The Village of Somerset is located 130 kilometres south west of the provincial capital of Winnipeg. Situated at the junction of P.R. 23 and P.R. 242, Somerset derives its name from Somerset England where many of the first settlers originated. The residents of Somerset speak both of Canada's official languages.
Somerset lies on the edge of the beautiful Pembina Hills. The gently rolling landscape is a patchwork of grain fields dotted with isolated wood lots and pothole marshes.
History
Settlers began arriving in the area in increasing numbers to settle homesteads towards the end of the 1800's. The coming of the North Western Railroad in the summer of 1889 brought a new wave of settlers. By 1891 a survey had delineated land parcels for farmers and businessmen.
The village was incorporated in 1962. The first projects undertaken by the new village were to install new sewer and water pipelines and to pave the village's streets.
Economic Base
Farming and livestock production are major staples of Somerset's local economy. Cereals and oilseeds are grown extensively in the surrounding region as well as many specialty crops that include lentils, peas and canary seed. The area also supports many large hog barns and livestock operations that supply meat products to world markets. Dairy and poultry producers are also present in the community, as well as small businesses such as strawberry farms.
Somerset has approximately 40 business establishments in the immediate area to service residents and surrounding farmers.
Major Attractions
Somerset has many facilities to host events and activities for residents and visitors alike.
A community hall and senior's centre provides room for recreational engagements for up to 450 guests. The local park and campground has fifteen sites camp sites that offer electrical services. The park also has a community pathway for fitness and leisure strolls.
The Village of Somerset is also proud to be a part of the Trans Canada Trail that when completed will provide a hiking path from Vancouver Island to Nova Scotia.
Skating and curling rinks complete with artificial ice provide wintertime entertainment and recreation to young and old alike. Various hockey and ringette tournaments and curling bonspiels attract competition from surrounding towns and villages.
Built in 1995, Somerset Place offers a host of medical facilities to the surrounding area. The centre offers short term and preventative medicine.
Somerset Public Library houses a large collection of books and videos in both official languages. The library also provides public computer facilities and internet access.
Other Information
Somerset is a friendly rural community that offers a prosperous business environment, many clubs and service organisations, and a very active group of citizens. Somerset has grown into a successful and flourishing business and agricultural community.
