The Rural Municipality of Brenda is located in the southwestern corner of the Province of Manitoba. The southern border of Brenda parallels the U.S. border, while the R.M. of Arthur borders its western boundary. Brenda is easily accessible by a number of Provincial Highways. Provincial Trunk Highway 3 passes through the municipality. Provincial Roads 251, 254 and 452 also service the municipality. The largest centre in the municipality, the Village of Waskada, is found at the junction of Provincial Roads 241 and 452. The communities of Goodlands and Napinka are the significant communities in the municipality. With the CPR rail line passing through the municipality, Brenda is well serviced by both road and rail.
History
The region surrounding Brenda is steeped in history. The receding of the Wisconsinin Ice Sheet brought a long history of hunting and gathering by diverse aboriginal tribes. Many native artifacts and burial sites give proof to this rich aboriginal history. The Boundary Commission of 1874, officially surveyed the International border, while the Boundary Trail became an important trail for all settlers moving west from Winnipeg. The famous "March West" by the Northwest Mounted Police passed through the Village of Waskada, and forms an important part of the regions history and culture. The Village of Waskada was incorporated in 1949.
Economic Base
Brenda and its surrounding regions rely on oil and agriculture for their main economic activities. Several oil companies in the region employ local residents. The Village of Waskada is also a prominent "farm based" centre. The village provides basic services and necessities such as a service station, grocery store, restaurant and Credit Union. For a wider variety of services, residents typically have to travel to nearby Deloraine or Melita.
Major Attractions
While in Waskada, stop by and visit the Waskada Museum and Blacksmith's shop. The museum features era farm machinery and tools from the early 1900's, and a whooping crane from 1906. One of Canadas best collections of threshing photos in Western Canada is also housed in the museum.
The Lowe Natural Heritage Area just southeast of Waskada, is the largest piece of unbroken prairie between the Turtle Mountains and the Souris River, and is open year round to visitors and residents. The Turtle Mountains Provincial Park just east of Waskada, is also a great place to stop for a couple days of camping and swimming.
Facilities - Recreation, Parks, Culture
The Promo Days in June and Threshing Days celebrations in September, are just two events that you should not miss while in Brenda and Waskada. These events are sure to be fun for all residents and visitors alike.
