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White Horse Monument: A Prairie Icon

Discover Manitoba's equestrian heritage at the White Horse Monument, a landmark steeped in Indigenous legend and pioneer history.

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The White Horse Monument in Saint François Xavier, Manitoba, is a striking tribute to the region's equestrian heritage and Indigenous legends. Erected in 1966, the monument stands as a landmark along the Trans-Canada Highway, inviting travelers to reflect on the area's rich cultural history and natural beauty.

A brief summary to White Horse Monument

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting for photographs.
  • Take time to read the informational plaques around the monument to gain deeper insights into its history.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of other nearby historical sites for a more enriching experience.
  • Enjoy a picnic in the scenic grounds surrounding the monument.
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Getting There

  • Car

    If you are traveling by car from Winnipeg, head west on the Trans-Canada Highway (Hwy 1). The White Horse Monument is located in Saint François Xavier, approximately 30 minutes from downtown Winnipeg. Look for the monument on the south side of the highway; there is a small pull-off area for parking. There is no parking fee.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From Winnipeg, you can take a taxi or ride-share service like Uber to reach the White Horse Monument. Input 'Trans-Canada Hwy, Saint François Xavier, MB R4L 1A1' as your destination. The fare will depend on your location in Winnipeg, but expect it to be around $65-$80 CAD.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the White Horse Monument from Winnipeg using public transport, take a bus from Winnipeg to the Unicity area, then take a taxi to St. François Xavier. The bus and taxi combination will take approximately 44 minutes and cost $40 - $55 CAD.

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Discover more about White Horse Monument

The White Horse Monument, located in the Rural Municipality of St. François Xavier, Manitoba, is a notable landmark that commemorates the area's unique history and cultural significance. The monument, a prominent white horse statue, stands proudly along the Trans-Canada Highway, serving as a visual reminder of the importance of horses in the region's past. Erected in 1966, the monument was a collaborative effort between the Manitoba Tourist Association and White Horse Distillers Limited of Glasgow, Scotland. Created by Winnipeg sculptor George Barone, the statue commemorates an Indigenous legend associated with the White Horse Plain. The White Horse Plains area, known as Coteau de Festin, was a gathering place for First Nations people for centuries. Surrounding the monument are beautifully landscaped grounds that offer a tranquil space for visitors to explore and reflect. Three plaques, installed in 1966 by the Historic Sites Advisory Board of Manitoba, provide information on the Fort Ellice Trail, White Horse Plain, and the Assiniboine River, further enriching the historical context of the site. The Fort Ellice Trail, also known as the Carlton Trail, was a vital route across the western plains, used by First Nations, fur traders, and settlers. The Assiniboine River, a major tributary of the Red River, was a key waterway for trade and transportation. The White Horse Monument not only celebrates the region's equestrian legacy but also acknowledges the traditions and stories of the Indigenous peoples who have long called this area home. It stands as a testament to the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Manitoba's identity.

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