Selkirk has been and still is home to some extraordinary people over the years. Some gave their lives for a better tomorrow, others traveled the world, created recreation, and gave transportation. Learn how these great individuals shaped our beautiful city into what it is today.
Follow the extraordinary life of Harold Little, a D-Day veteran who courageously navigated a swimming tank onto Juno Beach. Despite losing an eye to a landmine during the landing, he heroically carried a wounded comrade to safety, later returning to Europe to complete his service with the historic Dufferin Gang. After the war, he built a legendary local career as a commercial and government recovery diver, a legacy celebrated today at the Marine Museum of Manitoba.
Discover the life of Harold Newton, a dedicated local historian and Selkirk Council member whose passionate research preserved the foundational stories of our community.
Honor the memory of Harold Starr, one of more than one million brave Canadians who stepped forward to serve during the Second World War. As a vital member of Selkirk’s historic Dufferin Gang, his sacrifice in the pursuit of peace and freedom stands as a lasting testament to his community, ensuring his legacy lives on for generations to come.
From glowing rolling mills to bustling casting floors, explore how Selkirk transformed into a powerhouse of manufacturing, driving Western Canada’s industrial boom.
Honor the memory of Harry Scramstad, one of more than one million brave Canadians who stepped forward to serve during the Second World War. Serving alongside his brothers, Bob and Otto, as a vital member of Selkirk’s historic Dufferin Gang, his sacrifice in the pursuit of peace stands as a lasting testament to his community.
Reflect on the enduring legacy of Howard Pawley, who served as the MLA for Selkirk from 1969 to 1988 and as the Premier of Manitoba from 1981 to 1988. From his early days establishing a local law practice to his pivotal work introducing public auto insurance, expanding senior housing, and mentoring future leaders like Murray Sinclair, his career deeply shaped both local and provincial history.
Discover the history of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows (I.O.O.F.) in Selkirk. Established locally in 1894 as Remora Lodge No. 26, learn how this historic fraternity dedicated decades to community building, from developing Queen’s Park to supporting local healthcare and youth initiatives
Follow the wartime experiences of Jack B. Gunter, a dedicated World War II veteran who enlisted with the Fort Garry Horse Armoured Tank Corps. Serving as a mess cook and supporting frontline troops during the critical D-Day Invasion, he bravely served alongside four of his siblings as a proud member of Selkirk’s historic Dufferin Gang, leaving a legacy of family sacrifice and community service.
Follow the life of Jack C. Laye, a Second World War veteran who served in the Canadian Army alongside his brother James as part of Selkirk’s historic Dufferin Gang. After returning home, he earned his Red Seal in carpentry, dedicating his post-war career to North American Lumber, Government Services, and the Selkirk Mental Health Centre.
Follow the poignant wartime journey of Jack Norquay, a proud Selkirk native and member of the historic Dufferin Gang who enlisted with the RCAF in 1942. Serving overseas as a dedicated bomber-aimer, he affectionately named his Halifax aircraft ‘Millie’ in honor of his wife, flying successful operations over Germany before making the ultimate sacrifice over Kassel in 1943.