Cut Knife, Saskatchewan, is a charming town nestled in the heart of the Canadian province. Located on Highway 40, northwest of Saskatoon and just 55 km (34 miles) west of North Battleford, Cut Knife is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. As of 2011, the town had a population of 517, offering a close-knit community feel.
The town of Cut Knife derives its name from Cut Knife Hill, now known as Chief Poundmaker Hill, located on the Poundmaker reserve. The hill was named in memory of a Sarcee chief who was killed by the Cree in the 1840s. Cut Knife is also historically significant as it is close to the site of the Battle of Cut Knife, which took place during the North-West Rebellion of 1885.
According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Cut Knife had a population of 547 living in 222 of its 259 total private dwellings. This represented a change of -4.5% from its 2016 population of 573. With a land area of 1.88 km2 (0.73 sq mi), the town had a population density of 291.0/km2 (753.6/sq mi) in 2021.
Cut Knife is home to the "World's Largest Tomahawk", the Poundmaker Historical Centre, and the Big Bear monument. A cairn erected by the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada is also located on Cut Knife Hill, offering a panoramic view of the Poundmaker Battle site and Battle River valley. The tomahawk, a symbol of unity and friendship with the First Nations of the area, is located in the Tomahawk Park next to the Clayton McLain Memorial Museum. It was designed in 1970 by UMA Engineering of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, and built in 1971.
Cut Knife, Saskatchewan, is surrounded by the Poundmaker Cree Nation and Little Pine First Nation to the north in Paynton, Sweetgrass First Nation to the east, and Hillsvale Hutterite Colony to the north-west of the town. These communities add to the rich cultural tapestry of the area.
Discover the unique blend of history and culture that makes Cut Knife, Saskatchewan, a must-visit destination.
