking tour of the town, which features 12 sites of historical significance, including Soucy House, the statue of Father Gravel, the post office building, the cathedral and the Renaissance Gaiety Theatre. Guided tours of Gravelbourg’s historic sites are provided in both official languages seven days a week from June through August. Tours leave from the Gravelbourg & District Museum located at 300 Main Street. To book an appointment, call (306) 648-2332. The museum contains a collection of early pioneer memorabilia, including extensive artifacts from Gravelbourg’s earliest
residents. People profiled include Monsignor Charles Maillard, Dr. J. A. Soucy and Father Pierre Gravel. The Centre Culturel Maillard is a testament to Gravelbourg’s vibrant Francophone community. It was built in 1985 to assure the preservation of the French language and culture for future generations. It is also the home of the Association Communautaire Fransaskoise de Gravelbourg and the Association Culturelle FrancoCanadienne de la Saskatchewan. Please contact (306) 648-3103 for more information. Besides the many businesses, restaurants, and shops to shop, visitors can swim at Thomson Lake or golf at a local course. Visit www.gravelbourg.ca for more information.
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