Wawanesa: A Prairie Heritage

There are many people who have influenced the history of Wawanesa, and made their mark on the nation and the world. However, there are several figures who have been particularly influential. These include Nellie McLung, the entire Criddle family, Alonzo Kempton, and Dr. Charles Vanstone.

Nellie McLung was one of Canada's most famous suffragettes. She was born in Ontario, and later became a legislator in Alberta, but she also had ties to Wawanesa. Nellie taught at Northfield School in Milford, and her wedding to Wesley McLung was the first to take place in the Wawanesa Presbyterian Church. She helped women obtain the vote in Manitoba and Alberta, and she was also well known as an author and politician.

The Criddles are one of the most unique families to settle in our area. Both Percy and Alice were well educated, and came to Manitoba before the turn of the century, bringing their aristocratic tastes with them. Their son Norman became well known as a naturalist and artist.

Alonzo Kempton became famous as the founder of the Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Company. He came to Manitoba from Nova Scotia, and began many entrepreneurial ventures before achieving great success with the Mutual.

Dr. Charles Morley Vanstone became well known as Wawanesa's doctor, before moving west to follow his dream of raising and breeding horses. He achieved fame by taking over the Mutual after the departure of Kempton, and guiding the business to new heights.

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