This above picture not only shows a dog sled on the Mossy River, it is also a picture of the first bridge built in 1909. This original bridge was repaired in 1923, redecked and restrung in 1959 and again in 1984. The walkway was added in 1986.

The second picture was taken along the Mossy River too, but taken near the ice sheds. It would appear these dog teams are being used to transport items and people up the lake. We know both fishermen, trappers and farmers used dog sleighs in winter to travel to and from cabins and homes along the river and lakeshore to get to and from town for supplies.

As winter draws to an end I can’t help but marvel at the courage, strength and endurance of these early pioneers. They learned much from the local indigenous and Métis people of this area, who shared their knowledge of the land, and ways to survive in chest deep snow and bitter cold.

We have just gone through a bitter week of minus 35 and colder. (Good thing we are hardy Manitobans!) Can you imagine travelling in these conditions with a dog sled on the open lake? Brrrrrr!