Gull Lake History Series — Part 1: After the Flu (1919–1921)
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The years immediately following the First World War and the Spanish Flu pandemic were a turning point for Gull Lake. The council minutes from 1919 to 1921 show a community trying to regain stability, rebuild essential services, and protect public health after one of the deadliest global events in history.
This wasn’t a quiet period—it was a time of steady, practical decision-making that laid the groundwork for the town’s next decade of growth.
1919: Picking Up the Pieces After the Pandemic
The Spanish Flu had hit Saskatchewan hard, and Gull Lake was no exception. Council’s first priority was supporting the temporary influenza hospital operating out of the old brick school:
“Grant made to Influenza Hospital (Old brick school).”
Municipal operations were still fragile. Staff turnover was common—Secretary Treasurer F.W. Hinton resigned, leaving O.W. Howard to step in as acting secretary treasurer.
Even in recovery, the town kept moving forward:
Permission granted for the Agricultural Society to hold a monthly Market Day.
Fire Brigade given exclusive use of the Fair Grounds for May 24th.
W. Hutchings appointed town constable at $100 per month.
Two fire hydrants ordered to be connected to the CPR water main.
Cottage Hospital received a grant of $144.
These decisions show a town trying to restore normalcy while still dealing with the lingering effects of the pandemic.
1920: Public Health, Public Order, and Public Works
By 1920, the community was still not fully clear of influenza. The minutes note:
“Reoccurrence of ‘Spanish Flu’ discussed.”
Public health concerns shaped council decisions. The Gull Lake School District recommended ringing a 9:00 p.m. curfew, and council began drafting a bylaw addressing vagrancy and drunkenness — a sign of social strain in the post‑war years.
Infrastructure remained a priority:
Sidewalk requested from Main Street north to the Co‑op store.
Lumber purchased for sidewalk construction.
Council abandoned a plan to divert water from Spring Creek.
A Wednesday half‑holiday bylaw was adopted.
The town also received correspondence offering two German machine guns as war trophies, which council agreed to obtain and place in the school.
Notably, Quan Fook’s application to hire white female help was refused — one of several entries showing the racial discrimination of the era.
1921: Water Safety, Fire Protection, and Community Order
By 1921, Gull Lake was dealing with new public health concerns:
“Public advised to boil all drinking water five minutes because of possible pollution.”
Council also addressed everyday issues that reveal what life looked like at the time:
Motion passed for the removal of a dead horse.
Warning notices ordered regarding smoking by minors.
Committee appointed to draft plans for a new fire hall.
J.F. Melville paid $10.00 for use of horses and water wagon at a fire.
E.A. Evans granted permission to erect a sign (possibly a large artificial clock).
Tax rates set: municipal 20 mills, school 13 mills.
Council also passed a resolution supporting the re‑establishment of the Canada Wheat Board, showing early advocacy for farmers during a period of economic uncertainty.
The town invested in upgraded fire equipment, including a larger pump engine, hose truck, and pump—decisions that would prove crucial in the years ahead.
Closing Reflection for Part 1
These early post-pandemic years show a town rebuilding itself piece by piece—strengthening public health, improving infrastructure, and restoring community routines. They set the stage for the dramatic events of 1923, when Gull Lake would face one of the most significant fires in its history.
If your family has stories, photos, or artifacts from Gull Lake in the 1919–1921 era, you’re welcome to share them—they help preserve our community’s history.
Gull Lake Events
Source: Gull Lake Memories: A History of the Town of Gull Lake
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