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Historic Sites of Manitoba: Lake Manitoba Narrows (Municipality of West Interlake)

Although Lake Manitoba was named lac des Prairies in 1738 by La Verendrye, Aboriginal people knew these waters as the “narrows of the Great Spirit” (in Cree, “Manito bau”). In stormy weather, waves crashing on the limestone rocks of the narrows resounded eerily, and people believed the sound came from a huge drum beaten by Manitou.

In 1868, Thomas Spence of Portage la Prairie attempted to create a republic outside the District of Assiniboia to be named Manitobah. His plan failed, but a year later when he joined Louis Riel’s council at Fort Garry, Spence’s choice was selected as the name of the new province, and the letter H was dropped.

A commemorative monument was erected by the Manitoba Heritage Council.

Lake Manitoba Narrows commemorative monument (2010) Source: Gordon Goldsborough Site Location (lat/long): N51.08206, W98.77843 denoted by symbol on the map above

See also:

An Over-Simplified Plaque, Origin of Manitoba by C. V.
Manitoba Pageant, Volume 15, Number 2, Winter 1970

How Manitoba Got Its Name by Frank Hall
Manitoba Pageant, Volume 15, Number 2, Winter 1970

What’s in the Name of Manitoba by Henry McKay
Manitoba Pageant, Volume 15, Number 2, Winter 1970

Sources:

This page was prepared by Gordon Goldsborough.

Page revised: 17 August 2018

Historic Sites of Manitoba This is a collection of historic sites in Manitoba compiled by the Manitoba Historical Society. SEARCH the collection Browse lists of: Museums/Archives | Buildings | Monuments | Cemeteries | Locations | Other Please note that inclusion in this collection does not mean that a particular site has special status or protection. Some sites are on private property and permission must be secured from the owner prior to visiting. Site information is provided by the Manitoba Historical Society as a free public service only for non-commercial purposes. Search Tips | Suggest a Site | FAQ | Acknowledgements Send inquiries to the MHS Webmaster.