With the unanimous support of Yorkton Council at its regular meeting Monday, six historic markers will be installed throughout the downtown area.
"During the 2010 budget process Council approved the installation of downtown historical markers," explained Darcy McLeod, Director, Community Development, Parks & Recreation with the City.The cost, including installation is $6,600.
The project has been co-ordinated by Terri Lefebvre, the City's Heritage Researcher, and also the Heritage Sub Committee.
"A total of six markers will be installed off the sidewalk and into a public green space or boulevard so as not to interfere with pedestrians. The markers are made of powder coated steel posts and the display is lexan plastic and a special UV ink to ensure long life," said McLeod.
One marker will be placed on the north side of Livingstone Street looking north to the Cornerstone Credit Union, comprising photos and text telling the story of the Balmoral Hotel.
Another marker will be located on Broadway Street near the corner of Third Avenue.
"This marker tells the story of the beginnings of the liquor empire created by the Bronfman family," said McLeod.
"Two markers will be installed in the Western Financial Group City Centre Park," he continued. "The first marker will depict the story of the buildings that once stood where the park corner is today, and includes the Royal Hotel, as well as stories of the Hudson's Bay Company Store, the Bank of Commerce and the Roxy Theatre on Broadway Street.
"The second marker will tell the story of the railway. From its beginning in 1891 the railway played a most important part in helping the settlement of the region and establishing Yorkton as the centre of a large trading area."
The last "two markers will also be installed on the north side of Smith Street close to Second Avenue along the sidewalk of the Fire Hall property. One marker will display the history of the Fire Hall, as well as the story of Levi and Alice Beck's mansion which was located where the Fire Hall now stands," continued McLeod.
"The second marker will tell the story of the 100-year history of Smith Street looking east and west."
