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In order to attract new Canadians in the 1800’s, the Canadian prairies were promoted as an opportunity for free land and abundant opportunities. This Community Memories Exhibit is the story of how one family sought their fortune in Manitoba and left a legacy that will be long remembered.
Percy Criddle, a wine merchant from England and son of an accomplished artist, immigrated to Canada in 1882, accompanied by his wife Alice (née Nichol) and their four children. On board the same ship, in steerage class, sailed Percy’s first love Elise and their five children.
The families settled in two tents on a quarter section north of Wawanesa. Overcoming the usual pioneer hardships of disease, extreme weather, hunger and mosquitoes, the Criddle/Vane family earned a reputation of influence in the cultural and scientific affairs of Manitoba and of Canada. Famous for the concerts, dinners and sporting events they hosted, the family also made important scientific contributions.
One son, Norman Criddle, who worked for the Department of Agriculture in Ottawa, invented the first pesticide used on the prairies to combat grasshopper plagues. Norman also arranged for the prairies’ first entomology lab to be built on the Criddle/Vane homestead. Other members of the family compiled many scientific papers on the nature of insects, mammals and snakes. As well, they developed new strains of flowers and vegetables and faithfully recorded weather records for over 60 years.
Visitors to this exhibit will enjoy touring the challenges and accomplishments of this interesting, intellectual and influential pioneer family.
