By Randi LaRocque
The village of Cumberland House, the oldest community in Saskatchewan, marks their 250th anniversary with three-days of events celebrating this milestone.
Cumberland House was the Hudson Bay Company’s first fur-trading post in-land. The community was founded in 1774 by Samuel Hearne, who was a fur trader. The community is 93 years older than Canada itself, and the community is 116 years old.
To celebrate its 250th anniversary, Cumberland House is celebrating with three packed days of events. From a float parade to animal-calling competitions and voyageur races, Cumberland House is going full out. The event lasts from August 11 to 13, 2024.
Denise McKenzie, a key event coordinator, says there are several events happening over the next three-days.
“The museum will be open, and we will be having museum tours. There’s going to be canoe races and voyager races, and we’re offering rides to anybody who wants to join the voyager experiences.”
Kelvin McKay, Mayor of Cumberland House, was thankful for those who were coming out to celebrate with them.
“It’s a great milestone for everyone in our community.”
McKenzie says celebrating with everyone is meaningful to her.
“It’s tremendous. Our families are from way back, and it’s our history and our culture. Sharing it with everyone has so much meaning.”
Veronica Favel, deputy mayor, says the milestone helps show people that Cumberland House was always there.
“The history books acknowledge that we’ve been here for 250 years, and we also know that we’ve been here prior. It’s also a time for us to celebrate who we are on this island of Cumberland House.”
McKenzie was determined to host this event and is excited to share the community’s history.
“I’m proud of our people and proud of our place, and the rest of the world needs to hear about us. They need to know what Cumberland is, what we went through, and what our history is.” Said McKenzie.
(Photo: Mayor Kelvin McKay and Deputy Mayor Veronica Favel revealing new paddles at the entrance of Cumberland House by Randi LaRocque)