Cannington Manor was a thriving town in the late 1800s, but by 1900 the village became abandoned as the railroad was constructed south of the village. Buildings have since been reconstructed and interpretive staff now demonstrates activities from the time period for visitors to the park.
One of the most exciting days for the park includes its annual fair day, which was well attended on Aug. 4. People from Estevan, Balgonie, Wawota, and further enjoyed their time learning about the late 1800s and shortly lived thriving village in southeast Saskatchewan.
All ages were present to enjoy the day. Activities began at noon and lasted until 4 p.m. During this time many people made their way through the recreated village to experience a little bit of history. Beginning at the Visitor Centre they then wandered along the main road looking in on the Bachelor's Cabin, the Carpenter's Shop, the Blacksmith's Shop, and the Maltby House.
Activities throughout the afternoon included rope making, croquet, horseshoes, Victorian tea, wagon rides by Herman Fornwald and Edna Whitrow, as well as making homemade ice cream.
Pleased to be with the crowd were Michele Amy, Shamma Sabir, and Gordon Stobbe who were the musical entertainment for the day. It is the third time they have been to the Cannington Manor Fair to play and were excited to be able attend again.
"It's a fun place to play on a Sunday afternoon," Stobbe explained.
The three musicians were available as the Kenosee Lake Kids Camp, a fiddle camp for youth, was being held at Kenosee and were able to take a few hours out of their day to put on the music, which added to the overall atmosphere perfectly as fiddle music was a staple for early settlers.
Overall the day was a great success despite the threat of rain. Many people in fact explained they attended because it was a dreary day and there was nothing else to really do.
Though the village of Cannington Manor became abandoned, it is now a bustling little tourist attraction which holds various events including Cannington by Candlelight and Vintage Village Sundays throughout the summer season. The next candle lit experience will be on Aug. 15 starting at 8:30 p.m. Here stories are told that are best left for night when the spirits from the past supposedly come out to help tell the tales.
The final Vintage Village Sunday will be held on Aug. 18 and will feature wagon rides, crafts, ice cream making, and much more.
