Steinbach

Steinbach is a city of approximately 9,227 people (2001), located in the province of Manitoba, Canada. It is one of the fastest-growing cities in Manitoba, with a population growth of 8.8% between the last two census periods.

Steinbach was founded in 1874 by Mennonite settlers from Russia. The Mennonite Heritage Village museum, located in the city, provides a glimpse at the life of these settlers through a reconstructed village and interpretive displays. Its Dutch windmill, which was rebuilt (with help from Dutch millwrights) after the 1972 replica was destroyed by arson in 2001, is a recognized symbol of the city. Persons of Mennonite descent continue to form a majority in Steinbach, although immigration to the area (especially from Germany) is rapidly increasing.

As the economic centre of Southeastern Manitoba, service/retail industries employ the majority of the working population. Large manufacturing plants, especially those operated by Biovail and Loewen Windows (which is also based in Steinbach) also create a significant number of jobs. Agriculture, the traditional industry in the region, continues to dominate the economy as well.