Wilkie Museum winds up successful year

By Phil Heilman

The Wilkie & District Museum enjoyed immense success this year, which culminated in the installation of tin on the Wilkie Press Building.

The ball got rolling in July, with the Museum holding a Canada Day event that included a pancake breakfast, a BBQ supper, and entertainment by Dan Wilgenbusch, friends Colin and Eddy, and Wilfred and Joan Rice.

Built in 1905! The Wilkie Press was published from this building from 1908 to 1981. PHOTO BY PHIL HEILMAN

Just two weeks later, the Museum held a car show on the museum grounds, with a big crowd coming to see all the wonderful vehicles that rolled into town for the event.

In August, the annual children’s programming took place, and summer worker Shantel enjoyed her short time running the operations for the month. The month was called off with the return of Movie under the Stars, which showed the Super Mario Bros. animated movie and the Mel Brooks classic Spaceballs.

With all the fundraising for the roof complete, it was time to make it happen. With very limited volunteers and board members, the giant task of tinning the Press building was completed in around 13 hours spanning two weekends.

The Museum was also honoured to be invited to the Wilkie & District Fire Department’s open house. As part of the meal, popcorn was given away.

“The year was very challenging but also very rewarding,” remarked President Laura Heilman.

The Museum continues to fundraise, with more irons in the fire than a cattle company branding day. Some of these include the regular Purdy’s chocolate and accepting donations for Museum merchandise.

Watch the Facebook page (Wilkie & District Museum) and look for posters for any upcoming Museum events.