Brandon – Manitoba, might not be the first place that pops into your head when you think of Canadian wonders. But nestled within the prairies, this dynamic city is full of hidden gems and fascinating history.
From quirky museums to surprising wildlife connections, get ready to be amazed by these mind-blowing facts about Brandon!
Mind-blowing Facts
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A Woolly Mammoth…in the Mall? Yep, a replica of a woolly mammoth skeleton found near Brandon hangs proudly in the Shoppers Mall!
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It’s Got the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum: Brandon was a major training hub for WWII aircrews from across the Commonwealth, and this museum honors that legacy.
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Brandon Loves a Good Festival: From the incredible Lieutenant Governor’s Winter Festival to the buzzing Brandon Folk Music and Art Festival, there’s always something fun happening.
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The Gopher Capital?: Legend has it, Brandon once held the title of “Gopher Capital of the World”! While that might be up for debate, the city still pays homage to the critters.
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Art Deco Delight: Brandon boasts some stunning Art Deco buildings. Keep an eye out for gems like the Commonwealth Building!
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Hockey Hotbed: Brandon’s produced NHL greats like Ron Hextall and Barry Trotz. You might just spot the next hockey star at a local game!
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Home to a Unique Bird Sanctuary: The Elton International Peace Garden boasts a unique sanctuary for the endangered piping plover.
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River City Adventures: The Assiniboine River cuts through Brandon, offering kayaking, canoeing, and scenic walks.
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That Time Brandon Became a Movie Star: Scenes from the Oscar-winning film Capote were filmed right in Brandon!
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The Wheat City Wasn’t Always About Wheat: Founded as a major fur trading post, wheat only later became Brandon’s claim to fame.
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Dinosaur Discoveries: Amazing dino fossils have been unearthed right near Brandon – you never know what you might find!
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A Giant…Teapot? Roadside attractions are a prairie staple, and Brandon boasts a gigantic metal teapot!
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Keystone Centre: More Than Just a Building: This massive complex hosts everything from hockey games to major agricultural shows.
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Brandon University: A Knowledge Hub: This respected university is a center for learning and research right in the heart of the city.
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Friendly Manitoba Spirit: Brandonites are known for their welcoming, community-minded attitude.
Conclusion
So, did Brandon blow your mind a little bit? From its quirky charm to its rich history, there’s way more to this prairie city than meets the eye. Next time you’re planning a Manitoba adventure, make sure the Wheat City is on your list!