Yorkton the scene of historical cemetery guided tour

YORKTON – As part of Culture Days, a guided cemetery walking tour was presented at the city cemetery the evening of Oct. 7. 

The historical tour was hosted by Tourism Yorkton's Executive Director, Randy Goulden.

“We're very excited to be presenting this guided cemetery walking tour at the city cemetery," said Goulden, adding, "it’s part of Culture Days. We’re doing this to really highlight the history and heritage that is part of this cemetery."

The cemetery, which dates back to 1896, spans 22 acres and holds 11,250 interments, offering a glimpse into the sacrifices of early settlers who shaped Yorkton's development. 

"It really speaks to the history of Yorkton — the earlier settler that have come here through many, many sacrifices that they have," said Goulden.

Goulden highlighted some unique aspects of the cemetery's history, including descriptions of settlers arriving from Whitewood on covered wagons. 

“When you think about the modes of transportation nowadays, it’s really interesting to think about the hour from Whitewood to here and what it would have taken them in a covered wagon,” said Goulden.

With nearly 45 people registered for the event, Goulden noted the strong interest in Yorkton’s heritage and history. 

"That says to me that a lot of people are interested in the heritage and history of the city of Yorkton," said Goulden.

Participants who weren't able to attend the event can still explore on their own by picking up the self-guided walking tour book available at the Tourism Yorkton, the Gallagher Centre and the Western Development Museum.

Among the notable interments at the cemetery is former Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Fedoruk, who is buried alongside her parents. Fedoruk was recognized for her significant contributions to the development of the world's first cobalt-60 unit and one of the first nuclear medicine scanning machines. She was also celebrated as a world-famous curler and a respected Lieutenant Governor.

"We're pretty excited for tonight. I absolutely love doing this," said Goulden.