Ukrainian Pioneer Mass Grave Site
Heritage Value
The Ukrainian Pioneer Mass Grave Site
Is a tangible link to the struggle, devastation, and loss experienced by the
newly arrived Ukrainian immigrants in the Vista area in 1899. After enduring an
arduous journey to escape persecution in Ukraine and to seek a better life, a
group of immigrants temporarily camped at this location and suffered an
outbreak of scarlet fever that took the lives of over 42 children and 3 adults.
They were buried en masse as the frozen ground made individual burial too
difficult. About 50 years later the remains were removed to the present
location, approximately 100 metres north of the original burial site. This continued
importance is demonstrated by various monuments erected in association with significant
events and by regular use of the site to celebrate Ukrainian settlement in Canada.
Municipality Designated Site
The Ukrainian Pioneer Mass Grave Site
was designated by the Rural Municipality of Rossburn on April 17th,
1990. To get there from Olha, drive 4.2km south on PR 577 to the sign, and
1.5km west, or from Oakburn proceed 5.5km north to the sign, and 1.5 km west.
