Situated in the centre of Manitoba's Interlake Region, the R.M. of Armstrong is a vast area comprised of a variety of agricultural land, forest, wetlands and small lakes. Armstrong was initially incorporated in 1944, and today covers 716 square miles of territory.
History
The R.M.'s settlements include the small Hamlets of Inwood, Narcisse, Silver, Meleb, Malonton, Chatfield and Fraserwood. Many ethic groups put down roots in these centres and surrounding districts, a quilt of Ukrainian, Polish, Swedish, German, Norwegian, French, Icelandic and British settlers. The expansion of the Canadian Pacific Railway and the Colonization Road north in the late 1800's and early 1900's, brought many settlers to the region. Today the main highway on the east side of Armstrong is Provincial Trunk Highway(PTH) #7 north from Manitoba's capital city. The main highway on the west side is PTH 17. Provincial Road(PR) 231 runs east-west linking Gimli with Narcisse. PR 229 runs east-west through Armstrong linking PTH 9 with PTH 6 at Clarkleigh.
Economic Base
The majority of farming operations are in cattle, however, the R.M. is also home to more unique livestock operations including buffalo, elk and ostrich. Hog operations and cereal crops also make up part of its agricultural community. Armstrong's abundant and excellent quality water supply is a tremendous asset to the area's economy.
Major Attractions
Just north of Narcisse, the R.M. is home to the world famous red sided garter snake dens, which attract thousands of tourists each year.
The Chatfield Museum takes you on a trip back in time as you view all the antiques on display.
The Meleb-Park-Cumming Park at Meleb is home to the Mushroom Statue and World War 2 Memorial.
The R.M. of Armstrong offers quiet and relaxing urban and rural lifestyles.
Facilities - Recreation, Parks, Culture
The Community Halls at Chatfield, Silver, Polson, Inwood, Fraserwood and Zbruch, provide recreation for the public in the form of bingos, fall suppers and dances.
Baseball diamonds at Chatfield, Inwood and Silver provide summer entertainment.
Other Information
The cairn at Bender Hamlet near Narcisse provides a tribute to the early Jewish settlers of this area.
