Great Sandhills Historical Society Inc.

The Great Sandhills Historical Society Inc. is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and preserving the natural and cultural heritage of the Great Sandhills region in Southwest Saskatchewan. The society operates the Great Sandhills Museum & Interpretive Centre, which serves as a gateway to the dunes and surrounding area, providing educational and interpretive experiences to visitors.

Mission and Purpose

The organization’s primary objective is to celebrate and maintain the history, natural environment, and settler heritage of the Great Sandhills through the collection, preservation, and display of artifacts, maps, documents, and historical structures. It fosters community engagement and tourism by offering exhibits and interpretive programs that highlight the unique characteristics of the region.

The Great Sandhills Museum & Interpretive Centre

The museum managed by the society features eleven thematic rooms that invite visitors to take a journey through the area's past. The exhibits include natural history displays, early settler life, and local cultural artifacts. On the museum grounds, visitors can explore a historical village containing a barn, a church, antique machinery, an early 1900s house, and wildflower gardens, providing a comprehensive view of the region’s heritage.

Location and Visitor Information

Located in the village of Sceptre, the museum is recognized as the "Gateway to the Great Sand Hills" and is adjacent to Highway 32. It is home to the world's largest wheat sculpture, symbolizing the area's agricultural roots. The museum typically operates seasonally from mid-May to early September, offering daily hours from morning to late afternoon. Admission fees apply for adults and students, with free entry for preschool children.

Community and Educational Impact

Through its exhibitions and programs, the Great Sandhills Historical Society Inc. plays a crucial role in educating both locals and tourists about the ecological and historical significance of the Great Sandhills. It serves as a cultural hub that preserves the legacy of the area’s natural landscapes and the lives of its early inhabitants.

Business Registration Number: 120968979RR0001

Website: (Official site of the Great Sandhills Museum & Interpretive Centre)