Many community members have been thinking about the Weyburn City Centre Mall lately, especially with ongoing discussions about its future. To tap into the nostalgia surrounding this beloved local landmark, a post was shared on Facebook asking residents to share their favourite memories of the mall. The responses poured in, reflecting the mall's significant role in the lives of many Weyburn residents over the years.
Pam Horne recalled fond memories of enjoying lunch at the Zellers cafeteria, hanging out at Buffalo Bill's arcade, and walking around the mall with friends during her tween years, all while trying to "look cool." Thursday night shopping was a special event that added to the nostalgia of her youth.
Debbie Richardson shared that every Saturday when travelling from Oungre to Weyburn, her dad and brother would visit Gramma Lee's for a sandwich before heading to Buffalo Bill's to play games. She reminisced about walking through Zellers to find great clothing and visiting other shops like Nens Smoke Shop, Smitty's, the flower shop, and Carlton Cards. For Debbie, the mall was a go-to destination; driving by it now brings tears to her eyes as she reflects on those cherished times.
Tracy Golder Nikkel offered a more sombre memory, recalling standing outside Sears on September 11, 2001. She remembered watching TV news coverage with a group of people as the tragic events unfolded, notably how Rocky Sidloski thought it might not be an accident. This moment sent shockwaves through everyone present. This heart-wrenching memory remains vivid for many residents who were there that day.
Dean Stock reflected on the mall's heyday when it was bustling with businesses like Buffalo Bill's, Zellers, Things Engraved, Stylerite, Gramma Lee's, and various shoe stores. As a lifelong resident of Weyburn, he expressed a desire to see the mall return to its former glory. However, he believes that its time has passed. He suggests it might be better to redevelop the area into mini-malls similar to those in Regina, featuring popular stores like 5 Guys Burgers, Bulk Barn, Sport Chek, and golf shops as a centrepiece for downtown.
As memories continue to flow, it's clear that the Weyburn City Centre Mall has left a lasting impression on the community. While questions about its future remain unanswered, residents' fond recollections serve as a testament to the mall's significant place in the hearts of many.
As the community navigates the uncertainty surrounding the mall, it's essential to remember the joy and connections it has fostered over the years. The memories shared highlight the importance of local gathering places and their impact on the community's identity.