A new initiative at Fort la Reine Museum is inviting the public to take history into their own hands. The new “Adopt-a-Building” program offers individuals, families, and businesses a chance to take an active role in preserving the museum’s heritage buildings.
Emma Ens-MacIver, executive director, says the idea has been in the works for years and is rooted in a desire to make the museum more accessible and engaging for the community.
“The concept has been on my mind for several years, to get people involved and feel more connected to the museum’s spaces,” says Ens-MacIver.
Hands-on history
The program lets participants choose a level of involvement that suits their interests, abilities, and schedules. Tasks could range from interior cleaning and seasonal upkeep to carpentry and restoration support.
“I think we're going to make them 2-year commitments, which would involve some general upkeep of the building, both inside and outside, but we will provide guidance and materials when possible. It's going to be on a case-by-case basis because if we did a cookie-cutter mold, then I feel like it wouldn't be as inclusive of a program,” she continues.
To recognize the diverse ways people can contribute, the program also offers options for those who may not be able to volunteer their time but still want to support the museum’s preservation efforts.
“Maybe a business wants to participate, and they can't be as hands-on, but they can make a financial commitment. We can use those funds for renovations or restoration work, and the business would be advertised on that building for their term. Families, as well, would have a plaque or signage on the building they're supporting," she explains.
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Years in the making
The program’s rollout has been made possible in part by the museum’s recent addition of a community engagement coordinator/ fundraising manager.
“It's been great having Cindy here. It means that I can push forward some of these plans that have been waiting in the wings. We’re experimenting more this year, trying new ways to get the community involved, and so far, the response has been positive.”
While still in its early stages, the program has already generated local interest.
“We just launched this about a week ago, and we've had a few inquiries already, so we're excited! By asking the community to step in, we’re not just relying on grants and completing one project at a time as our budget allows."
Most of the museum's structures are up for adoption, although some heritage-sensitive buildings and those undergoing restoration are currently off-limits.
“We want to make the program accessible to as many community members as possible. There will be a minimum requirement, but we understand that people can contribute in different ways, and we want to be as open as possible to that," she continues.
The next 60 years
With Fort la Reine’s 60th anniversary approaching in 2027, the team hopes to use the Adopt-a-Building program as a way to refresh the site and build momentum.
“We want to have a few things rebuilt and revitalized for that anniversary. Our ultimate goal is to keep the museum thriving for another 60 years,” she adds.
However, continued success isn’t guaranteed, and community involvement will ultimately determine the museum’s future.
“Fort la Reine has made it almost 60 years, but the next 60 years aren't guaranteed. Things are aging and need upkeep. The community often chooses what is important and what needs to stay. By having this outreach and response already, it tells us that the community values us here.”
Ens-MacIver believes that engaging the public in the preservation process is one of the most effective solutions to the challenges of limited funding and a small volunteer base.
"When people feel a personal connection to the spaces, they get attached. They realize the importance of the museum’s history, and they also see that volunteering isn’t as daunting as they may have thought.”
How to get involved
Those interested in adopting a building can contact the museum directly by phone (204-857-3259) or email (info@fortlareinemuseum.com). They can also visit the Fort la Reine Museum website and look for the “Adopt-a-Building” tab under “Get Involved.”
“Make an inquiry and we’ll schedule a meeting, show them around the available spaces, and talk about what their involvement could look like,” she explains.
By inviting the community to leave their mark on the museum, Ens-MacIver hopes the program will support the museum’s infrastructure and strengthen its role as a gathering place for the community for years to come.
“At the end of the day, we're here to serve the community, and we hope this program brings people together. The best feeling is seeing everyone out here, enjoying the museum all summer long.”
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