KENOSEE LAKE - The Kenosee Gardens has fallen. Oct. 16 was the day of the demise of one dream and the birth of another.
The Gardens, as it became affectionately known, was completed and opened in 1933 and quickly became a hotspot for generations. The stories and memories held by so many share similarities that offer a colourful past as the Kenosee Gardens grew and flourished for decades.
Fast forward to the summer of 2023 when four investors purchased the property where the iconic building stood. Because the property had fallen into disrepair over the past number of years, the decision was made to demolish the structure and build again.
The investors aspire to develop the site with a new establishment to serve the village, park residents and visitors to Kenosee Lake. Located at 22 Lakeview Street, the view will be graced once again with a modern hotel.
The proposed new development will be a welcome spark for revitalization in the village and Moose Mountain Provincial Park. The history of the site will be preserved in the memories and essays that have been written, photographed and developed throughout the years. The new premises will hold great memories for years to come, ushering in a brand-new era of welcoming locals and tourists alike.
“Before any comments on our future plans, we would like to thank the residents of Kenosee and surrounding area for their support, words or encouragement and congratulatory messages on this venture," said investor Al Janke. "Starting now, we are committed to serving you, our future customers.”
Once the debris has been cleared and the site has passed inspection for safety and environmental concerns, the construction will begin.
“Phases 1 and 2 were to secure the property and demolish it before the freeze up," said Janke. "Phase 3 is to continue our work with our architects and engineers on the design of a hotel, restaurant and banquet facility on the old gardens site, with the ambitious hope of breaking new ground in the spring of 2024 with an estimated 18 month build time.”
When asked about the decision to go ahead with the endeavour, he stated: “I would suggest our decision to move forward at this time was somewhat personal for each one of us. However, the opportunity to be part of an enthusiastic proven investment group, sharing the same vision for revitalization has brought us all together.”
Kenosee has seen new entrepreneurial efforts over this past year. The excitement of the water structure at the main beach and the boat rentals at Little Kenosee have proven to be successful and will hopefully return next year.
Kenosee offers many walking and bike trails. There are many outdoor activities that are free or available for year-round entertainment. The enjoyment of the main beach itself and the lake, mini golf, playgrounds, ball parks, ultimate frisbee, 18-hole golf course, the Artist's Colony, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing offer an opportunity for many to enjoy the various seasons throughout the year.
