Tucked away along the scenic banks of the Roseau River in southeastern Manitoba, a unique and deeply meaningful celebration is being planned for July 12, 2025.
The 60th anniversary of the Ukrainian Museum and Village Society. The board and volunteers say the celebration will tell a story of heritage, heart, and a whole lot of community pride.
And for Konrad Narth, MLA for La Vérendrye and a lifelong local, this event is personal.
“I’m only miles from Gardenton, just east of Vita. I’ve been a lifelong member of the RM of Stuartburn council, so I’ve worked closely with the museum and the park for years. It’s something near and dear to me and my family.”
Narth, of Ukrainian heritage himself, has grown up with the museum and the annual Ukrainian festival, a longstanding cultural highlight in the region.
“I grew up going to the annual Ukrainian festival,” he said. "The park and museum are a hidden gem. It’s rich in history, and it’s nestled on what is truly a beautiful piece of land along the river.”
Celebrating Volunteers, Honouring History
The 60th anniversary isn't just about marking time, it’s about recognizing decades of grassroots dedication. That’s why Narth brought this story to the Manitoba Legislature.
“Sixty years is monumental. The group has preserved artifacts from some of the earliest Ukrainian pioneers in southeast Manitoba, and honestly, in Canada. I wanted the rest of the province to see what’s happening in our corner.”
During his address in the legislature on May 14, 2025, Narth made sure to thank some of the key players keeping the legacy alive.
“I expressed appreciation for folks like Helen Feniuk and Michelle Gawronsky. Helen’s been dedicated for years, and Michelle, the Reeve for the RM of Stuartburn, has more recently become involved too. It’s amazing to see that commitment between the local municipality and the museum.”
When asked what he's most looking forward to at the July celebration, Narth was quick to answer.
“Some good Ukrainian dancing, for sure. And meeting people from across the province who appreciate or maybe are just starting to learn about our rich Ukrainian heritage here in Manitoba.”
A Legacy of Love and Learning
For Helen Feniuk, Director of the Ukrainian Museum and Village Society, this anniversary is more than a milestone, it’s a legacy.
“I think I started in 2011 or 2012. I got involved after working on my family tree. I suddenly became very interested in the life my ancestors lived when they came here. The hardships, the sacrifices, and I wanted to honour that.”
Feniuk's motivation was deeply personal.
“I’m retired. I thought, what can I do? And then it hit me, this museum, this organization, is all about recognizing those early Ukrainian settlers. I never thought I’d still be doing it 13 years later, but it gives me such satisfaction.”
That dedication is what MLA Narth recently recognized in the Manitoba Legislature. Attending the event was an experience that left Helen moved and, as she described, “a little overwhelmed.”
“I wasn’t even going to go,” she admitted with a laugh. “But I’m so glad I did. It was emotional. Konrad Narth introduced us, and the whole thing, from being met at the door to sitting in the gallery, it really opened my eyes to what’s possible in our province. If only my parents or grandparents could have seen that day... it was a once-in-a-lifetime moment.”
Festival Plans: Bread, Music, and Memories
With the big day fast approaching, preparations are in full swing, including the restoration of a traditional Ukrainian bread-baking oven known as a “peech.”
“It had fallen into disrepair, but thanks to Heather Bishop and Jeanine Brandt, and maybe a few others, it’s coming back beautifully. That oven was once a staple in the lives of the pioneers. They cooked in it all summer.”
And for anyone making summer plans, Feniuk has a clear message:
“Come. You don’t want to miss this.”
She describes the day as more than a festival, it’s an experience.
“We’ve worked since last October to put together an exciting program,” she said. “There’ll be an all-afternoon outdoor concert, children’s activities, camping by the river, and a refurbished museum filled with new displays. Even if you’ve been to Gardenton before, it’ll be different this time.”
The celebration may only last one day, but visitors are welcome to come early and stay longer to enjoy the natural beauty and rich culture of the area.
“There’s something for everybody,” Feniuk said. “We’re almost ready. Honestly, we could probably put on that festival next week, except for the oven,” she added with a smile.
As the Ukrainian Museum and Village Society prepares to mark 60 years, one thing is clear: this is more than an event. It’s a celebration of heritage, community, and the enduring strength of those who came before.
And as Konrad Narth puts it:
“I’m just proud. Proud of the organization, the volunteers, and the incredible little piece of Manitoba history that we have right here in Gardenton.”