Oakbank, Manitoba, is a charming unincorporated community nestled about 15 km east of Winnipeg, the provincial capital of Canada. It is situated in the Rural Municipality of Springfield and boasts a population of approximately 5,000, making it the largest unincorporated community in Manitoba. Initially a small, predominantly rural community, Oakbank has evolved into a bustling dormitory town for Winnipeg, with the majority of its residents working in the city. The rapid population growth of Oakbank is indicative of the trend in small towns within the Winnipeg Capital Region, with two new housing developments currently expanding in the town.
The history of Oakbank, Manitoba, dates back to 1899 when a post office was established in what is now the heart of the community. The village gradually grew around this central point. In 1901, a Presbyterian church was relocated to the community, followed by the construction of a Baptist church in 1908.
The Canadian Pacific Railway played a significant role in Oakbank's development. In 1906, a railway track was built through the village, and by 1927, the line was double-tracked. A train station served the community until 1968.
Electricity was introduced to Oakbank in 1930 by the Winnipeg Electric Company, but it wasn't until 1949 that rural electrification reached the surrounding areas. The first telephone was installed in the home of the municipal secretary treasurer in 1887. Various private telephone companies operated until they were all absorbed by the Manitoba Telephone System in 1950.
In 1964, local school divisions were consolidated, making Oakbank the local center for elementary, junior high, and high school students. This move was met with resistance from many residents. A local manual telephone exchange was in operation until 1966 when an automatic exchange was installed.
A credit union was founded in the village in 1945, further enhancing the community's growth. Today, Oakbank continues its rapid growth as a bedroom community, with many residents commuting to Winnipeg for work.
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