John and Margaret Irving have lived in La Ronge their entire lives. (Lac La Ronge History/Facebook)

By Derek Cornet

heritage

Irvings honoured with award for preserving northern history

Aug 13, 2025 | 1:18 PM

John and Margaret Irving have been announced as the winners of the 2025 Everett Baker Award for Saskatchewan Heritage.

The award, which is distributed annually, recognizes individuals, groups or organizations who have gone above and beyond to preserve and promote heritage in Saskatchewan. It also recognizes efforts to call public attention to aspects of little-known Saskatchewan history.

Irving noted it is an honour to receive the award, adding he has never won anything like it before.

“I feel it is important that people should know a little bit of history about La Ronge and everything else, especially the residential schools,” he said.

A write up from the Saskatchewan History and Folklore Society states for many years the Irvings have worked tirelessly to research and document the history of La Ronge and the surrounding area. They have dedicated significant effort to educating the residents of Northern Saskatchewan about their heritage.

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This included genealogical inquiries, local First Nation histories, and family connections related to the Fur Trade and the Hudson Bay Company in the North and, notably, information concerning the Lac La Ronge All Saints Anglican Indian Residential School.

“Their contributions are invaluable to the community, providing education on First Nations Treaty Six history and residential school student accounts,” the write up adds.

“Margaret and John’s research topics also include churches, medical care and the old hospital, outfitting, and northern bush flying. They have researched historic local personalities such as clergymen, principals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders.”

The couple were both born in La Ronge and have lived in the community their whole lives. John is the grandson of Norman Irving, a former Hudson Bay Company manager, while Margaret is a member of the long-time La Ronge Finlayson family. Both have generously contributed valuable collections of photographs, research, and genealogy to the local archives over many years.

“As their letters of support for this nomination attest, Margaret and John’s work is very much appreciated by their local community.”

The Irvings will be formally recognized for the work during an award ceremony on Sept. 25.

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com