Second Pavilion 1924

Because of the dancing craze which began after the World War, the old pavilion was inadequate to handle the crowds. Designed by a CPR architect, the new pavilion was built with a concrete foundation, and fir frame construction. The maple floor provided 14,000 square of dancing area, with a wide promenade encircling it. Turrets ornamented the exterior and a second floor balcony provided views of the lake. In the middle of June, 1924, 3,000 people attended the opening of the largest dance hall in Western Canada. Peavy’s Roseland Orchestra performed for the opening. Dances were 5 cents a dance or 12 for 50 cents. Each dance lasted about two and a half minutes. Local big bands such as those of Marsh Phimster and Don Wright, with Paul Grosney, played the Pavilion. The Moonlight Special and the Pavilion created much of the allure and romance of Winnipeg Beach, which endured for a generation.

Source: Manitoba Heritage

Researcher: Wally Johannson