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The City of Saskatoon hosts a variety of street names, each with its own unique history and significance. Understanding these names provides a glimpse into the city’s past and the diverse individuals and events that have shaped its identity.
According to Jeff O’Brien, the city archivist, street naming in Saskatoon was relatively informal in its early years. Landowners often took it upon themselves to name the streets. For instance, Taylor Street is named after Dave Taylor, who subdivided a parcel of land in 1906 and chose to honor himself through the street’s name.
Today, the process of naming streets is more structured. A dedicated naming committee assesses proposed names, considering their historical relevance and significance to the people of Saskatoon. “The kinds of names we select reflect our community’s values and history,” O’Brien noted. This approach underscores the importance of street names as a reflection of societal priorities and collective memory.
In recent years, street names have also been revised to acknowledge changing perspectives. For example, in 2023, John A. Macdonald Road was renamed Miyo-wâhkôhtowin Road, recognizing Macdonald’s controversial legacy related to residential schools.
Leona Stilling represents a family that has been honored with a street name in Saskatoon. Her grandfather, who served as the Danish vice-consul in the city, had gained recognition for his contributions during his life. The Stilling family has deep roots in the community; Leona recalls how her family’s legacy continued to grow through various contributions to local culture and society.
“Bud Stilling was well-respected as a teacher and an actor, and my late husband, Arnie Stilling, made his mark as a radio personality and sportscaster,” Leona shared. While Bud was thrilled to see a street named after their family legacy, Arnie, who had passed away before the name change, would have taken great pride in it. “I think he would have been genuinely pleased. It would have meant a lot to him and our family,” she remarked.
Leona emphasizes the importance of recognizing the stories behind street names and the remarkable individuals they commemorate. “These were admirable people who contributed greatly to Saskatoon’s early years, and it’s vital for the community to remember their legacies,” she noted.
As Saskatoon continues to evolve, the stories of its street names and the characters they honor remain an essential part of its cultural landscape.
Source
globalnews.ca