Discovery Series Ornament – Saskatchewan
How about a tiny Discovery Series Ornament – Saskatchewan for a Canadian province whose history is deeply rooted in the land and the people who have shaped it for thousands of years. Long before it became a province in 1905, Indigenous nations such as the Cree, Dene, Saulteaux, and Nakota thrived across the plains, developing rich cultures and deep connections to the land. The arrival of European fur traders in the 18th century brought dramatic change, as Saskatchewan became a key part of the fur trade network. Later, waves of settlers – many from Eastern Europe – transformed the prairie into a patchwork of farms and small towns, drawn by promises of land and opportunity. Through treaties, railroad expansion, and agricultural innovation, Saskatchewan emerged as a place of resilience, community, and ongoing dialogue between past and present.
I love the bright red colors used for the inside of the mug, title and symbols and points of interest from the Discovery Series Ornament Saskatchewan design:
– Cream of Saskatchewan is a unique and beloved variety of watermelon known for its pale yellow flesh and sweet, refreshing taste. Though originally developed in Russia, it was preserved and popularized by prairie gardeners, making it a rare gem among local heirloom crops. Its soft rind and creamy interior set it apart from the typical red watermelon, and it has become a symbol of summer abundance and gardening heritage in Saskatchewan. Today, it represents the province’s spirit of preserving diversity and flavor through community and tradition.
– We can see the Broadway Bridge on the front of the ornament, a graceful structure that links downtown Saskatoon with the Nutana neighborhood. Built during the Great Depression, the bridge stands as a symbol of resilience and public spirit. Saskatoon is often called the “City of Bridges” for its many river crossings over the South Saskatchewan River. The Broadway Bridge, in particular, is beloved for its Art Deco design and central role in the city’s daily life.
– Athabasca Sand Dunes Provincial Park is one of the most unique landscapes in Canada, located along the south shore of Lake Athabasca in northern Saskatchewan. These dunes are among the most northerly active sand dunes in the world and stretch for nearly 60 miles. The area is not only visually stunning but also ecologically important, home to rare plant species found nowhere else. Visiting the park feels like stepping into a different world, far from the familiar prairie fields.
– Bison have played an indispensable role in Saskatchewan’s history and cultural identity, once roaming the vast prairies in herds of millions and sustaining Indigenous communities through their meat, hides, bones, and sinews. Their near-extinction in the late 19th century marked a harsh turning point for both Indigenous societies and the prairie ecosystem. Today, bison symbolize resilience and renewal across the province, from conservation herds to public art.
