From chaotic horse-drawn wagon races and dropping pamphlets from airplanes to battling winter blazes with open-air trucks, the Selkirk Fire Department has seen it all. Discover the fascinating history of our local volunteer heroes and how “Maggie” and “Jiggs” helped pave the way for modern firefighting
Chuck Norquay’s infectious passion for fishing singlehandedly secured Selkirk’s title as the “Catfish Capital of North America.” Discover his journey from a local guide to an international fishing celebrity, the famous 1985 letter that brought TV’s Babe Winkelman to the Red River, and the story behind the iconic 30-foot statue erected in his honor
Leaving behind the devastation of post-WWII Europe, Piotr and Wladyslawa Grabowski brought their young family to Selkirk in search of a better life. Discover their incredible story of survival, from Nazi forced labor camps to building a legacy of heroism, resilience, and deep community roots right here in Manitoba.
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, thousands of Eastern European migrants flooded into East Selkirk, turning an abandoned CPR Round House into a bustling immigration shed. Discover the incredible stories of the Doukhobors, Ukrainians, and Poles who overcame immense hardships to build a new life and shape the community we know today.
Dive into the remarkable stories that define Selkirk’s rich history. From the fishing legacy of Chuck Norquay to the quiet generosity of Mayor Robert Smith, explore the virtual exhibits honoring the local heroes and historic milestones showcased at our second annual Selkirk Comes Alive event.
Often hidden in the shadow of her famous husband, Lady Selkirk lived a remarkable life of her own. Discover how this upper-class Scottish woman became a vibrant fur-trade strategist, organized crucial canoe brigades for the Hudson’s Bay Company, and even attempted to launch a bold new Canadian fashion trend.
From ancient grass courts to McGill University’s 1875 ice debut, hockey’s evolution is a fascinating global story. Discover how the sport took root in Manitoba, driving the legendary Selkirk Fishermen and Selkirk Steelers to historic championship glory.
Before the Great Depression, short-term home loans meant families prioritized paying them off quickly—and celebrated with a “mortgage burning party.” Discover the fascinating history of this forgotten tradition and how Selkirk’s own Curling Club marked the milestone in 1974.
From soundproof 1940s movie theatre spaces to modern mental health sanctuaries, the purpose of the “crying room” has taken a fascinating turn. Discover the history of these specialized rooms, their presence in Selkirk’s historic Garry Theatre, and how they are making a comeback today to combat public stigma
When Selkirk was incorporated in 1882, the world was on the brink of a modern boom. Discover the fascinating history of early Canadian innovations from the era—including the train baggage tag, the electric oven, and the arrival of peanut butter.