The Western Development Museum (WDM) in Moose Jaw has much to offer in the way of senior-focused programming, but also provides something for everyone. The museum provides a glimpse of Saskatchewan’s history and gives an opportunity for those who grew up here to share their stories.
For seniors who visit the museum, aside from general interest tours the most popular attraction is the museum’s coffee club.
The main goal of the WDM’s coffee club is to assemble an unwritten oral history of the area and gives individuals the opportunity to share their story and talk about their personal experience growing up. So much of our history isn’t shared or written down, and artifacts alone can’t provide the insights that human stories can.
Sharing the story of our heritage also brings younger and older generations closer together.
This year, the WDM is trialling a new program involving reminiscence kits. These kits come with a selection of household artifacts and tell the story of life at home a few decades ago. This gives the perfect opportunity for families to stop by, and children and their grandparents can compare the different technology they grew up with.
Because the initiative is a new idea at the museum, you will have to call the WDM to confirm the date and time for the event as this is prone to change. The reminiscence kits are expected to be available early this fall.
The museum also hosts regular programming throughout the year. School programs are always being held, and from Feb. to Mar. 2024, a Smarter Science Fair event is scheduled to take place featuring the science of energy. The event explores the science behind engines used primarily for vehicles, and this will be supported with actual examples of machinery as the Moose Jaw branch of the WDM specializes in the history of transportation.
The science fair is intended for a grade seven science level but is nevertheless interesting. It is a great opportunity to invite the family out for a day at the museum. This event would also make the perfect birthday present for your younger niece or nephew and the WDM has plenty more to offer for kids.
On Saturday, May 18, 2024 the WDM will be celebrating International Museum Day so be sure to stop in for their upcoming schedule of events, which will be announced closer to that date.
The WDM also has an excellent volunteer program, and the museum is always looking for new volunteers.
For anyone 55-plus seeking an exciting chance to work with the community and share your story, volunteering at the museum is the perfect opportunity. To apply as a volunteer, no experience is required and any required training will be provided on the job. The WDM is seeking volunteers with a variety of backgrounds including those who have specialized knowledge and those who just want to contribute their time.
The WDM operates with the aim of sharing Saskatchewan’s history and bringing new life to the people who helped shape our province. To better understand ourselves today, it’s crucial to know where we came from and to learn our collective history.
Input from those aged 55-plus who grew up on the prairies helps us appreciate our heritage. New perspectives, stories of personal experiences, and any level of interaction is always welcomed.
The WDM is also interested in any historical items you may wish to donate. Although some items are not being accepted at this time, such as wedding dresses due to an over-abundance of submissions, you can call the museum to inquire.
The WDM is open five days a week from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and is closed on stat holidays. During the winter months, the museum is closed on Mondays from January through to March.
For seniors, there is a discounted admission rate offered courtesy of the WDM.
You can contact the museum for general inquiries, to ask about upcoming events, or to inquire about volunteer opportunities at 306-693-5989.
The Moose Jaw branch of the Western Development Museum is located at 50 Diefenbaker Drive.
