Selkirk Avenue Walking Tour

On Sunday May 4, as part of Jane’s Walk Winnipeg and with the support of Winnipeg Arts Council and North End History, this special walking tour took place in Winnipeg’s North End. Selkirk Avenue: Yesterday and Tomorrow, hosted by Michael Redhead Champagne is a 1 hour walking tour designed to introduce attendees to the vibrant history of Selkirk Avenue, name the challenges it is facing and imagine the possibilities that the future may hold. An emphasis will be made on the contributions of art, artists and culture to the neighbourhood’s identity and built environment. Depending on the timing of this tour in future, it may be possible to go inside various businesses or organizations that are open.

Some of the stops on the tour include:

• Salter and Selkirk (highlighting North End Women’s Centre, the former banks and historical murals)

• The North End Bell Tower

• Jackson Beardy’s Peace and Harmony

• The Palace Theatre

• Merchant’s Corner

• McGregor and Selkirk (highlighting the Ukrainian Labour Temple, Tunngasugit and more)

As we go, various historical events and people will be highlighted. Movements such as the Madams of North Point Douglas, the Winnipeg General Strike, Idle No More movement and more will be discussed. Attendees will be invited to share stories and memories of Selkirk Avenue and the broader North End including their experiences at North End fairs, iconic North End businesses and living, working or going to school in the area.

If timed correctly, this could be a great opportunity for students to explore the educational opportunities in the neighbourhood including University of Manitoba Inner City Social Work, University of Winnipeg Inner City Studies, Red River College/Urban Circle Training Centre, CEDA Pathways To Education and more!