Selkirk has often celebrated large events with parades, rain or shine. Some of these events include Victory Day when World War One ended, Canada’s Jubilee in 1927, Coronation Day in 1953, and Selkirk’s 75th Anniversary in 1957. In 1949, the parades began to coincide with the Agricultural Fair weekend.
Learn about the wartime and family life of John V. Sinclair, a World War II veteran who courageously enlisted at just 17 years old. After surviving battlefield injuries in France—thanks to a dramatic rescue by his neighbor “Chappy” Adams—he returned home to Selkirk, dedicated 25 years of hard work to the Manitoba Rolling Mills, and proudly raised a remarkably vibrant family of 11 children.
From commanding a vast shipping empire that employed thousands to orchestrating the recruitment of the historic “Nile Boatmen,” Captain William Robinson was one of Selkirk’s greatest heroes. This exhibit explores his incredible life as a pioneer merchant, wartime patriot, and the town’s first great benefactor who helped build Selkirk’s foundational infrastructure.