It started with a drilling crew outside Saskatoon and ended with Saskatchewan on top of the world.
On May 23, 1958, engineers at Patience Lake struck thick deposits of potash thousands of metres underground. What began as a risky experiment soon turned into a boom.
Through the 1960s and 70s, mines opened near Esterhazy, Lanigan, and Rocanville. They transformed towns and attracted workers from across Canada. Potash royalties became a cornerstone of the provincial budget and helped fund schools, hospitals, and highways.
That single discovery reshaped Saskatchewan’s economy. Sometimes the province’s greatest stories lie far beneath the surface of its prairies.
Learn more about 100 Years of CKRM at 620ckrm.com.
100 Years of Saskatchewan History
This article is part of a series that celebrates both the history of Saskatchewan and the 100th anniversary of one of Saskatchewan's most storied radio stations. For more key moments from the last 100 years, visit the CKRM timeline.
