The Rural Municipality of Cartier is located just 48 kilometres west of Manitoba's capital city, Winnipeg. Cartier is situated along the Trans Canada Highway. The scenic and rolling Assiniboine River forms the Northern boundary of the municipality. Elie, the largest community in Cartier with a population of approximately 550 people, is also conveniently found along the Trans Canada Highway. Cartier finds itself situated on the rich prairie fields just west of Winnipeg. The major centre in Cartier is Elie. Other significant comunities include St. Eustache, Springstein and Dacotah.
History
Cartier was incorporated as a municipality in 1914. Its history goes back 100's of years, however. The municipality was named after Sir Georges Etienne Cartier. Sir Georges was born in 1824, and played a integral role in the union of the British North America provinces prior to 1867. Cartier is most notably known for his efforts in persuading Quebec to join the Canadian federation. The rich plain where Cartier is located was known long ago by the fur traders and explorers who recorded and mapped their way across Manitoba. Discovering the rich fertile lands of the Assiniboia flood plains, European settlers sought homesteads in Cartier. As with many prairie communities and municipalities, the major force in the development in settlements in Cartier was due to the railway. Passing thru communites such as Elie and St.Eustache helped them become permanent settlements quickly. The strong grain trade in the area also help fuel strong and fast development in Cartier. One third of Cartier's population are found in Hutterite Colonies. Cartier is unique in that it encompasses eleven Hutterite Colonies within its borders, making the municipality a rich diversity of cultures.
Economic Base
The municipality has a strong agricultural backbone. Many of Cartier's resident's either are farming or employed in related agricultural businesses or service industries. The municipality boasts two grain elevators (both found in Elie), two farm implement dealers, two seed plants and two farm equipment supply and fertilizer dealers. The Whitehorse Plain School division is also a very prominent employer in the region. The larger centre of Elie provides some basic services, yet for a wider range of services, residents must travel to nearby Winnipeg.
Major Attractions
The recreational and cultural heart of Cartier is found in Elie. Curling, one of the most popular sports in Manitoba, has its own home at Elie's curling club. The club also acts as a get to gether place and doubles as a community centre during the summer. Local churches in Elie, St. Eustache and Springstein also act as community gathering spaces. The close knit communities in Cartier have much to offer future families and businesses.
Facilities - Recreation, Parks, Culture
While in Cartier visit beautiful Beaudry Provincial Park. The park, located just south of the Trans Canada Highway has much to offer its visitors. Beautdry's woods are home to some of Manitoba's largest elm, cottonwood and maple trees. Backcountry trails will lead you through lush forest, and along the wandering Asssiniboine River's south bank. If you're lucky, you may spot white-tailed deer, fox, owls, raccoons, beaver and muskrat. The park also features natural grass prairies. For a picnic, cross-country skiing, or a nice summer hike, Beaudry Park offers many picnic sites, trails and ski and snowmobile trails.
