Richer, a local urban district in southeast Manitoba, is situated almost 60 kilometres east south-east of Winnipeg. This charming community is nestled in the Rural Municipality of Ste. Anne, at the junction of the Trans-Canada Highway and Provincial Road 302.
Richer has a rich and diverse history. Originally known as Coteau-de-Chênes, it was renamed Thibaultville in 1901. The community finally received its current name, Richer, in honour of H. Isaïe Richer, the region's first postmaster.
Richer's location on the historic Dawson Trail makes it a treasure trove of early Canadian history. The community has been shaped by the influence of French-Canadian, English Canadian, Aboriginal, and Metis peoples.
According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Richer is home to 607 residents living in 240 of its 252 total private dwellings. This represents a 4.3% increase from its 2016 population of 582. With a land area of 5.37 km2 (2.07 sq mi), Richer had a population density of 113.0/km2 (292.8/sq mi) in 2021.
Richer offers a range of services to its residents. The local Richer School, part of the Seine River School Division, serves approximately 150 students from kindergarten to grade eight.
One of the community's unique features is one of the few wooden Catholic Churches that are more than a hundred years old. This historic church has been converted into the Dawson Trail Museum, which showcases displays and artifacts that depict the rich history of the region.
Richer is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The community boasts three nearby campgrounds: the Rock Garden Campground, Cripple Creek Campground, and the Wild Oaks Campground.
Dawson Trail Park, a local favourite, features two baseball diamonds, an outdoor skating rink, a picnic shelter, a rodeo/riding arena, and a newly improved playground. The Mockingjay Pole Archery Club also holds sessions in the park from May until September.
Richer is also known for its Rough Stock Rodeo, which takes place every second weekend of August. The Richer Rodeo has won Heartland Rodeo's Rodeo of the Year in 2013, 2014, 2016, and 2017.
The community also hosts Winterfest at the end of February or beginning of March. During the summer, the Dawson Trail Museum features an indoor and outdoor farmers market. In the spring and fall, they host an Artisan Craft Sale featuring local crafts and baking.
