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Fort la Reine Museum in Portage la Prairie officially opened for the season on May 17th. Executive Director Emma Ens-MacIver says the weekend turnout exceeded expectations despite a rainy start.
"We had a decent turnout! Probably thanks to more advertising that's been going out," Ens-MacIver says. "Historically, it's slow when we open on the long weekend, but it was busy. I was pleasantly surprised. I have a feeling it’s going to be a great season."
Much of Ens-MacIver’s pre-season effort went into curating a new Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) exhibit, which she describes as a central focus for the summer.
“We set up our new CPR exhibit. It was my vision for the summer to highlight our train collections to bring awareness and funds to restore our train collection," she explains.
Developed in partnership with the local CPR Heritage Station, the exhibit highlights the railway’s deep ties to the region’s history. It also features intricate models of local landmarks, crafted by the late Les Green, a longtime museum supporter who donated the pieces before his passing last November. Now housed in the Visitor Centre, the models complement the exhibit’s artifacts, adding a meaningful layer of community connection and craftsmanship.
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Summer events ahead
The museum’s summer programming continues with a Father's Day event on June 14th, offering activities for all ages.
"We're partnering with United Way to put on a mixed event. There will be bucket golf sponsored by Southport. Meraki is coming out to do hot shaves for dads. We'll have a mini-market if you need to pick up a last-minute gift for Dad. Co-op and Youth for Christ are sponsoring a BBQ, and Nick Hourie's ProClean Automotive Detailing is offering mini car detailing."
The event will also feature the annual Allis-Chalmers gathering.
"This year, we’re putting it on the same day. We bring out some tractors and have specialized tours with experts. I think that will bring in a good demographic for the event. It's going to be a good mix of things to do."
Admission for the day is $5, with free entry for children under 12.
Call for community support
Looking further ahead, the museum will host a Volunteer Day on June 28th to tackle site upkeep and improvement projects. Ens-MacIver says it’s a chance for the public to get hands-on with the museum’s operations with no experience required.
"We're hoping for volunteers to help us with major projects and general yard work. It’ll be a good day to bring your power tools or gardening equipment and help us where you can!"
She stresses that volunteers don’t need specialized skills to contribute, just time and community spirit.
"There's a wide range of skills that we can use. You don't need to know a lot about museums to help with the museum. Leave that part up to us."
With the season off to a promising start, Ens-MacIver hopes the new exhibits and summer events will spark renewed interest and involvement in the museum.
"We just want people here. We're a community gathering space, and I want the museum to be more of that. It feels better when people are here, and it's great to have people on site."
As Fort la Reine Museum opens its gates for another season, it’s clear that history comes to life best when the community comes together to preserve it.