Wanuskewin Heritage Park

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

2021 Ecclesiastical Insurance Cornerstone Award (Transformative Projects)

This project is a compelling intertwining of archaeological resource protection, the reclamation of indigenous culture and the restoration of an important cultural landscape –
achieving an impressive cultural heritage site that is a responsible regenerative economy destination.

The longest active archeological site in Canada, Wanuskewin is proof of over 6,400 years of year-round habitation. It holds the northern-most known medicine wheel, two bison jumps, and 19 known historical excavation sites.

The $40 million property-wide expansion project – through which Wanuskewin was named to the tentative list for UNESCO world heritage designation – included grassland restoration and the expansion of both the interpretive center and trail, which showcases multiple active archaeological sites throughout the property. The project also included the reintroduction of bison to support a healthy native grassland that is becoming endangered throughout the Prairies. The permanent exhibit installation, which includes six Indigenous languages to showcase the living culture of Northern Plains Indigenous culture, was done in consultation with all communities and cultural groups of the local Indigenous peoples to ensure that all languages and cultures were celebrated within the space.

Key Players:
• Wanuskewin Heritage Park Authority (Owner and Operator)
• aodbt architecture + interior design (Design)
• Crosby Hanna & Associates (Landscape Architect)
• AldrichPears Associates Ltd. (Exhibit Designer)
• Associated Engineering (Civil Engineer)