Omand's Creek facts for kids

Omand's Creek is a cool waterway that flows right through Winnipeg, Manitoba, in Canada. As it winds its way along, you'll see all sorts of different areas, from open grassy fields to busy shopping districts with big stores. The creek also travels through two nice green spaces, Omand Park and Bluestem Nature Park, which are both in the Wolseley part of the city. Finally, Omand's Creek empties into the much larger Assiniboine River.

The Story of Omand's Creek

Omand's Creek gets its name from a man named John Omand (1823–1905). He was a farmer who lived and worked near where the creek flows into the river for 47 years! Before it was called Omand's Creek, people knew it as Catfish Creek.

A long time ago, on June 19, 1816, a group of people led by Cuthbert Grant rested on the banks of this creek. They were there just before a famous event known as the Battle of Seven Oaks.

Later, in 1850, the Hudson's Bay Company gave some land on the west side of the creek. This land was used to build St. James Church and its cemetery. To make it easier for people to get to the church, a bridge was built across Omand's Creek in 1860.

What Happens at Omand's Creek

Each year, the Green Action Centre helps organize cleanups along Omand's Creek. These events usually happen in the early spring, helping to keep the creek healthy and clean for everyone to enjoy.

If you like adventure, you can even go canoeing along the creek! This is best done in the spring when the water levels are high. Just be aware that you might need to carry your canoe (this is called a portage) around a few spots along the way.