Maidstone, Saskatchewan, a charming town nestled in west central Canada, is a place where history and modernity coexist. Located 57 km east of Lloydminster and 84 km west of North Battleford, Maidstone is conveniently situated at the junction of Highway 16 and Highway 21. The town's name is a tribute to Maidstone, Kent, England, and it has been immortalized in Joni Mitchell's "Song For Sharon" from her Hejira album.
According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Maidstone, Saskatchewan, is home to 1,209 residents living in 462 of its 515 total private dwellings. This represents a 2% increase from its 2016 population of 1,185. With a land area of 4.39 km2, Maidstone boasts a population density of 275.4/km2 in 2021.
The history of Maidstone, Saskatchewan, dates back to the spring of 1903 when settlers, including Barr Colonists, began arriving. The construction of the Canadian Northern Railway in 1905 attracted more settlers, including African Americans from the U.S. and a significant number of Mennonites.
One notable settler was John Henry “Jack” Wesson, who arrived in 1907. Wesson became one of Saskatchewan's foremost farm leaders and was the first president of the Canadian Federation of Agriculture in 1936 and the president of the Saskatchewan Wheat Pool in 1937.
Maidstone officially became a town in 1955. The development of oil and gas in the 1970s spurred growth in the community, with the population growing from less than 700 at the beginning of the decade to over 1,000 by 1981.
Maidstone, Saskatchewan, is home to several attractions that reflect its rich history. The CNR Station, built in 1905, stands as a testament to the town's railway heritage. The Charlow (Shiloh) Baptist Church and Cemetery, built in 1912, is located north of Maidstone.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Silver Lake Regional Park and Silver Lake Golf Club offer a 9-hole golf course. The Delfrari-Victoria Park, where the Maidstone & District Museum is located, is another must-visit spot.
Maidstone, Saskatchewan, is served by the Maidstone Aerodrome, located 1.2 NM (2.2 km; 1.4 mi) northwest of the community, ensuring easy access for visitors and residents alike.
