The Rural Municipality of Franklin is located in southcentral Manitoba, and is located approximately 80 kilometres south of Manitoba's capital city, Winnipeg. Franklin parallels the Canada/U.S.A. border along its southern boundary. The municipality is easily accessible with Provincial Highway 59, the major route that runs through the municipality. Provincial roads 200, 201, 217, and 218 help connect the municipality's several communities together. The western border of Franklin is the Red River, with the Roseau River running through the municipality itself.
Franklin's largest centre is the community of Dominion City, with the communities of Arnaud, Carlowrie, Fredenstahl, Green Ridge, Ridgeville, Rosa, Roseau River, Tolstoi, and Woodmore forming the other significant communities. The Roseau River Indian Reserve is also another proud community found within the Rural Municipality of Franklin.
Economic Base
The economy of Franklin is quite diverse, yet the majority of the residents are employed in some type of agriculture, evident by the surrounding countryside that is populated by grain farms and mixed farming. Many of the farms include specialized crops and even bison ranches.
The Rural Municipality of Franklin has a number of home based businesses that operate throughout the region. The community of Dominion City offers many services to the surrounding region, including a K-12 school, a strong business sector, and numerous services that include the Queen City Hotel and Restaurant, grocery and hardware stores, electrical and plumbing contractors, a grain elevator, and many other services. Dominion City also boasts many modern recreation facilities to meet the needs of its residents and the surrounding community.
Major Attractions
The Franklin Museum, located in Dominion, features a replica of the largest freshwater fish ever caught in Manitoba. The Swinging Cable Bridge over the Roseau River at Dominion City is also another interesting stop while in Dominion. The Tall-Grass Prairie Preserve near Tolstoi features the largest remaining tracts of tall-grass prairie in Manitoba. Established as a prairie preserve, the area is home to a wide variety of animals including moose and over 150 plant species; many of which are considered endangered. The Jatlyn Gardens and the organic gardens in Roseau River are other spots one should not miss.
The Roseau River First Nation Entertainment Centre that opened just recently, is also one of the region's most popular sites. The Entertainment Centre features jackpot bingo, 20 VLT machines and a family restaurant.
The community of Ridgeville celebrated its 100th birthday in the summer of 2002. In honour of this milestone, a day of family fun was held on Saturday, July 27th. The day was highlighted by a pancake breakfast and parade, followed by the opening ceremonies. Lunch was available at the Hall and the Community Club. People brought their gloves and took part in baseball games, while a Horseshoe Tournament was held at the Curling Rink and a Cribbage Tournament at the Hall. Throughout the day there was entertainment for the children. A display entitled, "Ridgeville Through The Years", featured many photos of families, buildings and days past. Supper was served from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Hall and an Old Time Dance followed with the evening being capped off with a fireworks display. Some people brought lawn chairs for comfort while others set up campers to stay the evening.
Many who came, enjoyed seeing family and old friends, and remembering their roots. A good time was had by all.
Facilities - Recreation, Parks, Culture
Franklin is home to many events and festivals throughout the year! The Annual Roseau River Canoe Derby in May, and the Roseau River Horse Show each June at Roseau River Park are sure to get everyone's adrenaline rushing. The community of Arnaud features Canada Day celebrations. Dominion also hosts the annual Elk's Fair Day each summer and the Dominion City Carnival in March.
One of the more popular events in Franklin is the Roseau River Pow Wow held every summer. This event is an excellent opportunity to experience the wealth and beauty of Rosseau River's aboriginal community.
Other Information
Franklin boasts having the largest tree in Manitoba!This Cottonwood tree is located 13 kilometres east of Dominion City, and is found on the banks of the Roseau River. Measuring over 6 metres in circumference and 9 metres at its base, this beautiful piece of history is approximately 300 years old!
