Heritage Explorer

Description

(10,000 BC - Present) The unique environment provided by the Lauder Sandhills attracted bison, which appealed to the early peoples who came to camp and live there.

Stories

Lauder Sandhills

The unique ecology of the Lauder Sandhills attracted the early plains bison which were followed by the humans who hunted them.

Métis Bison Hunts

(1820s – 1870s) The Metis Bison Hunts were more than an economic necessity; they were a lifestyle.

Other Features Nearby

CNR Hartney-Carmen-Winnipeg Branch to Virden

(1905) The CNR built a bridge over the Souris River and reached Grande Clairière in the fall and Virden by Christmas.

Grande Clairière

(1888 – Present) A Catholic priest from France established a parish and community here.

Grande Clairière Convent

(1898 – 1923) The Grande Clairière Convent was the home of six nuns and about 40 boarding house students at a time.

Grande Clairière School

(1889-1966)

Métis Bison Hunts - Lauder Sandhills

(1837) A group of Métis bison hunters from St. Francois Xavier hunted bison in the Lauder Sandhills for several years.