Nestled along the shores of Lake Winnipeg, Winnipeg Beach is a town rich in history and charm. For those curious about its past, an exciting opportunity awaits. The Historic Walking Tour of Winnipeg Beach invites locals and visitors alike to explore 36 unique sites that reveal the vibrant stories woven into this picturesque community. With each step, you’ll uncover fascinating tales and colorful facts that transport you back in time—over a century ago. From iconic landmarks like the water tower to hidden gems waiting to be rediscovered, this immersive experience promises not just knowledge but also a deeper connection to the town’s heritage.
Wendy Peter leads this exciting initiative through her role as president of the Winnipeg Beach Historical Society. What began as curiosity about her own historic home in 2020 has blossomed into an expansive project that invites community involvement.
Peter began by writing a proposal to the town. At first, the Society had started with just a Facebook page where people were invited to share photos they had been harbouring from the past.
“I was blown away by the contributions and how much-unorganized history there was,” said Peter.
Peter is currently restoring the historic cottage she owns with her husband, Murray. During the day, she is the director at Women on the Frontlines, a global charity that helps desperate women around the globe.
Peter worked hard to create a place to hold all of the important history that began to unfold before her.
At each site, informative signage and QR codes provide easy access to rich details online. You can listen to audio stories and view photographs that bring these historical moments to life. Paper maps are also available at the tourist information kiosk.
“Originally, we planned to have an in-person, scheduled tour, but we found people were nervous during the pandemic, so I created this online thing,” said Peter.
This tour showcases landmarks like the Playland arcade, the lighthouse, the synagogue, the Boundary Creek footbridge, and several cottages. Some site pages include photos of original constructions, like that of the Winnipeg Beach roller coaster, which also features original footage from the 1950s.
Peter is always amazed at the wonderful things she can uncover in her work.
“I was researching in a book and it mentioned that in the 1990s someone had done an audio history of Winnipeg Beach. We discovered that there were over 40 hours of audio, including interviews from people that had been in their 70s and 80s at the time, telling stories from the early 1900s.”
The Historical Society continually collaborates with community members to add more photographs and information to the collection.
“With each step, we open things up for people to suggest a stop, share information, and help solve mysteries about specific sites. For example, we might not know how a place got its name, but someone does,” shared Peter. “It’s been very rewarding to see the community work together.”
The Society is still working to keep up with the town’s history. Many next steps planned include getting a tourist train in order, holding an annual historic dance, and restoring and developing the vintage caboose into a working tourist information stop and cafe. They also eventually hope to have a museum and are on the lookout for someone with an old cottage that could be moved. One other goal is to bring back the historic signage at Ritchie Park, which they are working with the province to make happen.
At the upcoming annual Winnipeg Beach Boardwalk Days, from July 26-28, members of the Historical Society will be joining in on the fun by wearing historic costumes in the parade and holding up a society banner. Visitors of Winnipeg Beach during these days can look forward to Wonder Shows rides, street markets, and fireworks.
Peter will also be releasing two recordings online in the Facebook group from Danny Butler and Jack London, whose families started the famous Playland and were a major part of developing the boardwalk. To add to the celebrations, a bench carved by Robert Unik, “The Evolution of the Swimsuit” will be installed beside the water tower.
“The goal of this is to celebrate the history of Winnipeg Beach, to preserve it, and to give people something fun to do,” said Peter. “I believe that history should be preserved and celebrated, as it gives a sense of continuity and enriches the community.”
Both history and Winnipeg Beach enthusiasts are encouraged to take a look at the impressive online tour at winnipegbeachhistory.com and, if given the chance, to go explore some of the sites in person.
