The People Who Built Gull Lake: Len Youngberg
Some names in local history are remembered through photographs, newspaper clippings, or family stories. Others are remembered because their work still stands in the heart of the community more than a century later.
Len Youngberg was one of those people.
During Gull Lake's early years, Youngberg operated a local hotel from 1910 to 1913, serving residents, travellers, and newcomers during a period of growth and settlement. In 1913, he constructed the Youngberg Block, a prominent Main Street building that would become one of the community's most recognizable landmarks.
Over the decades, the Youngberg Block played an important role in the town's commercial life.
The building housed generations of pharmacists and local businesses, including clothing stores, insurance services, professional offices, and the Government Liquor Store. Mrs. Youngberg maintained rooms on the upper floor for many years, while Dr. McCue, Dr. Hart, and lawyer Hoffman all operated offices from the building at various times.
Youngberg's influence extended beyond Main Street. As automobiles began appearing across southwest Saskatchewan, he opened a service garage and repair shop in 1917. His business became part of Gull Lake's early automotive era as motor vehicles became increasingly common across the Prairies.
Known to many residents as the Old Pharmacy, the Youngberg Block remains a recognizable landmark in Gull Lake's downtown streetscape. Few buildings have served so many generations or adapted to so many different uses while remaining a familiar presence in the community.
A New Chapter for the Youngberg Block
Today, the building is entering a new chapter. The Gull Lake Property Development Cooperative has begun façade restoration work on the Youngberg Block, marking the first visible phase of a larger effort to preserve and revitalize the historic building. Supported by community investment and heritage funding, the project aims to prepare the landmark for future commercial, professional, and residential use while preserving its historic character.
More than a century after Len Youngberg constructed the Youngberg Block, the community is once again investing in the landmark that bears his name. Its restoration will help ensure that one of Gull Lake's most familiar historic buildings remains part of the town's future.
Do you have memories, photographs, or stories connected to the Youngberg Block? We'd love to hear them. Share them in the comments or contact Gull Lake Events.
The People Who Built Gull Lake is an ongoing series recognizing the entrepreneurs, builders, community leaders, and pioneers whose efforts helped shape the Gull Lake we know today.*
Gull Lake Events
Sources: Gull Lake Memories: A History of the Town of Gull Lake
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