MOOSE JAW — Moose Jaw’s branch of the Western Development Museum (WDM) has announced its lineup of programs for the month of July.
Upcoming events
- Summer camps: The WDM’s summer camps offer kids aged seven to 10 a hands-on journey through Saskatchewan’s past, with fun activities to spark curiosity and build new skills. While the Transportation Camp that runs from July 8 to 10 has already started, there’s still time to register for the Heritage Camp running from August 12 to 14. Campers will try their hand at typing on an old-fashioned typewriter, make homemade ice cream, and play with classic wooden toys. The cost is $130 for non-members and $110 for members.
- Lii Buflo: A Métis Way of Life: Now on display at the WDM in Moose Jaw, Lii Buflo is a powerful travelling exhibit that explores the deep cultural connection between the Métis people and the bison. Presented in English, French and Michif, the exhibition also highlights ongoing conservation efforts led by Elk Island National Park. Lii Buflo runs until September 30 and is included with regular admission. Please note the exhibit will be temporarily closed from July 24 to 28.
- Elegance and Engines: On July 17, explore “Elegance & Engines” at the WDM and uncover the stories behind some of the museum’s classiest cars. Test your knowledge with vintage price guesses and learn how major car brands have changed over time.
- Red River Cart exhibit: The museum will celebrate the opening of a new Red River cart exhibit on July 19 with a special ceremony at 2 p.m. Built by volunteers from New Southern Plains Métis Local No. 160, the full-size replica cart highlights Métis heritage and community collaboration. Interpretive signage was created in partnership with the Gabriel Dumont Institute, and the display will become a permanent part of the museum. Admission is by donation from 1 to 5 p.m.
- Cinema Summer: On July 20, the WDM Moose Jaw presents “Cinema Summer,” a pop-up event in the 100 Years Gallery exploring Saskatchewan’s film history. Visitors can view historical film artifacts and learn about the province’s unique contributions to Canada’s movie industry.
- Brickspo: Brickspo returns to the WDM on July 26 and 27, featuring original LEGO creations by members of the Saskatchewan LEGO Users Group and builders from across Western Canada. The event follows regular museum hours with the show running from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on both days and regular museum admission rates apply.
Seek and find
The museum regularly holds seek and find events to encourage interactive learning. The program includes an activity sheet, and visitors search the galleries for clues on interpretive signs or display cases. Check the museum’s website for updates.
- Where the Wildflowers Grow seek and find: Guests are invited to look for images of Saskatchewan wildflowers, learn a few facts about them, and write down the name of each flower image hidden throughout the museum galleries. The seek and find runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at your own pace throughout July.
- RCAF seek and find: This month’s second seek and find invites visitors to explore the Aircraft Gallery and identify the names of RCAF vehicles used during the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan for a chance to win a plush Piper Cub toy. The event runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. throughout July.
Courses and workshops
The museum offers seasonal educational courses that teach skills ranging from blacksmithing to steam-traction engine operation, with certificates typically awarded upon completion.
- Upcoming courses: Contact Alexis Jones at 306-693-5989 or [email protected] for more information.
K+S Short Line 101
To showcase the raw power of steam energy, the WDM showcases its fully operational K+S Potash Canada Short Line 101 steam train each summer and guests can catch a ride on a working piece of Saskatchewan’s history. Operating since 1978, this is Saskatchewan’s only operational steam locomotive.
- Upcoming train schedule: The Short Line 101 is back in service! Contact the museum before heading out for an updated schedule, as the train’s operation is dependent on weather, maintenance, and volunteer availability.
Reminiscence Kits
The museum’s Reminiscence Kits are meant to bring generations together and ignite new friendships through the sharing of memories. These kits, containing everyday artifacts from the 1950s to the 1970s, can be rented by care homes and other organizations for two weeks at a cost of $75, with an additional $25 fee for a one-week extension. Visit WDM.ca/Reminiscence to book your kit.
Teacher resources
Teachers can access a variety of resources, including information packages and field trip arrangements at the WDM. Visit WDM.ca/Moose-Jaw/Learn/For-Teachers for more information.
History album
The museum’s history album tells Saskatchewan’s story through the experiences of families, small towns, and community organizations across the province. To view the album, visit SaskHistory.ca.
Birthday parties
The museum may just be the perfect venue for your child’s upcoming birthday party. For a fee of only $200, children aged five to eight can experience a two-hour transportation-themed party, and up to seven friends are included in the price. You can book by calling the museum at 306-693-5989.
Volunteering
The WDM is always looking for volunteers to help make programming, summer events, and numerous specialized roles at the museum possible. During regular volunteer intakes, volunteer co-ordinator Alexis Jones will give a facility tour, review safety protocols, and match opportunities to volunteers’ skills and interests.
- Next volunteer orientations: Contact Alexis Jones at 306-693-5989 for more information.
The WDM is the largest human history museum in Saskatchewan and features a collection of over 75,000 artifacts across four locations. The Moose Jaw branch specializes in the history of transportation.
The museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. throughout the summer, excluding statutory holidays.
For more information, visit WDM.ca/Moose-Jaw or reach out to the museum's program and volunteer co-ordinator, Alexis Jones, at 306-693-5989 or by email at [email protected].
The Western Development Museum in Moose Jaw is located at 50 Diefenbaker Drive.
