Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Remembrance Day at the Museum

The beginning of November is a time for Canadians to reflect upon those who have served our country in conflicts of the past.  At the Musee Heritage Museum, we are celebrating our veterans and remembering the sacrifices of the fallen with special displays and activities that will further the spirit of Remembrance.  The museum will be open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Sunday the 11th, closed for a short time at 11:00 AM so that staff may attend the ceremony at the cenotaph.

George Chevigny, Boer War.

On display will be uniform caps that represent the branches of the Canadian armed services; Lt/Sgt. Arthur Robinson's medals reflecting his long service through World War II, the Korean War, and peacekeeping activities; Sgt. Dorothy (Bellerose) Chartrand's Canadian Women's Army Corps uniform; a series of panels illustrating St. Albert's military history; a slideshow of archival photographs celebrating some of the people from St. Albert who have served; bayonets; ration booklets; and identification disks.

Siblings Ruth and Carson Latimer, WWII.

Besides historic displays, there will also be activities.  One popular activity is the "try-on" area, which includes real uniforms, helmets, and webbing for children to try on, allowing them a small glimpse into what it is like to put on the uncomfortable uniform, the clunky helmet, and the heavy pack - just a small part of the sacrifices that our soldiers make.  We also have a period World War II board game for visitors to play.  Originally produced by the CBC, this game educates Canadians about the transport of war materiel from Canada to Britain, including the dangers faced by sailors bringing such goods across the Atlantic (ie. U-Boat attacks).  There will also be colouring sheets and a peace dove craft.  We would like to thank the Loyal Edmonton Regiment Museum for lending us several artifacts.