25 years ago, Great Sandhills Terminal became a reality

By Joan Janzen

The Great Sandhills Terminal, located between Leader and Prelate, opened its facility twenty-five years ago. The grain handling facility held its grand opening on July 13, 1999, which was recorded in an article written by Greg Waskul of the Crossroads.

Construction began in the latter part of 1997. According to the article, more than one million pounds of reinforcing steel was used during the construction of the terminal. Congratulations were extended to the local producers who took the initiative to see the terminal completed.

Tim Geiger, the Reeve of the RM of Happyland at that time, welcomed the 504 people who registered for the event. Mayor Mar Clary had said, “The grain is going to come to this terminal, which will set up the community and district for the next 100 years.”

The opening festivities ended with a ribbon cutting and a ceremonial loading of grain to officially open the Great Sandhills Terminal. Harold Elsasser steered his horses through one of the loading bays, demonstrating how grain was first loaded by wagon.

The staff at the Great Sandhills Terminal participated in the ceremonial grain loading at the GST’s offices opening in July, 1999. Photo West Central Crossroads July 19, 1999

Harold Elsasser steers his horses through one of the loading bays at the GST opening ceremonies, July 13, 1999, showing how grain was first loaded by wagon. Photo West Central Crossroads July 19, 1999