Celebrating Community: Manitoba Plaque Unveiling at Midweek Music

The City of Owen Sound invites members of the media and the public to attend a special ceremony and plaque unveiling celebrating the Manitoba-inspired lights and public area on the inner east harbour. While the space has already been a vibrant part of the community for years, the newly installed plaque will officially recognize its significance and contribution to the area.  The plaque was generously funded by Ron Hopper.

The Manitoba sculpture sits on the harbour walkway to the south of the Miller cement silos. It symbolizes the Manitoba, a 305-foot-long ship built by Polson Iron Works in Owen Sound, which was the first steel-hulled ship constructed on the Great Lakes.

The ceremony will take place on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at 4 p.m. at the Manitoba, just north of Mudtown Station Brewery & Restaurant, which will be hosting Midweek Music the same day, beginning at 4:30 p.m. This event offers an opportunity for the public to gather, celebrate, and learn more about the story behind the lights and the public area.

Event Details

What: Plaque unveiling ceremony for the Manitoba-inspired lights and public area

When: Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at 4:00 p.m.

Where: Manitoba public space, Owen Sound’s east inner harbour

Who: City officials, community members, and media are invited

Following Event: Midweek Music at 4:30 p.m.  Grey Road 1 will be playing.

For more information, please contact Pam Coulter, Director of Community Services, at 519-376-4440 ext. 1252 or email pcoulter@owensound.ca

Quick Facts:

• The Manitoba launched in May 1889. Her upper deck was 250 feet long, with 64 staterooms finished in antique oak. 

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