If you ever want to take a trip back into the past, Cannington Manor Provincial Park is the place to go.
The historic site, which continues to be a great highlight for locals and tourists who want a hands-on learning experience about the history of the area, is back open this year after having to close last summer due to COVID-19.
It will be operating a little differently, as masks are required in the buildings and other basic regulations are in place. It is also recommended that visitors book their tours online because there is a limited capacity. It will be open to visitors every week from Thursday-Monday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
The village of Cannington Manor was a settlement started in 1882 by Captain Edward Pierce, who wished to start a Victorian-style village in the Prairies. The town became a supplier for southeast Saskatchewan but was eventually abandoned after about twenty years due to various struggles and changes that were taking place such as the arrival of railroads.
Cannington Manor Provincial Park is a hidden gem of Saskatchewan, as it aims to recreate the world in which the villagers would have lived. There are several buildings, which represent what their homes would have looked like, and the park is home to many historical artifacts from the village's times. Additionally, there are costumed guides who direct the tours at Cannington Manor and tell the tales and history of the village.
Allison Magy, the Historic and Cultural Resource Specialist with Saskatchewan Parks, explained this experience is what makes Cannington Manor so special.
"I think some of the highlights are getting to really feel like you do get to step back in time. The interpreters are all in period costume and it really puts you back and helps you imagine what life would have been like at Cannington over a hundred years ago. We also have a variety of hands-on activities for people to enjoy whether it's learning how to play croquet or making rope … and it's a beautiful place not too far off the beaten path for an afternoon picnic or to walk along," Magy said.
Cannington Manor is indeed beautiful, and at this time of year, visitors may even get a glimpse of the Yellow Lady's Slipper Orchid there.
The Park also includes the Humphrey/Hewlett House, which is from the 19th century and is only a short drive from the rest of the park.
Magy added that there will be a couple of "Cannington by Candlelight" tours, which take place in the evening and where "a visitor gets to step back into time with a guide … and hear stories from Cannington Manor's history that are best told after dark."
The hope is that the park will also be able to host their annual Cannington Manor Fair this year on the August long weekend.
To find more information about Cannington Manor Provincial Park, or to book a tour go to www.tourismsaskatchewan.com.
For more photos, please see Observed At on Page A7.
