Pioneer Acres Plowmen and Threshermens Club

The Pioneer Acres Plowmen and Threshermens Club is a Canadian nonprofit organization based in Alberta, registered under the Societies Act with the business registration number 889339248RR0001. The club is dedicated to the preservation, display, and demonstration of agricultural and industrial equipment and artifacts that were historically used by pioneers in Western Canada.

History and Mission

Founded over five decades ago, the Pioneer Acres Plowmen and Threshermens Club has developed into one of Alberta’s largest agricultural and industrial history museums. The club's mission is to actively preserve and present the heritage of Western Canadian pioneers through its extensive collection of machinery, transportation equipment, and household and business artifacts spanning from around 1870 to the 1980s. The organization strives to make history come alive for visitors of all ages and emphasizes encouraging younger generations to engage with the region’s agricultural history[1][4][5].

Activities and Membership

Pioneer Acres operates as a working agricultural museum with a focus on equipment and artifacts from the early 1900s. The club organizes various events, including an annual show that features live demonstrations of machinery, craft displays, and historical exhibits. For example, the 2025 annual show highlighted Caterpillar equipment, with numerous pieces of machinery running and displayed by external exhibitors. Other events include dedicated Kids Days aimed at engaging youth in agricultural heritage.

Membership is open to individuals aged 16 and older, requiring sponsorship by a current member and payment of annual dues. The club provides a member portal for applications, renewals, and volunteer opportunities, supporting ongoing community involvement and volunteerism[1][2][3].

Collections and Exhibits

The Pioneer Acres Museum houses thousands of artifacts, placing priority on items made or used in Alberta. Its collection includes agricultural machinery, transportation equipment, and an array of household and personal artifacts that collectively represent Alberta’s settlement and industrial development history. The museum’s dedication to preserving these artifacts has earned it both national and international recognition[4].

Location and Accessibility

Located in Rocky View County near Irricana, Alberta, Pioneer Acres welcomes visitors by appointment and during special events. The museum offers group discounts and educational tours designed to enhance understanding of Alberta’s agricultural past[3].

Community and Support

The organization relies on sponsorships, donations, and a dedicated volunteer base to maintain its collections and host events. Corporate sponsors and partners include local businesses and associations supportive of the club’s mandate. Pioneer Acres is registered as a charitable organization with the Canada Revenue Agency, enabling donors to receive tax receipts for contributions that support its mission of historical preservation[1][4].

This nonprofit organization plays a vital role in preserving Western Canada's pioneering agricultural heritage, providing educational resources and cultural enrichment through its museum and community events.