The Rural Municipality (R.M.) of Whitemouth is located in the Eastman region of Manitoba. A one hour drive east of the provincial capital of Winnipeg, the local area offers some unique scenery not found in most of the southern province. The community is only minutes outside the Sandilands Provincial Forest and Whiteshell Provincial Park. The R.M. of Whitemouth is also just an hour south of Nopiming Provincial Park. The area is a gateway to some of the most popular recreational areas of the eastern province.
History
Most of the municipality sits on top of the majestic Canadian Shield. The area is a mixed topography of rocky outcroppings, marshy bogs, and lush pine forests dotted with dozens of cabin-lined lakes and rivers.
The rushing Whitemouth River flows through the municipality and is a combination of lazy bends and rushing rapids. The community began to develop around 1880 however, natives and fur traders travelled the area long before that. Land for the Trans Continental Railway was surveyed in 1870, and construction of the main line began shortly after. A school was built in 1881 followed by a Presbyterian Church and other small shops and homes. Dr.Charolette Ross lived in the area, and was the first female doctor in Manitoba. During the roaring twenties, construction began on the Seven Sisters Hydro Electric Dam, creating many jobs for area residents. The depression of the 30's ceased production on the dam. After the depression, construction resumed on the dam and the original Trans Canada was built through the area. In the late 40's, a hospital and a high school were built and the community grew.
Economic Base
The economic base of the R.M. of Whitemouth has its roots in many different industries. The community is one of the closest retail centres to the cabin country of the provincial parks. Whitemouth serves as a supply centre to many vacationers who spend weeks on end enjoying the tree-lined lakes and rustic atmosphere. Area lakes offer the opportunity to hook dozens of different fish species, and outdoorsmen come from all areas of the province to fish and hunt. Families also flock to the area for a relaxing weekend of camping and fun. The forests of the surrounding area also support a booming logging industry, employing local residents. Felled trees are shipped to local pulp and paper mills producing newsprint and related products for world markets. Some local residents also farm for a living, with many cattle farms and grain farms close by.
