The Town of Souris is located 50 kilometres south west of Brandon, Manitoba's second largest city. The town is situated at the junction of highways 2 and 250 and also along the scenic Souris River. With its many unique attractions, Souris appeals to both residents and visitors alike.
History
Settlement in the Souris area dates back to the end of the 1800's. The first pioneers in Souris arrived after the passing of the Homestead Act in 1880 to settle the area around Souris. The area however,had been home to native peoples for hundreds of years before the first settlers. A patchwork of rolling farm fields have replaced the once wild prairie grasses originally found around the Souris area.
Economic Base
The economy for Souris and its surrounding areas are primarily based on agriculture.
Most area farmers are mixed grain farmers, yet a number of producers have diversified into cattle and hog production.
The Town of Souris also supports small scale manufacturing and production. A local cheese producer is one of the town's most notable businesses. The producer supplies high quality products for national distribution.
Major Attractions
Souris is alive with activities and community events all throughout the year.
One of Souris' most notable features is Victoria Park. The park has an observation tower, a 6 kilometre walking trail, a campground and a 500-year-old oak tree. Also located in the park is a swimming pool, playground and recreational area used for baseball in the summer and tobogganing and cross-country skiing in the winter. Victoria park also hosts the local R.C.M.P. musical rides.
Souris has much to offer for music and theatre enthusiasts. "The Bowl" is a natural outdoor amphitheatre located near Souris. The outdoor theatre houses the Homemade Jam Outdoor Music Festival and Canada Day Celebrations. The town is also home to a local theatre company that runs the Avalon Theatre.
The bird sanctuary along Plum Creek is home to a small flock of peacock that often can be seen along Crescent Ave.
The local Rec. Complex has many venues and is home to a number of organised sports teams and recreational facilities.
Souris also plays host to the annual Scarecrow Days during the end of October. As a celebration of the harvest, local residents and businesses erect scarecrows on their porches or windows. These creatures welcome visitors into town. The festival also provides for a litle bit of friendly competition among residents to decorate the most elaborate scarecrow.
