Another interesting winter of museum visits

The author spent a month on Vancouver Island where some of the best destinations of course were museums. The Royal BC Museum in Victoria, Comox Air Museum, Nanaimo Museum, Nanaimo Military Museum, Port Alberni Museum, Qualicum Beach Museum, Campbell River Museum, and Craigdarroch Castle in Victoria. And yes, there were some we missed! Next time.
As well we visited Milner Gardens at Qualicum Beach. This was a special treat. Don't miss it if you are in the area. My favorite things - a bit of history, a garden, and a beautiful view.
So, I came home with some new ideas for displays as I usually do.
I really love museums. Haven't been to one I that I didn't learn something.
But then I am a little biased.

New Logo

It is a new look for our museum. The logo and lead statement "different cultures...prairie neighbours"  encapsulates the stories our museum tells. Our area has such a diverse cultural background. First Nations, French, Ukrainian, Korean, English, Danish, Hutterian Brethren and so on.
Prairie life has produced a culture of its own - part of the Canadian immigrant landscape.
We are continuing to add to our exhibits so that they portray more of these diverse cultures.
Thanks to Stephanie Gilchrist who helped us design the logo.

Museum Secrets

I have watched the History Channel show, Museum Secrets, with great interest. Of course, I'm a bit biased, but I think it is a fascinating show.
I bet that every museum has a 'secret' to tell of an interesting artifact or story from the area. It made me think about small museums and how we could use this premise in attracting visitors.

It's all about making one stand out from the crowd.
At least that's how I see it...

One of our 'secrets' is that there was a gold rush in the Cut Knife (Wardenville) area early in the 20th Century. Come and find out more.

Museum & Archives January Update

We are working on our Archives which is now situated in the MAC (Museum Administration Center). Guess we should include that word Archives in there somewhere. MAAC? Museum Administration & Archives Center??
Right now the archival material is spread around in different buildings behind some rather high snowdrifts. No need to go looking for work though as the MAC has lot of work to keep me busy.
We have recently acquired the Parkinson Pod of photos and family history of the Warden and Parkinson families. Sandy Warden was a member of the NWMP in the late 1800's and early 1900's. The Wardenville District was named after him. Sandy fought in the skirmish at Cut Knife Creek in 1885 and then was Instructor on the Poundmaker and Little Pine reserves in later years. His story is a fascinating one.
I am also beginning work on updating the storage of Clayton's Collection. The McClain family have generously donated many items over the years that help tell the history of the area. When it is properly documented and organized, the public will have more access to these materials.
Please consider visiting the MAC on February 7 for our Archives Open House from 1 to 4 pm. There will be some archival materials for you to look through and information on what an Archives is all about. Coffee and lunch will be served.

Seasons Greetings

It is definitely going to be a white Christmas in Cut Knife this year. It seems as if each day brings a little more of the white stuff. Very pictureque - but a little sunshine would be nice too.
May your Christmas season be blessed with the company of family and friends, sharing past experiences and creating new ones.