Introduction
Winnipeg's Point Douglas is bound on the east by the Red River, the south by the river and Galt Avenue, the north by the river and Redwood Avenue, and the west by Main Street. This inner-city peninsula of the Red River is bisected into two communities: the more residential North Point Douglas and more industrious South Point Douglas.
Lifestyle
One of the city's oldest neighbourhoods, Point Douglas was once a prestigious community and home to some of Winnipeg's founding families. When the Canadian Pacific Railway routed through the neighbourhood, it became divided into a residential northern section and an industrious southern section. Its proximity to downtown, abundant river views, and affordable housing are still appealing, however the community is still coping with low incomes and higher crime rates.
The Vibe
Point Douglas has faced challenges in poverty and crime, as have many north-end communities in Winnipeg. North Point Douglas remains primarily residential, though some commercial services are available, while South Point Douglas is less populated. The migration of industry from this area has left behind a number of vacant lots that have yet to be developed. Determined residents and interested developers offer signs of encouragement in the community.
Meet the Neighbours
The presence of the railway once brought major industry to Point Douglas and along with it an industrious working class consisting of many eastern European immigrants. The industry may have waned, but the area remains culturally diverse. According to Statistics Canada's 2006 census, the languages spoken in this eclectic community include Tagalog, Ukrainian, Spanish, Polish, Chinese, German, Russian, and Japanese.
In the Area
Go back in time with a visit to the Barber House or Ross House Museum. Both buildings are examples of the classic Red River framed homes popular in Winnipeg's early days. Acting as a neighbourhood hub and source of inspiration, North Point Douglas Women's Centre brings together women from the area to address the issues they face and work towards building a stronger community.
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Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Since Point Douglas was bisected by the Canadian Pacific Railway mainline, it was once a prime location for industry in Winnipeg. Conveniently located close to downtown with access to major transit routes, over 30% of residents claim public transportation as their primary mode of transport (2006 census). The Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport is approximately 20 minutes away by car or 45 minutes by bus.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
While housing remains affordable in this historical area, higher crime rates and lower incomes have challenged the community. Much of the manufacturing that once dominated South Point Douglas has relocated, leaving behind vacant lots and sub-standard housing. But proud residents and interested developers – including a proposal for a large office space close to where Waterfront Drive and Higgins Avenue meet – may reclaim Point Douglas' charm.
Dollars & Sense
An inner-city neighbourhood with average household incomes well below the city's average, Point Douglas features a number of affordable rental properties. If you're looking to buy, you can purchase a home here for less than half the Winnipeg-wide average cost. Proximity to downtown provides convenient access to a range of shops and services. For an affordable dinner, enjoy generous portions of tasty Chinese food at Five Spice Restaurant.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Barber House
Now a municipally-designated historic site, this is one of the earliest buildings constructed in Winnipeg. John Schultz once fled to this Red River frame home after escaping Louis Riel's forces at Upper Fort Garry.
more infoRoss House Museum
A prime example of the classic Red River frame buildings, this early home and first Post Office in Western Canada was built in 1852 and later moved to the Joe Zuken Heritage Park in 1984.
more infoBrown and Rutherford Building
Home to the Brown and Rutherford lumber company, which was established in Winnipeg in 1872, this planing mill and lumber yard on Sutherland Avenue in Point Douglas was built in 1911.
more infoNorth Point Douglas Women's Centre
A hub for Point Douglas women and their families to address their community's poverty and poverty-related issues, they build and access social networks, resources, programs, and activities to create a stronger and safer community.
more infoJoe Zuken Heritage Park
Joe Zuken Heritage Park was named for communist politician Joseph Zuken (1912-1986). This park, which features a limestone marker and bronze portrait in his honour, is a popular spot for dog walkers.
more infoFive Spice Restaurant
For Point Douglas residents in search of generous portions of tasty Chinese food, Five Spice Restaurant in North Point Douglas is the affordable and friendly destination of choice. Ask about the staff favourites.
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