A soddie - some early settlers had to use             Scientists produced crop varieties
the materials at hand for shelter and heat.           that were better suited for the climate
                                                                    and soil conditions, and to combat
                                                                    plant diseases and insect pests.

School Tours:

Tour of the permanent exhibit:

The permanent exhibit explores the relationship between people and the land;

how human activity has impacted the environment from 9,000 years ago until the present

day. Grassland creatures and their habitats, as well as human activity (First Nations,

fur traders, Métis, ranchers and homesteaders) are explored. Contemporary issues

(sustainable agriculture and energy, biodiversity and endangered species, and water issues)

 are also examined, providing visitors with an understanding of the ever changing

circumstances of the region.

Tours can focus on specific areas (i.e. habitat, endangered species, First Nations and

Métis, homesteading). All tours are accompanied by a related activity.

In the Classroom (city schools):

The Resistance of 1885: a PowerPoint presentation                                                  

In recognition of the 125^th anniversary of the 1885 Resistance, the Museum has

created a presentation about the crisis which arose because Métis and First Nations

groups felt that their rights were not respected by the Dominion government.

All points of view are explored in this presentation, and Swift Current’s

little-known role is discussed.

Raptors:                                                                                                                              

Have some mounted owls visit your classroom and learn about their unique adaptations.

World War One:                                                                                                            

Explores the causes of the “great war”, and the ramifications of newly developed

weapons of the period. Includes a focus on Passchendaele and Vimy Ridge,

and how these battles affected Canadians.

Other Opportunities:                                                                                                      

Tour of Mount Pleasant cemetery:                                                                              

“Meet” some of the earliest pioneers and learn about the contributions they made to

the district, and learn about Victorian cemetery tradition and symbols.

Tour of veterans’ cemetery:                                                                                          

Mount Pleasant Cemetery has veterans from almost every conflict in which Canadians

were engaged, from the Fenian Raids and the Boer War to the Korean War. Learn

about some of their contributions and the roles they played while in action, and

learn about the veterans who were killed in action at Swift Current.

Ideal for Remembrance Day (if dressed for the weather), but fascinating any time of the year.

Atlatl workshop (High School):                                                                                   

Students will learn about First Nations of the region, including hunting traditions and

weapons. They will manufacture their own atlatl (spear thrower), learn how to use it,

and experience the thrill of the hunt!

Archaeological “Dig” (Middle School):                                                                         

Learn about how archaeologists interpret artifacts by taking part in a ‘dig’ of your own.

Settler Survival (Middle School):                                                                                                 

An engaging game that allows students to get a sense of what life was like for

homesteaders of the region, as they try to survive their first year on the farm.

For more information on these or other tour opportunities, call Stephanie 778-4812

Public Programming

Public programs are presented throughout the year. These include exhibit
openings, slide presentations, and children's
activities.

Volunteers

Volunteers are invited to help with various tasks at the museum including
research, public programs or taking care of the collections. Training
is provided and hours are flexible.

Loans

Objects from the Museum collection may be borrowed by individuals,
institutions and businesses for display or events.

Research Library

The Museum has a variety of books and newspapers for researching local
and regional history. Publications like Folklore, Facade and Saskatchewan
History can also be read.

Gift Shop

The museum has a small gift shop - great for picking up a local
souvenir or book.

Contact