In the summer of 1897 a Colonization Trail was blazed from Dauphin to Minitonas. The Trail, known as the Cowan Trail still exists today. The section from Cowan to Minitonas is used by horseback riders, snowmobile and all terrain vehicle enthusiasts. The campsite consisting of tents was established on the West side of the West Favel River, two kilometers West and a half kilometer South to the present Town of Minitonas. May 2, 1898, a Land Titles Agent was appointed with an office in Tent Town, so called because of the two large marquees erected by the government for the convenience of settlers arriving before the railway. William Leslie registered the first homestead located at NE 24-36-26 W. It is about 2.5 km North of Minitonas, directly west of the cemetery. The property remains in the Leslie family. more... See more text