The "Garden of Manitoba" describes the location of the Rural Municipality of Morton. Situated between the Souris River and the Turtle Mountains, the municipality finds itself sitting in the beautiful prairie landscape of southwestern Manitoba, bordering the United States to its south. Morton is easily accessed by Provincial Trunk Highway (PTH) 10, which also is a direct route to the United States. PTH 3 and many other Provincial Roads also access the municipality. The beautiful Turtle Mountain Provincial Park makes up a large part of the southwestern corner of the municipality, as well as, the International Peace Gardens situated right at the Canada/USA border. Whitewater is another community in Morton. The Town of Boissevain, found along PTH 10, is the largest centre in the municipality, and forms an integral element to the social and cultural life of the municipality.
History
The first inhabitants in the area, were the Assiniboine Tribe who called the land home in the late 1500's. The years 1873 to 1875 saw the International Boundary Commission marking the International Boundary. As the trail was made, settlers coming west from Ontario followed, in hopes of finding good land, water and wood. The year 1881 saw British immigrants arriving in the area. Preceding the railway, these hardy immigrants quickly settled the area. With the railroad that slowly extended its line to Boissevain in 1885, immigration into Morton quickly grew. Boissevain was incorporated as a town in 1906.
Economic Base
Morton is characterized by sandy loam soils. These soils make the land particularly well suited for mixed farming operations, evident by the agricultural activity in the municipality. The largest employer in Morton is the South West Regional Health Authority, who employ approximately 159 residents in the Boissevain Health Centre, the Evergreen Place, and the Westview Lodge Seniors Homes. The Turtle Mountain School Division is another prominent employer in the region, employing 140 residents in Boissevain and the surrounding communities.
New families will find Morton irresistible since its lifestyle maintains a low-cost of living, as well as, a low tax base! Retiring couples will find Morton and its many organizations, activities and services, an excellent place to relax and spend their quality years.
New industries will also be attracted to Morton with its low taxes, access to three-phase power and natural gas, and easy access to major transportation and the U.S. market.
Major Attractions
While in Morton, don't miss visiting both the Turtle Mountain and William Lake Provincial Parks! These natural gems in southwestern Manitoba, offer a plethora of recreational activities. The Provincial Parks offer an excellent means to experience the native wildlife.
Boissevain's "Tommy the Turtle" also welcomes you to Morton! Get your picture taken with this oversized friendly amphibian! Boissevain's "Arts Park", the Outdoor Art Gallery of Murals, and the Beckoning Hills Museum are other attractions not to miss while in Morton!
Facilities - Recreation, Parks, Culture
Morton features an enormous number of social and recreational activities! Some of the many clubs include the Boissevain Community Theatre, Festival of the Arts, Turtle Mountain Agricultural Society and the Turtle Mountain Snappers Club.
Other Information
Did you know that the R.M. of Morton took its name from an early settler, George Morton? An energetic entrepreneur, Morton ran several business enterprises in the municipality and also built a store and grain warehouse in the area.
