Tucked away in the heart of Darlingford is a museum that’s quietly preserving some of the most fascinating stories from southern Manitoba’s past. Patrick Thiessen, curator of the Darlingford Pembina Heritage Museum, has spent the last few years uncovering remarkable pieces of local history.
The Darlingford Pembina Heritage Museum is set to host its second annual local history dinner and conversation this Saturday at the Darlingford Community Hall. Thiessen is excited to share the region’s rich history while also raising funds to preserve it.
Unearthing hidden stories
Thiessen, who has been curator since 2017, has always been passionate about local history. “There are lots of unique stories that aren’t told all the time,” he says. One fascinating discovery he came across during his research was that Darlingford was once home to Manitoba’s youngest provincial judge. “He served in the First World War, later in the Second World War, and then became a judge at a remarkably young age,” Thiessen shares.
Another lesser-known fact is that the town as it sits today, is not its original location. “Like many other towns, it was first built along a walking trail. But when the railroad came through in the early 1880s, the townsite was abandoned for about a decade,” Thiessen explains. “Buildings were moved to Manitou, Morden, and even farmyards before Darlingford was re-established near the railroad in 1899.”
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A museum full of stories
Located in the original school building, the Darlingford Pembina Heritage Museum offers a glimpse into the region’s past. “We’ve got everything from early community history to Indigenous history, the fur trade, and even exhibits on the original townsite,” Thiessen says. The museum recently updated its name to reflect its broader historical focus beyond the school itself.
When asked about his favorite item in the museum, Thiessen admits, “It changes all the time! It depends on what I’m researching at the moment.” His passion for history extends beyond the museum walls. “When I drive around, I imagine what the land looked like before roads and buildings were here. People used to walk from here to Portage or even Winnipeg—can you imagine that?” he exclaims.
A night of history and conversation
Saturday’s event aims to spark curiosity about local history while supporting the museum. “It’s not just a fundraiser—it’s also about awareness,” Thiessen emphasizes. The evening includes dinner, a cash bar, and a presentation by Trisha Dyck, curator and manager of the Manitoba Agricultural Museum. “She’s going to talk about the history of photography and how, in the past, people were much more intentional about taking photos,” Thiessen explains. “Back then, a photograph was a big event—people dressed up for it. Unlike today, when our phones are full of random pictures and grocery lists!”
Who should attend?
“This event is for anyone,” Thiessen says. “If you’re interested in history, want to learn about your community, or just enjoy a good conversation, this is for you.”
The Local History Dinner and Conversation takes place Saturday at 5:00 PM at the Darlingford Community Hall, with dinner served at 6:00 PM. Tickets are limited, but available through board members or by texting 204-805-4957. More details can be found on the Darlingford Pembina Heritage Museum’s Facebook page.
With files from Ty Hildebrand