Canada/Manitoba: Ukrainian Heritage in Manitoba aka Babushka Trail

Manitoba has a lot of Ukrainian roots, communities, churches, and history. Ukrainian immigration to Manitoba began in the late 19th century, with the first wave of settlers arriving in 1891. Attracted by the Canadian government’s offer of free land, thousands of Ukrainians, mostly from the western regions settled in Manitoba’s rural areas, contributing greatly to the agricultural development of the province. Over time, Ukrainian communities actually preserved the language, traditions, and both Orthodox and Catholic faiths. The so-called “Babushka Trail” is route through many of these Ukrainian villages. Sandy Lake has several a Ukrainian churches, as do a couple communities to the west – everywhere the language and flags prominently announce the Ukrainian heritage and belonging.