More than 900 people converged on the community of Minton from July 15-17 to celebrate its 75th anniversary and Saskatchewan's Centennial, as well as take in the Surprise Valley Stampede.

Visitors hailed from as far away as B.C., New Brunswick, P.E.I. and the U.S.

The celebrations began with registration, coffee and visiting on Friday evening.

On Saturday morning, more than 700 people lined up for a pancake breakfast, followed by a parade with over 78 entries.

During the afternoon, a large crowd enjoyed the music of Old Tyme fiddlers, while many others attended the afternoon performance of the rodeo.

An estimated 700 people also lined up for a beef supper in the evening. This was followed by a short program, during which Larry Millar, Mayor Orvill Corbin and Reeve Herb Axten welcomed all visitors to Minton. Anniversary cake was served, including a special cake for the Minton area's oldest resident John Didrick, in recognition of his 90th birthday.

This was followed with music by the Prairie Travellers.

Sunday's festivities began with another pancake breakfast, followed by an interdenominational prayer service. Local people were the leaders and readers, with Shelby Kinrade giving the reflection. Special music and cowboy poetry was supplied by the Bonk Family from Wolseley, accompanied by Dennis Rude.

After lunch, roughly 100 people boarded Stagecoach Tours for a bus trip through the Big Muddy. Guides for the tour were John Gerle and Florence Galbraith.

A time capsule was buried on Sunday afternoon, to be opened in 25 years.

Many other activities went on during the weekend. Many people enjoyed the antique display set up in Hibbard's garage, and a display of photographs and scrapbooks of Minton were on display at the Minton Friendship Centre.

There was also a display of "Then and Now" pictures in the hall. Gatherings of old graduating classes were held at various locations.

Horse-drawn wagon rides were provided for the young people, courtesy of Jim Ehrhardt of Saskatoon. There was also a dunk tank for the daring, with proceeds going to the swimming pool.

Many people also enjoyed the self-guided tours of the cemeteries and old school sites, which have been recently marked with metal signs, or going for a walk around town, as each lot had been marked with their former owners and there were many flower displays outside.

Everyone who attended the celebrations had a very enjoyable time. A lot of reminiscing, visiting and renewing of acquaintances took place.

The small community spirit was alive and vibrant as Minton welcomed, housed, fed and entertained the hundreds of visitors in attendance.