About
Discover the spirit and foundational roots of the Sundre & District Museum. Learn about our mission, values and history. Meet our dedicated team and important stakeholders. Join us in preserving Sundre’s rich history… “Celebrating the Way We Were”.
A Short History
In 1968, a group of passionate local individuals, incorporated to form the Sundre & District Historical Society. It was their goal to provide a unique destination that exhibited local history, its people and showcased special exhibits such as the Chester Mjolsness World of Wildlife. That unique destination evolved into what is today the Sundre & District Museum, located in the historical Riverside District of Sundre on 4 acres of beautiful landscape.
Our Museum’s Mission
The Sundre & District Historical Society, which was founded in 1968, aims to preserve and "Celebrate The Way We Were” by embracing our future, providing a facility for exhibits and activities centered around arts, culture, education, information and celebrations for the community, tourists, schools, and other organizations. The venue where this preservation and celebration occurs is The Sundre & District Museum where we interpret artefacts and archival materials through thoughtful displays and programming. It is our mission, here at the museum to provide an enriching, exciting and educational experience.
Values and Vision
The values and visions of the Sundre & District Society are reflected in the operations of the Sundre & District Museum and are rooted in the very tenacity of the heritage that built Sundre and area. Values such as honesty, teamwork, commitment and respect are the cornerstones of any successful community project, and these values have carried the society’s vision, for well over 50 years. The vision to provide a unique destination and to exhibit Sundre’s local history and people are very important.
Mandates
The Sundre & District Historical Society acts as a governing board and the financial steward of the Sundre & District Museum. It assists the museum’s mandate to collect, preserve, research and conduct limited restoration all while maintaining the integrity of its artefacts and archival materials that make up its collection. The Sundre & District Museum aims to interpret artefacts and archival materials through thoughtful displays by providing educational programs and signage relating directly to Sundre and the fifteen one room schoolhouse districts that create the museum’s geographical collection borders.
Annual Report
Please read on to discover how our team is implementing its Strategic Plan. Learn about our many recent successes through the year end statements from the Sundre & District Society Chair, on behalf of the Board of Directors, and our Executive Director, on behalf of the Sundre & District Museum.
How we are Funded
The Sundre & District Historical Society is a registered Non-Profit Society and a Registered Canadian Revenue Agency Charity which owns, operates and maintains the three gallery Sundre & District Museum – Niels Eskesen Reception Gallery, the Chester Mjolsness World of Wildlife and the 4-acre historical Pioneer Village with its 12 exhibit areas. The Mayton Schoolhouse and the Youth Round Building are also owned, operated and maintain by the Society to offer additional community and museum spaces. The Sundre & District Historical Society also preserves over 6,000 artefacts and records; and provides community programming for all ages throughout the year!
​
The Sundre & District Museum relies on grants, fundraising, and the kind donations of those who support and believe in the work we do for our local history, our provincial and national history, our programming that educates, shares and builds a promising future for generations to come!
​
We greatly appreciate the support of all our stakeholders, donors, funders and partners!
Our Staff and Supporters
Sundre & District Historical Society
Chair – Ken Walker
Vice Chair – Owen Petersen
Secretary – Debra Sawatzky
Treasurer – Deb Ellithorpe
Directors – Bruce Temple, Coleen McKeon, Joy Willihnganz
Representative Directors – Jaime Marr (Town of Sundre); Scott Erickson (Chester Mjolsness World of Wildlife)
Executive Director – Carrie Couch
The Sundre & District Museum is supported by a wonderful team of volunteers. These volunteers assist the daily operations through dedicated and appreciated efforts. It is this important support team that makes our spaces functional and relevant spaces to share with our community and visitors to Sundre.
Tours and Programming
Immerse yourself in guided tours and engaging programming that bring Sundre's history to life. Discover the pioneering spirit through hands-on activities, educational workshops, and interactive demonstrations suitable for visitors of all ages.
Events Through the Year
Experience the excitement of our year-round events celebrating Sundre's heritage and culture. From seasonal festivals to special exhibitions, there's always something happening at the Sundre & District Museum, offering unforgettable experiences for the whole family.
Three Gallery Experience
Explore our three galleries, each offering a unique perspective on Sundre's history. From the rich tapestry of early settlers to the vibrant communities that shaped the town, our exhibits provide a captivating journey through time, showcasing the diverse heritage of Sundre and its people.