Hamiota, an unincorporated urban community in the Hamiota Municipality, is a gem nestled within the Canadian province of Manitoba. Previously holding town status until January 1, 2015, Hamiota is conveniently located on Provincial Trunk Highway 21 (PTH 21), midway between the Trans-Canada Highway and the Yellowhead Highway. This charming community is situated in Western Manitoba, 84 kilometers northwest of Brandon, and serves a trading area radius of 20 kilometers with approximately 10,000 people. Originally named Hamilton after Thomas Hamilton, one of the first settlers, the town's name was changed to Hamiota to avoid confusion with Hamilton, Ontario. The new name is a unique blend of Hamilton and the Sioux word "ota," meaning "much."
According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Hamiota boasts a population of 856, living in 393 of its 438 total private dwellings. This represents a modest growth of 1.8% from its 2016 population of 841. With a land area of 3.35 km2 (1.29 sq mi), Hamiota had a population density of 255.5/km2 (661.8/sq mi) in 2021.
Hamiota is renowned for its vibrant local sports teams, thriving arts and culture community, and excellent health care. The town was home to Dr. John E. Hudson ("Dr. Ed": 1917–2003), a member of the Order of Canada (2001) and recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Anniversary Medal (2003). Dr. Hudson's leadership transformed the Hamiota District Health Center into a model rural health care facility in Manitoba. A memorial statue of Dr. Hudson, initiated by MP Inky Mark, was erected near the hospital in 2004.
The community offers a plethora of arts and cultural opportunities through the new Heritage Arts Center. Originally constructed as the Union Bank in 1905, the building now houses the Mid-West Arts Council and serves as the district's only exhibition space. The Hamiota Pioneer Club Museum showcases artifacts relating to the settlement and development of the district, including a taxidermy display, the former McConnell railway station, and their most recent addition, the Oakner Church.
Hamiota is home to one of the few known nesting sites for the Western Plains garter snake, a species once thought to be extinct. A hibernaculum for the snakes has been constructed 6.5 kilometers west of the community, further enhancing the town's biodiversity.
Hamiota offers a variety of leisure activities for nature lovers. The Pitlockery Trail, located along the former railway line, takes walkers east of Hamiota to view the marsh life and enjoy the sounds of the bird population. The Chumah Trail, also along the former railway line, allows outdoor enthusiasts west of Hamiota to enjoy the prairie grasslands and native vegetation. A viewing platform for birds has been constructed at the end of the trail branching off to the north.
The Hamiota Municipal Park, established in 1967 as part of Canada's centennial celebrations, is home to seven ball diamonds, an outdoor equestrian arena, horse and cattle barns, a soccer pitch, beach volleyball, a children's playground, a 28-site serviced campground, the Hamiota Municipal Museum, and the Hamiota Aquatic Centre. Located next to the Hamiota & District Sports Complex and the 9-hole Hamiota Golf Course, the park is a hub for sports and outdoor activities.
