This striking house in Swan River is notable for the building material from which it is made. From a distance, it looks like stone, or bricks, but closer inspection reveals it is made from locally-cast concrete blocks. This building material was used at various places around Manitoba for only a few years in the early 20th century. The house appears to have undergone relatively little exterior renovation, other than the removal of a porch/balcony over its front entrance. The year of its construction, builder, and original occupant are, as yet, unknown.
At the time of a 2026 site visit, the building’s windows were boarded up, having been declared a health hazard in November 2023.
Swan River Concrete House (July 2012)
Source: Gordon Goldsborough
Swan River Concrete House (August 2026)
Source: Glen Toews
Swan River Concrete House (August 2026)
Source: Glen ToewsSite Coordinates (lat/long): N52.10932, W101.27247
denoted by symbol on the map above
See also:
MHS Resources: Manitoba Bricks and Blocks
We thank Alan Mason and Glen Toews for providing additional information used here.
This page was prepared by Gordon Goldsborough.
Page revised: 30 August 2026
Historic Sites of Manitoba
This is a collection of historic sites in Manitoba compiled by the Manitoba Historical Society. The information is offered for historical interest only.
Browse lists of:
Museums/Archives | Buildings | Monuments | Cemeteries | Locations | OtherInclusion in this collection does not confer special status or protection. Official heritage designation may only come from municipal, provincial, or federal governments. Some sites are on private property and permission to visit must be secured from the owner.
Site information is provided by the Manitoba Historical Society as a free public service only for non-commercial purposes.
Send corrections and additions to this page
to the MHS Webmaster at webmaster@mhs.mb.ca.Help us keep history alive!
