Lancer

Geography

The beautiful community of Lancer is located in southwest Saskatchewan. The village is found on Highway 32, approximately 100 kilometres (kms) northwest of Swift Current. The South Saskatchewan River and the Lancer Ferry crossing are 20 kms north of the village. The Great Sandhills are located 10 kms to the south. These two ecological areas are somewhat unique to the province, adding diversity to the largely agricultural land base of Lancer's trading area.

History

The Village of Lancer was founded September 11th, 1913 when the C.P.R. came to Lancer. No one knows why the village name was chosen but it is believed to have something to do with the Crimean War (1854-1856). The men who led the famous calvalry charge there were called 'Lancers'. The names of the streets in Lancer were named after pieces of the uniform or dress of the Lancers: Balaclava, Plume, Sabre, Spur and Pennon.

Two of the first settlers to the Lancer District were Minnie Bell and Earl Kramer. Earl had a brother named 'Lancer' who was the first child buried in the Lancer District.

Very little has been recorded about the history of Lancer. But a few things are known, like how quickly the land was taken up when it was thrown open for homesteading. In just a few short years, every acre worth having had someone's name on it. Big crops and successful harvests brought a bit of prosperity to most early residents. The town flourished with increasing trade. The dirty 30's hit hard but a second wave and influx of people took place shortly after that. New landowners came and took up residence on the farms abandoned in the 30's and again prosperity and boom years returned.

Economic Information

The population of Lancer is 75 according to Provincial Health registration statistics.

Lancer's tourism industry is one of the many vibrant ones in Saskatchewan. One of the most noticeable attractions is a large chokecherry sculpture located in the downtown area. The metal structure was built in 1987 and stands 21 feet high. It was built as an added tourist attraction to the annual Chokecherry Festival held every Thanksgiving.

There are 13 employers in Lancer mainly in the primary industries - farming and oil and gas sectors.

You will find that Lancer offers affordable housing with an exceptional quality of life.

Attractions

The Lancer Museum was originally founded by the late C.E. Blodgett with help from the community as a 50th anniversary project. Most of the artifacts are historical dating back to the early homestead era. The artifacts are both donated and on loan. One of the most outstanding displays are two models of the Village of Lancer. The models are authentic in detail, one of the village as it was in 1915 and the other as it appeared 50 years later.

Lancer is home of the well known 'Chokecherry Festival' which features many different activities. The event held each fall continues to bring back former residents and visitors. All the chokecherry products are available throughout the year.

The Sandhill Rodeo is held every spring.

Other Info

The Lancer Community Hall was built in 1972 with an addition built in 1977. It is open seven days a week and can be booked for any occasion.

The local fire services are operated by community volunteers and they are equipped to handle most emergencies.

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