The deep-rooted heritage of Selkirk is profoundly intertwined with Icelandic immigration, which brought vibrant cultural traditions, a resilient community spirit, and a unique identity to the region. This post explores the lasting legacy of the early Icelandic settlers and celebrates the remarkable individuals whose contributions shaped the cultural, social, and economic fabric of our community.
On July 14, 1970, hundreds gathered along the Selkirk docks as Queen Elizabeth II and the Royal Family sailed down the Red River aboard the M.S. Lord Selkirk II. Part of Manitoba’s centennial celebrations, this memorable royal excursion left a lasting impression of local pride and celebration on all who witnessed it.
Thomas “Tom” Albert Norquay (1925–1979) was a Selkirk-born Second World War veteran who enlisted with the Royal Canadian Air Force. Following his military service, he graduated from the University of Toronto as an optometrist and opened the very first optometry practice in Selkirk.
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.
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 Selkirk’s vibrant history as a travel destination! From the historic early 1900s trolley excursions to Selkirk Park, to modern attractions like the Marine Museum of Manitoba and the famous Triple S Fair and Rodeo, explore how the “Catfish Capital of the World” has welcomed visitors for generations.