History of St. Malo

Following a rapid growth in the region's population between 1881 and 1889, Louis Malo (a pioneer farmer from the area) and Father Jolys (the parish priest in Saint-Pierre) asked Bishop Taché to establish a new parish in their vicinity. It was Father La Riviere, a young priest, son of A.A. La Riviere, M.P., who formed the parish. While the building was going on, he stayed with Father Jolys at Saint-Pierre.  Although the farmers of Saint-Malo district were all quite poor, this energetic young priest, with the financial aid of his father, the good will and assistance of his parishioners and his own two hands, a first chapel was built in 1890 (shown above).  A replica known as Maison-Chapelle, opened it's doors in July 2003 which today houses the Métis Federation, Tourist Information Centre, Restaurant and Offices.



There was great improvement in the farming practices and equipment between 1890 and 1900. Horses replace oxen, gang plows replaced walking plows and binders replaced cradles and reapers. The steam engine was the source of power for threshing and even the means of travel were greatly improved. Buggies and spring wagons replaced the rough lumber-wagon and even bicycles were not uncommon. 

In July 1896, the local parishioners, under the direction of Father Ernest Noret, erected a small sanctuary on the south side of the river. In 1902, this sanctuary was replaced by a grotto and shrine dedicated to "Our Lady of Lourdes", where a diocesan pilgrimage is still held every year in mid-August (Left Photo). 

Established Date: 1892







History of the Spillway

Click on any of the below pictures to Enlarge:

            
Old Town of St. Malo aerial view

         
The Building of St. Malo Provincial Park

       
The Building of St.Malo Spillway

        
Town of St. Malo aerial view

       
       St. Malo Park 1963

      
    St. Malo Beach 1964
Back in the 60's, gas-powered motor boats were allowed on the lake.  Due to the relativeley small size of the lake, heavy populated area and desire to protect peace and tranquility, gas-powered watercrafts have since been banned.

      
St. Malo Lake aerial view 

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