Manitoba to dedicate a memorial at burial site linked to a former residential school
Posted September 29, 2026 6:54 pm.
On the eve of National Truth and Reconciliation Day across the country, the province and the City of Brandon have bought a burial site linked to a former residential school, and they have plans to dedicate a memorial at the site.
The school opened in 1895, and historical records show a cemetery was used there between 1895 and 1912.
The burial ground was later developed into a park, and eventually became Turtle Crossing Campground in 2001.
The province says historical records and family knowledge indicate unmarked graves are still located within parts of the campground.
“This land contains the buried remains of children who attended the Brandon Indian Residential School and their existence has been documented for more than 100 years,” said Premier Wab Kinew. “These graves have been known about since long before the invention of ground-penetrating radar.”
Future decisions about the site will be guided by survivors and affected First Nations, including Sioux Valley Dakota Nation, which has stepped up as steward of the land.
“This is important work for our nation and for Indigenous peoples across Canada,” said Chief Jennifer Bone, Sioux Valley Dakota Nation. “Sioux Valley Dakota Nation’s investigation is Indigenous-led, with specialized support for a careful, non-invasive search. Technical expertise and community knowledge will guide the work, with respect for the children, their families and this sacred site at every stage.”
Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakinak will also be involved. The organization says the site includes 56 children from eight of its communities.
The province says acquiring the land is part of its work to protect residential school burial sites and support truth and reconciliation.
