The Birth of an Independent Municipality
Located in the heart of southeastern Manitoba, the Rural Municipality of Sainte‑Anne is among the earliest settled regions in the province. As early as 1856, the first settlers established themselves in Pointe‑des‑Chênes, drawn by the agricultural potential of the land. The construction of the Dawson Trail between 1868 and 1871 marked a pivotal moment in the region’s development, facilitating travel, trade, and the permanent establishment of communities.
Incorporated as a municipality in 1881 and re‑established in 1908, the Rural Municipality of Sainte‑Anne today stands as a fully autonomous administrative entity, distinct from the Town of Ste. Anne, and proud of its institutional evolution.
A Rich Heritage, Rooted in History
A prominent witness to this history, the Ste. Anne County Court and Municipal Building, erected in 1908, is a two‑storey brick heritage structure that once played a central role in regional administration. Inscriptions dating from 1884 and 1910, still visible today, mark key milestones in its history. Restored at the time of the re‑establishment of the Rural Municipality of Sainte‑Anne, the building now houses a veterinary clinic, reflecting a contemporary use that respects its heritage character.
Throughout the twentieth century, the municipality experienced the many transformations of rural life—agricultural modernisation, demographic changes, and economic shifts—while demonstrating sustained resilience and a continued commitment to preserving and valuing its historical legacy.
This commitment is reflected in the Dawson Trail Museum, located in Richer in the former Roman Catholic church. Administered by the Enfant‑Jesus Heritage Site Corporation, the museum is the only officially designated heritage site within the Rural Municipality of Sainte‑Anne. It showcases local history and culture and also serves as a community gathering place, hosting various seasonal events and markets.
As part of the Dawson Trail Heritage Tour initiative, the museum oversaw the installation of heritage markers at key points of interest along the historic trail linking Saint‑Boniface to the North‑West Angle of the Lake of the Woods. These markers offer an immersive perspective on the region’s rich heritage and underscore the important role this corridor played in the settlement and development of southeastern Manitoba.
A Municipality Where One Feels at Home
Today, the history of the Rural Municipality of Sainte‑Anne remains very much alive through its human, cultural, and linguistic landscape. An officially bilingual municipality, it is shaped by a deeply rooted Indigenous, Métis, and French‑Canadian heritage, reflected in family names, the continued presence of the French language, and enduring community traditions.
The municipality is also recognised for its natural and recreational environment, which supports a valued quality of life throughout the year. Golf courses, privately operated campgrounds, and wooded areas contribute to the local setting, along with community activities and events held across the territory, particularly in Richer.
The Local Urban District of Richer further enhances this quality of life through the presence of local businesses, services, and restaurants. Lastly, the Rural Municipality of Sainte‑Anne’s central location—between several major urban centres in southeastern Manitoba—allows residents to balance rural living, community vitality, and regional accessibility.
Sainte-Anne in a few numbers
Residents (2021): 5584
Bilingual residents: 1270 people
Homeowners: 91%
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