Kronau, a quaint hamlet nestled in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Located just 28 km southeast of Regina on Highway 33 in the R.M. of Lajord No. 128, Saskatchewan, this hamlet is a designated place listed by Statistics Canada. As per the Canada 2006 Census, Kronau had a population of 209.
The history of Kronau, Saskatchewan dates back to the late 19th and early 20th century when the area was first settled. The settlers were primarily German-Russians from near the Black Sea and German-Americans from the northern United States. These settlers brought with them their unique culture and traditions, which have shaped the hamlet's identity.
Kronau, Saskatchewan is home to several heritage sites that reflect its rich history. One such site is the St. Peter's Church and Grotto at St. Peter's Colony, located 12 km east of Kronau. The Catholic church, completed in 1904, stands next to a cemetery established in 1892. The grotto, built in 1917 by Father Henry Metzger, has become a pilgrimage site. Father Metzger, a noted artist, also painted the Stations of the Cross in the church. This site was listed on the Canadian Register of Historic Places in 2010.
Another significant heritage site in Kronau is the Bethlehem Heritage Cemetery, also known as the Bethlehem Lutheran Church Cemetery. Established in 1896, this cemetery was listed on the Canadian Register of Historic Places in 1985.
As per the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Kronau, Saskatchewan had a population of 288 living in 101 of its 103 total private dwellings. This represented a change of -26.9% from its 2016 population of 394. With a land area of 0.67 km2, Kronau had a population density of 429.9/km2 in 2021.
Kronau, Saskatchewan offers a range of amenities for both residents and visitors. The Kronau Memorial Hall, built in the late 1940s to honour the soldiers returning from World War II, stands as a testament to the hamlet's history. The Kronau Heritage Museum is another must-visit site, offering a glimpse into the hamlet's past.
For those seeking recreational activities, Kronau boasts a curling rink and an outdoor skating rink. The hamlet also has a gas station and Schnider's Ice Cream Shop for convenience and leisure. Kronau was once home to the Saar Elementary School, featuring the Eagle mascot, adding to its community charm.
