Herbert is located in south central Saskatchewan along the Trans Canada Highway, 45 kilometres (kms) east of Swift Current and 120 kms west of Moose Jaw.
History
The Town of Herbert was named after Sir Michael Henry Herbert, an English diplomat who became the British Ambassador to the United States. In 1903 the Canadian government opened much of its land in the area for settlement. It was advertised as `The World's Choicest Wheat Lands'. These lands were part of the great buffalo grazing grounds of South West Saskatchewan. Herbert is located along the Eastern edge of the Great Plains of North America, also known as the Alberta Plain. Many settlers did not really know exactly what they were coming to. They did not realize how barren and treeless the prairies were, how windy this flat country could be in both summer and winter, how very cold and sometimes dangerous a prairie winter could be, or how hot the summers could be. One of the biggest attractions to the area was the offer of 160 acres of prime wheat growing farmland for $10.00. People sometimes left good jobs, comfortable homes, and families behind just for excitement and something new. Because everyone in the community originated from somewhere else, the town was a patchwork of many nationalities and religious backgrounds. This diversity bred a feeling of closeness that still exists in Herbert today. Though much has changed in Herbert's history, a great deal remains the same. The prairies still seem to stretch on forever, and as long as they do, Herbert will remember its heritage and friendly way of treating people. 'The year 1912 was a banner year for the village of Herbert. In an official census taken in the spring and summer of that year, it was reported that the village 'contained 709 persons residing therein'...On August 27 a vote was taken of the electors of the village of Herbert, asking their endorsement of a resolution of the village council, that the village become a town. The resolution was passed by more than a 2/3 majority.'
Economic Information
Herbert's economic stability is derived primarily from the agricultural industry. This also includes supporting agricultural based services and businesses. In addition, health care and educational institutions add important economic value to the community.
Attractions
FASPA Faspa is the German tradition of 'throwing together' a lunch for visitors, which allows and supports the Mennonite custom of unannounced visiting.
HERBERT FERRY PARK The Herbert Ferry Park is recognized as a regional park in Saskatchewan. There is a great boating and fishing area, plenty of room for hiking and just relaxing. There are 30 campsites and all for a great price.
ANNUAL HERBERT STAMPEDE/RODEO The Herbert rodeo occurs every year at the beginning of August. It is a great attraction for all ages. There is a full weekend of riding and entertainment.
Other local attractions to Herbert are the many area ranches and farms, the Poker Skidoo Derby (late winter), the fully restored CPR Heritage Station with caboose, Alpaca farm, and the Main Centre Hutterite Colony (West of Herbert).
Other Info
EDUCATION Herbert is home to one school, the Herbert School, located on Connaught Avenue and houses students from kindergarten to grade 12.
Herbert is located in south central Saskatchewan along the Trans Canada Highway, 45 kilometres (kms) east of Swift Current and 120 kms west of Moose Jaw.
