Thompson (Manitoba)

Thompson is a city in Manitoba (Canada) and at the same time the greatest in the north of the province. It is located 739 km north of Winnipeg and 396 km northeast of Flin Flon. According to the 2001 census, 13,256 people live in Thompson, which is a decrease compared to 1996 by 7.8%.

History

The history of Thompson began on February 4, 1956, when a large Erzfund was determined by electromagnetic measurement with an airplane. Another 10 years of exploration of the area followed. The company Inco Limited entered into an agreement with the provincial government of Manitoba for the construction of a mine and related facilities, and the acquisition of all public services. The agreement also included the financial support by Inco to connect the future city by train near Thicket Portage. Thompson is a planned city, and named after the then Chairman of Inco, John F. Thompson. Thompson received city rights in 1967 and had up to 20,000 inhabitants.

Thompson is also known as " The Hub of the North " because it is the center of politics and commerce in the region.

Economy

The most important industry is the nickel production and its further processing. Also, many public agencies have their offices in Thompson. The airport plays as the third busiest in Manitoba an important role as an employer.

Energy

To electric power for the city and the industrial enterprises was started simultaneously with the construction provide the city with the construction of the hydroelectric plant Kelsey around 90 km north-east on the Nelson River. It was completed in 1961 and is now about three power lines with a voltage of 138 KV each connected to the city.

More energy will in future provide the Wuskwatim hydroelectric plant. It is located 45 km southwest of Thompson on Burntwood River near the Taskinigup waterfalls. The construction started in 2006, it is to go into operation in 2012.

Both power plants are part of the Nelson River Hydroelectric Project.

Sons and daughters of the town

• Curtis Leschyshyn (born 1969 ), Canadian ice hockey player