ASSINIBOIA - Assiniboia and District Historical Museum has plenty to offer the visitor in learning and rediscovering the history of Assiniboia.
The museum in Assiniboia first started with the desire of a few people wanting to preserve artifacts. They formed a group known as the Assiniboia Museum Group in 1974, with 34 members. A couple of these members are still active today.
The group became a non-profit charity organization also in 1974 and the grand opening was held June 12, 1980.
As donated items grew, the Assiniboia Museum group needed a larger space and with assistance from the Town of Assiniboia, a new building was started in 1994, completed in 1995. The new home is at 506 Third Avenue West.
From March until October, the Assiniboia Museum is open Mondays to Fridays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and is closed for lunch from 12 noon to 1 p.m. Local residents can spend time perusing their social media to see photos and see what their organization has been up to in the off-season and past year.
Sally Svenson, museum coordinator, said in June, July and August, they will be open seven days a week, during the season, with the help of summer students.
There are about 25 people who regularly volunteer throughout the season with a museum committee of six. The 2024 executive includes Leora Martin serving in her fourth year as president, Walter Hutchinson as treasurer and Saskia Koetterle in the secretary role.
The museum committee said there are a number of aspects to highlight of this history venue.
“The car collection has been compared to the Ford Museum in the USA for the size of the community. Prentice Safari Exhibit is another highlight. Calendars from many businesses over the years starting at 1890. There are plenty of pictures and information about communities in the surrounding area, including villages that no longer exist.”
Svenson also added, “We have a Wall of Fame, including one of the First Flight Nurses of the Saskatchewan Air Ambulance from Assiniboia. There is a boardwalk for the community, including a general store, barber shop and El Prado (Franklin Hotel).”
The museum is holding a garage sale as an upcoming fundraiser. There will also be an International Museum Day event featuring a guest speaker from Friends of the St. Victor Petroglyphs upcoming in May. Assiniboia Antique Road show also will occur in May. The 100th anniversary of the RCAF will be marked at the museum with a guest speaker.
Come fall, the museum will host a traveling exhibit car show, partnering with the Southern Cruisers Car Club. There may be more activities with all details posted on their Facebook page as they come up.
“There is something for everyone and every generation at our museum. Some can hear the sound of a train or step back into history of the area, and learn about the people that helped develop things through the years. You can also take in a round of mini golf,” added Svenson.
