North Battleford Tourist Attractions

Nearly 5 km / 3 mi south-east of Battleford lies Battleford National Historic Park. This clearly explains the role played by the North West Mounted Police (the "Mounties") in the development of Western Canada. For example, on display is their base established in 1876, as well as five buildings, four furnished in the style of the time, and reconstructed ramparts. The 1886 barracks house some informative exhibitions.In Fort Battleford National Historic Park the rich and varied pattern of Battleford's history is brought to life. The Fort was the seat of government of the Northwest Territories between 1876 and 1882.

Tourists are recommended to visit the historic Western Development Museum-Heritage Farm & Village which illustrates the history of agriculture. The exhibition of agricultural equipment and tools is supplemented in summer by demonstrations of farming techniques from before the 1920s. In addition a small 1925 town has been built incorporating many original buildings from surrounding places. It includes houses built in the style of Ukranian and French- Canadian settlers, a railway station, a barber's shop and a school.

The Fred Light Museum is a reproduction of a shop, a class-room and an armory with a fine collection of weapons. In addition many utensils are exhibited, such as shaving mugs and lamps, which were in use at the turn of the century.Other departments are devoted to the history of the military and the Mounted Police

The Washbrook Museum in Edam provides an insight into Sakatchewan rural life.The museum is located in a former Wheat Pool elevator and displays antique items from the area. Some of these inculde weapons, farming implements, household goods, and clothing.

St Walburg (population 731) also has an interesting museum, the St Walburg & District Museum housed in the Old Church of the Assumption on Main St. Exhibits come from the village and its surroundings pre-1945 and include paintings by Imhoff. The church organ, made in 1885, still plays.

The Allen Sapp Gallery in 100th St. houses the "Gonor Collection" of pictures by the Cree artist Allen Sapp, one of the leading contemporary Canadian artists. His art gives a rare insight into the lives of the Cree people.

The George Hooey Wildlife Exhibit, housed in Battleford's Wildlife Federation Building displays over 400 preserved specimens of animals, including fishes and birds, some of which date back as far as 1890.

Loon Lake's Big Bear Trail Museum stands on the highway in this small community (population 401).On display are pioneer artifacts and items from the skirmish at Steele Narrows.

The Canadian Northern Railway Station, built in 1908 and which marked Battleford's link-up with the railway, was converted into a restaurant in 1976.