Wé Ste - Wanless General Store
Discover the History of Wanless, Manitoba: A Hidden Jewel Along Highway 10
Tucked along Highway 10, just north of The Pas and OCN, lies Wanless, Manitoba—a small but storied community rich in history and resilience. For decades, travelers, hunters, and locals alike have found a welcoming stop at the local general store, a place that has stood as a testament to the spirit of the North. If you're looking to explore the unique history of this area, a visit to Wanless is a must.
A Legacy That Began in the 1940s
The roots of the Wanless General Store trace back to around 1940 when Margaret and Jack McCullough first opened a small store to serve the growing needs of the community. The little building, which still stands next to the current store, became a vital stop for travelers, offering groceries and gas. The McCulloughs ran the store until 1966, setting the foundation for what would become a long-standing tradition of service in the region.
A Community Hub Through the Decades
In 1966, the store changed hands to Peggy Davie and her family, who expanded the offerings to include a small coffee shop alongside groceries, gas, and confectionery items. The Davie family’s stewardship lasted until 1973, when William “Bill” Jacobson saw potential in this roadside stop and made it his own.
Bill Jacobson took the store in a new direction, operating out of the original building for a short time before bringing in a new structure to accommodate a wider array of goods. Under the name BJ’s Trading Post, the store became a hub for outdoor enthusiasts and locals alike, selling everything from gas and groceries to chainsaws, Argos, and other equipment. In the early 1980s, the store even featured an arcade, adding to its appeal as a gathering place for the community. Bill remained at the helm for nearly three decades, operating the store until the year 2000.
A Family Tradition Continues
In 2000, longtime employee Kelvin Dionne and his wife Lori took over, renaming the store Wé Ste General Store. Keeping the tradition alive, they continued to sell gas, groceries, confectionery, and chainsaws, ensuring the store remained a reliable stop for locals and travelers alike. For over two decades, the Dionnes have been the heart of Wanless, welcoming visitors and carrying on the spirit of the North.
A New Chapter: Wanless General Store
As spring of 2025 approaches, the legacy of this historic store is set to continue under new ownership. Dylan Funk and his wife Shauna Ponask are working with Kelvin and Lori Dionne to take over operations, with a planned transition in spring/summer 2025. Dylan, who spent summers as a young boy pumping gas at BJ’s Trading Post, has long seen the potential of this location and is eager to carry forward its rich history as the Wanless General Store.
Why You Should Visit Wanless
A trip to Wanless is more than just a stop along Highway 10—it’s an opportunity to step into a piece of northern Manitoba’s history. Whether you’re fueling up for a journey, picking up supplies, or simply wanting to experience the warmth of a community with deep-rooted connections, the Wanless General Store stands as a beacon of the North’s past and future.
In addition to its long history, the store is also a great place to buy locally made products from Healing Forest 204, local branded clothing and Indigenous-made gifts from local artist Shauna Ponask of Creativity to Burn. Her unique creations showcase the beauty and traditions of Indigenous culture, making for meaningful souvenirs and gifts.
Next time you're exploring Northern Manitoba, make sure to stop by Wanless. You’ll not only find a store with a rich history but also a community eager to share its stories and hospitality. The Wanless General Store is ready to welcome a new generation of travelers, just as it has for the past 85 years.
