The development of Tramping Lake Park

By Joan Janzen

Tramping Lake Park is situated at the south end of Tramping Lake between the RM's of Mariposa and Grandview. The original site was a large level area in the valley between the lakeshore and the hilly background. Annual picnics were held there as early as 1916 and possibly earlier.

In about 1915, the Federal Government donated part of the SE 1/4 4-35-20 W3rd to the RM of Mariposa to develop a public park. The first meeting of the park board was held on October 20, 1917.

Tramping Lake Park in 1923. View of food booths pavilion at back right, rodeo grounds to the left, kids’ slide down the grandstand hill. Photo Tramping Lake Regional Park history book

Digging a well, building toilets, a pavilion and the possibility of getting a Chautauqua for 1918 were discussed. A Chautauqua was a social event where plays, concerts, and lectures were held. Financial support was needed, so the neighbouring RM's and towns were asked for grants. The estimated cost for starting work on the 32 x 40 ft park pavilion was $500. Two accommodation houses would cost $100; a water well: $50; tree planting and playground improvements: $50, for a total of $700.

By 1925, orders were in for four new rowboats to be built at a cost of $40 each. In response to the Veterans Club of Dodsland, the placing of a war memorial in the park was approved. It was also decided to reimburse members at the rate of 10 cents per mile for travel to and from board meetings, with a maximum of ten meetings per year.