Friends of 26 Field Artillery - XII Manitoba Dragoons Military Museum Inc.

The Friends of 26 Field Artillery - XII Manitoba Dragoons Military Museum Inc. is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation, conservation, and promotion of military heritage related to the 26th Field Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery (RCA), and the XII Manitoba Dragoons. Registered under the business number 122207897RR0001, the organization supports the 26th Field Regiment RCA/XII Manitoba Dragoons Museum, located in Brandon, Manitoba.

Overview

This nonprofit group is committed to maintaining and enhancing the military museum that showcases artifacts, memorabilia, archives, and a lending library related to the history of the 26th Field Regiment and XII Manitoba Dragoons. The museum serves as a key cultural and historical site, promoting awareness of Manitoba’s military contributions and heritage. The organization relies heavily on dedicated volunteers closely tied to the local Army Reserve Unit and actively engages in community events and fundraising activities to support its initiatives[2][3].

Museum and Activities

The museum is housed on the first floor, north end, of the Brandon Armoury and has been open to the public for many years. It offers free admission and full wheelchair accessibility, providing both guided and self-guided tours. It operates year-round with scheduled visiting hours and by appointment. The museum's collection includes military artifacts, archival materials, and a specialized lending library, making it a significant resource for researchers and history enthusiasts interested in Canadian military history, particularly that of Manitoba[1][5].

Ongoing projects supported by the Friends organization include the conservation of artifacts and archives to ensure their preservation for future generations. Plans for infrastructure improvements, such as laying an extension concrete pad for the future acquisition of a 105 mm C1 Howitzer, highlight the organization’s commitment to expanding and enhancing the museum’s exhibits and educational offerings[3].

Community Engagement

The Friends of 26 Field Artillery - XII Manitoba Dragoons Military Museum Inc. conducts various fundraising initiatives, including raffles and 50/50 draws, to sustain the museum’s operations and growth. As a small group with a large impact, they emphasize volunteerism and community involvement to keep the museum a vibrant and relevant institution for Westman and visitors alike. The museum is recognized both locally and provincially as a heritage and educational site, contributing to Manitoba’s broader historical narrative[2][4][5].

Significance

The organization plays a crucial role in preserving Manitoba’s military heritage through its stewardship of the 26th Field Regiment RCA/XII Manitoba Dragoons Museum. The museum is designated as a municipal heritage property and a provincial heritage site, underscoring its cultural and historical importance. The Friends group ensures the continuity of this legacy by fostering public interest in military history and supporting the preservation of artifacts that represent the region's military past[5].

The Friends of 26 Field Artillery - XII Manitoba Dragoons Military Museum Inc. exemplifies community dedication to historical preservation and educational outreach, contributing significantly to the cultural fabric of Manitoba through their stewardship of military history.