Sundre & District Historical Society

The Sundre & District Historical Society is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and celebrating the local history and heritage of Sundre and its surrounding area. It operates as a registered not-for-profit entity with the business registration number 896996881RR0001.

Mission and Purpose

The society aims to "celebrate our past by creating a unique destination with exhibits and activities focused on art, culture, education, information, and celebrations." Through these endeavors, the organization preserves the collective memory and cultural legacy of the region, fostering community pride and historical awareness.

Sundre & District Museum

The society manages the Sundre & District Museum, an accredited institution with the Alberta Museum Association. The museum serves as the primary venue for showcasing the society's collections and exhibits. It offers visitors a multifaceted historical and cultural experience through its three main galleries and outdoor attractions:

• Niels Eskesen Reception Gallery: This gallery presents the local history of Sundre and its district, featuring changing exhibits that highlight various aspects of the area's heritage.

• Chester Mjolsness World of Wildlife Exhibit: Displaying over 170 taxidermy mounts representing animals from six of the world's seven continents, this exhibit is a distinctive natural history gallery that attracts wildlife enthusiasts and educational groups alike.

• Pioneer Village: Situated on four acres in Sundre’s Riverside District, the Pioneer Village houses eight heritage buildings that illustrate the lifestyle of early settlers. This outdoor "gallery" offers visitors the chance to explore historic buildings, enjoy picnic areas, and engage with the cultural landscape that shaped the modern community.

Community Engagement and Operations

The Sundre & District Historical Society is a volunteer-driven organization. It relies on community support and volunteer efforts to maintain the museum and organize events. The society offers membership options and provides educational programming aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of regional history.

The museum operates seasonally, particularly the Pioneer Village, which is open from mid-May through mid-October, with variable hours affected by weather and volunteer availability. It generally remains open on most statutory holidays except for Christmas.

Location

The Sundre & District Museum and the society's activities are centered in the historic downtown Riverside District of Sundre, Alberta, providing an accessible cultural destination for residents and visitors interested in exploring "The Way We Were."

This summary reflects the role and activities of the Sundre & District Historical Society as a community-focused organization preserving the heritage of Sundre, Alberta, through its museum and outreach programs[1][2][3][4][5].