Wanuskewin Heritage Park

• Community
• Aboriginal Culture
• Museum

When Treaty Six was signed in 1876, occupation of Wanuskewin by First Nations peoples ended. The first homesteads were established in 1902-1903 and the first settlers arrived at Wanuskewin. In 1979, world-renowned architect Raymond Moriyama was commissioned by the City of Saskatoon to develop a 100-year Master Plan for the Meewasin Valley Authority. Moriyama visited Wanuskewin at this time and incorporated the property and its rich history into the plan. In the early 1980s, Dr. Ernie Walker, Department of Anthropology and Archaeology at the University of Saskatchewan further identified the area as an archaeological marvel, and began the process of developing Wanuskewin as a means to protect it. A special debt of gratitude is owed to the Penner and Vitkowski families who owned and preserved the land for more than 40 years, allowing careful archaeological exploration and committed to the long term protection of the area.

In partnership with the Meewasin Valley Authority and the City of Saskatoon, Wanuskewin Heritage Park became a Provincial Heritage Property in 1984. In 1987, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II dedicated it a National Historic Site and in 1992 the Interpretive Centre and trails were opened to the public.

Wanuskewin Heritage Park is a National Historic Site that has been a gathering place for all nations for at least 6,000 years. Wanuskewin is a place to meet, share and learn through nature, history and each other. People of all ages can access programs, and we create strategic partnerships that fit the needs of the community. Wanuskewin offers multi-faceted programming: from Saskatchewan curriculum-based programs for children, field school for University archaeology students, experience based learning for Sask Poly-Tech Tourism Students, public engagement, art gallery tours, museum interpretation, land-based learning, bison walks, cultural performances, ceremonies, room bookings and Indigenous culinary-themed catering.

Wanuskewin Heritage Park is located near the west bank of the South Saskatchewan River on Opimihaw Creek, just three kilometres (1.9 mi) north of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.

Mission
To advance the understanding and appreciation of the evolving cultures of Northern Plains Indigenous Peoples
Vision
Wanuskewin will be a living reminder of the peoples’ sacred relationship with the land.
Values

• Honouring the Elders,
• Innovation & Creativity,
• Bridging Cultural Understanding,
• Highest Ethical Standards,
• Partnerships,
• Sustainability & Stewardship of the Land,
• Authenticity,
• Mutual Respect & Trust,
• Spirituality,
• Exceptional Service,
• Celebrating Diversity

Open all year
Monday – Sunday: 9:30AM – 5:00PM
Statutory holidays: 10:00AM – 5:00PM

Archives available by appointment only