Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, the fourth largest city in the province, is a vibrant community nestled on the Moose Jaw River in the south-central part of the province. Known for its rich history, military presence, royal visits, and diverse culture, Moose Jaw offers a unique blend of experiences for both residents and visitors.
The history of Moose Jaw dates back to the time when Cree and Assiniboine people used the area as a winter encampment. The city's strategic location on the Moose Jaw River, abundant water and game, and warm breezes from the Missouri Coteau made it an ideal settlement spot. The first permanent settlement was established at a place called "the turn", now known as Kingsway Park or Kai Gauthier Park.
In 1881, the confluence of the Moose Jaw River and Thunder Creek was chosen as a division point for the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR), marking a significant milestone in the Confederation of Canada. The city was officially incorporated in 1903, with the railways playing a crucial role in its early development.
The city's name, Moose Jaw, has two theories. One suggests it comes from the Plains Cree name moscâstani-sîpiy, meaning "a warm place by the river". The other theory is that the section of the Moose Jaw River running through the city is shaped like a moose's jaw.
Moose Jaw is home to the Royal Canadian Air Force's primary military flight training centre, CFB Moose Jaw. The base, established in 1940, is also the home of 431 (Air Demonstration) Squadron, also known as the "Snowbirds". The Saskatchewan Dragoons, a reserve armoured regiment, also have an armoury in the city.
Moose Jaw has been graced by several royal visits. Notably, Edward, Prince of Wales, visited in 1919, 1924, and 1927. Prince Albert, the future king and father of Queen Elizabeth II, visited in 1926. Queen Elizabeth II herself has visited the city multiple times since her first visit in 1959.
Moose Jaw experiences a transitional climate between semiarid and humid continental. The winters are long, cold, and dry, while the summers are short, warm, and relatively wet. The coldest month is January, with a mean temperature of −12 °C (10 °F), while the warmest is July, with a mean temperature of 19.3 °C (66.7 °F).
Moose Jaw is divided into four community associations: South Hill, East Side, North West, and Sunningdale/VLA/West Park. According to the 2021 Census of Population, Moose Jaw had a population of 33,665 living in 14,719 of its 16,143 total private dwellings.
Moose Jaw is a hub of arts and culture, with the Moose Jaw Art Guild fostering appreciation for visual arts. The city is home to the Saskatchewan Western Development Museum, the Moose Jaw Museum & Art Gallery, and the Sukanen Ship Pioneer Village and Museum.
The city also celebrates 2SLGBTQ culture, with Moose Jaw Pride working to promote the city as a safe and attractive tourism destination for 2SLGBTQ people.
Tourist attractions include the Tunnels of Moose Jaw, The Moose Jaw Trolley, the Temple Gardens Mineral Spa Resort, Casino Moose Jaw, and the historic downtown.
Moose Jaw is home to several sports teams, including the Moose Jaw Warriors, Moose Jaw Storm, Moose Jaw Miller Express, and Moose Jaw Mustangs. The city also hosts various sports events, including the 2023 World Para Ice Hockey Championships.
Moose Jaw Transit provides local bus service to urban areas of the city. The city is also served by the Moose Jaw Municipal Airport and the Moose Jaw/Air Vice Marshal C.M. McEwen Airport at CFB Moose Jaw.
The Moose Jaw Fire Department and the Moose Jaw Police Service provide fire and police services, respectively. Ambulatory (EMS) services are provided by Five Hills Health Region.
Discover the charm, history, and vibrant culture of Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, a city that truly has something for everyone.
