The grand opening of the Heritage North Museum last Friday was a true celebration of the rich history and culture of Thompson. With live music played by Smitty And Friends, refreshments, and free tours, the museum welcomed the community back with open arms. As President Shyanna Lynxleg and Volunteer Kelly Laybolt shared their vision for the museum's future, it became clear that this beloved institution is poised for an even brighter tomorrow. From expanding exhibits to engaging youth and elderly volunteers, the museum's commitment to inclusivity and education shines through.
Over the past year and a half, there has been uncertainty surrounding the closure, and potential reopening, of the Museum. But this past Friday the anticipation relief was evident as many families came to walk the halls of Northern history once again.
President of the museum; Shyanna Lynxleg addressed the narrative surrounding the museum’s closing, which largely revolved around the unfortunate illness of the Executive Director. Following her sudden illness, which required an extended period of sick leave, the museum faced significant challenges. As a result of her absence, there was a noticeable void in leadership, which compounded the operational difficulties. The subsequent impact on the institution's funding and staffing resources was profound, ultimately leading to the difficult decision to close its doors temporarily.
During this challenging period, the museum's dedicated staff and supporters have rallied together to explore alternative funding avenues and devise innovative strategies to ensure the museum's long-term sustainability. The outpouring of support from the local community, as well as passionate advocates of heritage preservation, has been heartening and serves as a testament to the deep-rooted significance of the museum within the cultural tapestry of our region.
Yet even while they were closed there were times schools would reach out about class tours. During those times, the Museum was generous enough to arrange and conduct personalized tours for the students, emphasizing the point that “So while we were closed, we weren’t really closed. We were still trying to operate and provide to the community” as articulated by Lynxleg.
Following the official reopening of the doors, supported by new board members and a fresh team, a new vision for the Museum has commenced its gradual unfoldment. “we’re trying to move forward in an expansion by maybe inserting a gift store or a board room with displays. We aren’t taking away from the museum but we want to add to it. We want to focus more on the North, Thompson and all of it’s people”
Volunteer Kelly Laybolt shed light on some of the evolving plans aimed at broadening the museum's future. While historically the museum has predominantly represented Thompson, the goal now is to also delve into the history and heritage of the communities surrounding Thompson. “typically visitors just stop in Thompson or Churchill, but they don’t go in the surrounding towns. So this is a way for people to learn of the history that is built up all around Thompson. This is a way of bringing all the communities together”
Moreover, they are devising new tours and programming, relying on an on-site coordinator to furnish recommendations and innovative new concepts.
Lynxleg, who has only been serving as the President since January, recently made mention of the possibility of submitting entries for provincial museum awards. Notably, the Heritage North Museum had achieved significant accolades in the past, having been honored with the Partnership Award of Manitoba in 2006 and the Product Development Award in 2007.
An open invitation was extended to the community, welcoming volunteers of all ages. The organizers expressed their enthusiastic anticipation of hosting numerous upcoming events, emphasizing their strong desire to involve both the youth and the elderly in volunteering opportunities. They wholeheartedly encourage individuals to actively participate in tasks such as event setup, providing guidance during tours, and contributing to various other aspects of the initiatives being organized. All interested individuals are warmly invited to lend their time, skills, and energy to support and enrich these community events.
The grand reopening of the Heritage North Museum marks a new chapter in its storied history. With a renewed vision and commitment to inclusivity, education, and community involvement, the museum is poised for a vibrant future. As it embraces expansion, innovative programming, and a focus on representing the diverse heritage of the North, the museum stands as a beacon of cultural preservation and unity. With open arms and an invitation for all to be part of its journey, the Heritage North Museum looks forward to engaging the community, both young and old, in the rich tapestry of Thompson's history and beyond.
