Belcrest Manor celebrates its 50th anniversary
Celebrating 50 years!
On May 29th, a 50th-anniversary celebration was held at Belcrest Manor in Belmont, with a large crowd in attendance.
According to a submission from Dorothy Campbell in the Belmont and District history book, ‘The Path of the Pioneers’:
“In the early 1970’s, a group of local citizens saw the need for a low-rental home for the elderly.
“This group presented ‘The Golden Age’ club with the idea, and how to finance this project. A committee was formed, and a good deal of money was collected during the next two years. There were many difficulties encountered concerning plans and financing in the first few years. The Manitoba Housing and Renewal Corporation accepted the responsibility of the construction and the necessary financing.
“The Manor was designed by Murray Malkin Architects,being built by St. Leon Co-Operative. The official opening was held on May 31st, 1976.
“The eleven-unit elderly persons’ public housing project was developed and is owned and managed by the Manitoba Housing and Renewal Corporation. Strathcona Belcrest Manor comprises seven bachelor units, four one-bedroom units, one common room and a $16,000 clinic paid for by the RM of Strathcona. We have a doctor service one day a week at the clinic. Total estimated cost was $211,578.
“The first Board of Directors were: Mr. Eric Trotter, Mr. John Chambers, Mrs. Clara Myers, Mrs. Eleanor Rivest, Mrs. Bertha MacKay, Mr. David Maxwell, Mr. Ralph MacFarlane, Basil Sykes, Mrs. George Klein, Mrs. Gladys Cummings, Mrs. Olive McWilliams.
“The first caretaker was Mrs. Anna Marie Berry.
“The apartments were fully occupied most of the time, in recent years, there has not been as long a waiting list as had been in the beginning.”
Here we are 50 years later, almost to the day that the Manor originally opened, proudly celebrating this significant milestone.
Since its establishment in 1968, Belcrest Manor (Manor) has been more than just a place to live; it is a cherished community filled with vibrant residents, lasting friendships, and countless memories.
The Manor was founded during a time of growth and change in the housing market. Designed with the vision of providing affordable yet comfortable living for seniors, the apartments quickly transformed into a welcoming home for many. Over the years, it has witnessed the evolution of lifestyles, adapting to residents’ needs while maintaining its original charm.
At the heart of the Manor’s success is its strong sense of community.
Residents have found not just neighbours, but lifelong friends.
To commemorate this special anniversary, the Manor Board invited residents and their families, as well as community members, to a grand Anniversary celebration. The day featured delicious food, fellowship, and many opportunities to reminisce and share stories that reflect the rich history of the Manor.
The success of the Manor is evident in the voices of its residents, with many sharing personal stories about how it has positively impacted their lives.
“When I moved here, I didn’t think I would like it, but I love it. The suites are beautiful, and I have lots of friends and company around me,” said Tari, one of the Manor’s newer residents.
This sentiment was echoed by many other residents and their family members in attendance at the Anniversary celebration.
As the Manor celebrates its 50th anniversary, the future looks bright, with plans for the next few years that include enhancing outdoor spaces and continuing to engage residents in decision-making processes.
As we reflect on the Manor’s past, we also embrace its future, as it remains steadfast in its mission to provide a welcoming, safe, and vibrant home for all its residents.
Here’s to 50 years of community, comfort, and memories, with many more to come!
