In fact, in 2002, they purchased the old Manitoba Pool elevator further down the street. This elevator had its beginnings in 1928, when local farmers decided to join the Manitoba Co-operative Elevator Association and build an elevator. There was a local board running it and the first operator was Ben Herron. 

In 1969, the local Pool Association joined the Central organization and became a provincial line elevator.

In 1995, it became the host building of the largest mural in Boissevain’s Outdoor Art Gallery. Stephen Jackson and Gus Froese painted the historical Manitoba Pool elevator, which was popular with locals and visitors.

In 1998, Manitoba and Alberta Pools amalgamated and went by the name Agricore. 

In 2002, Paterson purchased the facility.

Paterson commissioned Russell Construction of Sperling, Manitoba to pull down the worn out and obsolete Pool elevator. The work started on Thursday, March 12 and continues. Plans are for it to be cleaned up by the end of the month, with pieces being taken to the local landfill site and sorted.

As for the traditional Paterson elevator, there has been nothing definite said about its physical future. Paterson Grain has not responded to repeated requests for comment.

Customers wishing to continue conducting business with Paterson have been advised to call staff at Killarney or Pierson.

Boissevain-Morton Head of Council Judy Swanson said the elevators will be missed.

“We’re disappointed to be losing a business in our community,” Swanson stated. “The elevators were icons, and certainly our skyline will change in Boissevain.”

by PAUL RAYNER, Recorder staff